Devil's Bridge via Chuck Wagon and Devils Bridge Trail(edit)

based on 114 tracks & routes | |

EASY

#106 hike out of 626 in Coconino National Forest |

EASY

4.0 mi

Distance

2 hrs 12 min

Time

535 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

Great easy hike to a phenomenal end point, the largest natural sandstone arch in Cocinino NF. The trail starts off of Long Canyon Road a little north of the usual starting spot. That provides more abundant parking and even some solitude. The trail is mainly flat, winding through the forest in and out of shade until it reaches Vultee Road where the 4wd people can start the hike. After that, be perpared for a lot of company as the trail winds uphill gently to the base of the arch. There's a 100 yd side trail to the left that leads underneath the arch which is pretty cool in itself. Going back to the junction, there are some medium challenging steps (but steps!) that carry you to the viewing spot for the arch. On the Sunday before Memorial day there were about 30 people waiting in line for the admittedly cool photo opportunity. Wait or not, then retrace your steps back to the 4wd parking and then cross the road and take the marked path back to your car. Easy 4+ mile hike with only 500 feet gain. The only challenge is the steps which are pretty easy, but made harder by the crown ascending/descending and can be a challenge for those unexperience with heights.

Getting Started

This trail is in Sedona Arizona. From downtown Sedona, take 89a through east Sedona until you reach Dry Creek Road. Head right (north). The road continues a couple miles and changes name to Boynton Pass Road. When you reach Long Canyon Road, go right. The Mescal Trailhead has a marker about 1/4 mile up on the right side.

Sights to See

Devil's Bridge

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

Gordon Alexander 6 years, 11 months ago

Great easy hike to a phenomenal end point, the largest natural sandstone arch in Cocinino NF. The trail starts off of Long Canyon Road a little north of the usual starting spot for Devil's Bridge. That little drive provides more abundant parking. The trail is mainly flat, winding through the forest in and out of shade until it reached Vultee Road where the 4wd people can start the hike. After that, be perpared for a lot of company as it winds uphill gently to the base of the arch. There's a 100 yd side trail to the left that leads underneath the arch which is pretty cool in itself. Going back to the junction, there are some medium challenging steps (but steps!) that carry you to the viewing spot for the arch. On the Sunday before Memorial day there were about 30 people waiting in line for the admittedly cool photo opportunity. Wait or not, then retrace your steps back to the 4wd parking and then cross the road and take the marked path back to your car. Easy 4+ mile hike with only 500 feet gain. The only challenge is the steps which are pretty easy, but made harder by the crown ascending/descending.

★ ★ ★ ★

Gordon Alexander 6 years, 11 months ago

Fun little hike to a wonderful natural bridge. Easy, flatish hike from the paved road. At the end there are some exciting steps up the hillside to add that frisson of fear. The only drawback was the crowd at the top waiting to take pictures. Just more reason to come back when there aren’t so many people.

★ ★ ★ ★