Cathedral Rock Trail
Coconino National Forest, Arizona

Cathedral Rock Trail

4.9
Hard↕️ Out & back

Distance

1.3 mi

2.1 km

Elevation

+688 ft

210 m

Est. Time

~42 min

Route

Out & back

🧭

Trail Guide

Best Season

Oct – May (wildly popular in fall foliage season)

Parking

Back O'Beyond Road off AZ-179 (limited spots — arrive early or use shuttle)

Fees & Passes

Red Rock Pass required ($5/day or America the Beautiful Pass)

Hiker Tips

  • This is a class 3-4 scramble — bring gloves for the exposed rock near the top
  • Sunset views from the saddle are among the best in Sedona; plan for golden hour
  • Very short trail (1.3 mi) but intense — don't underestimate the elevation gain
  • The creek crossing at Red Rock Crossing trailhead is an alternate, flatter approach

Elevation Profile

688 ft gain4,5005,165 ft
5,165 ft4,514 ft
0.0 mi1.3 mi
🗺️

Trail Location

34.82600, -111.78800
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Virtual Trail Experience

3D terrain flyover
Cathedral Rock Trail

Cathedral Rock Trail

1.3 mi · +688 ft

Activities

🥾Hiking

Trail Features

🏔️Scenic Views

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🌤️

Trail Conditions

at trailhead · updates every 2h
⚠️

Excessive Heat Warning — hike early morning only

99°F

Clear sky

Dangerous — heat

8 mph wind
Tod103°76°
0.2"
Tom103°74°
Wed101°72°
1.5"
Thu100°72°
1.1"
Fri101°72°
0.9"
Sat99°73°
0.6"
Sun97°68°
3"
💡 Start before 7am to avoid peak heat. Bring 1L of water per hour.

Trail Summary

Distance1.3 miles (2.1 km)
Elevation+688 ft gain
Route TypeOut & back
DifficultyHard
Est. Time~42 min

Location

Coconino National Forest, Arizona

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