Arizona offers a vast array of fun activities and adventure. It is a haven for hikers, bikers, and explorers alike. There are so many trails and areas to explore that I have many on my list of favorites. Sedona is absolutely gorgeous with its unique red rock formations and energy vortex, it is the perfect place to find some very unique hiking trails.Hiking Devil’s Bridge hike in Sedona is one of the must do trails in the area.

Stunning Landscape

Dust infused red-orange sunsets, smoldering red rock canyons, and blue skies with puffy white clouds describe my first time road trip to Sedona, Arizona.

Just hearing the words “smoldering red rock canyons” peaks my curiosity. We had an extra day open on the upcoming weekend, and decided to go on a road trip to Arizona. Being spontaneous makes life more interesting and this particular adventure is no different.

Seeking Adventure

After my previous heart pumping, 109 degree hot day hike up Camelback Mountain, I was a little hesitant to trek out to the desert for another scorching hike. Seeking adventure leads us to discovering Devil’s Bridge appearing in the search engine. I have been reading that it is one of the best hikes in Sedona. The name sounds more frightening then it really is. The hike offers a shorter or longer hiking route to get to the Bridge. (Depending on which parking lot you park in).

The Road Trip

During the early morning, we continue with our usual rituals as well as  prepping the car, gather food, fill our backpacks, and hit the road. Of course, The day prior, we did a vehicle maintenance check, changed oil, filled the gas tank, put a gallon of water in the car, and checked air pressure in the tires for safety and we were ready to go. See more info on How To Prepare For a Weekend Road Trip Here:

Welcome To Arizona

It was a picture perfect desert evening as we roll into town. Just in time to relish the golden sunset that says “welcome to Arizona.” Finally making it to our hotel, we settle into our room and then lights out for an early morning rise.  After enjoying a yummy breakfast, we prepare to head out the door and make our way towards Sedona. We made sure we brought enough water, power bars, lunch and ready to tackle Devil’s Bridge.

Devils Bridge Sedona Directions

It is a little tricky to find when first arriving in Sedona, but finally came upon it and parked the car. Take a look at the hand drawn map below that worked great to guide us to the trailhead and parking areas. DIRECTIONS 

As I mentioned previously, the Mescal parking lot is a little tricky to find if its your first time. Many folks parked along the side of the road too. Side note: It was a little surprising to see the heavy traffic on the interstate on that Summer Saturday morning.

There is an additional parking area. To reach this parking lot, it requires an all terrain vehicle. This particluar log is located a bit closer to the trailhead for Devil’s Bridge. The road that leads to this parking area is very rugged, steep, and contains many holes and there is loose sand everywhere. So we did find a spot and parked at the Mescal parking lot.

The Trail

The Devil’s Bridge hiking trail is rated as easy to moderate scale. After reading about others hiking Devil’s Bridge Sedona, we just knew we had to see it for ourselves. So, with a little last minute decision making, we committed ourselves to this weekend getaway to the desert.

We chose to take the longer path since we had all day and definitely were not in a hurry. This made our hiking experience a little more fulfilling and to see more of the landscape. The hike starting at the Mescal parking area is a little more than 4 miles give or take round trip, so not too bad. It is rated as easy to moderate hike.

This longer route also is one that is a little more scenic as well and is great for spectacular panoramic landscape photos.

Know Before You Go

Prior to reaching the trailhead parking areas, of course I am in need of a restroom and water. The Sedona Library is located just outside of trailhead parking areas on the two-lane road heading towards Devil’s Bridge hike. This is a perfect stopping point. It is a very quaint library tucked away on a quiet street. A model train expo was happening during out visit. We peeked in the door and model trains are everywhere stretching out on several tables. What a sight!

I did not see restrooms or portable potties at or nearby the trail, so make sure you are prepared for these couple of hours out here. The trail consists of mostly simple, groomed and clear paths. Together with quiet, peaceful, and comfortable summer temperatures, it was a perfect setting for hiking. As you walk on the path, you will notice stunning landscape views and red rock formations surround you!

As you get close to the bridge area, there are a couple steep incline switchback areas. The boulders and rocks may be hot, so be cautious as you find your grip to help keep your balance to climb up.

Then at the top you can wander, relax, eat lunch and carefully walk towards the bridge. This will be the place to take the money shot of the bridge or of you on the bridge.

Most hikers take turns on the bridge, so everyone can have their own photo opportunity of standing on Devil’s Bridge. The day we hiked this trail, there were a handful of people, and the wait to walk on the bridge was very short. Everyone was courteous and took their turn on the bridge.

Adventure In All Of Us

Outdoor lovers just can’t help it. Adventure is a trait that many of us have. When we are curious about something new, we long the desire to go out and experience it. Hiking Devil’s Bridge Sedona is nothing short of spectacular. It satisfies both curiosity and adventure. And not to mention stunning views to indulge in.

Step Outside Your Boundaries

Life is too short to miss out on an experience because you may be a little hesitant or because of things in the past. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see something new! We are so glad we did! We highly recommend this hiking trail!

Thank you for reading!