The common answer for the question: “things to do in Sedona” consists of numerous places including Cathedral rock trail. You may have seen the picture of Cathedral rock when it comes to Sedona picture. this trail is one of the most popular trails in Sedona.
Why this hike is so popular?
The first reason is the spectacular view from the top. Another reason, which I find quite interesting is the presence of energy vortex at the intersection of Oak Creek and Cathedral rock named as Red Rock crossing. According to Native American legends, this area (Red Rock crossing) was once the birthplace for Gods and mankind. According to some other legends there are presence of Gods in Cathedral rock. People, who believe in vortexes, says that there is a certain feminine energy in the vortex of Red Rock crossing and people should expect to feel creative and peace. It does not matter if you believe in those legends, myths, or vortexes, the only thing that matters most is the magical view while sitting on the top plateau and enjoy the sunrise or sunset from there.
How is the trail?
This trail is not much in length. But the hike is quite steep. I would rather define it as easy rock climb with some difficult section. If you are cautious enough and maintain three-point contact, this hike will be quite easy for you and you will enjoy it. The trail is well marked with basket cairns and always crowded. It may seem intimidating at first, but most of the sandstones have enough texture to provide the traction required. Take your time for both climbing up and descending. You just have to follow the basket cairns.
At the beginning you have to cross a small creek wash before you start the ascent. Follow the mark towards the Cathedral rock trail. The trail is quite straightforward with occasional rock stairs. the junction between Cathedral rock trail and Templeton trail and then a wash and hike toward the spires. Then it opens to a broad ledge or plateau and the view here is quite remarkable. The valley, red rock formations and the horizon – everything combine to create a beautiful panoramic view. After that you will reach the Cathedral Rock trail and Templeton train junction. From this point, the trail become steep. After a short climb up the rock stairs, you will reach the base of a crevasse in the rock which is about 40 feet long and rises at almost 45-degree angle. This is the most difficult section of the hike and take your time here. Always maintain the three-point contact which means use one hands and two foot or two hands one foot to maintain balance and climb up or down using the remaining hand or foot. If you find somebody is struggling in front of you, don’t act like you are in rush and pass them. Not everybody has a good balance and if someone is trying to do this hike, lets help them. Of course, there are some flat sections where you can sit, or stand and take some rest.
The trail gets much easier once you made it to the top of the crevasse. Still there are a few sections you may find a little bit challenging. The incline is less steep, but you will be climbing up. At the end part, the trail turns into rock stairs all the way to the top. The rock formation is quite interesting, kind of stacked one over another like stack of pancakes. After that you will find another plateau. The summit is so close; a rocky staircase and a few switchbacks and then you are almost there. Soon you will find the sign “End of Trail” at the top and that’s it! You reached the top of the Cathedral rock. If you have time, don’t forget to stop, and enjoy the view from different points on the trail.
Best time to visit?
I would say sunset. We went there during the sunset. When the last rays of the days touch the rocks, it creates a beautiful aura and you will feel the energy in the air. Such an amazing environment. We all were watching a beautiful sunset together. There were some people doing couple photoshoot, bride and groom for their wedding photoshoot and with the ember hues of sunset, it looked out of the world. Even it may take some time for you, even if it is a crowded hike, please do it. Because the view up there is really amazing and the hike is worth it.
At a glance:
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Total distance: 1.5 mile out and back (approximate)
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Elevation gain: 650 ft
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Difficulty: easy to moderate
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Best time to go: Spring to Fall. Summer months can be really hot. Please check the weather and prepare accordingly.
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Trailhead: 511-541 Back O Beyond Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336/ Cathedral rock trailhead no. 170
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Trailhead Co-ordinate: 34.825194, -111.788417
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Parking: at the trailhead, parking fee (5 usd) required. As this trail is quite popular, the trailhead parking lot gets full easily. Keep that in mind and plan accordingly.
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Amenities: washroom at the trailhead parking are
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Bring water, snacks in a bag or backpack, keep your hands free specially while hiking up and climbing. If you are hiking during the summer months, dress accordingly, bring your glass, hat, sunscreen. Remember there is no shade and its quite exposed. Wear sturdy shoes, you will need it. If you are doing this as a sunset hike, don’t forget to bring the head lamp and torch with you.
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Please be cautious if it rains, as the rocks can be slippery. Take your time and be cautious.
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Leave no trace. It’s our duty to keep the trail beautiful and our small effort can make it happen. Please be mindful about it.
Source/Reference:
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Coconino National Forest – Cathedral Rock Trail No. 170 (usda.gov)
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Cathedral Rock Trail, Hiking Sedona AZ (sedonahikingtrails.com)
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Hike | Cathedral Rock Trail | Sedona — Arizona Hikers Guide
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