Cathedral Rock Hike: Your Ultimate Guide to Sedona's Iconic Trail

Sedona, Arizona, is renowned as a hiker’s haven, boasting over 200 trails. Among these, the Cathedral Rock Trail consistently ranks at the top of must-do lists. During my recent visit with a friend, experiencing the Cathedral Rock Hike firsthand was a priority.

You might find yourself equally captivated. This legendary, natural sandstone formation and its accompanying trail offer breathtaking vistas and the chance to connect with one of Sedona’s four major energy vortexes. Prepare for an invigorating 1.2-mile roundtrip journey up this striking red rock pathway, where desert panoramas and raw beauty unfold at every turn. To ensure you get the most out of this unforgettable hike, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from trail specifics and parking solutions to best viewpoints and essential packing tips.

A rewarding view awaits just a short distance in. This image captures the vista at the trail junction, merely 0.2 miles from the trailhead.

Trail Description and Difficulty: Conquering Cathedral Rock

As an experienced hiker, I found the Cathedral Rock hike, a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail with a 741-foot elevation gain, to be moderately challenging yet immensely enjoyable. The unshaded path includes some scrambling through narrow passages, which added an element of fun. Hikers with less experience might find a few sections slightly daunting. If you encounter a tricky narrow spot, observe how others navigate it and follow their lead. This can reveal hidden shortcuts and boost your confidence across various terrains.

My friend discovers the easiest descent route on a smooth rock section of the trail.

Beyond these scrambling sections, the trail is generally moderate, clearly marked, and easy to follow. I hiked it on a partly sunny day in early December, adjusting my layers as I warmed up. For late spring and summer hikes, aim for the cooler hours of early morning or late evening, especially since the trail offers no shade. Below is a screenshot from AllTrails illustrating the hike’s profile.

Click the map image above to explore the trail route in detail.

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The initial part of the hike is a gentle walk before transitioning into steps and switchbacks. As you ascend, the terrain becomes more rugged, requiring hand-over-hand scrambling in certain areas. Trail markers are generally clear and straightforward. However, on the sandstone sections where the path might seem less obvious, keep an eye out for wire mesh rock bins – container-like structures resembling trash cans – which serve as route indicators. An example of these rock markers is shown below.

Rock bin trail markers guide hikers on rocky parts of the trail.

The final segment involves a short but steep climb up a narrow saddle, past the main overlook with its stunning valley panorama, leading to the summit and the Cathedral Rock vortex site. Check out my brief video below for a trail preview.

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Who is the Cathedral Rock Hike For?

Despite some warnings about this trail being unsuitable for those with fear of heights, I found it largely stable and wide, except for the scramble zones. Sheer drop-offs are absent, except at the overlook, where ample safe spots exist to sit or stand on the saddle’s widest section. Someone I know who dislikes heights would feel comfortable on this trail.

Me—scrambling the butte on the Cathedral Rock trail.

However, this hike is not recommended for individuals with mobility or balance issues, primarily due to the scramble sections. For most people with a moderate fitness level and appropriate footwear with good traction, the Cathedral Rock hike should be manageable and rewarding.

Trail Crowds: What to Expect

Yes, Cathedral Rock is a highly popular trail and can get crowded. On days when the Sedona Shuttle is operating, expect surges in trail traffic following shuttle arrivals. Be prepared for hiker congestion at more challenging parts and viewpoints. For a more peaceful experience, linger after the shuttle drop-off, as we did, allowing you to enjoy the lower section in relative solitude. Alternatively, hike early in the morning, on weekdays, or during non-holiday periods when the shuttle is inactive and crowds are thinner.

Hiker congestion at a narrow scramble section on the Cathedral Rock trail.

Cathedral Rock Parking and Trail Access

The Cathedral Rock trailhead is located within the Coconino National Forest in Sedona, Arizona. Your arrival method and parking options depend on your planned hiking day.

Sedona Shuttle Information: Schedule, Cost, and Parking

When the free Sedona Shuttle is in service—typically Thursday through Sunday year-round, and daily during peak spring season (March to mid-April) and major holidays—the road leading to the Cathedral Rock trailhead and parking area is restricted to resident traffic only.

During operational hours, the Sedona Shuttle provides convenient pick-ups and drop-offs roughly every 15 minutes.

During these times, free parking is available at the Sedona Shuttle satellite lot. From there, you can take the shuttle directly to the Cathedral Rock and Little Horse trailheads. To reach the lot, search “N SR-179 Park and Ride- Sedona Shuttle” on your GPS or mapping app (Google Maps works well). The satellite lot address is 1294 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336, about a 5-10 minute drive south of Sedona, with space for up to 65 vehicles. The shuttle ride to the trailhead is also free and takes approximately 7-10 minutes.

The Sedona Shuttle, which also serves three other trailheads via a different route, generally operates from 7 AM to 5:30 PM. For the most current schedules, consult this page on the Sedona Shuttle website. Below is a map of the Cathedral Rock/Little Horse shuttle route.

Sedona Shuttle route map for Cathedral Rock and Little Horse Trailheads. (Credit: Sedona Shuttle)

Parking Options When the Sedona Shuttle is Not Running

If your Cathedral Rock hike is planned for a day when the shuttle isn’t running, here are four parking alternatives:

1. Cathedral Rock Trailhead Parking Lots (Closest Access)

Parking directly at the Cathedral Rock trailhead (500 Back O Beyond Road, Sedona, AZ) offers the most convenient trail access. However, arrive extremely early if you plan to park here. On non-shuttle days, Back O Beyond Road to the trailhead is open, and its two adjacent lots accommodate just over 40 cars. These lots typically fill up by 6:30 or 7 AM. A screenshot of the parking areas is shown below. Purchase a Red Rocks Pass onsite or in advance to park in this fee area.

Park in either Cathedral Rock trailhead lot when the Sedona Shuttle is not operating.

2. Baldwin Trail Trailhead Parking Lot (Longer Hike Option)

If the Cathedral Rock trailhead lots are full, consider parking at the Baldwin Trail trailhead small lot and accessing Cathedral Rock from there. This option extends your hike to a total of 3.8 miles out and back via the Cathedral Rock via Red Rock Crossing Trail.

Baldwin Trail trailhead and parking area are adjacent to the trail.

However, note that reaching the Baldwin Trail trailhead from the Cathedral Rock trailhead by car can take up to 20 minutes and almost nine miles due to a lack of direct connecting roads. Part of the road to Baldwin Trail parking is unpaved. Refer to the AllTrails Baldwin Trail to Cathedral Rock route for the hiking path. A Red Rocks Pass is required for parking here as well.

3. Crescent Moon Picnic Site Parking Area (Scenic Alternative)

Another option, if Oak Creek water levels are low and you expect to arrive too late for Cathedral Rock lot parking on a non-shuttle day, is the Crescent Moon Picnic site. To hike to Cathedral Rock from this picturesque picnic spot, follow the 3.9-mile route on AllTrails in reverse, starting and ending at Red Rocks Crossing opposite Crescent Moon Ranch and the picnic site. On this route, disregard the 0.2-mile section from the trail junction to the Cathedral Rock parking area. See the map screenshot below, marking the picnic site parking and trail access point.

Click the map image to view the trail route.

A $12 parking pass (cash or check) is required for this concessionaire-operated lot, or you can use your annual Red Rocks Grand Pass. Access to this parking area is only from south Sedona, as there are no connecting roads from the Cathedral Rock trailhead parking area. It’s an 11-mile, approximately 30-minute drive, depending on traffic, from the Cathedral Rock trailhead area.

4. Little Horse Trail Trailhead Parking Lot (For Extended Hikes)

Finally, for a considerably longer hike, park at the Little Horse Trail trailhead parking area and embark on a 6.3-mile out-and-back journey to Cathedral Rock, following this AllTrails user’s recorded route.

Best Time to Hike Cathedral Rock: Weather and Crowd Tips

Ultimately, the best time to hike Cathedral Rock is whenever you have the opportunity. On shuttle days, utilize the shuttle service, which also helps manage trail crowds. On non-shuttle days, arrive early to secure a trailhead parking spot. Or, consider one of the alternative parking suggestions if you prefer not to wait for parking to become available at the trailhead.

Seasonally, spring and fall are generally considered ideal for hiking Cathedral Rock due to mild temperatures and pleasant weather. However, I hiked in December on a beautiful, partly sunny day that only turned to cold rain after we were back in our car. With layers, a hat, and gloves, my winter hike was very enjoyable and comfortable.

Wearing hat, gloves, and jacket on a sunny December day at the Cathedral Rock vortex overlook.

For the hot summer months, avoid hiking during peak heat hours on this unshaded trail, where temperatures can exceed 100°F. Instead, hike in the early morning or late afternoon. Hiking at these times also offers the benefit of softer, indirect sunlight, which is better for photography, and fewer crowds.

Scenic Viewpoints and Photo Opportunities

While breathtaking red rock desert views are almost constant as you ascend, three specific viewpoints on the Cathedral Rock hike are particularly noteworthy.

Enjoy stunning landscapes like this throughout your Cathedral Rock hike.

The first is at the “End of trail” sign, marking the “saddle,” a flat ridge separating the two main Cathedral Rock spires. This picturesque viewpoint rewards your efforts with panoramic valley views framed by towering red rock formations. It’s an excellent spot for a break, to refuel, and to simply soak in the scenery. We enjoyed our picnic lunch sandwiches here, savoring the incredible view.

This sign and the stunning vista indicate the first of two overlooks.

From the saddle viewpoint, look to your right to see the “ledge.” This walkway, wider than it initially appears, extends along the canyon wall. During busy times, you’ll see many hikers venturing onto it for photo opportunities. As a cautious hiker, I felt comfortable walking onto the ledge for photos. We even exchanged photo-taking with another hiking couple.

Me—on the “ledge” at the Cathedral Rock overlook.

Finally, for the third viewpoint, veer left at the saddle, following the trail along the canyon wall. A final short scramble up a narrow incline leads to the “Pillar,” the site of the Cathedral Rock vortex, offering another breathtaking vista.

Cathedral Rock vortex site and overlook.

What to Bring and Safety Tips for Your Cathedral Rock Hike

Here are essential items to bring on your Cathedral Rock hike:

Ample Water: Hydration is crucial, even in winter. Bring at least one liter (34 ounces) of water, and ideally 1.5 liters, especially for summer hikes in the desert heat.
Snacks and Picnic: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks like nuts, trail mix, and energy bars, plus a lunch. We enjoyed panini sandwiches on the saddle.

Picnic lunch with an incredible view. Enjoying food on the Cathedral Rock overlook saddle.

Sun Protection: Arizona’s sun is intense. Use sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and consider lightweight, skin-covering clothing to prevent sunburn.
Layers and Rain Protection: For winter hikes, bring layers to adjust to changing conditions. On our December hike, I wore leggings, a zip-up jacket, t-shirt, winter hat, and gloves. See my KÜHL clothing review for details on my jacket and pants. Even in Sedona’s dry climate, rain is possible. Pack a light rain jacket.

Post-Cathedral Rock hike rainbow after a storm, viewed in Boynton Canyon.

Sturdy Hiking Shoes: Good traction is vital, especially for scrambling on smooth rock. My preferred hiking shoes are long-lasting Oboz low waterproof hiking shoes.
Navigation Tools: Bring a map or GPS device. AllTrails is my preferred tool; AllTrails+ allows offline map downloads and GPS tracking, saving phone battery.
First Aid Kit: Always carry a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and personal medications. Tweezers are useful in Sedona for removing cactus needles.

Beyond Cathedral Rock: Other Sedona Hikes & Activities

While the Cathedral Rock hike is a Sedona highlight, many other trails and activities await. Here are a few suggestions:

Bell Rock: Just a six-minute drive from Cathedral Rock trailhead, Bell Rock offers more hiking and iconic red rock formations, also known for its energy vortex. The Bell Rock Trail is a moderate 1.9-mile loop circling the rock’s base.

Slide Rock State Park: Cool off at Slide Rock State Park, a natural water park with natural water slides in Oak Creek.

Boynton Canyon Trail: Staying at Enchantment Resort in Boynton Canyon, we hiked part of the 7.2-mile Boynton Canyon Trail. Hike to the overlook, Subway Cave, or Vista Trail (another vortex site). See my Boynton Canyon hike video with tips below.

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Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village: For a break from hiking, visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village for art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in a charming, shaded outdoor setting.

Cathedral Rock is also part of an interconnected trail network. The trail sign below shows linked trails, difficulty ratings, and parking areas. Explore these trails to extend your hiking day.

Cathedral Rock Hike: Your Ultimate Guide to Sedona’s Iconic Trail