Devil’s Bridge: A Sedona Icon of Adventure and Beauty
In among the dramatic red rock landscapes of Sedona, Arizona, Devil’s Bridge stands as one of the region’s most awe-inspiring natural formations. This towering sandstone arch, the largest of its kind in the area, has become a sought-after destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Rising nearly fifty feet above the desert floor and spanning an impressive width of forty-five feet, the bridge offers visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding wilderness.
Devil’s Bridge in Sedona is an epic natural arch that rewards hikers with stunning red rock views, a bit of adventure, and one of the best photo ops in Arizona.
While the name may conjure images of something ominous or foreboding, Devil’s Bridge is anything but. It is a place of beauty and wonder, where the forces of nature have sculpted an intricate masterpiece over thousands of years. Located in the heart of Coconino National Forest, the bridge is part of a vast and rugged landscape characterized by towering rock formations, deep canyons, and sweeping desert vistas. The journey to reach this natural wonder is an adventure in itself, with multiple routes offering different levels of challenge and scenery.
Whether approached via a rugged jeep trail or a more gradual hiking route, the trek to Devil’s Bridge is an unforgettable experience that showcases the raw beauty of Sedona’s geological wonders. Visitors are rewarded not only with an up-close view of the impressive arch but also with panoramic sights that stretch across the red rock country, a landscape so striking that it has become a symbol of Arizona’s wild and untamed beauty.
The origins of the name “Devil’s Bridge” remain somewhat mysterious, though it is not uncommon for dramatic rock formations in the Southwest to bear such titles. Many of these names stem from early settlers’ tendency to associate grand and rugged natural landmarks with supernatural forces, believing that such imposing formations must have been created by something beyond human understanding.
In reality, Devil’s Bridge is a testament to the slow and patient work of erosion. Over thousands of years, wind and water have gradually worn away the sandstone, carving out the arch that stands today. Despite its seemingly precarious structure, the bridge is sturdy, composed of solid rock layers that have withstood the test of time. For those willing to walk across it, the experience can be both exhilarating and humbling, as they stand on a formation shaped by nature’s hand over millennia.
Upon reaching the top, visitors are greeted by one of the most spectacular views in Sedona. The bridge itself is a marvel of natural engineering, a freestanding arch that defies gravity with its elegant curve. Many hikers choose to walk across the bridge for a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity, though doing so requires a steady nerve.
While the arch is about five feet wide at its narrowest point, it can feel much smaller when standing atop it, with sheer drop-offs on either side. Those who prefer to admire the bridge from a safer vantage point can do so from the surrounding ledges, which offer equally stunning perspectives. Looking out from the top, the view stretches for miles, encompassing the rolling hills, jagged rock formations, and dense patches of juniper and pinyon pine that make up the Sedona wilderness.
One of the best times to visit Devil’s Bridge is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm, golden glow over the landscape. These times also offer a chance to avoid the midday crowds, as the trail is one of the most popular in Sedona and can become quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
Spring and fall are particularly pleasant seasons for hiking, with mild temperatures and occasional bursts of wildflowers adding color to the already vibrant scenery. Summer, on the other hand, can be intensely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Those hiking in the summer months should plan to start their trek at sunrise and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. In contrast, winter visits offer a unique experience, as occasional snowfall can dust the red rocks with a layer of white, creating a striking visual contrast.
Throughout the hike, visitors have the opportunity to encounter some of the diverse plant and animal life that inhabits this part of the Arizona desert. The vegetation is a mix of hardy desert plants and high-elevation flora, reflecting Sedona’s unique position between the Sonoran Desert and the Colorado Plateau.
Towering juniper trees provide shade along portions of the trail, their twisted trunks and fragrant needles adding to the area’s rugged charm. Manzanita bushes with their smooth, reddish bark and small, leathery leaves line the pathway, while prickly pear cacti dot the landscape, their flat, spiny pads occasionally adorned with bright yellow flowers in the spring. Among the more striking plants is the agave, or “century plant,” known for its towering flower stalk that can reach up to twenty feet high before the plant completes its life cycle.
Wildlife sightings are common, with various species adapted to the harsh desert environment making their home in the area. Lizards are frequently seen darting across sun-warmed rocks, their quick movements a blur against the red sandstone. Red-tailed hawks often soar overhead, scanning the ground for prey, while smaller birds such as canyon towhees and scrub jays flit between the trees. Occasionally, hikers may spot a jackrabbit bounding through the underbrush or even glimpse a coyote in the distance. Though generally elusive, these animals add to the sense of wildness that defines the Sedona backcountry.
For those planning to hike Devil’s Bridge, preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Bringing ample water is essential, as the dry desert air can lead to dehydration more quickly than expected. Wearing sturdy hiking shoes is also recommended, as the rocky sections of the trail require good traction. Since shade is limited, sunscreen and a hat are advisable to protect against the strong Arizona sun.
In the end, a visit to Devil’s Bridge is an experience that connects visitors with the raw and timeless beauty of Sedona’s red rock country. The journey, with its mix of adventure and awe, serves as a reminder of nature’s ability to create landscapes that inspire and humble in equal measure. Whether standing atop the bridge, gazing out over the vast expanse of canyons and cliffs, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the silence of the desert, every visitor walks away with a deeper appreciation for the magic of this remarkable place.
Devil’s Bridge Trails
Reaching Devil’s Bridge requires a bit of effort, but the journey is accessible to most hikers. The easiest way to approach the trail is Devil’s Bridge Trail via Dry Creek Road, though this option requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain. For those without such a vehicle, the alternative is to park at the designated trailheads and hike in. This route adds extra mileage to the trip, making the round-trip distance approximately 4.6 miles.
Another popular option is to start from the Devil’s Bridge via Mescal Trailhead, which offers a slightly different approach, weaving through juniper-dotted landscapes and showcasing Sedona’s iconic red rock formations before connecting with the main trail. Regardless of the starting point, all routes eventually converge at the final section of the hike, where the most dramatic ascent begins.
The hikes themselves are classified as moderate, with most of the trail consisting of a gradual incline over packed dirt and red rock. However, the final stretch presents a more challenging climb. As hikers approach the base of the bridge, the trail becomes steeper, transitioning into a series of natural rock steps that require some scrambling. While not overly technical, this section demands a bit of effort and balance, especially for those unaccustomed to rocky terrain.
Along the way, hikers are surrounded by breathtaking desert scenery, with towering cliffs, rugged spires, and sweeping valleys unfolding in every direction. The colors of the landscape shift throughout the day, with the deep reds and oranges of the rock intensifying under the midday sun and softening into a golden glow as evening approaches.
What’s Nearby Devil’s Bridge
Watson Lake in Prescott, with its striking granite boulders and blue waters, is perfect for kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching. The surrounding trails offer breathtaking views, making it a great stop for nature lovers. Just two hours north, Grand Canyon National Park provides legendary vistas and endless opportunities for exploration, while Petrified Forest National Park showcases ancient fossilized trees, petroglyphs, and colorful badlands, revealing Arizona’s prehistoric past.
Near Phoenix, the Phoenix Mountains Preserve features popular desert hikes with panoramic city views, drawing outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Further east, Lost Dutchman State Park leads into the legendary Superstition Mountains, where rugged desert landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for adventure and history.
Devil’s Bridge Parking Information
Parking at Devil’s Bridge is limited and fills up quickly, especially at the Devil’s Bridge Trail via Dry Creek Road, the main lot for most hikers. Arriving early, ideally before 8 AM, is the best way to secure a spot. To avoid parking hassles, some visitors use the Sedona Shuttle or arrange drop-offs.
Further Reading
Devil’s Bridge Address & Directions
