Cathedral Rock is Everything

This hike is more of a rock climb. This is an uphill climb to this:

Image courtesy of http://visitsedonasoon.com/wp-content/gallery/sedona/cathedral_rock_3.jpg

Literally on the edge.

As you ascend the rock formations the beauty increases. This is one of the hikes where you especially need to look for cairns (those piles of rocks secured with metal to indicate which direction to go in). Essentially you are heading up. Parts of the hike definitely use those thighs. For those who aren't used to hiking you'll want to take your time and take breaks. It is such a short hike but you are working through steep terrain.

When you reach the top you get to sit in the "cathedral".

Hike details:

• 1.5 miles roundtrip
• I would recommend going in Fall or Spring. It gets really hot in the summer.
• You will need a Red Rock Pass or America The Beautiful Parks Pass.

What to bring:

• Water
• Tennis Shoes with excellent grips (you are literally climbing rock and don't want to slip)
• Sunglasses/hat (There is no shade)
• Sunscreen/sunblock (put on before)

Directions:
From Flagstaff head down 89A toward Sedona. Take 179 south for 3.5 miles to Back O' Beyond Road on the right. Go 0.6 miles to the trailhead parking lot which is on the left.

So worth it. This place is gorgeous and so peaceful.