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The hike up Cathedral Rock really is more of a rock climb than a hike.
It is unshaded, steep and difficult in places, but the view at the top
is worth it. The trail is marked by basket cairns as you cross the
worn, red rocks that slope toward the spires. It ascends steeply over
bald rock and through shallow clefts where a few toeholds have been
notched into the rock for leverage. There are also several ledges to
climb toward a steep drainage area. The goal...a wide saddle between
two enormous spires. There are great views all along, but the view
from the saddle is spectacular, and looking down at the parking lot you
realize just how steep the climb is (you gain 730 feet of elevation in
1.5 miles). There is a narrow, unmaintained path that leads along the
base of the spires to two more saddles and some sheer rock faces, but
you must exit the way you came, and getting down is no small task. In
many places it is so steep you must slide down. The kids thought it
was fun, sliding on their rumps. I couldn't help thinking...one
misstep and they would go tumbling, but they both did a great job. I was very proud. The
entire loop is only 1.5 miles and takes about 2 hours. It's a great
way to "experience" Sedona as a family. Pictures in the gallery.
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