Cathedral Rock Viewpoint

Cathedral Rock is the defining image of Sedona -- twin spires of red sandstone rising from the desert that appear on every postcard, guidebook, and Instagram feed. The hike to the saddle between those spires is short (0.6 miles one way) but steep, gaining 740 feet through rock scrambling that gives families a genuine climbing adventure.

The trail begins as a standard desert path before transitioning to slickrock scrambling. Within the first quarter mile, you are using hands and feet to climb up sandstone ledges. The rock is naturally grippy (not slippery when dry), and most sections have multiple route options of varying difficulty.

Kids who are natural climbers thrive here. Kids who are hesitant with heights may want to turn around at one of several comfortable stopping points.

The final push to the saddle involves climbing a steep slickrock face that is the crux of the hike. From the saddle, views extend across the Verde Valley to Mingus Mountain, with Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock visible to the south. It is one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Arizona.

Parking is the primary challenge. The Cathedral Rock trailhead has roughly 30 parking spots and fills before 8 AM on weekends year-round. An overflow lot adds some capacity, but plan to arrive early.

Alternative approaches include the Templeton Trail from the south (longer, flatter) or simply viewing Cathedral Rock from Red Rock Crossing/Crescent Moon Picnic Area, where the formation reflects in Oak Creek -- the classic postcard view.

This hike is not recommended for children under 8 or anyone uncomfortable with heights and scrambling. For families with capable kids, it is arguably Sedona's most rewarding hike -- a real adventure with a world-class payoff.