Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock
5
About
Towering red rock formation, part of the Cathedral Rock Trail.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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Best nearby
Restaurants
17 within 3 miles
Attractions
120 within 6 miles
See what other travelers are saying
- Emily S35 contributionsThe Best Hike!!! A must do.This was our favorite hike in Sedona. It’s steep but manageable. Hiking boots are key because you need the grip on the rocks due to the incline. The view from the top is amazing. Go to the right at the top and take photos on the ledge - so beautiful. Parking can be tough so go at an off-peak time. We first tried around 3:30pm on Friday, not knowing it’s a big sunset hike. There was no parking anywhere. We went back around 11am on Saturday and only had to wait a few minutes to find a spot. There are two small lots and street parking.Visited November 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten November 14, 2020
- Rachel W37 contributionsStunning vistas from the topOne of my favorite hikes in Sedona (for the views.) Not difficult for experienced hikers with proper footwear, but wouldn't recommend for families with small children. Many people were sliding down on their butts (dress accordingly if that might be you.) Recommend going early in the morning (expect a hassle with parking) for good light and to avoid the big Disneyland crowds.Visited December 2019Written January 2, 2020
- JBNS2Beaconsfield, Canada42 contributionsBeautiful hike moderate/difficultTo enjoy the hike differently, start from the 179 in Oak Creek and take the Verde Valley School Rd to the very end (10 min) then another 5 min on a gravel road to the parking lot. Pay your permit ($5 - credit card) and keep going down on the gravel road to the river (5 min). From there start the hike following the river upstream. It will bring you to Tempelton Trail (easy), up to Cathedral Trail (difficult). On your way back from Cathedral and halfway on Tempelton, take a left on Baldwin Trail to look the mesa and it will bring you back to your car. Total is 3.5 hrs with breaks. Amazing view especially top of Cathedral. A must.Visited March 2020Traveled with familyWritten March 7, 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.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
6,051 reviews
Excellent
5,141
Very good
777
Average
111
Poor
15
Terrible
7
Melissa U
Big Bear Lake, CA16 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
Visited last week of October 2020.
Parking available at the start of trail. $5 for the day.
Arrive before 8a as lot gets full.
Hiking shoes with good grip highly recommended if you plan to hike up the rock.
The hike is an easy nature walk from the parking lot to the base of the rock. Then it’s a steep incline where you’re looking for grip on the face of the rock to pull yourself up at some points.
It’s challenging for someone who doesn’t hike often, but not perhaps not so much for experienced hikers. There were 5 year olds doing it, so...
Coming down is a bit scarier. I was on my butt in some places due to steep decline carefully sliding down instead of stepping.
There are white arrows in the sides of rocks to show you the way.
I recommend water IN backpacks instead of side pockets as our kept falling out the sides. Dress in layers. It was in the high 40s when we arrived. Mid 70s by the time we left.
Picturesque the whole way through. Sweeping vistas at the top.
Parking available at the start of trail. $5 for the day.
Arrive before 8a as lot gets full.
Hiking shoes with good grip highly recommended if you plan to hike up the rock.
The hike is an easy nature walk from the parking lot to the base of the rock. Then it’s a steep incline where you’re looking for grip on the face of the rock to pull yourself up at some points.
It’s challenging for someone who doesn’t hike often, but not perhaps not so much for experienced hikers. There were 5 year olds doing it, so...
Coming down is a bit scarier. I was on my butt in some places due to steep decline carefully sliding down instead of stepping.
There are white arrows in the sides of rocks to show you the way.
I recommend water IN backpacks instead of side pockets as our kept falling out the sides. Dress in layers. It was in the high 40s when we arrived. Mid 70s by the time we left.
Picturesque the whole way through. Sweeping vistas at the top.
Written October 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.
Travelers Voice
Conroe, TX2,058 contributions
Sep 2020 • Family
Red Rock State Park has a very nice view of Cathedral Rock from along the Javelina trail. The trail is accessible from the visitor center. Access to the park is $7 per person, 8-5pm.
Written September 20, 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.
Mike X
Chicago, IL1,982 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
TIPS: Arrived at 7am on Sunday and both lots were full already with 3 cars already waiting in line. Forget that noise and just drive to Yavapai trail point parking lot early (before 8am). It's a MUCH longer walk to get to Cathedral Rock trail but the views of the rock formations along the way are the BEST. Yavapai trail links up to Templeton trail (via smaller trails) which links up to the cathedral rock trail.
As for the climb, yes it's a bit challenging. That being said, my wife is a big chicken and she still made it all the way to the top. We saw the elderly, young children and various out of shape people beast mode up that one infamous section so you can do it too. It's more a test of your mind than it is of your body. You can boost your confidence with getting rock climbing shoes and making sure you have both hands free during the climb to brace yourself and crawl.
Once at the top (trail end), go to the right and strangers take turns taking each other's pictures out on the ledge. Then go to the left of the sign and climb up even further to get an even better view.
As for the climb, yes it's a bit challenging. That being said, my wife is a big chicken and she still made it all the way to the top. We saw the elderly, young children and various out of shape people beast mode up that one infamous section so you can do it too. It's more a test of your mind than it is of your body. You can boost your confidence with getting rock climbing shoes and making sure you have both hands free during the climb to brace yourself and crawl.
Once at the top (trail end), go to the right and strangers take turns taking each other's pictures out on the ledge. Then go to the left of the sign and climb up even further to get an even better view.
Written March 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.
hittheroad_matt
Montreal, Canada72 contributions
Jan 2020
So for starters you need a Red Rock pass to park in the lot which only cost 5$ and there's a machine which is easy to use in order to get it on the lot. Then it's a somewhat easy hike to start but it gets quite tough mid way with steep steps and it doesn't help that the rocks are very slippery (not wet just no grip) but the hike isn't impossible. It's only tough on 2-3 occasions for a very short period of time but once you get to the top... wow. The views are insane on both sides! really worth the trek. We were told to go for sunset and that's exactly what we did. Results were epic!
Written January 23, 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.
Anthony T
Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany7 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
This is a must do hike when in Sedona. The approach to the base is easy to moderate difficulty.Ensure you have proper close toed foot wear, this is t flip flop terrain. It becomes steeper after the first plateau the views are good and this may be where some choose to end their hike.
Shortly beyond here you work your way up some large slickrock steps to where a “staircase” leads you up a chute to a small plateau. Beyond that it becomes a scramble up a small chasm. Hands, feet and balance required to go up and down the route. There were families with young children up at that point, but be prepared to assist at points up and down.
More of the same great views and varying terrain heading up from there.
Interesting point: the hiking app that I use rated the trail Green (easy) to the first plateau but was unrated beyond that point. Great trail... know what to expect.
Shortly beyond here you work your way up some large slickrock steps to where a “staircase” leads you up a chute to a small plateau. Beyond that it becomes a scramble up a small chasm. Hands, feet and balance required to go up and down the route. There were families with young children up at that point, but be prepared to assist at points up and down.
More of the same great views and varying terrain heading up from there.
Interesting point: the hiking app that I use rated the trail Green (easy) to the first plateau but was unrated beyond that point. Great trail... know what to expect.
Written February 29, 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.
David J
Scottsdale, AZ550 contributions
Nov 2020 • Couples
Parking is a total pain, some folks walking nearly a mile to get to the trailhead, we got lucky. But the place was a total zoo, we should have got there earlier but people wearing flop flops, so many groups all taking pictures blocking trail. We didn't go to the top but turned right along some wonderful trails dropping down into the valley along river, now that was fun
Written November 14, 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.
Tyler
Norwalk, CT35 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
Cathedral rock to the top this morning (3/1/20)! Got to the lot at 7am, a few spots still left. Put my 2.5 year old, well behaved dude, into my osprey poco AG premium pack and took off with my 19 week preggo wife. We are a little seasoned with hiking but mostly just prepared, in decent shape and love being outside. We are smaller people, 5’5”-5’7” and 125-155lbs, my toddler is 35lbs. We have more athletic builds and have researched all our hikes in Sedona and have appropriate gear. I was initially doubting I’d be able to get up to the top according to reviews, I do agree it’s best to be cautious when advising someone without know their actual abilities/preparedness. However, we all managed to get up there. There are some steeper sections that require you to have common sense but nothing near a rope or any super special gear. Up top we took turns going out on the ledge to the right, of looking at the ‘end of trail’ sign, leaving the little guy on safer ground. We enjoyed a snack and spent maybe 35 min just hanging out, only maybe 6 people up there. We then decided to go check the spire to the left, up top, after a minor steep section. The reward was easily worth the effort. After the spire, we decided to head back down, at which point there was a line forming for photos on the ledge. The way down seemed like a breeze, compared to the hike up. Got to the car 940, with plenty of stops here and there. I don’t recommend this for everyone and if you feel like you shouldn’t do it, don’t. There’s already plenty of folks in jeans and sneakers putting themselves and others at risk. Based on our personal abilities/experience/preparedness we all completed this hike and are thankful that we did it. An amazing way to spend your early morning watching the sun come up.
Written March 1, 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.
washington_wahine
Seattle, WA2,760 contributions
Sep 2020
a fun, scenic hike. Don't let the crack stop you - if this senior citizen can do it, so can you! views from the top are rewarding. Go super early in the morning - we went just before dawn - and you will not only get parking but will also skip the (unmasked) crowds.
Written September 29, 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.
Badcop
Cleveland, OH222 contributions
Feb 2020
Sunset from the very top of the Cathedral Rock hike is one of the best I've ever witnessed! Try to get to the trailhead at least one hour before sunset. We did, but it took us a while to park since there was no room in the small lot and you then have to park at least 1/2 mile away. Make sure you bring a flashlight or headlamp!!! In order to see the best views, you should go all the way to the top. We stayed until the very end of sunset, after the sky had changed all kinds of beautiful colors. The problem with that is that it was quite dark on the way down and it's dicey at spots. Also, make sure you have good hiking boots as it can be pretty slippery on the way down. But it's all worth it!
Written February 22, 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.
Dilla
Charleston, SC411 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
This is listed as a moderate hike but I would scale it a bit harder than that. Wear good hiking shoes/boots and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty/scuffed up. It is steep so if you have knee issues, you may want to wrap/brace/tape up. The views going all the way to the top are stunning. We went at 11am on a Wednesday and had to wait 30-40 minutes for a parking space to open up. It is $5 to park. There is one bathroom at the parking lot. It is very busy.
Written October 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.
Tuscany26
Allentown, PA1 contribution
Hi, we are visiting in late June. Can't wait! My question about Cathedral Rock Trail....is it dangerous? We are all adults. Would it be too scary for somebody who is afraid of heights? Thanks!
vacationauthority
USA125 contributions
You're going to have. Great time!! We were there last week and heading back tomorrow for two nights! Reach out with any questions if I can belp
Hannah S
34 contributions
Hi there! Planning a trip to Flagstaff next month and want to check out an awesome sunset spot. I've heard Cathedral Rock in Sedona is a MUST. Been told Airport Mesa is gorgeous but can get busy. Are there any spots in Flagstaff to check out that rival Cathedral Rock for sunset? Looking for the best! Thanks!
Michelle R
Pittsburgh, PA65 contributions
Hello! Get excited because Sedona is GORGEOUS! Airport Mesa is an awesome place for the sunset, there is plenty of room up there. It wasn't over crowded when I went. Nice view over looking Sesona also. As far as Cathedral rock, I can't answer because it was extremely hot and I had just arrived and was dehydrated and couldn't finish the hike. Make sure you start hydrating couple days before you go. Be sure to check out Peace park and Holy chapel! They are beautiful and no hike! Enjoy!
todesto
Fullerton, CA4 contributions
Is there a vista point to see Red Rock at sunset? I’ve visited here 20years ago remembering the whole mountain looked red which was awesome.
I am in Phoenix right now amd don't mind driving for a day trip. I just want to show my family it being red.
Roland S
41 contributions
Red Rock xing is definitely the best place to view this place, make sure of times park stays open and whether or not it’s even possible for viewing at sunset.
OCmama07
Tustin, CA4 contributions
Is this hike doable for children? My kids are 11, 8, and 7 years old. Thanks in advance!
np4micu
Chardon, OH53 contributions
This area I think would be great for kids - I would recommend stopping at the Ranger Station on Route 179 just before Sedona. They have Rangers there that can answer any question you can possibly have, they will recommend trails based on what you want to do, and they have maps and brochures you can use to explore the area. The Cathedral Rock hike is good - its a long hike all the way around but you can do part way and turn around if you need to. There are some trails that do up to the rock and you can climb over some large rocks. We are older so we avoided the area. They do let people go up high on the butte but I think it is dangerous. You can assess it at the time and let your kids do what they are capable of. The Little Horse Trail would also be good for kids. Mostly level some rise in elevation. There is the trail too that connects the town of OaK creek with Sedona. That is good for bikes and there are bike rentals on both ends of the trail. Have fun!!!!!
Is it hard/dangerous to hike Cathedral rock trail in winter(End of December) ? I saw from some pictures that the rock is partly covered by snow. Not sure if it is suitable to hike there during winter for a beginner.
cyclingmaster
Palm Cove, Australia40 contributions
Would be pretty tricky unless you had good footing. There are some scrambling points that could be slippery.
Phyllis W
Atlanta, Georgia27 contributions
Is there any danger of falling off the trail? Is it wide and are there people going up and down the same trail!
np4micu
Chardon, OH53 contributions
No the trail is wide and plenty of area to maneuver. There were people who took the trail right up the cathedral Rock. That looked steep and narrow. We just walked the trail around the base. Little Horse trail and the trail between Oak Creek and Sedona is fairly level and easy.
chiwylie
Bethpage, NY
Is this something you can hike on your own or do you need a guide. Two boys ages 13 and 15. Not experienced hikers.
Hans
Niles, IL219 contributions
As the other's have already said, you don't need a guide. Just stay on the paths. We weren't experienced hikers and we did fine. It will be a great experience for you.
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Claim your listingCathedral Rock - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Cathedral Rock
- We recommend booking Cathedral Rock tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 20 Cathedral Rock tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Cathedral Rock:
- Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour (From $288.88)
- Private 4-Hour Tour of Sedona with pickup/drop-off (From $158.46)
- The Outlaw Trail Jeep Tour of Sedona (From $124.97)
- 3-Day Tour: Sedona, Monument Valley, and Antelope Canyon (From $590.00)
- Private Sedona Scenic Half-Day in Luxury Car Tour (From $200.00)
- Hotels near Cathedral Rock:
- (1.31 mi) Sedona Cathedral Hideaway B&B and Casita
- (1.64 mi) Solar Power Home w/Amazing Red Rock View
- (2.51 mi) Cozy Cactus Bed and Breakfast
- (2.53 mi) A Sunset Chateau
- (2.32 mi) The Penrose Bed & Breakfast
- Restaurants near Cathedral Rock:
- (3.14 mi) Red Rock Cafe
- (3.44 mi) Casa Sedona Restaurant
- (3.22 mi) Cafe Jose Restaurant
- (3.17 mi) Golden Goose American Grill
- (4.02 mi) 89Agave Cantina
Cathedral Rock Information
Excellent Reviews | 5,141 |
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Very Good Reviews | 777 |
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