Arizona’s Devil’s Bridge Is Downright Heavenly...And You’ll Want To Visit
By Monica Spencer|Published May 16, 2017
×
Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Looking for beauty in Arizona isn’t a difficult task. In fact, we find it surrounding us every day in deserts and mountains and our wide blue sky. But if there’s any area of the state that receives an enormous amount of recognition for its natural beauty, it would have to be Sedona and its surrounding areas.
Yup, this lovely place with its red rock buttes, canyons, and forests ripe with hiking trails. If you were to choose just one place in the area that stands out, we think that you would probably have a difficult time.
Located approximately 12 miles west of Sedona via a highway, forest road, and some hiking, this popular spot is actually an arch slowly formed over the centuries by weather erosion.
After driving along US 89A and Dry Creek Road (accessible by four-wheel drive vehicles), you'll reach the trailhead. Devil's Bridge Trail #120 measures just 1.8 miles in total length and ranges between easy and moderately difficult, depending on how you're able to handle steep inclines.
The trail is wide and well-maintained, an easy trek until you reach the final stretch to Devil's Bridge where it gets significantly steeper and crossing the bridge might be a bit overwhelming. However, you'll have some lovely views along the way!
Reaching the top of the bridge is usually where everyone heads but if heights aren't your thing or you want to see it from another perspective, there is an alternative that will take you to the base of the bridge instead.
One thing to keep in mind is that this area has grown incredibly popular over the years, so you'll likely encounter quite a few people on the trail. Head out in the early morning or on weekdays to avoid huge crowds and don't forget to do your part in making sure to leave no trace!
Devil’s Bridge is located approximately 12 miles west of Sedona. You can find details about the trails and accessing the area by visiting the Coconino National Forest website.
