Cathedral Rock

by Becky & Sean 2/17/2003

My boyfriend and I recently took a trip to Sedona and while we were there we had to get in some hiking. We were staying in Oak Creek and decided to hike Cathedral Rock. We filled up our Camelpaks and loaded up the camera. The start of the trail is very easy, and not very steep. You quickly reach a mesa where you can get some great shots of Bell Rock. From this point on you do a lot of climbing so be sure to wear some shoes with good grip and ankle support if you need it. About 2/3rds of the way up you come to a fissure in the rock in which you have a few hand holds, but most you will be required to stuff your toe in the cracks and pull yourself up. Just when you think you've reached the top there is more, lots more. The climbing is pretty easy up to the top, but don't stop there. Once you reach the top, go left. There is a trail that snakes around the side of the mountain and will bring you right between two of the rocks. It's a little tricky getting up there so slow and easy is the way to go. The climb is worth it as the view and feeling of accomplishment is fantastic. You go back down the way you came, however you will spend a little more time on your butt. Be sure to wear clothing that you can get stained and dirty. If you have a hiking pole, I would recommend it for the climb down, it will make your decent a little easier. To get there from Phoenix, take the I-17 north to the 179 (exit 298). >From the 179 head toward Sedona, once you are out of Oak Creek look for the stone marker that says "Back O' Beyond" on your left. There is a small parking area on your left once you get about 1/4 mile down the road. The cost to hike the trail is $5 for a 24 hour pass per vehicle. There is a machine at the trailhead that takes cash or credit cards. It's a 3.2 mile hike and all told it took us 3 1/2 hours, including the time spent soaking in the view and stopping to take pictures and chat with other hikers. Although most dogs would have trouble with the large leaps and 'steps' you have to climb to reach the top including having to lift the dog up at several points, there was a dog at the top of the trail as well as a 6 year old little girl. Don't take this trail lightly though. It's an easy to moderate trail, but my obliques and shoulders were sore the next day from pulling myself up. Definitely bring some water and if you are desperately in need of restroom, your best bet is to head back to Oak Creek. There is a 76 gas station as soon as you get back into town, Sedona seems closer but there is not a restroom to be found for a while. Good luck and happy hiking!