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Devil's Bridge Trail

Sedona, Arizona

4.6/5
based on 19 reviews

Details

Distance

3.94 miles

Elevation Gain

400 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Will Cebron

Devil's Bridge is an easy out-and-back trail with sweeping views of Sedona and an incredible payoff, the Devil's Bridge.

The Devil's Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in Coconino National Forest and an iconic landmark. If you're visiting the Sedona area, hiking this trail is a must do.

The hike:

From the trailhead, the hike gradually slopes upward as it winds its way through the trees. The trail is easy to follow and after about 3/4 of a mile, you'll reach a rock staircase. The ascent from here is steep but you've almost made it. Near the top, there's a wide open lookout that provides incredible views back the way you came. Continue up one more level and walk a short distance along the rock wall until you reach the Devil's Bridge. The bridge is breathtaking and worth the effort. Feel free to venture out onto the bridge, but exercise caution as it's a long way down and the area can be icy in winter.

Getting to the trailhead:

There are a couple different starting options for this trail. Once you turn onto FR 152 (Vultee Arch Rd), after a short way you'll see a parking lot on your left. This is where the paved road ends and anyone without a high clearance 4WD vehicle will want to park. From here, the hike is roughly 4 miles round trip. You'll start the hike by continuing up FR 152 on the dirt section. 

If you have a high clearance 4WD vehicle, you can drive up this section and shave 2 miles roundtrip off your hike. Either way after a mile on the dirt portion of FR 152, you'll see a dirt parking lot to your right. This is where the Devil's Bridge trailhead begins.

Tips:

  • A couple words of advice on tackling this hike. Unless you are driving a Wrangler or similar SUV, park in the paved area. FR 152's dirt section is washed out and filled with potholes. Park approximately 1-mile away from the official trailhead at the Dry Creek Vista Parking lot (as shown with the GPX track). 
  • Also consider starting this hike very early as it's one of Sedona's most popular. The parking lot fills up quickly and the pink Jeep tours start kicking up dust along FR 152 late morning.
  • If you're worried about parking, the city of Sedona offers free shuttle service to the Dry Creek Vista trailhead Thursday - Sunday. Visit their website SedonaShuttle.com for the shuttle schedule. There is no fee for parking at the shuttle pickup location. 
  • Although dogs on-leash are permitted on this trail, the steps and footing especially at the end can be difficult, so this may not be suitable for all dogs.

Additional routes:

Devil's Bridge via Mescal Trail (~4 miles)

Devil's Bridge Via Chuck Wagon Trail (~5.75 miles)


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Devil's Bridge Trail Reviews

Take the road to devils bridge from the parking instead of Mescal trail, it’s not worth it you add an extra 1-1.5 miles, and it’s confusing as there are no real trail signs. There is a wait at the top and the escalation come very quickly when you get to the trail head, bring lots of water and hangout at the top for a bit!

It was very enjoyable hike

During peak times (spring,summer,fall) be prepared to wait over 1 hour to get your photos on the iconic Devils Bridge! I got to the parking lot around 8am and got the last spot. It fills up fast! You can also make your hike shorter by taking the 4x4 road to the TH. Overall, it’s a stunning rock formation and one to not be missed during a visit to Sedona!

Beautiful country! Gorgeous Red Rock everywhere. So worth the effort. The wait to get your photo taken on the bridge is a bit of a wait but so so worth it! Absolutely loved it and will definitely be going back!!!

Traveled out of town to do this hike. Gorgeous views the whole hike, but very crowded. Plan to get there early or you will be waiting in line for a photo on Devil's Bridge. This is rated as an "Easy" hike but it's definitely "Moderate". It can be challenging in some sections and inclines become steep. All in all if you're up for the adventure its a must do hike!!

Devil's Bridge is one of the most popular trails near Sedona. It's an easy hike but gets steep near the natural bridge. It's a great place to enjoy a beautiful Arizona sunset

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Devil's Bridge via Chuck Wagon Trail

Mescal Mountain Loop

Devil's Bridge via Mescal Trail

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