Ride the Red: Devil’s Bridge Ride-N-Hike in Sedona
An off-road approach and a short hike to Sedona’s most iconic arch—efficient, scenic, unforgettable.
The morning starts with the kind of light Sedona is famous for—gold poured over rust-red cliffs, the sandstone waking slowly like a living thing. You throttle softly out of town, the engine purring, and the pavement gives way to sunbaked dirt. Juniper and piñon lean in close, a sage-scented welcome committee as the track narrows. The red road dares you forward, corrugations drumming the chassis, the red dust rising and dancing in your wake. This is a fast track to the good stuff: a direct ride to the main Devil’s Bridge trailhead, bypassing the long, flat approach hike and delivering you to the heart of Sedona’s most iconic arch.
Trail Wisdom
Start at First Light
Beat heat and crowds by launching at sunrise; you’ll get cooler temps, easier parking, and better photos at the arch.
Wear Real Footwear
Grippy hiking shoes handle the steep sandstone steps near the arch better than sandals or casual sneakers.
Mind the Edge
The arch is wide but exposed. Move one at a time, avoid strong winds, and skip the crossing if you’re uneasy.
OHV Etiquette
Drive slowly near hikers and pullouts; dust settles on everyone. Stay on designated roads to protect fragile soil.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Doe Mountain mesa at golden hour for sweeping red-rock panoramas
- •Fay Canyon Arch for a quieter, short hike with a secret-arch vibe
Wildlife
Desert cottontail and mule deer on dawn patrol, Common raven riding thermals over the canyons
Conservation Note
Stay on designated OHV roads and established trails to prevent erosion and damage to fragile soils and vegetation. Pack out all trash, keep noise low near hikers, and skip drones during busy hours or near wildlife.
Sedona’s red rocks formed from the Permian-age Schnebly Hill sandstone, shaped by wind and water over millions of years. The broader region holds remnants of Sinagua culture in cliff dwellings and rock art.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower accents on red rock, Cool morning temps
Challenges: Peak visitation on weekends, Gusty afternoon winds
Prime conditions with mild temperatures and vivid color. Arrive early to secure a smooth ride and a lighter queue at the arch.
summer
Best for: Early sunrises and long days, Monsoon cloud drama for photos
Challenges: High heat by mid-morning, Afternoon storms and lightning
Go at dawn and be off the arch by late morning. Watch the forecast for monsoon cells and avoid exposed high points during storms.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Golden light and thinner crowds
Challenges: Dusty trails after long dry spells, Busy holiday weekends
Cooler days and crisp views make for relaxed riding and hiking. Expect popular dates to book out quickly.
winter
Best for: Clear air and quiet mornings, Low-angle, flattering light
Challenges: Icy patches on shaded stone, Cold starts and shorter days
Check for ice on the final steps and dress in warm layers. Mornings can be quiet and photogenic after a light dusting of snow.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe Hiking Shoes with TractionEssential
Sandstone steps near the arch are steep; grippy soles add security.
2–3 Liters of Water per PersonEssential
Desert air dehydrates quickly; the route is exposed with little shade.
Sun Protection (Hat, Sunglasses, SPF 30+)Essential
Open terrain reflects heat and light; cover up to avoid sunburn.
Lightweight Layer/Wind Shell
Mornings can be brisk and windy on the arch; a packable layer keeps you comfortable.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Devil’s Bridge from the OHV trailhead?
About 3 miles round-trip with roughly 400 feet of elevation gain, including a steep stone staircase near the end.
Do I need prior off-road driving experience?
No advanced skills are required. Drive slowly, follow the provided map, and stay on designated roads; the outfitter supplies helmets, goggles, and guidance.
Is a permit required to access Devil’s Bridge?
No permit is required to hike the trail or access the OHV road, but some nearby parking lots in the area require a Red Rock Pass. Check signage if you park at established trailheads.
Is the arch safe to walk across?
The arch is wide but exposed. Cross one person at a time, avoid high winds or ice, and never step near the edge for selfies.
What’s included with the rental?
Fuel, helmets and goggles, a cooler with bottled water and ice, and an easy-to-follow trail map are included. A refundable security hold is required per vehicle.
Can children participate?
Passengers can be younger, but drivers must be at least 18 with a valid license. Families commonly hike the final trail; supervise kids closely near the arch.
What to Pack
Hiking shoes with good traction (for steep sandstone steps); 2–3 liters of water per person (desert heat is deceptive); Sun protection—hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ (no shade on the arch); Lightweight layer/wind shell (mornings and ridge tops can be breezy).
Did You Know
Devil’s Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, formed within the Permian-age Schnebly Hill Formation.
Quick Travel Tips
Book the first rental slot to beat crowds; Check the forecast for monsoon storms in summer; Bring a backup battery—cell service is spotty on FR 152; Weekdays are calmer than weekends, especially in spring and fall.
Local Flavor
Reward the day at Elote Cafe for modern Southwestern plates or grab a cold pint at Sedona Beer Co. For a mellow stroll, wander Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village’s courtyards, then catch sunset from the Doe Mountain mesa—an easy capstone to a red-rock day.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Flagstaff Pulliam (FLG, ~45–60 minutes) and Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX, ~2 hours). Meeting point: 2740 W State Rte 89A, Sedona. Drive time to OHV road: ~15–20 minutes. Cell service: spotty to none on Vultee Arch Rd (FR 152). Passes: Red Rock Pass required at some parking lots in the area; not needed to hike if dropped at the OHV trailhead.
Sustainability Note
This route crosses sensitive desert terrain in the Coconino National Forest—stay on designated roads and trails, keep speeds down to reduce dust, pack out all waste, and share the arch respectfully so everyone gets a turn without trampling fragile edges.
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