Devil's Bridge Trail

Sedona, Arizona

4.6/5
based on 19 reviews

Details

Distance

3.94 miles

Elevation Gain

479 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

You can’t go wrong with this hike! I’ve done both routes (under the bridge and to the actual bridge) - both bring wonderful photo opportunities. Really busy though, do get to the trailhead early!

Easy hike then moderate scramble to this great natural bridge with unbelievable views of Sedona’s Red Rocks.

This is my third favorite hike, behind Soldier's Pass and Cathedral Rock. The hike there is not too strenuous, but not very memorable. The highlight was definitely the bridge, itself! Perfect for photos. There was a line up of about five people at the bridge when we arrived and everyone was taking turns taking photos on the bridge. Everyone was quick and we didn't have to wait long for our turn before heading back to the parking area

Awesome hike! We went in August and the weather was about 80 degrees. this place was a really cool hike. very clean no trash. Some parts of the trail were pretty steep but well worth it. definitely going back here! the view the whole hike was beautiful.

I went on this hike, not knowing what to expect. I was amazed by the outcome! The trail was easy enough, the wash full of big rocks was the most aggravating. We didn’t see many people on the way up but after the stair climb to the end stretch, there were about 50 people waiting in line to get their picture taken on that mind-blowing bridge! I highly recommend this hike. I already want to go back!

It was not a difficult hike but if you are planning to go, go early. Great views and very friendly hikers in the trail. On our way down the trail was rather crowded people all wanted to take pictures on the bridge so I am glad I left before it got backed up.

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

Hike the Chimney Rock Loop, Sedona

Hike to the Birthing Cave

Brins Mesa - Soldier Pass Loop