Devil’s Bridge Trail, a Sedona Landmark Worth the Trek
Sedona’s majestic red rocks and sweeping canyons have a way of stirring something deep within us, cultivating a sense of awe in the midst of vast, natural beauty. Few trails capture that feeling quite like Devil’s Bridge Trail Sedona. Reach the summit and you’ll find yourself standing on the only natural sandstone arch in the region, suspended 54 feet above a glowing desert canyon. It’s the ultimate reward and a breathtaking finale for those who make the relatively short climb.
For most of the way, the hike is moderately easy. The final 150 feet, however, steepen dramatically. Once you scramble over the top, it feels as though you’re floating in midair above the Coconino National Forest, surrounded by panoramic red-rock vistas that stretch for miles.
This striking sandstone arch is one of the most photographed natural wonders in Arizona, drawing visitors eager to capture their own “hero shot” moment atop the bridge. Read on for how to hike Devil’s Trail Sedona and experience it at its most peaceful, before the crowds arrive.
Base Yourself at Ambiente
The key to conquering Devil’s Bridge Trail Sedona Arizona is to begin early, before the sun and the crowds rise. Stay at Ambiente, A Landscape Hotel, where individual glass-walled atriums immerse you in nature with panoramic red-rock views and private rooftop decks. Ideally located just a ten-minute drive from the trailhead, Ambiente’s concierge can also arrange a private shuttle drop-off for a seamless start to your morning adventure.
With the trail so close, guests can easily make Devil’s Bridge a sunrise hike, then return to indulge in a day of restoration and renewal. Refresh with a swim and poolside lunch before visiting Velvet Spa, where the Nourishing Body Massage uses cashmere oil infused with biodynamic flower essences to restore skin to a silky-smooth touch. Later, savor locally-inspired, seasonal fare at Forty1, and cap off the evening by the firepit beneath a canopy of stars. Drift to sleep between luxurious organic bed linens and wake to sunrise views of red rocks and forest.
Finding the Devil’s Trailhead
Parking near the trailhead is limited, so plan to arrive before 7 a.m., arrange a private shuttle, or take the Sedona Shuttle. The later you arrive, the farther you’ll park, and the longer your walk will be.
From Ambiente: Turn right onto 89A West, drive about three miles, and turn right again onto Dry Creek Road. Look for the Dry Creek Trailhead parking lot. From here, the roundtrip hike to Devil’s Bridge is 4.8 miles.
Another excellent option is the Mescal Trailhead, just up the road. From that lot, the roundtrip distance is a slightly shorter 4.2 miles along the Mescal and Chuckwagon Trails, offering beautiful desert scenery and a quieter experience.
If you have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, you can drive all the way to the Devil’s Trailhead on the rough road.
The Hike
The Devil’s Trail itself is only one mile to the arch and one mile back. The path begins gently along a wide, unpaved track. Take your time to rest, hydrate, and soak in the red-rock vistas that surround you.
As you near the end, the trail narrows into a series of rocky steps. The final 150 feet climb steeply and may require a bit of hand-and-foot scrambling. It’s short but invigorating. Once you crest the top, the payoff is immediate: a sweeping panorama of Sedona’s red rock formations and the evergreen canopy of the Coconino National Forest below.
The Photo Op Moment
At the summit, you’ll likely find a small line of hikers waiting their turn to pose on the bridge. Take a moment here to catch your breath and appreciate the view. The bonus? There’s always someone to snap your photo.
Stepping out onto the arch is exhilarating, but with no guardrails and a narrow, uneven sandstone ledge, only venture out if you’re comfortable with heights. If walking the bridge feels daunting, take the side trail that leads beneath it. From below, you’ll discover a new perspective and a stunning photo opportunity that captures the bridge’s graceful curve and scale.
Either way, the views and the sense of accomplishment after that final climb are unforgettable.
When To Go
The least crowded time to experience Devil’s Bridge Trail is early morning. Plan to arrive at the arch just after sunrise to capture the soft, golden light that makes the red rocks glow.
The milder months of October through April offer ideal hiking conditions, though the trail is accessible year-round with proper preparation. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes or trail runners, and protect yourself from the sun as shade is scarce on this trail.
Stay at Ambiente, rise early, and conquer the Devil’s Trail. You’ll return with an iconic photo, a story to tell, and a euphoric feeling of awe from Sedona’s landscape.