Devil's Bridge Trailhead
Rating
Family of 4
$10-$15 Red Rock Pass for parking
Duration
2-4 hours round trip
Best Ages
Ages 8+ (confident hikers)
About
Devil's Bridge is Sedona's crown jewel hike — the natural sandstone arch perched above the red rock landscape that appears in virtually every 'best of Sedona' feature ever written. For families with children old enough to handle 3.9 miles of desert trail, this hike delivers one of the most spectacular payoffs in the American Southwest.
The trail begins at the Devil's Bridge Trailhead on Dry Creek Road, winding through Arizona high desert terrain past towering sandstone formations. The final approach to the bridge involves some steeper, rockier terrain that requires sure footing. Children ages 8 and up with hiking experience typically manage this well; younger children are likely to struggle with both the distance and the technical sections.
The arch itself is the moment that makes all the effort worthwhile. Devil's Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, spanning roughly 54 feet with a 60-foot drop to the canyon below on either side. Walking out onto the narrow arch — which is solid but feels thrillingly exposed — creates an experience that families talk about for years.
The views from the arch encompass the entire Sedona red rock landscape: Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, and the distant blue ridgeline of the Mogollon Rim.
Logistics require careful planning. The Devil's Bridge area is one of the most popular destinations in Arizona, and parking at the main trailhead is extremely limited. On summer and fall weekends, the lot fills completely by 8am.
A shuttle operates from a larger parking area at the Dry Creek trailhead, adding approximately 2 miles round trip but making the hike much more accessible. Check the Coconino National Forest website for current shuttle information.
A Red Rock Pass is required for parking. The trail is free to hike once you're there.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (depart by 7am) — parking fills completely by 8am on weekends
Wait Times
Parking: arrive before 7am or expect 30-60 min wait at the shuttle lot
Nearby Food
No food on trail. Return to West Sedona (5-7 miles) for restaurants along AZ-89A.
Why Kids Love It
Devil's Bridge is Sedona's most famous natural arch and the ultimate bragging-rights hike for kids — the reward is standing on top of a 50-foot natural sandstone bridge with a 60-foot drop on either side and a panoramic view of the entire Sedona red rock landscape. Older kids and teens who complete the hike feel a genuine sense of accomplishment, and the photos from the top of the arch are genuinely jaw-dropping.
Pro Tips from Parents
- The trail is 3.9 miles round trip with 400 feet of elevation gain — appropriate for fit kids 8 and up
- Arrive by 6:30-7am on weekends or the parking lot will be full; a shuttle system operates from Dry Creek trailhead
- The narrow section of the actual bridge arch is only a few feet wide — hold hands with younger children
- Red Rock Pass required for parking
- Best photos are taken from the bottom of the bridge looking up, not from the top
What to Bring
- 2+ liters of water per person
- Sun hat
- Sturdy trail shoes
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
- Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful pass
- Trekking poles for adults
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$10-$15 Red Rock Pass for parking
Tips to Save
- Red Rock Pass required ($5/day or $20 annual).
- A shuttle from the Dry Creek trailhead adds 2 miles round trip but avoids the nightmare parking situation at the direct trailhead.
- Book shuttle spots in advance during peak season.
