Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock
5
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Towering red rock formation, part of the Cathedral Rock Trail.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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- LightPacker77720044 contributionsincredible siteJust spectacular views, it must be seen, pictures dont do it justice. So you can drive by and take pics, drive to the location get out and take pics, or hike the trail and get up close and personal. If your hiking, be prepared! this is not a casual hike, and has many very steep areas. I would avoid hiking later in the day, you will want every bit of light for this challenging hike. That said... Dont miss this location. It's worth the time, even to just walk around and take in the viewsVisited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 10 October 2023
- Maddie MChicago, Illinois26 contributionsFace your fears for the view!My family and I (50s and 20s) hiked this on our trip to Sedona and it was totally worth it! The hike itself is a bit challenging. We are not very experienced as we are from Chicago, but those who are locals here admit is it a more challenging hike. It is only about 2 ish miles and does not take long however you are pulling yourself up on rocks and having to scoot down. There were some that brought new borns, kids, and dogs which I would not recommend. There is a vortex further past the top which we did not go to however would recommend going or going to some others that are less challenging like Airport Mesa Vortex! One thing is the parking is very limited and cars are just waiting in a line for people to leave. We however parked at Little Horse Trail and it was less than a mile away. We walked down a little trail to the roundabout and walked down the road that lead us to the parking lot where cars were still waiting. We hiked Cathedral and then went to the Eazy Breezy Trail which took us on a few other short trails right back to our car at Little Horse! This entire hike from the parking lot to top of Cathedral and back to our car took about 3ish hours. I would definitely purchase the red rock pass that is $15 dollars for 7 days and allows parking at any of the sights.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 13 November 2023
- KevfromKYLexington, Kentucky33 contributionsExtremely Challenging - Please ReadThis trail is HARD and a little scary! Your experience will fall into one of these buckets: - Inexperienced hiker/climber with fear of falling or slipping on rocks: you will most likely stop 1/3 of the way up. But that’s ok, about 50% of the people ended up stopping. - Inexperienced hiker/climber that can handle fear: you will get scared during the difficult middle section and question yourself, but you will continue and reach the top. You will again be challenged, but you will make it done. You will be proud of yourself! - Experienced hiker/climber: you will enjoy it and so just fine.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 27 November 2023
- Jai S53 contributionsSteep but stunningOur family had a fun hike at Cathedral Rock. Some spots on our hike were really steep, and some were moderate. It took us 50 minutes to go up and 35 minutes to come back. We were also walking pretty slow though. The way down was much easier than the way up. At the top we saw an awesome view of the mountains. There was one section of the trail that was narrow, like a crevice, but tucked between rocks so you couldn’t fall. We started the hike at 5:15and ended at 6:40. Even though the sunset was at 6:15 we still had enough daylight to finish our hike. We had an amazing experience at Cathedral Rock hike.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 18 February 2024
- MreareusPhoenix, Arizona52 contributionsGood hike but takes longer than alltrails app suggestsFrom Yavapai vista parking ( parking permit required) take hermits trail a short way to templeton that will take you to amazing views. Many suggest doing the loop back, EasyBreezy but its an intermediate not easy and mostly through forest. In retrospect i would take templeton back and get the views that way. Take plenty of water even with air temperature of only 60, the direct sun gets you feeling much hotter. I’m slow due to knees, took me 4 hoursVisited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 10 March 2024
- Bryan W9 contributionsMade it to the top!!Had to ride the free shuttle to the trail head. The park and ride lot was packed and had to wait to park till a shuttle came back. The hike was great, views awsome. Wear good hiking boot!! It is a difficult scramble but worth it. Just a heads up they are doing construction on the trails Wed - Sat now through sometime in April 2024. Can't go to the top wed - sat. Can go to the top on Sun - Tue only.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 15 March 2024
- KityaymaSydney, Australia574 contributionsGlorious viewsStunning day, beautiful walk, glorious views . Some guides say the walk takes 2 hours but it was more like 3 for us. Not everyone will want to do the last scramble up to the steps that lead to the platform but you still get great views from the base or mid level (the bit before the narrow vertical scramble). But the climb to the top is worth it for the incredible 360 degree views and close ups of those magnificent rocks. One section of the trail passes a pretty river and this section is shaded by tall trees. Most other parts are unshaded. You need shoes with tread. Some rocks are very slippery. When we there they were doing work on the trail and it's only open Sunday, Monday and Tuesday until April 13.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 9 April 2024
- minimize940314Los Angeles, California3,542 contributionsThe Cathedral RockThe classic cathedral rock. There are some rock formations that look alike this rock, but I think this particular one in Sedona stands out due to the vibrant red color. I only got to see during afternoon, but I cannot imagine how beautiful this rock would have been if I had seen it during sunset or sunrise.Visited May 2023Travelled soloWritten 23 April 2024
- Sean A.Lincoln, California24 contributions32 year anniversary hikeMy wife and I decided to do this hike while in Sedona on our 32 anniversary. It was challenging in couple sections, you did have to crawl up a crevice and really test your climbing skills. We took our time and were able to safely navigate the terrain and climb. We were able to reach the summit and take in the awesome views on both sides of the valley. Worth the hike.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 May 2024
- DrdomoreKaty, Texas16 contributionsMust do, good fun for family, challenging but fun5 out of 5. Based on online reviews, this felt daunting. Make sure you have good shoes, plenty of water, comfortable hiking clothing, sunscreen and a camera (I used my iPhone). Gorgeous views. When you get to the top, keep going on the left side. There is another bit to hike for even better views. Pro tip: There is no parking allowed at site. You can take an Uber, which will drop you off at trailhead. Private cars are not allowed but Uber and shuttles are allowed. Wish I had known this beforeVisited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 27 May 2024
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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 31 October 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, TX2,318 contributions
Sept 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 20 September 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, IL3,896 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 21 March 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 23 January 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 29 February 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, AZ530 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 14 November 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, CT44 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 1 March 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, WA3,428 contributions
Sept 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 29 September 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, OH251 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 22 February 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, SC532 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 21 October 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.
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!
Written 12 April 2021
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
Written 10 May 2021
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!
Written 20 September 2020
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!
Written 20 September 2020
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.
Written 29 July 2019
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.
Written 5 August 2019
Is this hike doable for children? My kids are 11, 8, and 7 years old. Thanks in advance!
Written 1 March 2019
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!!!!!
Written 9 March 2019
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.
Written 8 December 2018
Would be pretty tricky unless you had good footing. There are some scrambling points that could be slippery.
Written 30 December 2018
Is there any danger of falling off the trail? Is it wide and are there people going up and down the same trail!
Written 2 October 2018
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.
Written 9 March 2019
chiwylie
Bethpage, New York
Is this something you can hike on your own or do you need a guide. Two boys ages 13 and 15. Not experienced hikers.
Written 22 August 2018
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.
Written 23 August 2018
mtlfod
Montreal, Canada
Is there a nice vantage point that is accessible by car for cathedral rock? We’d like to see it tonight at sunset but won’t have time to make the hike!
Written 8 August 2018
Go to the airport in Sedona. It’s at the top of a hill and people go there to watch the sunset.
Written 9 August 2018
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