Devil’s Bridge Trail travel guide – All you need to know before hiking

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, the Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona, Arizona is an adventure that should not be missed. The trail offers stunning views of the red rock formations and a natural bridge formation, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Here is all you need to know before hiking the Devil’s Bridge Trail

Trail Difficulty: The trail is a moderate difficulty level with a total round trip distance of 4.2 miles. The trailhead elevation is at 4,600 feet and there is an elevation gain of approximately 400 feet. The hike will take around 2-3 hours depending on your pace and the amount of time you spend at the bridge.

Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located in the Coconino National Forest and is accessible by a 4-wheel drive vehicle or by hiking. If you have a high clearance vehicle, you can drive to the trailhead parking lot. Otherwise, you will need to park at the Mescal Trailhead and hike an additional 1.2 miles to reach the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead. If you choose to hike the entire way from the Mescal Trailhead, the total distance will be around 5.4 miles.

Hiking Tips: Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes with good traction, as some sections of the trail can be slippery. Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no facilities along the way. It’s also a good idea to wear sunscreen and a hat as the trail is mostly exposed and can get quite hot during the summer months.

Trail Features: The trail itself is surrounded by stunning red rock formations and vegetation. Once you reach the bridge, there are two viewpoints to choose from. The lower viewpoint is a bit closer to the bridge and provides a great photo opportunity. The upper viewpoint requires a short climb up some stairs, but it provides an even better view of the surrounding area.

Cautions: The Devil’s Bridge Trail is not recommended for those who have a fear of heights or are not comfortable with steep drops. There are sections of the trail that are narrow and require walking along the edge of a cliff. Also, the bridge itself can be slippery, so be sure to use caution when walking on it.

What trail is best for Devils Bridge?

The Devil’s Bridge Trail is the best trail to reach the natural bridge formation in Sedona, Arizona. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and vegetation, leading hikers to two different viewpoints of the natural bridge itself. While there are other trails in the area that offer beautiful views, if you specifically want to see the Devil’s Bridge formation, the Devil’s Bridge Trail is the trail you should take.

What is the easiest way to get to Devil’s Bridge?

The easiest way to get to Devil’s Bridge is by driving to the trailhead with a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle. However, if you do not have access to such a vehicle, the easiest way to get to Devil’s Bridge is by parking at the Mescal Trailhead and hiking the 1.2 miles to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead. The Mescal Trailhead is accessible by most vehicles and there is ample parking available. From there, it is a well-marked hike to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead, where the actual trail to the bridge begins. While this route is a bit longer than driving directly to the trailhead, it is still relatively easy and accessible for most hikers.

What hotels are near Devil’s Bridge Trail?

There are several hotels and accommodations near Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona, Arizona. Here are some options for hotels near Devil’s Bridge Trail:

1. Sky Ranch Lodge – This hotel is located just a short distance from Devil’s Bridge Trail and offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations. It features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and a restaurant.
2. Arabella Hotel Sedona – This hotel is located in the heart of Sedona and is a short drive from Devil’s Bridge Trail. It features a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.
3. Sedona Summit Resort – This resort is located a few miles from Devil’s Bridge Trail and offers spacious villas with full kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies. It also features several outdoor pools, a fitness center, and a hot tub.
4. Poco Diablo Resort – This resort is located in Sedona and is a short drive from Devil’s Bridge Trail. It features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and golf course.
5. Orchards Inn of Sedona – This hotel is located in the heart of Sedona and is a short drive from Devil’s Bridge Trail. It features a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations.

Overall, the Devil’s Bridge Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Sedona, Arizona. With stunning views and a natural bridge formation, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular. Just make sure to come prepared with proper hiking gear and be cautious along the trail. Happy hiking!