Devil's Bridge Trail No. 120
Don't let its name fool you: it's one of the most heavenly sights in an area famous for them. Devil's Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area.
From a trailhead elevation of 4,600 feet, there's a mere 371-foot climb in altitude during this moderately difficult, 1.6-mile roundtrip trek. The journey to reach the top won't leave you breathless — but we would never say the same about the views you'll witness when you finally get there.
This popular hike has attractions for both casual hikers who lack the desire or the stamina to stray too far from civilization, and the more adventurous outdoors enthusiasts. Starting at the parking area, follow the trail marker that points the way to Devil's Bridge Trail. You'll find the early going effortless; the trail, originally built for jeep travel, is smooth and clear and leads you through washes filled with juniper and prickly pear cactus.
The path slowly inclines uphill, gently growing more steep as you progress. There's some beautiful scenery to absorb as you proceed upward, but you've still got a ways to go before you get to see Devil's Bridge itself.
After you've walked about three-quarters of a mile from the parking area, the trail will divide. Head down the path to the left and you'll end up at the base of the bridge. For a cool view, stand directly under the 50 foot high arch and look toward the heavens — and take care not to strain your neck.
But it's the topside trail that provides the biggest treat. Follow it up a steep, natural rock staircase to a wide open area that offers some fantastic views. Keep going, and you'll reach yet another level that leads directly to Devil's Bridge.
If you have the nerve, you can walk across the top; once you're on it you'll find it's not such a tough walk. But use caution and exercise some common sense; it's a long way down.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Trailhead Elevation: 4,605 ft.
- Elevation Gain: 371 ft.
- Length: 1.6 miles roundtrip.
- Time: 2 hours roundtrip.
Address: 8375 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86351
Phone: 928-203-2900
Hours: Wednesday 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. All other days, open 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. See "Additional Office Information" for holiday hours.
Office Email: SM.FS.Cof_Webmail@usda.gov
Getting There
Directions
Location: About 42 miles south of Flagstaff (12 miles west of Sedona) on paved and graveled roads.
GPS (Map): 34°54'11.6"N 111°48'50.3"W
Access: Drive 27 miles south from Flagstaff to Sedona on state Route 89A. Continue through Sedona to Dry Creek Road (FR152) at the west end of town. Turn right on Dry Creek Road and drive for two miles to where FR152 forks and take the right fork (leaving the paved road). This road is rough; high-clearance vehicles required. It is not recommended during wet weather. About 1.3 miles up this road, turn right to Devil's Bridge Trailhead and parking lot.
Passenger Vehicle Note: The unpaved portion of Dry Creek Road (FR 152) requires a high-clearance vehicle. Low-clearance vehicles can park at the Dry Creek Road trailhead at the end of the paved section of road or at the Mescal Trailhead on Long Canyon Road. The recommended routes are below:
- Via Chuckwagon Trail (map): Low-clearance vehicles can park at the Dry Creek Vista Trailhead at the end of the paved section of Dry Creek Road just after the right-hand turn at the fork mentioned above. This route adds 2.1 miles one-way of moderately easy rolling trail with fantastic views. The route is approximately 2.9 miles from this trailhead to the bridge (5.8 miles round trip), and directions to Devil's Bridge are well marked on the trail signs. (The unpaved portion of Dry Creek Road is a popular jeep trail, and not recommended for pedestrian use.)
- Via Mescal Trail (map): Continue on Dry Creek Road to the stop sign at the intersection of Long Canyon Road, turn right and travel 0.2 miles to the Mescal Trailhead on the right. Use the signed Mescal-Chuckwagon trail connection to reach Devils Bridge Trailhead. The round trip to Devils Bridge from this trailhead is 4.0 miles.
