Devil's Bridge Trailhead

We hiked to Devil's Bridge from the Drycreek trailhead. The most straightforward path would be to hike along dry creek road to get to Devil's bridge trailhead, but be prepared for lots of dust on the face when the jeeps pass by. The road is also very rocky so driving on this requires high clearance vehicle. Alternatively you can hike the chuckwagon trail to reach the devil's bridge trailhead. From here its a short hike up to Devil's bridge but there are some steep sections that should be cautious but not dangerous. People are courteous enough to line up at the end of the bridge to take turns for photo.

This was my first trip to Sedona, and first hike during that trip. The say the views blew me away is an understatement. The only thing that disappointed me was that I only went for a day trip and couldn’t see more. This hike was amazing. We went on a Tuesday. Arrived around 11:30am. Parking lot was full but after a short wait, we were able to get a spot. It was 3.9 miles from where we parked to the bridge. The first 1.6m were relatively flat with some slight up hill action. Then we got to the areas that got a little steep. This was my first time doing this kinda hiking so it was kinda intimidating. Mainly because the amount of people going up and down at once. After about 3 sketchy inclines(sketchy to me being slightly afraid of heights) we got to the top. It was definitely worth it. There was a line of about 30 people waiting for pictures. Which woulda been fine, but that fear of heights made me uncomfortable standing on the edge of a cliff in a line for that amount of time.. so we took pics with the bridge behind us. I can’t wait to return to Sedona and do this trail again, and experience all do the others.

My wife and I have done this hike 3 times, once from mescal, twice driving our jeep to the parking lot and walking up the rest of the way, one of those times being in the dark. We hiked up at 5am on 10-26 (in the dark) to hold our wedding ceremony at sunrise on the bridge. There was hardly a soul in sight until we were finished roughly around 6:30am, on the way down the trail was absolutely mobbed with so many people congratulating us. If you are capable, I highly recommend it.

🌉 Devil’s Bridge Trail – Sedona Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌄 First Impressions I was really looking forward to this hike, and I’m happy to say it delivered. Devil’s Bridge is one of those Sedona spots that feels iconic even before you get there, and standing on the largest natural sandstone arch in the area was everything I hoped for. It’s a hike that doesn’t disappoint—the payoff is just as dramatic and beautiful as the photos make it seem. 💪 Difficulty Moderate — mostly easy to moderate trail with a short, steep rock staircase and light scramble near the top. 🛤 Trail Basics - Distance: ~4.6 miles round-trip (from Dry Creek), ~4.2 miles (from Mescal), or ~2 miles if you drive Dry Creek Road. 🏞 Scenic Highlights The trail itself is beautiful, but the arch is the crown jewel. Standing on Devil’s Bridge, you get sweeping 360° views of Sedona’s red rock country. Sunrise and sunset make the rocks glow and add extra drama to the scene. 📸 Scenic Picture Spots - On the Arch: The iconic shot, walking across the sandstone bridge. - Below the Arch: A short side trail gives a dramatic view looking upward. - Approach Viewpoint: Just before the final climb, you can frame the arch against open red rock. 👥 Crowds & Timing This is one of Sedona’s busiest trails. Mid-morning and weekends bring heavy crowds, and there’s often a line for photos at the arch. For the best experience, arrive before sunrise or hike later in the day around golden hour. 🐾 Other Notes - Dogs allowed on leash. - Vault toilets at Dry Creek Trailhead. - Bring plenty of water and sunscreen—long exposed stretches mean lots of sun. ⭐ Ratings Breakdown 🌄 Views ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stunning panoramas 🛤 Trail ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Easy-moderate 📸 Spots ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing Views 🚗 Parking ⭐⭐ Limited, fills very fast 👥 Crowd Levels ⭐⭐ Busy with lines at arch 📝 Tips for First-Time Visitors - ⏰ Arrive Early: Be at the lot before 7 a.m. for easier parking and fewer crowds. - 🌅 Golden Hour Magic: Sunset or sunrise gives the best lighting and smaller groups. - 🚌 Consider the Shuttle: Seasonal, free, and avoids the parking stress. - 👟 Wear Good Shoes: The last climb is rocky and steep—sturdy footwear helps. - 📸 Plan Your Photo: Line up your angle in advance if you don’t want to wait too long at the arch. ✅ Overall: Devil’s Bridge is a Sedona classic. Yes, it’s busy and parking is tight, but the scenery and experience are worth every bit of effort. Arrive early, pack water, and time it for golden hour if you can—the payoff will be one of your most memorable Sedona moments.

Devil’s Bridge Trailhead – An Anniversary We’ll Never Forget Celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary on the Devil’s Bridge Trail was nothing short of incredible. After three decades together, we wanted to do something memorable, and this hike gave us exactly that. The trail itself was challenging about two hours of steady trekking through tough terrain, steep climbs, and rocky stretches that tested both endurance and determination. But just like marriage, every uphill climb made the journey more rewarding. With every step, we were reminded that 30 years of love, commitment, and teamwork have carried us through life’s toughest trails with strength and grace. When we finally reached Devil’s Bridge, the payoff was breathtaking. The red rock formations, the sweeping views of Sedona, and the awe-inspiring natural beauty felt like the perfect backdrop for our celebration. Standing together on that iconic natural bridge, we snapped a photo that captured not just the scenery, but the spirit of our marriage solid, steady, and beautiful. Making 30 years look easy wasn’t without its challenges, but this hike symbolized everything we’ve built a strong foundation, the ability to overcome obstacles side by side, and the joy of celebrating life’s peaks together. Devil’s Bridge will forever hold a special place in our hearts as the spot where we toasted 30 years of love and adventure. If you’re ready for a tough but rewarding hike with scenery that feels like it was designed to inspire, Devil’s Bridge Trail is absolutely worth it. For us, it was more than just a hike it was a beautiful celebration of a beautiful marriage.

It was a nice rigorous trail, mainly long and challenging in a few spots. I would not take children to the top, as it is very steep and no railings or anything to hold you back from the cliff. Devil’s bridge is definitely risky, but that seems to be what people like.

Note that trail is listed as 1.8 mile round trip BUT starts a 3 mile round trip from parking lot without an ATV or Jeep. Parking and 5 min walk gives stunning views like the attached. Sunset was epic!

Devils Bridge Trailhead is an iconic Sedona adventure with stunning red rock views and the reward of a breathtaking natural stone arch. The hike offers a mix of challenge and beauty, and the photo opportunities at the top are absolutely unforgettable. You can park at the Dry Creek Trail lot or drive a high clearance vehicle to the trailhead (highly recommended). 😎

Oh my goodness - this was one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever taken. I will say that I wish that I had read up on the hike more thoroughly. I had read that it was a 3.6 mile round trip hike - but that is if you can drive further in. We parked at the Devil's Bridge parking (I believe that is what it was called). From there the hike was 5.1 miles roundtrip. There was a sign prior to the hike warning how much water each person should have and truly, please listen to that. It was a hot day in Sedona and although the temperature was supposed to only be around 90, my car was reading 111 by the time we came off the mountain. We offered several people water on the way up and down. One set of people looked so worn out and had not even made it to the top. They took four of our bottles and we were truly worried about them. This is not a hike that you should push yourself as once you get up to the top in all its grandeur, there is not a lot of real estate to plant your feet on Terra Firma! One other word of caution - SHOES!!! Please wear proper hiking shoes. We passed a couple in flip flops. He had made it up the double sets of stairs and his companion was still down below. That being said - if you make this hike you will NOT be disappointed. There were view for miles. What a spectacular place to be. I cannot go on enough about the beauty, and of course, once we got up there we had to go out on the bridge for the obligatory picture of proof! I have to say, I am afraid of heights but usually overcome them. Once I got out on the bridge my fear kicked in. I got the picture but could not get off the bridge fast enough! I had ideas of grandeur to be one of those people that jumps on the bridge and we capture the picture. Once up there - those ideas flew out of my mind as quickly as my bravado! Please note - if you are hiking in the summer ... start early! There are enough areas of peril that you want to be on the trail while it is not blazing hot so that you have all your faculties about you. Enjoy! You will not regret making this hike.

This is a review from a "non-hiker" and foreigner! The Devil's Bridge Trail was recommended by a friend and it seems to be a very popular trail. Due to several warnings of limited parking, I arrived at 7 AM on a Thursday - had no issue finding a parking spot. I did park at the Dry Creek Trailhead. If you have a high clearance vehicle, you can continue down the dirt road to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead parking. Parking was $5. Can pay with card/QR code available for scan. Toilets are available as well - as Dry Creek location. Again, as a non-hiker, I would classify this as an intermediate trail. I did this hike by myself and felt the trail was very open. I am used to a more defined trail, frequent identifying marks (on trees) letting those know how long they have hiked and how much distance remains and to keep you on the trail path; none of this was present. When hiking back down, I did get turned around. Bring water, a hearty snack and wear a hat. Limited shade is available. Nearing the end of the trail, you will need to use all fours. Going at an incline to climb up rocks. This was pretty intimidating and the thought of going down this was nerve racking. I found fellow hikers to be soo supportive!!! Offering a hand and providing verbal motivation - complete strangers. Loved it. When I reached the bridge a small line was formed but it moves quickly. Also, others in line were willing to take pictures. This trail offered beautiful scenery and amazing photos! Would I do it again - only if I had a high clearance vehicle!!! lol

Everytime I go to Sedona especially if I am bringing someone new, we always do this trail. The views are breathtaking and it a super cool experience that you shouldn't miss! The trail is clearly labeled so you can't get lost, there is one area that you have to climb up and it's a bit steep but it's super fun!

This is a tough hike. Well for me it was tough.. but totally worth it. Younger and in better shape folks were zooming up and down with no issues. The last mile is all uphill and not really tough but you feel it. It was in the 90's so we did this in the morning but definitely too hot.. I feel like this would be gorgeous in the fall! Do it, you won't be disappointed!

Devil's Bridge Trail has the distinction of being Sedona's most popular hike and, with the beauty of the surroundings, it's easy to see why. This also means that you won't have to worry about following the trail as there's generally always someone within viewing distance ahead of you. A trail that's roughly 2 miles in each direction (it's not a loop trail) sounds quite manageable and Devil's Bridge Trail is, mostly, but there's some points when you're well into it that present challenges. In at least one point I was climbing with the assistance of both hands, but it never proved insurmountable and if it does, this happens when you're well into the hike, already surrounded by great views. But get yourself to the very top if you wish to see the "Devil's Bridge" itself. I got there but passed on what looked to be the 30-minute wait to take a photo of one's self out on the "bridge". Like I said: popular trail. The free Sedona Shuttle will take you to and from the trailhead but there's 2 different stops that do so. One is shorter but features much walking on the road, so wait for the other stop (ask the driver) if you want to actually be hiking off-road for the entirety of the hike. That's the optimal experience and the one I'd recommend. There's no vortexes on the Devil's Bridge Trail but if you have time for only one hike here in Sedona, this is the one that I'd recommend.

As you read more and more about these trails, you will notice a pattern. GO EARLY. This is a super popular one because of that instagram shot that you can get. It is a rewarding trail which is not too difficult to do; though, someone who we met at the end said it was the most difficult thing they had ever done. So, take that in. The end does get steep rather quickly but certainly not as bad a number of other hikes. If you want to actually spend time taking pictures, GO EARLY. When we arrived at 9am at the top, there was already a line! And the wait area for the line was near this slippery part of the walk. Every time someone with mobility issues struggled past me, I could envision them slipping and taking the both of us down the canyon. But, this is Sedona. For some reason, plenty of those who comes seem to think that they can do just any trail without good preparation!

Devil's Bridge Trail is an amazing hike with outstanding views! Before visiting this trail please keep in mind that there are multiple entry points and parking spots to access the trail. If you don't want to walk too much, I believe the closest parking lot is the "Mescal parking lot". Also, if you have a high clearance vehicle, you can drive closer to the trail which cuts off about a mile of walking. This trail is considered an easy hike, but the last quarter mile to the top is a moderate hike because it has some climbing. Once you get to Devil's Bridge the views are amazing and it is pretty neat to see the rock formations there. Overall I thought this was a great hike if you want to be out in nature for 2 hours or so. Make sure to bring enough water with you since there are plenty of unshaded spots which can get a little too hot after some time of walking. Overall this was an amazing hike and would definitely come back again!

Hell of a hike, but well worth the time and effort. About a good 500 yard incline and rocky terrain.

On our initial drive through Sedona, family told us we had to check out Devil's Bridge, but it wasn't in our plans at the time. When another part of our trip unexpectedly fell through, we found ourselves back in Sedona and decided to finally make time for it. So glad we did; they were absolutely right! We lucked out with a perfect day on the Devil's Bridge Trail. Beautiful weather and surprisingly few crowds gave us the chance to really take our time and soak in the scenery. The trail is about 2 miles each way and not a loop. There is some scrambling, but nothing too difficult. Standing on the actual Devil's Bridge might look intimidating from a distance, but it is much wider and flatter than you'd expect. We felt totally comfortable walking out onto it, and it made for some incredible photos with the massive Sedona landscape behind us. Pro tip: Don't just stop at the top. Take a little detour down below the bridge too. The view looking up at it is just as impressive and makes for a dramatic shot. No vortexes here, but if you are picking just one Sedona hike, Devil's Bridge is hard to beat.

A must visit when you come to Sedona! My husband and I visited Sedona for the first time this past May and feel even more in love with Arizona! Devil Bridge is one of the most popular trails so we figured that we would give it a try. We used the shuttle service to get to a parking lot which was very convenient, however we didn't realize that the parking lot was one of the further lots from the trailhead and added significantly more time to our adventure. Nonetheless, the view at the end was worth it! I will warn travelers that you'll be waiting a long to time take your picture. But don't let the crowds deter you!

We got up at 5am and hit the trail early, so glad we did. Most ofthe hike from Mescal trailhead was easy, the last 1/2 mile started going up hill and the last 1/4 mile was almost straight uphill. lol The views were amazing and worth the heavy breathing

"Devil's Bridge" was at the top of everyone's recommendation when I first reached out to friends for their Sedona hiking recs. So, it was our first stop as soon as we touched ground in Sedona. We arrived just in time for a quick sunset hike! We used the AllTrails app to find the nearest access, which led us to the entrance along Dry Creek Road. We did a *very* quick hike and took in great views, amazing weather, and the sunset. It was pretty empty since it was later in the day, so if ya want to avoid crowds at this popular trail, go really early or later in the day.

Wow, this was awesome. We woke up early to get parking spot and got there by 6am. We walked on the road rather than the trail. Most of the hike was pretty boring until you get to the end where a little climbing is involved. I wouldn't recommend this with kids or if you are not in good shape. We got to the bridge at 6:45 right about sunrise. There was about 5 people in line to take pictures. The bridge is wider then it looks in pictures. I would definitely recommend doing this hike.

This was the hike that I was most intimidated and worried by. The name itself, "Devil's Bridge", comes off as possibly being a bit scary. However, this was the busiest trail with people of all ages from young children to elderly folk. The hike is actually quite long and it does take a while to actually get to the iconic Devil's Bridge. This hike involves lots of rocks, pebbles, slippery slopes at one point, and walking on the edges of the rocks. Once you get to the top, there is a long line that awaits you if you want to take a the iconic Devil's Bridge picture. We did decide to stick around and wait in the line and glad we did because it's worth it for the memories. For best results, we gave one phone to someone directly across the bridge and one phone to the people directly behind us so we could get different angles. The actual Devil's Bridge is actually kind of terrifying because it's ultimately a narrow cliff with a sharp drop so one misstep could lead to disaster. Ultimately, it was a nice experience and very beautiful. I would recommend going early morning because it gets busier as the day goes on. Tips: * I would NOT recommend doing this on a rainy day unless you're a very advanced hiker & have the proper shoes/gear * Definitely bring water and/or snacks

This is a beautiful hike and I would highly recommend going at sunset! Sunrise would probably also be beautiful. I took the trail that is 4 miles and does not require 4WD; there are two access points so make sure you find the route that works best for you and your vehicle. The scenery is beautiful from start to finish and the hike is very manageable. With the sunset we ended up hiking back in the dark so plan accordingly!

I find this to be one of the most breathtaking locations in Sedona, and there are so many wonderful locations that that's saying a lot. On the trail to the "bridge", you will find vortex trees, which are amazing within themselves. - The colors of the forest and the red rock are so stunning. The photos that you can take are so memorable. Unfortunately, this has become a very popular location in Sedona and it can be crowded. - I suggest waiting your turn and walking very carefully and slowly along the rocky edges.

If you ever find yourself in Sedona, AZ, Devil's Bridge Trail is a must-visit! Of course, the highlight is the magnificent sandstone arch at the end of the trail, but the journey to get there is just as rewarding. It's definitely one of the most popular attractions in the area and a worthy bucket list experience! We found the shuttle schedule on the Sedona Shuttle website and rode it to the Mescal trail, where we were dropped off in the parking lot. From there it's around a one mile walk to enter the actual trail. From there, you're looking at a nearly 4 mile trek in total out-and-back. The trail is well marked and easy to follow and includes plenty of picturesque views and photo options along the way. However, there is quite a steep climb to get to the bridge itself as we reached the last 0.5 miles and had to climb a series of stairs. Make sure to take your time with this part as you'll have to use your hands and maneuver your body carefully to avoid slipping. Going down the stairs was probably scarier than going up! Because this hike is so popular, there was quite a lot of people when we went on NYE weekend. When we reached the bridge, there was a line of people waiting to take their photos and had around a 30 minute wait. The photo opp is well worth the wait because the views are simply breathtaking and one of the most unique you'll probably encounter in a lifetime.

Get to devil's bridge point early. When we arrived at 7 am, there was a line, not an hour but quite a few people. The websites and those who have been on this trail before suggested to go to the mesa trail then chuckwagon to get to devil's bridge. This cut out a lot and prevented us from walking on the dirt trail meant for vehicles. We started at 5:45 am and got there right when the crowd was building. We waited maybe 10 minutes for our photos and then headed down stopping along the way. It's the perfect time for lighting too. There are steep steps, this is easier than Cathedral rock.

Sedona is something else, it's gorgeous. I will say that I would give Devil's Bridge Trail a solid 5 stars if I didn't have to wait for a long time to take a picture, so that's the premise. Came on a holiday and surprisingly there were a lot of people. So many people in fact that we had to park outside the trailhead parking lot - they should build more parking given that this is one of THE things to do in Sedona. It added slightly more time to our walk, around 10 minutes, but we were about to trek upwards for a while so it didn't matter too much. Pros: - The bridge is something else, it's hard to believe that something natural could make this and that it continues to hold the weight of the center years later. It's a little scary to walk on it but it's such a bold move. - The view opposite of the bridge is stunning with the giant canyons and forests. Even while you're waiting in line you wouldn't get bored. - It's kind of fun to walk on the rocky roads, feels like you're safely doing rock climbing. Cons: The biggest con is the line waiting to take a picture and the main reason why I cannot give this place a five star. It took an hour before we were up to the front to take a picture with this bridge - mainly because of some inconsiderate people who took 10 minutes to take pictures when there was a huge line behind them. Also, the waiting in line place is freezing, especially when there is a shadow over the bridge. Some Tips: - Go early in the morning. Not only does this beat the line to the parking lot but perhaps this may beat the line to take pictures on the bridge. Going early in the morning may also help with the lighting as there is more light on the bridge making your pictures better? I'm not a photographer but that's my guess. - Wear hiking shoes. If you don't you are definitely way more likely to twist an ankle because the place is quite rocky and you need a sturdy foot. - Wear sunscreen and a hat. The Arizona sun is something else and it will definitely beat down on you like nothing else. - Be prepared to wait in line. Especially if you're going during the wintertime, bring a parka because temperatures do drop quite a bit at that altitude. Overall, definitely would come back again with the right shoes and right time so that the waiting in line isn't too laborsome.

This is one of Sedona's most popular trails. So be prepared to share it with a lot of people. But it is worth it if you want your photo on top of this iconic arch with Sedona's beautiful red rock mountains in the background. Parking can get crowded, so I recommend taking one of Sedona's free shuttle rides over to the Dry Creek Vista parking lot. I usually park at Posse Grounds Park and take the shuttle over to Devil's Bridge from there. There are a couple options to get to the beginning of the trail. There is a 1.3 mile very rocky road called Dry Creek Road that goes from Dry Creek Vista parking lot to the beginning of Devil's Bridge Trail. You can either hike the road or take a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. A regular car will not make the trip because of how rocky and rough it is. Another option is to take the Mescal Trailhead/Chuckwagon Trail to Devil's Bridge Trailhead. It will lengthen your hike a little, but you will bypass having to hike or drive on Dry Creek Road. The Mescal Trailhead parking lot is smaller, but you can take the free shuttle to this location as well. Devil's Bridge Trail is about two miles roundtrip. The surrounding area is so beautiful during this hike. If you look closely, you can get a glimpse of balanced rock from a distance. The final part of the trail to the arch is an uphill climb up some steep steps. You may have to wait behind people struggling to get up this part and for the hikers coming back down. Once you get to Devil's Bridge, there will be places to sit and rest and take in the gorgeous views of the bridge and the surrounding canyon. Be prepared for a long wait in line to have your photo taken. People love to take their time on the bridge and do multipole poses. If you are by yourself, you will have to trust someone else to hold your phone and take your photo. If you want to hang around longer, there is a lot more to explore in this area after checking out the bridge. Sedona's Devil Bridge is a red sandstone arch that is 54 ft tall, 45 ft long, and 5 ft in width. If you have never done the hike to this iconic landmark, I highly recommend doing it at least once in your life. It is a good hike and it makes for a great photo!

If you're a "legit" hiker (and I consider myself one), Devil's Bridge may not actually end up on your list. A lot of snobby hikers will dismiss this one automatically, citing the touristy nature and the incessant crowds (consisting of a lot of people who clearly don't know how to hike). That's a legit issue but you're doing yourself a real disservice if you forego a bucket list optic for that reason - in an area full of stunning views, this one is really close to if not right at the top. I would STRONGLY recommend starting early, and I mean early. I'm an absolute machine of a morning person and even I set my alarm. My top-tier chum who literally went to the school of hospitality and I were up and slowly starting to caffeinate by 4:45ish. There might have been a little cranky side-eyeing as the coffee was sipped, but that's a small price to pay (and I've been dealing with those looks for years; second nature at this point). It was still pretty dark when we headed over, and it was literally 6:02am when we set out on the trail. Honestly? If I had to do it over again, I'd push it back 10-15 minutes earlier because there was already a small line of people at the bridge when we got there about 45-50 minutes later. You have a couple of options here, but this is a rare hike for me at least where it actually IS about the destination, not the journey. I wouldn't get cute with this and opt for one of the 6-mile adventures. Go right to the bridge - it's why you're here. We parked at the Dry Creek Trailhead (which is flat out not going to be an option for you if you're here by 7ish, so another reason not to play around with your start time) and just went on the ATV/Dry Creek Road straight over there. Very simple, very easy and you still get some nice optics on the way. We walked silently most of the time just taking in the spooky mist rising in the canyons. It was really cool. Once we intersected with the official Devil's Bridge trail, it definitely got more crowded but we could hear people throughout this walk. It wasn't egregious, though I couldn't help but wonder in horror at what this is like a few hours into the day. The vast majority of this trek is easy - it's on an unpaved road so it's not necessarily smooth but the up and down is pretty minimal. It DOES get frisky at the end when you actually get the bridge in your sights and have to climb up to the ledge it's on. It's close to the level of rock scrambling, though I think you can do this in decent running shoes (which I did with no slippage). It's also heavily used so it's easy to see the path you should take, and there are a lot of steps ground into the sides that help as well. I'm in good hiking shape so this wasn't an issue at all. My chum is active but not a huge hiker; she was able to do this with minimal drama as well. The bridge is really neat and the pics barely do it justice. It looks so much like an optical illusion that some of the 'wow' factor is diminished. And it has the added benefit of looking much scarier than it actually is when you're facing it from certain angles. When you're actually on the side of it about to walk across, it's wider than it appears from the main ledge that a lot of people are hanging out on. Per the attached picture though, I wish I'd gotten a little further to the left - would not have been difficult but it was hard to gauge when you're right there (ask the gazillion people on the ledge for guidance). Another selling point? Even though there were way more hikers than I'd prefer in a normal situation, great vibes abounded. Everyone was very supportive of each other and willing to take pictures for those brave enough to pose and scamper over to the bridge. Stockpile the coffee and start your day off right - it's worth it and then some.

We picked this trail after reading online reviews of what to do in Sedona & thinking it was an 1.8-mile hike one way, not realizing that it was 1.8 miles from the closest parking lot, that would require an off-road vehicle to go to it. Took us a total of 5 hours with stops for pictures and rests, but it was all worth it! This is the ONE HIKE YOU MUST DO if you don't have time to do anything else in Sedona. Things to know: 1. There are 3 parking lots - dry creek (furthest), mescal, & one just under 2-mile from the bridge. 2. Dry creek parking lot is located right before the rocky roads accessible only by off-road vehicles or by foot. 3. You have a choice from dry creek parking lot of bw taking the beautiful trail (lots of turns & ups & downs) or the rocky road (pretty much a straight way to the bridge). 4. START EARLY! Parking lots get full FAST. We got to dry creek lot at 6:10am & there were only few spots left. Some ppl started in the dark with head lights 5. PACK lots of water, snacks, & your preferred non-narcotic meds. wear layers, as it gets hot in direct sun areas. 6. Take LOTS of pictures. The last "parts" of the hike to the bridge is more of rock climbing, about 70-80 degree of steep rocks, which is totally doable because of the natural "landings" on the rocks, just take your time. 7. It is worth taking the trail, but it will take you longer bc the trails have LOTS of turns & alternating areas of inclines, declines & flats.

We went in the morning - no luck with parking or the shuttle. So we left, had lunch in Tlaquepaque and then returned around 2pm. We sat in the parking lot for maybe 6min waiting to see if someone would be leaving and sure enough, we got lucky! We started at the main parking lot, not the one that requires an off road vehicle (which if you have one I'd highly recommend doing that path rather than starting here - it will save you SO much time) and it was a beautiful hike. I underestimated how long this hike would take but aside from the last little bit of the trail before the bridge - it's relatively easy. My goodness it was worth it!! The views were incredible, the bridge was insane in person. Also the trail at this time of day was pretty quiet and zero wait at the bridge to get photos. We had 4 kids with us and they all managed this hike with little assistance. This is one worth the hype!

Easy parking. Maps and signage weren't marked very well. Tons of people in the way. You finally get to the top just to wait 2 or more hours for your turn on the bridge. Huge tourist trap. Another beautiful land mark over taken by social media clowns. I personally wore jeans and Romeo boots without any issues.

So I did this hike around 10 years ago and really enjoyed it. We just redid it as a family a few weeks ago and I'm dropping the rating down to a 4 (it may still be worth giving a 5 if you have a vehicle that can get into the high clearance lot). It's absolutely overrun now during peak seasons and there definitely are other places in Sedona that you can get away from people a lot better. The thing people have to remember is that the first mile of this hike pretty much either uses or parallels a 4x4 road with heavy traffic from both commercial tour groups (I think at least 3 or 4 of them run through here) in addition to personal vehicle users. The hike itself is mostly moderate with a bit of rock scrambling areas near the top. It's nothing if you do a lot of outdoors stuff, but for folks who don't hike that often or are somewhat mobility/balanced challenge, the top may be a bit intimidating. Personally I think it's way more enjoyable if you can start at the 4x4 lot as it's only about 1.8 miles round trip then. Having to hike the road adds on around another 2 miles, most of which you'll be eating dust from vehicles coming past you both ways. The bridge itself is really neat, but getting pictures is a nightmare. There was literally a line of people 30 to 40 long when we got to the top waiting for their photo opportunity standing on the bridge. We just figured it wasn't worth the time and headed back down to our vehicle. Note, if you do drive in, I highly recommend going an additional mile and change to Van Deren Cabin. The last half a mile here is defintely a full on 4x4 trail, but it's short enough and not particular challenging (plus there are spots to park if you decide it's too much for you).

Another VERY popular trail that gets overcrowded most times of the day. Starts at the parking lot that gets full pretty quickly. We got the shuttle and started from the Mescal trailhead. It's a pretty flat trail until the very end. There's a bit of mild scrambling but the paths are usually wide. Once at the top there's a lineup of folks waiting for their opportunity to take a photo on top of the bridge. My guess is that we probably had at least a 30 minute wait. There were some moments of efficiency where folks crossed on the bridge in between shots, but for the most part it was a very inefficient process. If you wanted "that" photo, you didn't have a choice but to wait. Some folks just took photos at the front of the bridge and called it good. Whatever floats your boat. Just a psa, there are two different shuttles that service the Dry Creek Trailhead to two different park and rides. #11 and #12.

Beautiful views from the bridge, and the trail! There are 2 ways to access the bridge: you can follow the actual trail, or you can follow the road that the ATVs and Jeeps use. I recommend the Jeep road. We hiked the actual trail, and yes, it was pretty, provided beautiful views, and even shade here and there, but the thing was so winding, that it felt like we had been hiking on it for 2 hours, and it was only 40 minutes! I was getting frustrated, because I just wanted to get to the bridge, already! Once you cross the Jeep road, you don't have much farther to go, but the trail becomes more difficult, as you start to head up rock outcroppings and over tree roots that seem to create stairs. When you get to the top, though, it's worth it. There are plenty of rocky areas to sit and rest on. You can go out onto the bridge, if you want, or you can simply sit back, relax, and watch the shenanigans of the other people up there. When you come back down, follow the jeep road back to the parking lot; it's direct, and much quicker. Definitely a must do in Sedona, if you like hiking! 16/2024

Beautiful hike. Dog friendly-ish but better not to take a larger dog unless you're prepared to carry them down the cliff. We couldn't get out 50 lbs dog to get up the last stretch. Overall great hike

The 1-mile hike to the bridge was great. The one mile on the dirt road from the small (20-ish spots?) wasn't as fun. If you have a Jeep or ATV, more parking is available to you and you can scramble up in less than 30 minutes from your parking spot. Took us 45 minutes to the top going at a normal but not super fast pace (adult experienced hiker, 10yo experienced hiker and 12yo moderate hiker). 1 mile from normal parking lot to trailhead 1 mile up to Devil's Bridge (Same in reverse) Took us 1.5 hours total. Parked around 9am, done by 10:45 (stopped 15 minutes at the top in line for a pic).

devil's bridge checked off my bucket list!!! WOW!! what an amazing experience we arrived and parked in the lot approx 7am on a Tuesday, there were only three spots left purchased a red rock - 1 day parking pass $5, online we took the off road trail as we had our fur baby with us the views were breathtaking! every turn was just, wow it was pretty flat and straight forward until the last 30 mins be prepared to climb the rocks but so worth it! took us about 4 hours to complete it, just about 4 miles RT our pup had to stop often for water and to cool down def a moderate hike! def worth waiting in line to have your photo taken on the bridge! it's known that the person behind you will gladly take your photo lol.

Probably the most popular hike at Red Rocks state park in Sedona because of the cool view and pictures you can take here. If you type in Devils Bridge Trailhead on your GPS the direction will take you directly to the start of the trail head, 1 mile before the trail head is the standard parking area where you can buy your state park parking pass from. For the remaining mile that's the start of the trail you'll need a high clearance 4 wheel drive to make it through the road, & that parking lot by the trailhead fits maybe 12-15 cars on a good day. The hiking trail is 4 miles round trip if you start at the paved parking lot, and about 2 miles if you parked at the trail head. It's not to hard a hike, the last half mile you'll have some climbing to do to make it up to devils bridge, and once you're there expect about a 20-30 minute wait if you want to get a picture on the bridge. Pretty much everyone that was out on the hike was friendly so you'll probably be able to find someone kind enough to take your photo for you.

Some great views along the way, and of course, if you reach the top! I felt like the trail was easy to moderate to challenging at the top, so I'll just put that out there. Def take water on any hike. We got to the shuttle parking early and were glad we did, as the Bridge gets crowded and temps were rising. If you're hiking in on the Jeep Trail, that's cool, you can do that. But there's another route which most hikers take from the parking lot that is not the sandy Jeep trail. Having hiked Cathedral Rock the day before, I got my share of heights and opted to just take pictures of my son on the Bridge. Highly recommend the Trail, overall, even if you're not an Influencer lookin' to add to your Feed with Bridge pics.

Amazing hike with beautiful views all around! There is a small parking lot at the end of Vultee Arch Street off of Dry Creek Rd. If it gets full you'll need to drive back to Dry Creek Rd and turn right to park along the road. This hike is just under 4 miles, and there are some pretty inclined areas with big slabs of stone that you'll need to climb on all fours. It's definitely a moderate hike, but so fun and you get the best view of the rock formations. The actual bridge is a lot wider than it looks in photos. Great photo ops once you get there too. Bring plenty of water, you're gonna need it.

Good hike overall and bridge is super cool! Some takeaways/ -- use the free shuttle to take you from the general parking area up to the trailhead. The lot at the trailhead will most likely be full (it's super small) -- there's not that much shade -- pay attention to your route. There's other intersecting routes that may get confusing. -- it will be dusty and the dirt is red. Your white shoes or socks will get pink. -- careful of slippery or loose rocks! Bring appropriate footwear. -- there are areas of steep ascent. -- overall hike is not easy but also not super hard either, somewhat moderate- ish... if that makes sense -- pictures at the bridge is a must, it's so dang cool. There will be a line. Expect it to take awhile (20-40 min average). You'll either need to ask someone to take your photo or someone will ask you to take it of them. -- some areas of the trail in the beginning, depending on which you take, will be shared road for off road vehicles, so be aware

Gorgeous hike! Really loved this one! Beautiful views! The bridge is stunning! Expect to wait in line if you want your picture on the bridge - that wasn't so important to me. Absolutely recommend this hike!!

Hiked Devil's Bridge Trail recently with some friends. As beginners we were still able to complete the hike. The last half a mile or so gets a bit tougher due to the steepness. There was a line at the bridge to take pictures with about a 45 min wait. However, there's plenty of other smaller peaks with breathtaking views. The hike was beautiful throughout and took about 3 hours to complete.

What a great hike. Put it on your bucket list. You can get there faster, but we parked at the Dry Creek parking area and took the Chuckwagon Trail. It's longer, but makes for a much nicer day of hiking. If you have a high clearance 4WD vehicle you can get there quicker, but the Chuckwagon Trail is more scenic and fun.

I can't even express how much this trail meant in my heart. It was a challenge at some points but so worth the trip to the top. INCREDIBLE!!! Best hike I've done in my books thus yet and because of this trail I want to test the waters and do so much more! Came with the fam and to be there with such AMAZING one of a kind views you have to stop and appreciate nature and how blessed you are in that moment to be there and conquer this trail. You truly are meant to be there in that moment on that path. A local gave tips to take the Mezcal trail to burn some time off and even tho you may feel lost at times find the creek it'll get you back on track worst case scenario. Pretty neat seeing fresh animal tracks although kinda glad I didn't encounter any lol. Anyhow pretty flat and then turned rocky so have good hiking shoes. Weather was warm and then once the trek up the mountain began it was a must to throw on the trail hoodie. Pack snacks and water as it is a longer trail for sure. Just be mindful take your trash with you please. Remember to go at your pace because regardless once your up top you'll wait a good 40 minutes give or take to get your pics in. Yup! So don't leave stay and walk across that natural sandstone bridge! 100 percent worth it. The ppl in front of you or behind will help take your pics so trust in their camera abilities lol. Definitely looks scary but I promise you'll be safe just take it serious and concentrate you got this! Sedona I love you! Thank you for having me in your grace as it was one of the best experiences. I took in all your views and it touched my heart and soul. Magnificent and Breathe taking! Once in a lifetime kinda thing to do. #takethetrip #takethathike

Most overheard comment while on the trail from Devil's Bridge Overflow Parking... "Who categorized this as a 'moderate' hike?!?!" If you have a vehicle capable of off-road terrain, I'd highly recommend you drive the mile to get to the actual trailhead, especially if it is a sunny and hot day, because that sandy mile walk back to overflow will be mostly void of shade while providing a decent amount of elevation. The hike from the trailhead has some challenging moments, and I might recommend bringing a pair of gloves, as you might need to scramble for a small portion of the incline. However, DONT underestimate the amount of cold water you should bring, especially if you are hoofing it from the overflow parking (or further down the line)

Loved the views on this trail. Parking is a hot mess but just keep circling the lot and chances are someone will be leaving. The beginning part of the trail is basically an off-road lane. I saw someone said it was 'boring' but honestly, with the red mountains all around you and sun casting constantly changing shadows, and vegetation that is unique and always ready to hurt you..... there is nothing boring about this area to me. Once you actually get to the trail, natural stone steps help you navigate the incline. The last quarter of the trail is by far the hardest. It's climbing across red rocks and very steep, but be brave, the natural bridge at the end is so worth it. Looking at the bridge from the side, it was quite intimidating, but once you turn the corner and walk straight out, it looks like a regular path. There was a short line to take pics. Most waited on the main side of the trail to take the pic and the poser(s) walked out for the photo op. People were so nice to take pics for you. Lots of people and dogs on the trail. We took off mid afternoon and we were out there about 2 hours total.

One heck of a hike, signs were all wrong, distances wrong. But all in all it was a fun hike, with temperatures were nice with an overcast. Would for sure do it again as long as the temps were cooperating. :-)

Although there are a ton of hiking trails around Sedona, I highly recommend visiting the Devil's Bridge Trail if you've never done it before or are visiting Sedona for the first time. It's a wonderful hike with a memorable view and experience, as you'll end up right on Devil's Bridge. My partner and I hiked Devil's Bridge from Chuckwagon Trailhead where there's a parking lot. There is an alternate route that you can get to Devil's Bridge, which brings you closer to the bridge, but you must have a 4x4 vehicle to do so. From Chuckwagon Trail, it's a pretty easy hike, with great views all around. The most difficult part of Devil's Bridge was near the bridge where you scramble up rock to reach the top. But if you're someone who hikes a lot, you will not find this hike to be challenging. With the Chuckwagon Trail, this was about six-miles roundtrip. Don't worry, it's not as scary as it appears! Once you're on the bridge, it's not narrow at all, as the rock surface is fairly large with a lot of space for multiple parties to be on. Even for someone who is scared of heights (me!) I didn't find this nerve-racking. Looks scarier in photos than what it actual is - you can do it! I loved this hike and am so glad to have marked this off my bucket list.

Fantastic trailhead and hike, easy to moderate hike. The landscape was absolutely beautiful if you take the longer trail otherwise you follow the road up to the closer parking lot. The very end had a little bit of elevation it nothing to difficult. The view is absolutely worth the hike.

This is one of those classic trails that everyone should do! I definitely recommend going for an early morning hike as it gets very crowded at the top where the bridge is. We opted to go park by the Mescal Trailhead as others have mentioned and had no issues looking for parking for our 8am hike. The spots were all taken there but you can park on the side of the road so it was all good. Mescal Trailhead leads to Devil's Bridge Trailhead l. Mescal trail is relatively flat. The incline is mainly from Devil's Trailhead. The incline is mostly towards the end of the hike. After you get up the rocky uphill climb, there are a few more climbs up some steep ish rocks before you get to the bridge. People who have some fears of heights, I think could concur this one. Even though the rocks going up were on a steeper side, it was still steady and people were very considerate of others going up and down the step by taking turns. The views from the climb were breathtaking! It wasn't very hot considering I came during January, but probably best to bring some water with you. I have a slight fear of heights but considering I hiked up all that, I knew I had to walk across the bridge. It seems scarier than it is. But once you wait in line and see the path to cross it, it's not that bad. People are very nice and help you take photos too! Just don't look down!

Out of the four hikes we did this is tops. Sadly no 4x4 so had to park further out at Mescal Trail head making it a 4+ mile roundtrip hike. Not much shade. Be ready with lots of water and hat as it is mostly exposed hike. The last 1/2 mile is all up but more easy than Cathedral or Bell, so worth it!

One of the top hikes in Sedona. It is long and can get steep at some points. The beginning is an easy trail, Jeep tours may drive by. Minimal incline. You do have to scale some rocks to get to the top. There might be a long line for the bridge. Beware of mud if it rained. Great views the whole hike. Parking We arrived on a Friday afternoon and it was impossible to get parking, so we parked on the side of the road just a 10 minute walk from the parking lot. Bathrooms There are bathrooms by the parking lot!

I learned of Devil's Bridge when researching popular sights and hiking trails in Sedona. However, I did not anticipate that this would be a ~5 mile hike round trip. If you join a Jeep tour or are able to drive a Jeep or high-enough clearance vehicle, then I believe this trail is under 3 miles round trip. Make sure to check the park's website to see how tall of a vehicle you'd need - the rocky bumps are no joke. You'd need to arrive before 8am if you'd like to park inside the lot for regular vehicles, which would save you a 1 mile trek round trip. We arrived around 9am on a Saturday in December and had to rush for parking on the side of the road. I'd say this is a moderate trail as there were many uphill portions. You'll also need to use your hands to climb for a small portion towards the end. Because the trail is so popular, you aren't likely to get lost. Just follow the crowd and you'll be fine. We reached Devil's Bridge around 10:30am and probably waited 5-10min for our turn to snap pics. We set up a tripod, but everyone was pretty nice about helping one another take pics; folks were also respectful of snapping pics efficiently and moving on. The views on the way to the top are very majestic - the view is boring only for the first mile of the trek. This is such a rewarding hike for the views and I highly recommend adding it to your Sedona itinerary. Make sure to arrive as early as possible and don't visit in December when it's freezing cold!

We got here around 3pm on a weekday and decided to park at the Dry Creek parking lot. The parking was full but after waiting for about 10 minutes we got a spot. The dry vault toilets in that parking lot were dirty and didn't have any toilet paper. The shortest way to Devil's Bridge is on a dirt road. If you keep on the Chuckwagon Trail that goes from the parking lot, you will add another two miles to the entire trip. After walking for little over a mile on the dirt road, there is a well marked turn to the right with a smaller parking lot for people with ATVs or 4x4 with high clearance. The rest of the trail is listed as 0.7 miles (it was around 2 miles one way from the Dry Creek parking lot) and becomes strenuous toward the end when one has to climb up using rocks that are positioned as stairs. We saw many older people and younger children who were able to do it. The view from the top is definitely worth the climb. People wait in line to take a picture on the bridge and everyone seemed very nice. The narrowest part of the bridge itself is maybe 5 feet wide, safe but a bit scary. The whole hike took us about 2 hours and was around 4 miles. Some people were starting as we were leaving which was one hour before sunset and would not give them enough time to return during day light so plan accordingly. The hike is definitely worth the hype!

One of the best easy hikes. I came with my family, and it's a good hike with kids. My nephews were able to do it, and they're not outdoorsy kids, but they were able to walk. From the parking lot all the way to the bridge, we took about 3 hours total (round trip). I've got to say it's worth the hike, bro, with no water, snacks, or proper hiking shoes.