 |
| Cathedral Rock Trail is a classic Sedona hike. |
Cathedral Rock, a monumental red sandstone formation in the center of the Sedona area, is
one of the most-photographed scenes in Arizona. The classic view is along Oak
Creek from the west, at Crescent Moon Ranch and Red Rock Crossing. (Scenic Red Rock Loop Road leads to this day-use area, a great spot for a picnic or a gentle stroll along the creek.)
But it’s possible to climb to the very heart of the Cathedral’s
sandstone spires, beginning from the formation’s northeast side. Some people
say that the spires are where Cathedral’s vortex energy is concentrated. If
you’re curious about Sedona’s vortex sites, a hike here is the perfect
opportunity to see for yourself if all the buzz about Sedona’s special energy
is mere hype or a genuine phenomenon.
For the
trailhead, drive south on State Route 179 from its intersection with State
Route 89A. At 3.5 miles, turn right at Back O’ Beyond Road and continue a half-mile to the parking area on the left. If you’re
afraid of heights or unsteady on your feet, think twice about making this moderately difficult hike. Though it’s a mere 1.5 miles round-trip, it’s steep,
with ledges and toeholds in some places. In places, the trail travels over bare
slickrock; the forest service has marked the route with numerous rock cairns.
Once you
arrive at the top, you can enjoy the views of the Chapel area to the east. Look
for the two red rock spires known as The Nuns. To the west, Oak Creek’s
meandering route is marked by a green band of trees that turn gold in
autumn. A short scramble south leads to the base of the tall spire in the center
of Cathedral Rock, known as The Mace. Do you feel the vortex vibe? Or is it simply the exhilaration of making an invigorating hike to an amazingly beautiful place?
