Sedona the Sensational
Sedona the Sensational
Let’s Head Back to Sedona for More Hikes
Previously I shared some sights and hikes for beginners hiking in Sedona, Arizona. Stops such as the Amitabha Stupa and easy trails such as West Fork Trail. The expert hiker will enjoy those as well. My next series of trails though may be geared more toward those slightly more advanced hikers. Hikers who don’t mind a little incline and longer hikes for that big payoff at the end.
1. Devil's Bridge
Devil’s Bridge is one of the more popular sights in Sedona to get to. There are a few different options when it comes to parking and trails that lead to this picture perfect spot. I’d break that all down, but fellow blogger Cindy Banks does a fine job of it HERE. What I do want to mention though is that this is a moderate difficulty level trail. It may prove to be slightly more difficult for new hikers or those who haven’t hiked in awhile, but it’s still doable. Most of the trail is wide and smooth but as you get closer to the bridge itself the path does get steeper and more rugged.
It should be noted that Devil’s Bridge has become a hot spot, so you’ll probably have to wait in line to snap a photo on it. It is worth it though! The view is the stunning. The backdrop is beautiful. Needless to say, you’ll leave with some amazing pictures to share. Dogs on leashes are actually welcome on this trail, but as mentioned, it is steep at times… Getting there early to snag a parking spot is good to keep in mind. Most importantly, bring plenty of H20 and stay hydrated! This trail is a hot one with little shade.
2. Cathedral Rock
Like Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock is also of the most photographed sights in Arizona. It is a natural sandstone butte carved from redbed sandstone formed from ancient sand dunes. It’s trail, aptly called Cathedral Rock trail, is a short and easy one, but it gets steeper and more difficult as you make your way toward the top. Most will never reach the top, but you will come to a point where it feels right to stop. Once you get there, you’ll have an outstanding view of the Sedona skyline and all of the other fascinating formations. The hike isn’t very difficult if you are relatively healthy and have a lot of water with you. The sun will beat on you the entire way up, so staying hydrated is absolutely crucial.
3. Sedona View Trail to
Airport Mesa Vortex
If you’re in Sedona around sunset, Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout is a fantastic place to witness it. At this observation post you’ll see a lot of Sedona, the various rock formations, including Cathedral Rock, as they transform colors. It’s $3 to park here, so be sure to make the most of it. Come a few hours before sunset and hike the Sedona View Trail that runs parallel to Airport Road. It’s a fairly easy trial with a pretty view along it that eventually takes you to Airport Loop Trail. Hook a left and you’ll be at the popular spot known as Airport Mesa Vortex. This is another splendid location to catch a sunset with a 360 degree view of much of Sedona’s landscape. Here you’ll probably take at least a dozen photos before you either head back or opt in for the 3.2 mile long Airport Loop Trail.
4. Midgley Bridge
The other impressive bridge in Sedona is a man-made one just off the 89A called Midgley Bridge. It rustic and highly picturesque, though finding parking can be an issue. If you get there early enough or at the right time for a spot though, continuing down the Midgley Bridge Trail is encouraged. Why? Well, there’s a miniature version of Slide Rock down there but with far less people. To get to it, you hike down the trail until you come to Huckaby Trail. Follow Huckaby Trail along Oak Creek, while being aware of the poison ivy near it, until you come to a clearing. It’s likely you’ll hear chatter or music as you approach, and there’ll probably be a few others already there. This is one of Sedona’s best kept “secrets”, as it is not pointed out on any maps. Natural waterslides with a scenic backdrop of Midgley Bridge.
To Be Continued...
Sedona has many trails, sights, and things to do. The ones mentioned here and in my previous article are all remarkable and are sort of happy mediums as far as difficulty goes. Add them to your list if what you’ve read intrigues you. You probably won’t be able to fit them all into one day. I’d estimate this being at least a two-day itinerary if you attempt to do them all. I don’t want to cram everything into one article, so I’ll do a few more Sedona blogs in the near future. Stay tuned!
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