Cathedral Rock Trail Guide (Sedona): What to Expect + How to Do It Right

Cathedral Rock is one of the most iconic hikes in Sedona, Arizona — and it’s famous for two things:

1. The views are unreal

2. It’s short, steep, and exposed enough to humble people who thought it was a casual stroll

This guide is the simple, local-style version: how hard it is, what the trail feels like, what to bring, and how to handle parking + timing so you actually enjoy it.

CATHEDRAL ROCK HIKE — QUICK FACTS Location: Sedona, AZ Difficulty: Moderate–Hard (short, steep, rocky) Trail type: Out-and-back Best time to go: Sunrise (cooler + calmer) Best for: Epic views, couples, photographers, first-timers who want an iconic hike Not ideal for: Anyone uncomfortable with steep rock scrambling or heights Bathrooms: Yes Parking: Limited + popular (go early or use the Sedona Shuttle when available) Pass: Often required at Forest Service fee sites (Red Rock Pass or eligible pass)

Why Cathedral Rock is worth it

Cathedral Rock is one of the best “views-per-effort” hikes in Sedona. You don’t have to hike for hours to get the payoff — but you do need to be okay with steep, rocky terrain.

If your goal is “Sedona postcard views” in under a half-day: this is the hike.

Couple gets married at Cathedral Rock at sunrise in Sedona, Arizona. Photo by Shannon Roberts.

Cathedral Rock distances by starting point (round trip)

Start point	Typical route	Approx. distance (RT)
Cathedral Rock Trailhead (Back O’ Beyond Rd)	Cathedral Rock Trail out-and-back	~1.2 miles RT
Baldwin Trailhead	Baldwin → Templeton → connect to Cathedral Rock Trail → out-and-back (or return same way)	~5.0–5.2 miles RT
Red Rock Crossing / Crescent Moon area	Red Rock Crossing route to Cathedral Rock (varies by exact start and water crossing conditions)	~3.9 miles RT, up to ~5 miles RT (depending on start/line)
Templeton Trail route (longer approach)	Cathedral Rock via Templeton Trail (AllTrails route)	~6.1 miles RT

What the Cathedral Rock trail is like (real talk)

• The first part

  • A short warm-up before it starts getting steeper.

• The middle

  • This is where you’ll feel the climb. Expect:

    • rock steps

    • uneven footing

    • moments where you’ll use hands for balance

    • slow progress because people bunch up on steep sections

• The top area

  • The views open up in a big way. Most people spread out and explore (safely) on rock ledges and flatter sections.

• Local tip: you don’t have to go to the “highest possible point” to have an amazing experience. Choose a comfortable spot, sit, and enjoy the view.

How hard is Cathedral Rock?

Short distance does not equal easy.

Cathedral Rock is best described as:

• physically demanding for its length

• steep and rocky

• more about footing and confidence than endurance

If you’re nervous: go slow, give yourself time, and don’t be afraid to stop below the top. The scenery is beautiful the whole way.

Best time to hike Cathedral Rock (sunrise vs sunset)

Sunrise (best overall in my opinion!)

• cooler temps

• softer light

• better chance at parking

• calmer trail experience

Sunset (beautiful, but plan smart)

• gorgeous golden hour

• more people lingering (crowds can stack up)

• hiking down in low light is slower and requires more caution

Local strategy: If you want sunset views but don’t want to hike down in the dark, start earlier and be off the steep sections before the light drops.

Top-down aerial view of Cathedral Rock, one of Sedona's most hiked trails

Parking for Cathedral Rock (the practical plan)

Cathedral Rock is popular, and parking is limited. Here’s how to avoid wasting your morning:

• Option A: Go early and park legally

  • This is the simplest strategy. “Early” means earlier than you want.

• Option B: Use the free trailhead shuttle (when running)

  • Sedona’s trailhead shuttles can be the easiest way to access popular trailheads without parking chaos. If the Cathedral Rock route is operating during your visit, this is a great option.

• Option C: Have a Plan B hike ready

  • If it’s packed, don’t force it. Sedona has plenty of incredible alternatives!

    
    

Do you need a Red Rock Pass for Cathedral Rock?

Many Sedona-area trailheads on Coconino National Forest land require a day-use pass (Red Rock Pass or an eligible interagency pass aka: National Parks Pass) if you’re parking. If you arrive via the free Sedona Shuttle (or an authorized ride service), you do not need to pay trailhead parking.

What to bring (Sedona-specific)

• Water (more than you think for a “short hike”)

• Shoes with grip (slick rock + steep sections)

• Layers if you’re going at sunrise

• Snack (the top is a great sit-and-enjoy spot)

• Headlamp if you’re attempting sunrise or sunset (it’s small and it’s smart)

Photo tips (so your pictures match the hype)

• Sunrise: soft light, less harsh contrast, fewer people

• Midday: bright and dramatic, but can blow out highlights

• Sunset: warm tones, gorgeous glow, but plan your descent timing

Insider tip: Take photos early, then put your phone away for five minutes. The top is one of the best “sit in silence and stare at rocks” places in Arizona.

I wouldn't consider Cathedral Rock a "kid-friendly" hike but it can be done with the right gear, expertise, and safety precautions.

Safety + etiquette (quick but important)

• Give people space on steep sections (especially descending)

• Don’t climb into dangerous spots for photos

• Stay on durable surfaces where possible

• If it’s wet, take extra caution—slick rock is no joke

If Cathedral Rock is too crowded (alternatives)

If you show up and it’s chaos, swap to one of these categories:

• An easy hike with big views (low stress)

• A moderate trail with more breathing room

• A scenic drive + viewpoint day

FAQs

Is Cathedral Rock a hard hike? For its short distance, yes — it’s steep, rocky, and can feel intense. Most people can do it with breaks and good shoes.

Is Cathedral Rock good for sunrise? Yes. Sunrise is the best time for cooler temps, fewer crowds, and beautiful light.

Do I need hiking poles? Some people like poles for the descent, but many hikers prefer keeping hands free for balance on rocky steps.