Devil’s Bridge, Sedona AZ

Although it seems so long ago, I’m still remembering our wonderful little road trip up to Sedona back in May. Our most exhilarating adventure was our hike up Devil’s Bridge. After attempting to conquer Cathedral Rock and turning back when it got very steep, we were overjoyed to successfully defeat Devil’s Bridge.

Devil’s Bridge Trail, rated as a moderate hike, is about 4.5 miles round trip. The last bit literally requires some crawling up a rocky ledge, but really didn’t seem that difficult once completed. I felt Cathedral Rock was a more difficult hike.

We parked at Dry Creek Vista Trailhead. It was purely by accident, we just went where the GPS took us. I believe the Mescal Trailhead lot may have a prettier hike to Devil’s Bridge Trailhead. We walked partway on Chuck Wagon Trail, which had beautiful views! Then we cut across and hiked up Forest Road. That is somewhat of a boring walk, and you may run into trucks on the way because some folks will drive up to Devil’s Bridge Trail Head and park. However, be aware, it is a crazy rough road. Four wheel drive only!

We left early, found a parking spot easily (probably because they were just reopening after the COVID lockdown) and made it back before it got too crazy hot. I think in a normal time, parking would be a challenge. There were plenty of fellow hikers out but many showed up a little later in the morning (we arrived around 8:00 am I believe).

Success! Devil’s Bridge:

Yes, that is me out there on the bridge!

Looking out at the bridge (below). You must walk around the far edge (which is a little tight) and loop around to the center of the bridge. Plenty of folks on this side are happy to snap a photo of you and your group! 😁

Somewhere along the way, I read that there is a side path that takes you under the bridge. On the way down I looked for the path and was happy to discover a beautiful view looking up from underneath the bridge.

Under the bridge looking up

Reminder, bring your walking stick if you use one. Now we know how awesome they are when walking rocky terrain.

A flower we found along the dry hiking path

Views along the way:

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures that we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” ~ Jawaharlal Nehru

I hope if you are ever in Sedona, that you consider hiking up Devil’s Bridge. It was the most satisfying accomplishment of our trip!
🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞

“Keep close to Nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.” ~ John Muir

27 Comments Add yours

  1. Spectacular trail 👍 thanks for sharing 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you! Sedona is a beautiful area.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. So gorgeous! Hopefully I’ll be able to visit there one day!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. We hesitated to go because it was just opening up. But it was awesome! Our timing was perfect. But it can get hot!

      Liked by 1 person

  3. gr8ful_collette says:

    Seeing that picture of Devils Bridge made my palms sweat! I think I need to do it! 💕👍🏻

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I had my camera with me, but I had a small backpack. So I stuffed it in there, and aside from my walking stick, I had both hands free. We climbed and walked carefully! For the younger folks I’m sure it seems easier. 😊 So worth it!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. gr8ful_collette says:

        Yes, the mountains before me seem steeper and steeper as I get older. But there are many left to climb…like this one. Xx

        Liked by 1 person

  4. SoyBend says:

    What a beautiful place! I liked the contrast between the red rock and green foliage.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you! Yes, you kind of have to look for the colors, a lot of brown 😃

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Alice says:

    Beautiful pictures! I don’t think i would want to crawl up some rocks, though….🙄 It’s so pretty up there.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks! I didn’t think we were going to make it, but the other hikers encouraged us. So glad we did!

      Like

  6. lolaWi says:

    sounds like a wonderful hike, Lisa. it is beautiful! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you! It was a bit challenging for us, but not as tough as we imagined!

      Like

  7. nesfelicio says:

    Intriguing place.
    Great photos!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you! It was really beautiful, and we beat the crowds.

      Liked by 1 person

  8. Just Teri says:

    Way to take on Devils Bridge 😉 It’s a thrilling reward!
    Photos are stunning and LOVE seeing you on the bridge ❤️🤗

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you Teri! We did not think we’d hike up those rocks, but other hikers told us we could do it! And people were patient waiting for one another through the tight spots. So glad we didn’t give up 😉

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Just Teri says:

        I’m very impressed and happy for you that you didn’t give up. Must’ve felt amazing❣️🥰

        Liked by 1 person

      2. It did! The best thing of the trip!!

        Liked by 1 person

  9. Wonderful photos!! Cool picture of you!!

    Liked by 1 person

  10. I’ve heard the Sedona area can be magical and hope to visit sometime. I particularly love the photo from under the bridge…Thanks for sharing the wonderful photos and sentiments.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You are welcome! It really pays to read up just a little bit on things. The path that lead under the bridge was super easy to miss if you didn’t know it was there. I thought the photo came out great with the sun overhead! Thank you! 😊

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Yes, awesome photo!

        Liked by 1 person

  11. Great post. Feels like we just hiked it last week.

    Liked by 1 person

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