Hiking Cathedral Rock Trail, a religious experience

For the avid hiker, this strenuous but short climb is as rewarding as it gets with a secret view for those in the know

by Carl Jackson

SEDONA, AZ - Certainly the most spectacular red rock formations in all Sedona are the majestic spires of Cathedral Rock. So is it any wonder that Cathedral Rock Trail, that takes hikers up to the saddle between the spires, is as equally spectacular?

This strenuous hike has a 608 foot elevation change in just .7 miles making it one of the shortest, most strenuous and most rewarding hikes in the area. Only those in good physical condition should attempt the climb.

Make sure you're wearing an old pair of jeans or shorts and get ready to scramble along deep crevices, feel off balance once or twice, and scrape a knee. You'll need both hands in many spots so have a wrist strap on your walking stick if you carry one.

The first part of the hike over a dry wash to Courthouse Butte Vista is an easy jaunt, just a third of a mile in, and less than a 100 foot elevation change. The vista offers expansive views of Courthouse Butte in the distance and the towering spires of Cathedral Rock.

The trail soon become very steep as it climbs 525 feet in .4 miles to the saddle.

As you ascend the final leg of the hike to ridge line, the combination of hyper ventilation, the dramatic elevation change, and the panoramic views of the Verde Valley as it comes into view, all conspire to create a tingling out of body sensation: a true religious experience.

Along the ridge line, there is a hidden trail that takes hikers out to a gorgeous view of Courthouse Butte framed like a painting by the spires of Cathedral Rock.

Be prepared to scramble in between rock crevices on the Cathedral Rock Trail.

On the way down, don't be afraid to implement the "butt shimmy" technique. Crawling down crab style with your butt sliding along the rock face and keeping your center of gravity as low as possible is the easiest way to descend the steep, loose gravel trail.

To get to the Cathedral Rock Trail travelling south along SR179 from Uptown Sedona, take a right at the new roundabout at Back O' Beyond. The trailhead is less than a mile down on the left.

To share hiking stories, photos, and videos please visit Sedona's only social networking site for hiking enthusiasts at www.SedonaHiker.com.

 

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