Chapel of the Holy Cross
Chapel of the Holy Cross
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
This chapel, located among dramatic rock formations, offers spectacular views, especially at sunset.
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133 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- RV Manifest Destiny106 contributionsStunning church in the mountainThis is worth the visit, but its a small road with limited parking. Amazing beauty. You can see this from the road as you drive in and then it narrows down considerable. This stop is NOT RV friendly. It gets crowded and can be tough to turn around or even back out of a spot, so be patient, its worth it.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 3, 2023
- LightPacker77720044 contributionsAmazing chapel with incredible 360 degree viewsAmazing location with truly inspiring views. First tip, get there early!! they open at 9am, be there no later than 9:30am. Parking is a nightmare. It is spread out in multiple areas working its way up the hill to the chapel. Once there the viewa are awe inspiring in every direction. This is a must see in Sedona, but I cant stress enough GET THERE EARLY!Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 10, 2023
- Barry MMemphis, Tennessee407 contributionsUnique setting for a special chapelThe chapel is built on Coconino National Forest land and is situated between two natural stone spires, this small chapel is architecturally and spiritually inspiring (no pun intended). Limited parking, but the chapel personnel provide golf cart rides from the parking areas up to the chapel entrance. The chapel was completed in 1956. The large crucifix, added in 2018, in the interior of the chapel is the focal point once you enter the church. The gift shop is very impressive. This is a functioning Catholic Church with several weekly masses, check their website for service times.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 14, 2023
- Carol RAbrams, Wisconsin95 contributionsSite that will take about an hour of your day - worth itThe chapel is so beautiful and serene. The views are also spectular. The walk up can be challenging for some but they do have folks driving around with golf carts to get you up and down the cliff. We were walking when they approached us and asked if we wanted a ride up. We asked how much further and she said we were about 1/2 way up so we took the ride. (of course this comes with providing a tip). It's not a stop that will take a lot of time out of your day but I would definitely recommend stopping for the hour it takes to see the chapel. Parking is a bit of a challenge. We heard that that parking fills up quickly (and we went as it was opening up at 9AM) but we saw cars parking way below the hill so we grabbed a spot but it was a long walk.Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 15, 2023
- Madonna C23 contributionsA Must See!This chapel is an Amazing place! We attended adoration, benediction and Mass on Friday afternoon. The priest there is so full of love, it radiates from him! The architecture is impressive and of course the environment is awe inspiring! This is a must see when in Sedona!!Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 16, 2023
- lotsagoldens942 contributionsBeautiful place.I was here about six years ago, in October. At that time there were, at most, four other people wandering around. This time? Trolleys, golf cars, a total traffic jam! Now there are Gregorian chants playing in the background, it's very crowded, and there's a huge gift shop downstairs. Not that the chants and the shop are bad things -- they just took me by surprise. Probably so busy because of the "leaf-peeping" season. Still a lovely place.Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 14, 2023
- IndieBajanNew York City, New York102 contributionsChurch in the SkyMy family and I visited on 11/22/23 during our Grand Canyon road trip. The surrounding views of the Sedona Red Mountains and valley are amazing from the top parking lot and walking bridge. The facilities close at 5 pm but some ppl opt to hang around until sunset for the remarkable view. The best thing is that there is no entrance fee but all are welcome to donate when lighting a candle because the location is an actual Catholic Church. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because the hike from the lower parking spaces to the top is very steep. Also, use the bathroom because the only public bathrooms are 2 porta-potties at the entrance below. All in all a great experience with beautiful photo opportunities.Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 25, 2023
- Nikko GandiaMonterey, California316 contributionsMan-Made Chapel Built into God-Made Red Rock ButtesVisited on 5/9 & hiked other trails during a Phoenix & Sedona trip & posted a vlog! Search "Nikko Gandia Travels Sedona" on YouTub3. The man-made chapel is beautifully integrated into the God-made red rock buttes. Views of the valley are stunning. The chapel itself is small, making it a more intimate experience while inside. Free parking and there were golf cart transports from the bottom parking lot up to the entrance.Visited May 2023Traveled soloWritten December 3, 2023
- J_Ctravel22Granbury, Texas342 contributionsBreath TakingPerfect spot to see Cathedral, Bell Rock, Trump, praying nuns, and whatever your imagination can see. The church is beautiful and looking up to Jesus in the church is moving. Drive past the first parking lot to avoid an uphill walk or wait for the free golf cart ride (for tips).Visited December 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten December 11, 2023
- Sandra TWoodhaven, Michigan11 contributionsBeautiful chapel!Awesome chapel- gorgeous area. Beautiful inside the chapel. Large gift shop with a large selection of items. Friendly staff. They had golf carts for those unable to navigate the walk up.Visited December 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten December 15, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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mjch18
Glendale, AZ141 contributions
Jan 2021 • Solo
I first visited this chapel about 30 years ago and I loved it! It had such a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. There was an alter with flowers and tall candles at each side. It had a non denominational feel that invited you to relax and pray to the God of your own understanding. There were dozens of votive candles with a little collection box at one side.
I was so taken by this little house of worship that I later purchased an eternal candle for my deceased father. The cost was $175.00 a year and included a name plate with a loving message. Over the years I moved away from Arizona but kept the candle burning. The cost later became $200 then $250 then $300.
I visited Sedona for the first time in several years just yesterday, Jan 13, 2021. I was so excited as I walked up the ramp. Once inside however I could not have been more disappointed. Peering down from above the alter is now a 20 foot Jesus nailed to a truly ornate cross. The many votive candles are now $5.00 weekly candles. For those who don’t have change the Chapel has kindly installed an electronic credit card machine 5ft inside the front door.
I wish them well but the new Chapel is not for me.
I was so taken by this little house of worship that I later purchased an eternal candle for my deceased father. The cost was $175.00 a year and included a name plate with a loving message. Over the years I moved away from Arizona but kept the candle burning. The cost later became $200 then $250 then $300.
I visited Sedona for the first time in several years just yesterday, Jan 13, 2021. I was so excited as I walked up the ramp. Once inside however I could not have been more disappointed. Peering down from above the alter is now a 20 foot Jesus nailed to a truly ornate cross. The many votive candles are now $5.00 weekly candles. For those who don’t have change the Chapel has kindly installed an electronic credit card machine 5ft inside the front door.
I wish them well but the new Chapel is not for me.
Written January 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
superflipilotguy
Frisco, TX18 contributions
Aug 2020
We stop by here every visit to Sedona. This latest time was on a Wednesday afternoon and we actually got parking up top! On weekends, it tends to get busy you often have to park at the very bottom and walk along the road up to the top. Our last visit was in 2014 and they've gotten a new addition to the interior - a statue of Jesus on the cross on the window inside. The gift shop downstairs was limiting visitors due to COVID-19 and masks are required.
Please be respectful. This is still a church. Please take your hats off inside and be quiet.
Please be respectful. This is still a church. Please take your hats off inside and be quiet.
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pparrothead
Wilmington, NC4,256 contributions
Apr 2021
While visiting Sedona one of your "must sees" should be the Chapel of the Holy Cross....Even if you are not very religious it is still amazing to see how this "Chapel" was built into the hillside.
It is a small chapel but the stunning architecture more than makes up for it size.. And the surrounding views of the "Red Rocks" are outstanding. Inside there are benches "pews" like any other church that you may have been to. The "Chapel" took approximately 18 months to build...An amazing feat in itself. Parking is at a premium here so you may have to either do some uphill walking or catch the golf cart shuttle that is available.
When we visited it was pretty crowded so we had to wait to go downstairs to stop in the store. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a must visit for anyone vacationing in the Sedona area.
It is a small chapel but the stunning architecture more than makes up for it size.. And the surrounding views of the "Red Rocks" are outstanding. Inside there are benches "pews" like any other church that you may have been to. The "Chapel" took approximately 18 months to build...An amazing feat in itself. Parking is at a premium here so you may have to either do some uphill walking or catch the golf cart shuttle that is available.
When we visited it was pretty crowded so we had to wait to go downstairs to stop in the store. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a must visit for anyone vacationing in the Sedona area.
Written May 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
msnyder79
Burlington, IA99 contributions
Nov 2020 • Family
Such a really cool place. Amazing how the chapel is nestled into the rock. The views from the chapel grounds are also beautiful. If you are catholic you'll appreciate being able to light candles and pray. There's a gift shop down below with lots of Catholic merchandise. Because of Covid there is a limited number of people who can enter at a time. It's worth a stop even if you aren't Catholic.
Written November 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darlene S
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania31 contributions
Jun 2021
If only one could tell the rude tourists whose loud conversations ruined the serenity of the chapel to go outside, our experience would have been much better. Many people were trying to have a moment of solitude and people were conversing like they were in a restaurant. The chapel is unique in its architecture and the crucifix that was commissioned for the chapel is truly one of a kind. I would recommend going early in the morning before the tours get there to experience it as a place of worship should be.
Written June 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jlcnguyen
Las Vegas, NV32 contributions
Jul 2021
This place is so beautiful, not only with the incredible view, but also with the inside of the small chapel. When we first walked in, we already felt blessed with the hug cross by the big front windows in front of our eyes. While praying, we also heard the chanting coming from inside of the walls that makes you feel holy and peaceful. According to the information online, this is one of a few places in Sedona with a strong Vortex (energy center). Although the parking lot is mall, but it would be best if you visit during the weekdays at the earlier hours to avoid the crowd so you can have some quiet time to yourself to reflect & pray. It's a must see location when you visit Sedona, AZ!
Written July 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
go_mommy
Longmont, CO321 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
Parking is tough but there are folks to help direct, be patient and you’ll eventually park. A pretty good walk up a fairly steep incline. Seems many folks were spiritually overwhelmed and were having quite deep feelings inside the church. Surrounded by the beautiful rocks so very picturesque. Inside there is a huge art piece, I think bronze, of Jesus on the cross. Many tours stop here, I’m glad I went.
Written March 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Braceless45
Santa Barbara, CA93 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
I’m going to piggy-back on another commenter who mentioned that this place feels sad. This chapel did not feel like a holy place to me— and I’ve been a church-going Christian for my whole life. The space inside is small and I’m surprised there wasn’t any sort of attendant/staff there to perform any sort of crowd management during the COVID pandemic.
The views from the outside are beautiful and that can be appreciated whether or not you are religious. It’s a free visit and worth a quick trip. We visited at the end of the day and 30 minutes was all we needed.
The views from the outside are beautiful and that can be appreciated whether or not you are religious. It’s a free visit and worth a quick trip. We visited at the end of the day and 30 minutes was all we needed.
Written October 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lori K
Fall Creek, WI30 contributions
Feb 2021
It really was great, but I went with teens who were only mildly interested.
We arrived on e-bikes so it was easy to park them. I can see where the parking lot may get crowded and difficult to maneuver. It was early February, so not peak tourist time.
We got off the bikes, walked through the chapel which is a small area. You can pay for and light candles, saying a prayer if you want. You will see other candles already lit. There was an artist making some metal sculptures I think. Our tour inside the chapel took all of 5 minutes. We walked through the gift shop; another 5 minutes. They sold native trinkets, cards, books, jewelry and religious stuff of the same kind. The final 5 minutes we spent admiring the view right outside of the doors. We didn't spend long here. I didn't sense any sort of 'amazing' energies either like some I know have. It was neat. We could have chosen a different activity just as well.
From where you park, there is a little walk (incline) to get to their ramp for an entrance, then the ramp winds uphill toward the chapel doors. They may have an elevator, but I am not sure of that. You might want to call if you need a wheelchair.
We arrived on e-bikes so it was easy to park them. I can see where the parking lot may get crowded and difficult to maneuver. It was early February, so not peak tourist time.
We got off the bikes, walked through the chapel which is a small area. You can pay for and light candles, saying a prayer if you want. You will see other candles already lit. There was an artist making some metal sculptures I think. Our tour inside the chapel took all of 5 minutes. We walked through the gift shop; another 5 minutes. They sold native trinkets, cards, books, jewelry and religious stuff of the same kind. The final 5 minutes we spent admiring the view right outside of the doors. We didn't spend long here. I didn't sense any sort of 'amazing' energies either like some I know have. It was neat. We could have chosen a different activity just as well.
From where you park, there is a little walk (incline) to get to their ramp for an entrance, then the ramp winds uphill toward the chapel doors. They may have an elevator, but I am not sure of that. You might want to call if you need a wheelchair.
Written February 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carolyn H
West Chester, PA5 contributions
Mar 2021 • Friends
We visited on Sunday during Covid. It was crowded and not too many people were wearing masks. Park wherever you see a spot, if you look like you need a ride, a person will come by in a little golf cart and pick you up. People were not very respectful that this is a church...taking pictures inside, and talking out loud inside, which is not allowed. Try to come when it’s less crowded if you want to experience a more tranquil setting. There is a nice little hike off the second to highest parking lot that is peaceful
Written March 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pets are not allowed inside the Chapel
Written April 29, 2024
Apparently, there are 2 park and ride areas for the shuttle. I've been to Sedona a dozen times and don't know where any of these locations are by name.
I've seen the shuttle a dozen times at the Chapel so if you first find your way to one of the two park and rides you'll be ok. If you are traveling from the main hwy, I-17 North from Phoenix and exit on 179 turn left toward the village of Oak Creek and Sedona. Within a few miles you'll pass a ranger/information station on the right that will give you a free map and directions to all attractions including the park and rides. Continuing on 179 from the ranger station toward Sedona you will first pass the village of Oak Creek and then the Chapel before finally reaching Sedona.
Trailhead shuttles serving Cathedral Rock and Little Horse trailheads pick up from the SR 179 park and ride lot located at 1294 SR 179.
Service to Soldier Pass, Dry Creek Vista, and Mescal trailheads operate from the Posse Grounds Park and ride lot at 20 Carruth Drive in West Sedona.
Written March 29, 2023
How and how long is the drive? Is it high?
Written August 5, 2021
Easy drive. Very accessible. Stunning views. No admission. Remember this chapel is sacred ground and not just a tourist attraction. No bathrooms at the chapel. Portapotties at the bottom of the hill on your drive up. Plan accordingly.
Written August 6, 2021
There’s not really too much of a hike unless you park at the bottom. Do yourself a favor and drive to the top and check for parking first. There’s usually quite a few open parking spots at the very top.
Written April 21, 2021
Don B
Tucson, Arizona
We are in our 70's and have been there numerous times. However, now my wife has bone on bone on one hip. There is no way she can walk up that ramp, nor could I push her. Can we pay for assistance, or is there another option? We live in Tucson, but it's important to us to share the Chapel at least one more time. We will gladly pay for assistance. Thank you
Written March 1, 2021
Since the pandemic I haven't really been on this site, so you've probably already been and gone by the time you read this. The easiest way to find out for sure if there are available staff for handicapped assistance is to give them a call. Their direct line is 928 282 4069
I hope this helps.
Written January 3, 2022
Is there a fee to visit the chapel
Written January 29, 2020
No, they no longer have services.
They did at one time but stopped that a while ago.
Written February 13, 2019
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