Crossing the Red: A Practical Love Letter to Devil’s Bridge Trail
A compact red-rock pilgrimage with a photo-ready payoff and practical rules to get the most out of it
The morning light in Sedona has a way of making the red rock glow from the inside out. You start the Devil’s Bridge Trail with that glow at your back, a thin ribbon of dust and rock underfoot, and the echo of other early risers far below. The arch itself doesn’t reveal itself all at once—first you notice the sweep of slickrock, then the curve of a rim, and finally, framed against sky, a natural bridge that dares you to step out and look back. It’s equal parts geological theatre and test of nerve: a narrow span of sandstone that feels both delicate and monumentally ancient.
Trail Wisdom
Beat the crowds
Start at or before sunrise to avoid lines at the arch and the heat that builds by late morning.
Bring extra water
Carry at least 1–2 liters per person for the 4.2-mile round trip—there’s no reliable shade on the final approach.
Expect slickrock scrambles
Wear shoes with good grip and be prepared for short exposed sections that require hands-on scrambling.
Leave no trace
Stick to the cairns and worn paths to protect cryptobiotic soil and fragile desert vegetation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Chicken Point overlook (less busy for sunset views)
- •Long Canyon trails for quieter red-rock ridgelines
Wildlife
mule deer, red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
High visitation threatens fragile soils and vegetation—stay on marked routes, pack out trash, and avoid creating new social trails.
The Verde Valley was once occupied by Sinagua peoples; the red-rock formations guided seasonal travel and resource use for generations.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower accents, moderate temperatures, photography
Challenges: occasional mud after storms, weekend crowding during break season
Spring brings pleasant daytime temps and desert wildflowers—arrive early to avoid crowds and post-storm slickrock.
summer
Best for: longer daylight hours, dawn and dusk light, less chance of storms in late summer
Challenges: high heat midday, monsoon storms (July–August), limited shade
Summer can be very hot; plan for pre-dawn starts and monitor monsoon forecasts for lightning and flash-flood risk.
fall
Best for: stable weather, peak light quality, cooler hiking conditions
Challenges: popular season means crowded weekends, temperature swings between morning and afternoon
Fall offers some of the best weather and light—go midweek or very early to find quieter trails.
winter
Best for: crisp air and fewer visitors, clear, sharp light for photography, mild days occasionally
Challenges: possible icy patches on slickrock, colder mornings, shorter daylight hours
Winters are usually mild but can produce icy spots; microspikes and warm layers help in colder snaps.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoes with sticky rubberEssential
Grip on slickrock is crucial for the exposed scrambles near the arch.
2 liters of water per personEssential
Hydration prevents headaches and fatigue in Sedona’s dry climate.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Direct sun and reflected light off the rock increase UV exposure on exposed sections.
Light daypack with headlamp
A headlamp is useful for pre-dawn starts and the pack carries layers, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit.
Common Questions
How long is the Devil’s Bridge Trail?
Expect roughly 4.2 miles (6.8 km) round-trip from the Dry Creek Road parking area with about 400 ft (120 m) of elevation gain; starting from closer parking reduces the distance.
Is Devil’s Bridge suitable for kids and dogs?
Older kids who are steady on their feet can manage the route; dogs are allowed but the final exposed scramble may be difficult and hot—bring water for pets and exercise caution.
Do I need a permit to hike Devil’s Bridge?
No permit is required for day hiking, but organized groups and commercial tours may require separate permissions—check with local land managers for specifics.
When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Sunrise on weekdays is the quietest; late afternoon during shoulder seasons can also be less busy than mid-day on weekends.
Is the arch safe to walk across?
Many people stand and photograph on the bridge; it’s sandstone and not fenced—exercise caution, avoid edge crowds, and don’t attempt risky stunts near the rim.
What should I do in case of a storm?
Descend immediately from exposed ridges and avoid low washes; watch for lightning and flash-flood warnings during monsoon season.
What to Pack
Trail shoes for traction, 2L water to stay hydrated, sun protection (hat + sunscreen), light layers for morning/evening temperature swings
Did You Know
Devil’s Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, carved over millennia by wind and water through sandstone layers of the Colorado Plateau.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive before sunrise to secure parking; 2) Fill water in town—no potable water on trail; 3) Check monsoon forecasts in July–August; 4) Bring cash or card for parking fees where applicable
Local Flavor
Sedona’s small-town energy blends Southwestern cuisine, Native American art, and a wellness scene—plan to refuel with Navajo fry bread or a farm-to-table Southwest breakfast after your hike.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: ~4.2 miles RT | Elevation gain: ~400 ft | Time: 1.5–3 hrs | Parking: limited—arrive early | Fees: sometimes for nearby trailheads | Dogs: allowed but watch the scramble
Sustainability Note
Stick to established trails and viewing areas; avoid stepping on cryptobiotic soils and pack out all trash to preserve this fragile desert ecosystem.