Let’s Hike

If you’re looking for stellar views with a short hike for your Sedona adventure elopement, Cathedral Rock is perfect! Cathedral Rock is a very well known, popular hike located in Sedona, Arizona. It is 1.2 miles round trip out and back, and AllTrails rated it as moderate. Michael and I also gave it a moderate (on the easy end) rating. The trail is short and has a steady incline, but there is a bit of a scramble near the top that might not be for everyone. However, the view and the easily accessible cliffs at the top are totally worth it!

Whether you are planning a Sedona elopement, a hiking engagement session, or something in between, Cathedral rock is an absolutely stunning location– especially in spring or fall. I would only advise it for maternity if you are a super experienced hiker and comfortable with scrambling. You can also only do half of the hike and still have stellar views! Check out what half of the hike would look like here at a Sedona bridal session when we collaborated with Topaz & Thread.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

pros + cons

We loved Cathedral Rock, especially the view and cliff at the top, but this rose still has a few thorns. This is a very popular hike, so it has people on it all day long. There are still a few nooks and crannies where you can have a private space, but for part of your adventure you will definitely be sharing the space with other hikers. However, the city of Sedona doesn’t allow parking on the street, and their parking lots aren’t very big. That means that there are only as many hikers on the trail as can fit in the parking lot, which is kind of nice.

The parking lot situation does make planning a little tricky. The first time Michael and I went to this trail, we went in the evening for sunset and got a spot right away. The second time, we went in the later morning and had to wait 45 minutes for a parking spot. Once you are in line, they do not let you out so you will have to put your emergencies on hold.

This trail does allow dogs as long as they are leashed. Just make sure you are ready to help them up and down the scramble section. Sedona also gets very hot in the summer months, but Cathedral Rock was absolutely perfect for a spring elopement. Be sure to pack sunscreen, water, and good hiking shoes– and as always, please Leave No Trace.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Let’s Hang out

We would love to go on an adventure with you! Michael and I are a traveling photo + video elopement, wedding, + birth team on the road full time chasing loving souls and deep emotion. We specialize in adventure, love, and all the babies; and we go wherever the wind takes us. Check out our blogs below for recent work, or reach out to plan your epic day. Read our 5 Reasons Why We Love Elopements to see if and adventure elopement is right for you! We can’t wait to get you in front of our lens!

• My Family Doesn’t Want Me To Elope – How To Navigate Unsupportive Loved Ones
• How To Elope In Colorado – Your Rocky Mountain Elopement Guide
• American Basin Colorado Jeeping Elopement
• How To Plan A Sustainable Elopement – Leave No Trace + Eco-Friendly Choices
• Cabin + Lakeside Elopement
• What Activities To Include In Your Adventure Elopement
• How To Elope In Washington – Your Pacific Northwest Elopement Guide
• 16 Elopement Ceremony Ideas To Take Your Adventure Elopement To The Next Level

join The campfire