Devils Bridge Hike Sedona - All You Need to Know Plus How to Get Great Pics

Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Devil's Bridge in Sedona. As the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, this destination is a photographer's paradise. This natural wonder is suspended amidst stunning red rock formations and a desert skyline, creating an awe-inspiring sight. What sets Devil's Bridge apart is its unique accessibility; allowing hikers to traverse across the arch, offering a thrilling experience and great photo opportunities. This is our guide to accessing the beauty of the Devil’s Bridge hike in Sedona.

Devil's Bridge Trail

Distance: 4.6 miles (2 miles with 4WD vehicle)
Time: 1-3 hours
Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
Location: West Sedona

Devil's Bridge hike is a moderately easy hike that spans around 4.6 miles round trip from the parking lot, or around 2 miles with an 4WD vehicle if you drive via Dry Creek Road. You also begin the hike at the Mescal Trailhead (4.2 miles). There are a few challenging sections, particularly the final approach to Devil's Bridge. The final leg involves a steep incline and a narrow rock ledge but the reward is extraordinary!

Getting There

There are FOUR options for getting to Devil’s Bridge Trailhead

Drive via Dry Creek Road (high clearance vehicle required)
Park at the Dry Creek parking lot
Take the Sedona Shuttle to the Dry Creek Parking lot
Park at the Mescal Trailhead

Photo Credit: Earth Trekkers

Driving from the Dry Creek parking lot

With an 4WD vehicle, you can park directly at the Devil's Bridge trailhead. This makes the hike 2 miles round trip. Drive past the paved parking lot and continue down Dry Creek Road for 1.3 miles until you get to the parking lot for Devils Bridge. You must have a high clearance to drive this road!

Hiking from the Dry Creek parking lot

You can start your hike from the Dry Creek trailhead but for a more scenic option, and a slightly shorter walk we recommend starting at the Mescal Trailhead. If you are starting from the Dry Creek Parking area you will drive a short way down Dry Creek Road until you see the lot, or take the Sedona Shuttle (see website for schedule). As you walk down Dry Creek Road, you will get passed by 4WD vehicles and Pink Jeep tours. Be prepared for a dusty hike with very little shade. This method will be 4.6 miles round trip.

IMPORTANT: You must get there before 7 am to get a parking space at the Dry Creek parking lot. Your next option will be to park on Boynton Pass Road. The later you get here, the farther away you will have to park. If you don’t plan on getting there by 7 am or waiting until the late afternoon we highly recommend taking the Sedona Shuttle.

Mescal/ Chuckwagon Trail

From the Mescal Trailhead, you walk one mile on a mostly flat, single-track trail through beautiful desert scenery. It is also a mountain bike trail so stay alert for bikers. The Mescal Trail will end quickly. Then you will follow the Chuckwagon Trail which winds its way through short sections of forest and up and down small hills. The scenery here is beautiful with cacti and yucca plants lining your path as you take in the red rock scenery. You will eventually reach Dry Creek Road/ Devil’s Bridge Trailhead junction. This way makes your hike 4.2 miles round trip.

Devil's Bridge Hike

From the Devil's Bridge trailhead, it is just one mile to the bridge (2 miles round trip). At first, the trail is the very wide remains of an old access road then the trail narrows and you will hike up several sets of steep, rocky steps and may even need to do some rock scrambling in some spots. This section does not last long and ends right before Devil's Bridge. At this point, there is a wide, flat viewing area next to the bridge. This is the perfect spot to rest, enjoy the view, and wait to have your photo taken.

NOTE: People have been known to wait up to an hour to have their photo taken on Devils Bridge. During the busier times of the day, expect to wait to have your photo taken on the arch. This is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona so the chance that you will have the bridge all to yourself is slim.

Photography Tips

Timing: Aim to visit during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times will beautifully illuminate the red rock formations, enhancing the colors and textures in your photos.

Aperture: Start with a mid-range aperture setting (around f/8 to f/11). This range typically ensures good depth of field, keeping both the bridge and surrounding landscape in focus.

ISO: Begin with a lower ISO setting (around 100 to 400) to maintain image quality and reduce noise. Increase the ISO if needed in low-light conditions, but try to keep it as low as possible for cleaner shots.

Using Filters: Consider using polarizing filters to enhance the colors and reduce glare. Graduated neutral density filters can also balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker landscape.

Patience: Given its popularity, Devil's Bridge can get crowded. Be patient and wait for moments when the bridge clears out, allowing for unobstructed shots. Arriving early or staying late can also help avoid crowds.

Safety First: If you plan to walk on the bridge for photos, do so carefully. Always prioritize safety over getting the perfect shot. The natural sandstone can be uneven, so proceed cautiously.

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