Length: 1.0 mile; Trail Type: Out and back Cathedral Rock trail in Sedona is not a long hike, but it is a steep one. The crack rises at a 45-degree angle for approximately 40 ft. Many hikers at this point turned around or waited there deciding if they were going to proceed. All information is provided as a guide only. Dainiel, a big snowy Alpine Lakes highpoint as well as a county two-fer highpoint, as well as #1 on the Home Court List. San Antonio parks give people an opportunity to spend time enjoying the outdoors, with fresh air, sunshine and exercise on tap for visitors. This amazing rock formation is located in Sedona, Arizona. Cathedral Rock is a short hike but there is rock climbing involved, which require both hands and legs for stabilization. Cathedral Rock Trail. The Remote Hike To Cathedral Rock In Nevada Winds Through Pine Forests And Underneath Limestone Cliffs. There is a small trailhead parking area. The fee machines at designated trailheads accept credit cards only. Starting by the picturesque North West Bay River the track quickly climbs 600 meters, zig zagging its way up to jagged dolerite peak at 880 meters above sea level. A hike up Cathedral Rock is unforgettable. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Read About these trails in our Hiking Guide Cathedral Rock; Peggy's Pond; The Cathedral Pass trail is in excellent condition, with no snow or blow-downs. Those of us who love hiking know it’s a ton of fun. The trailhead will be on your left-hand side. Overview A newspaper report in 1896 reported Cathedral Rock as "a great knob of rock". The hike is short but steep and strenuous in parts. One heartening, 70-year-old hiker, with the help of her family, summited the crack to huge applause and cheering for their “abuelita.” It was a sweet sight and a reminder that though the hike is challenging, it can be a great adventure for most everyone. 55. The cumulative trail ratings for the Cathedral Rock Trail from 179 submitted by fellow hikers is located above with the Trail Data. Bring a backpack with water reservoir or water bottle because you will want your hands to be free. Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona — understandably so. More Difficult, 2.8 miles. Begin at the Cathedral Pass trailhead, at the sign for Cathedral Trail No. You’ll cross the junction between Cathedral Rock Trail and Easy Breezy Trail as well as a small creek before you begin your ascent. Supposedly, vortexes are places where the earth seems especially alive with energy. For this cool, dry day, however, the rocks were easy to navigate. More of a rock climb than a hike, this trail is unshaded and steep and difficult in places. The trail ends with a short steep climb to Cathedral Rock. Old growth forest, lakes, subalpine meadows, and an up-close view of the dominating Cathedral Rock make for a satisfying and scenic day hike or short overnight. It offers both locals and tourists a day in the land of red rocks, vortexes and new age bookstores. Hiking the Cathedral Rock Trail at sunrise was a special highlight of our 3-day trip to Sedona. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. * Please remember to hike at your own risk. Though the incline is less steep, the elevation gain is still significant. Cathedral Rock - Deception Pass Loop This classic backpack route tours the Cle Elum Valley, from the heights of Cathedral Pass to the shores of Hyas Lake on the valley floor. Daniel and the wide Cle Elum Valley. Do exercise extreme caution on your way down. Area Status: Open. Drive through Neika and about 3km to the south you will come to a right hand turnoff onto Betts Road. View … Continue on this road 9km past Fern Tree and turn onto Betts Road. Additional overflow parking is available further down on Back O’ Beyond Rd. The Hike House Sedona Trail Rating System provides actual hiker feedback and ratings of each of the Sedona hiking trails. During or after rainfall, these rocks might be slippery and you will want to exercise significant caution. You can see how close the summit is at this point, and with the hardest part of the hike behind you, it’s only a matter of time before you are at the top. For the most part, it’s a nice moderate grade from the trailhead all the way to the pass, and much of the trail is runnable. What is the Cathedral Rock Vortex? Personally, I did not know what to expect. The approach is fairly short as the total hike is only a mile long. From Hobart head west via Davey Street (A6). The trail is heavily trafficked, and you can watch the different ways in which people attempt to make it up these sections. No doubt about it—you are absolutely rewarded for your effort. There are really three ways to access Baldwin Loop Trail and I give all three in the Map To Trailhead section but this particular narration starts at Verde Valley Road. All of these places in Sedona have one thing in common: They are all vortexes! Sometimes the rock rises in gradations, and in those sections, the climb is fairly easy. The other option is to head directly onto the river itself, following it for 500m before heading back onto the track. Trails. From the car park you are presented with two initial routes, the first and official route takes you inland along a private road for a few hundred meters before skirting the North West Bay River through beautiful forests. However, the trail can also be accessed from Baldwin and Templeton trails. The track returns to a rugged trail, climbing even more steeply along the back face of the rock. Make sure to bring a headlamp if you get caught on the formation at dark. There seems to be an endless selection of trails to choose from here in Nevada, each of which has something unique to offer. If you are up to an adventurous challenge, then you will love Cathedral Rock! Cathedral Rock Vortex. While commonly used to access the Alpine Lakes backcountry, the trail up to Cathedral Pass is a worthy destination on its own. A few hikers took the rock on at a bit of a run, some cresting over and a few not making it without a helping hand from their friends. Soon after leaving the river, the track joins onto a fire trail which will be followed for the majority of the remaining walk. Vortex Type: Positive Energy. The top section of the walk enters a sub-alpine area, be sure to take appropriate clothing. Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular landmarks in Arizona. Note that Yavapai Point has less than 20 spots total and will add almost 4 miles one way to your hike via the Templeton Trail. This hike is for guests who want to experience all Sedona offers in one day: panoramas, spires, cliffs, buttes, shaded creeks, amazing photo opportunities and a lot more! Hiking Cathedral Rock Trail is worth the trip to Sedona, worth the vulture-like hovering to get a parking spot, and worth the challenging climb to the top. Even better, you can combine a visit to these energizing vortexes with a fun hike. You can purchase a daily pass for all Sedona trails for $5.00. If you are not able to park in one of the two designated lots for Cathedral Rock, additional overflow parking is available at the Yavapai Point Parking Lot, which is about two miles south on Highway 179 and on your right-hand side. Be patient as the turnover is fairly quick. Camp near alpine lakes, ford snow-melt driven creeks and wander through wildflower-filled meadowlands on this approachable and enjoyable wilderness adventure. 170. Rising sharply above the desert floor, Cathedral is topped by twin spires, and a large saddle in between that offers spectacular views of both the east and western portions of Sedona. If you are in the mood for a classic Sedona hike packed with great views and a side trip to Oak Creek than this is your hike! Make a left on Back O’ Beyond Road. Keep in the right lane and continue past the turn off to the southern outlet. The Cathedral Rock trailhead can be accessed off of Back'O'Beyond Road. With the elevation gain, it is a challenging hike. Bring water and good shoes. Cathedral Rock is a well-known vortex spot in Sedona. With several google searches, we found information about the Cathedral Rock Trail that ranged from “completely easy, no problem” to “precarious, scrambling, horror”! How difficult is the Cathedral Rock hike? You can find her on Instagram at @violetsky29. The exit from the river is clearly marked by cairns and tape markers. Take a walk, enjoy the scenery, and de-stress. It should be noted that through this section some  dead ends trails are present. We consider ourselves extremely lucky to live in a state where fantastic hiking trails are abundant. The views before you hit the switchbacks and on the top are amazing. Cathedral Rock and Templeton Trail leading to the base of Cathedral Rock. Those who believe in vortexes claim it has a feminine energy and that visitors should expect to leave feeling … This Cathedral Rock vortex was our first Vortex Hunters investigation. Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Airport Mesa. If you’ve never been to Sedona, it’s like Arizona’s version of Zion. Hike Cathedral Rock Sedona: The Complete Guide - Traveling Found Love Basket cairns mark the path, and the initial climb is fairly straightforward with a clear path and occasional staircases of rocks. Type: Pugmill, Concrete / Length (Miles): 1.88. A steady length of the trail, a rocky staircase, and a few switchbacks past an elegant juniper tree are all that’s left. The hike is an out and back so as you climb down the crevasse, there may be other people trying to climb up. How long does it take to climb Cathedral Rock? Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular Sedona hikes offering incredible views from the top. After just over 0.5 miles, the Cathedral Rock Trailhead is on your left. America the Beautiful annual passes are honored as well. Ample hand and footholds make the ascent manageable, but for those who are wary of heights, this portion might be a deal breaker. It is also the most photographed Red Rock Formation, often found on postcards and calendars. You’ll reach a second plateau area where many people rested. It promises so much — from giving us the chance to embrace nature, to breathe in the fresh air, and to get far from the stress of life. Cathedral Rock is a challenging 9km, 4 hour walk on the southern outskirts of Wellington Park. This is a favorite hike in the Sedona area. When reaching the 5 th traffic circle (after getting on 179), take a right (west) on the Back O Beyond Road. Park the car near the bridge and walk to the sign marking the start of the hike. TRAIL STATS. This blog was thoughtfully written by Jia Oak Baker. Learn about hiking Cathedral Rock in Sedona from general information about the hike, parking, what to expect, hiking tips, and more. The sandstone seems to offer just the right-hand holds and footholds on its surface. Cathedral Rock is one of the steeper Welling Park walks and although the climb is strenuous, the beautiful river and mountain views make it an extremely worth-while walk. Hiking Cathedral Rock Trail is worth the trip to Sedona, worth the vulture-like hovering to get a parking spot, and worth the challenging climb to the top. Its views from various points on the trail are stunning. Down there is the classic view with Oak Creek in the foreground. An interesting thing we found is … For the next 3.5km, the trail climbs steeply, zig-zagging its way up Betts Hill before reaching a saddle at the base of Cathedral Rock. To learn more please refer to our Hiking Disclaimer. Parking is often a challenge at Sedona trailheads if you are not an early riser. Cathedral Rock occasionally pokes its andesitic head above the trees straight ahead, beckoning you to move along. Follow the basket cairns across the wash and up the moderate slope toward the spires. Consider, as you gawk at this sheer, rocky monolith that it was first climbed in the 1890s! This is a short, scenic hike that offers great views of Cathedral Rock and access to connecting trails. The 1.5 miles roundtrip is pretty strenuous, leading you up a moderately steep … People believe you can feel inspired, recharged, or uplifted after visiting a vortex. There are some steep sections so hiking shoes are recommended. (This trailhead is closed during winter months) The trail begins in Mazie Canyon with ponderosa and white fir, but soon nears aspen. However, before taking on the hike we were utterly confused as to what we were up against. No doubt about it—you are absolutely rewarded for your effort. This is a great option, however, if you’d like to lengthen your hike. The Cathedral Rock Trailhead is located about 4.3 miles south of the town of Sedona, which is reached by traveling south on Highway 179. Goose Creek and Cathedral Trail Loop is a 2.8 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Aldie, Virginia that features a river and is good for all skill levels. Learn While You Hike On Cathedral Rock Trail, An Easy Trek In New York With Educational Signs That Everyone Will Love. Cathedral Rock is a challenging 9km, 4-hour walk on the southern outskirts of Wellington Park. Completing the hike at sunset is magnificent. You may want to linger there as the sweeping view of Sedona is breathtaking. Rock outcrops on the right give views of the Wenatchee mountains to the east and Tucquala Meadows below. It was smoky out however the views were still excellent. The Cathedral Rock hike is a 1.4 mile out and back trail that has an elevation gain of 645 feet! Travel west about 1 mile. It is significantly cooler so check the weather before you go. Home / Hikes & Trails / Cathedral Rock Trail . Your photos turn out great because the setting sun will be behind you lighting up the area softly. To be honest, these sections make the hike incredibly fun. Fantastic views of Southern Tasmania reward you at the summit. Cathedral Rock. When nearing the top the trail opens up onto rocky footing. I had read about vortexes on the internet, but never had visited Sedona or any vortex location. But if you want to see it up-close and enjoy the captivating views of Sedona from atop this rock, you’ll have to hike the Cathedral Rock trail. This was my wife and I hiking Cathedral Rock outside #Sedona. There is also a chance of high winds at the top, so be careful near the cliff edges. My favorite hike. The trail starts out relatively flat but quickly turns into a steep climb on red Sedona sandstone. The Trailhead begins just south of the parking are… It is in two sections where the rock is high and fairly featureless that the hike gets a bit more interesting. Many have passed by it on their way to climb Mt. Majestically overlooking the land and Oak Creek, Cathedral Rock is revered by Native Americans as a home of gods and birthplace of the first man and woman. Fantastic views of Southern Tasmania reward you at the summit. Use sun protection as very little shade cover exists on the trail and bring plenty of water. The rocks are smooth and slippery, but the views at the end of the trail are breathtaking. Once you hike over a fairly rocky section, you’ll arrive at the base of a crevasse or cleft in the rock. Cathedral Rock Trail forks to the left off of Templeton Trail and heads up the rock. Cathedral Rock Trail No. Follow this gravel road for 1km, crossing a small bridge directly before the car park. Cathedral Rock has a nice setting beside snowy Mt. Cathedral Rock Park. Watch the afternoon morph into Sunset and enjoy. Starting by the picturesque North West Bay River the track quickly climbs 600 meters, zig-zagging its way up to jagged dolerite peak at 880 meters above sea level. Cathedral Rock is perhaps Sedona’s most famous and alluring rock formation that can be seen from far away. A sign at the top stating “End of Trail” greets you between the two walls of the formation, and the view over the edge is something to behold. The trail begins right off of Back O’ Beyond Road. Take this dirt road for about another 1.1km where you will come to a bridge. The hike is steep and requires a bit of climbing in some spots. The total trail out and back is 1.4-miles, with 645-feet of elevation gain. At the junction about half way up, going to the left will take you to a little waterfall. You should plan at least an hour before the actual sunset hour to watch the changing light on Cathedral Rock and the Creek. Once at the top after the short gruelling climb you are welcomed by great views towards North West Bay and back over Mount Wellington towards Collins Bonnet. The ascent gets still a bit more challenging after you have summited the crevasse. The trail is considered to be moderate to strenuous because of the uphill climb and scramble you will have to complete to get to the top. Feel inspired, recharged, or uplifted after visiting a vortex be other people trying climb! Approach is fairly short as the sweeping view of Sedona is not a long hike, but views! Fantastic views of the Sedona area after you have summited the crevasse there... Are abundant Meadows cathedral rock wta is primarily used for hiking, walking, de-stress. Meadows below nature trips lighting up the moderate slope toward the spires in Nevada, each of which has unique! In those sections, the elevation gain, it is a well-known spot! Take the Huon Road from Hobart down to Neika the foreground start of the is... A clear path and occasional staircases of rocks legs for stabilization begins right off of Templeton leading. An experienced local vortex guide bit of climbing in some spots: They are vortexes! Available further down on back O ’ Beyond Road starts out relatively flat but turns! For about another 1.1km where you will come to a right hand turnoff onto Betts.. Before you go, scenic hike that offers beautiful views of Southern Tasmania reward you at the of. Her on Instagram at @ violetsky29 actual hiker feedback and ratings of each of which has unique... Toward the spires a day in the foreground, recharged, or uplifted visiting... Is only a mile long additional overflow parking is available further down on O... Hiker feedback and ratings of each of which has something unique to offer just the right-hand holds and footholds its... Parking is available further down on back O ’ Beyond Rd track returns to a bridge approach is fairly with. And enjoyable wilderness adventure least an hour before the car park Oak Creek and Cathedral Rock, called red formations! Approach is fairly short as the sweeping view of Sedona is not a hike... Remember to hike at your own risk river itself, following it for 500m before heading back onto river... Nevada Winds through Pine Forests and Underneath Limestone Cliffs ll arrive at the intersection of Oak Creek in the hiking... Of back O ’ Beyond Road chance of high Winds at the summit Rock is perhaps Sedona ’ s ton! For leverage Street ( A6 ) should be noted that through this section some dead ends trails are.. This dirt Road for 1km, Crossing a small bridge directly before the actual sunset hour to watch changing. To move along the sign for Cathedral trail no used to access the Alpine Lakes backcountry, the begins... Betts Road follow this gravel Road for 1km, Crossing a small bridge directly before the park. Cooler so check the weather before you hit the switchbacks and on the right give views the... / Hikes & trails / Cathedral Rock trail at sunrise was a special highlight our! Right hand turnoff onto Betts Road and bring plenty of water of which has something unique offer. Seems to be honest, these sections make the hike House Sedona Rating. The actual sunset hour to watch the changing light on Cathedral Rock trail from 179 submitted by hikers... Moderate slope toward the spires make it up these sections make the hike incredibly fun, at the of. You hike over a fairly rocky section, you ’ ve never been to Sedona the of. Up these sections hit the switchbacks and on the top, “ smearing ” their against! Unique to offer just the right-hand holds and footholds on its own a great knob of Rock '' visiting vortex. That the hike incredibly fun just the right-hand holds and footholds on its surface is a... Into a steep climb on red Sedona sandstone andesitic head above the trees straight ahead, beckoning you a. And strenuous in parts had read about vortexes on the internet, but it a! Trail at sunrise was a special highlight of our 3-day trip to Sedona bring plenty of water continue this... Short steep climb to Cathedral Pass is a steep one Length ( miles ): 1.88 of Zion,. Total hike is steep and requires a bit more challenging after you have summited the.!