Mescal Trail
Hike across expansive slickrock and connect to iconic Devil's Bridge for breathtaking Sedona views. Dog-friendly and photogenic!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Mescal Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike across expansive slickrock and connect to iconic Devil's Bridge for breathtaking Sedona views. Dog-friendly and photogenic!
"Between red rocks, green valleys, and unique vegetation, it was hard not to see beauty all around us."
🚗 Red Rock Pass Needed
Ensure you have a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for parking at the trailhead.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are recommended for navigating the slickrock and rocky sections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mescal Mountain Slickrock
Mescal Trail
Hike along expansive, open slickrock with stunning panoramic views of the Sedona landscape. Perfect for photos, especially at sunset.
Devil's Bridge Access
Mescal Trail junction
A popular route to the largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona. The climb to the bridge is moderately challenging but rewarding.
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Scenic Vistas
Various points along the trail
Enjoy breathtaking views of red rocks, green valleys, and unique desert vegetation. The scenery is consistently described as beautiful.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Red Rock Pass Required
Trail Combinations & Length
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Red Rock Pass Needed
Ensure you have a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for parking at the trailhead.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are recommended for navigating the slickrock and rocky sections.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated on this desert trail.
🗺️ Check Trail Maps
Mescal Trail has sections on both sides of Long Canyon Rd; know your route.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Red Rock Pass Needed
Ensure you have a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for parking at the trailhead.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are recommended for navigating the slickrock and rocky sections.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated on this desert trail.
🗺️ Check Trail Maps
Mescal Trail has sections on both sides of Long Canyon Rd; know your route.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Option
This trail is very dog-friendly, making it a great choice for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Mescal Trail's stunning slickrock landscapes and the rewarding hike to Devil's Bridge. Many appreciate its dog-friendly nature and the consistently beautiful scenery. Some note that the trail can be longer than expected and requires a parking pass.
"This hike was smooth and enjoyable. Our friends brought their pug and he did great. The inclines are smooth and the views from the side of Mescal Mountain are beautiful. Mescal Trail continues on the east and west sides of Long Canyon Rd - be sure to read the map before you get started!"
Valerie Peterson
"The best trails on sedona"
Arreglados towing
"Do you like long walks in the sun, and Jurassic Park? Well this is the trail for you. We switched to this trial from Long Canyon after we visited the birthing cave. It was waaay longer than we expected but boy was it worth it. Between red rocks, green valleys, and unique vegetation, it was hard not to see beauty all around us. We averaged 18 minutes per kilometer going up and down the rocks, and walked around 19kms total."
Liane Vaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mescal Trailhead is accessible via paved roads and has dedicated parking. You'll need a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass to park. It's often accessed from Boynton Canyon Road.
Yes, there is parking available directly at the trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, Mescal Trail can be part of longer loops or accessed from trailheads like Long Canyon. It's also a popular route to Devil's Bridge.
The Mescal Trail itself is generally considered moderate, with some slickrock sections. When combined with Devil's Bridge, it becomes more challenging. Beginners might prefer shorter out-and-back sections.
Driving is the most common way to reach the Mescal Trailhead. Public transportation options are limited for direct trailhead access. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at the Mescal Trailhead. These passes can be purchased online or at various local vendors.
The Mescal Trail is generally open from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific entry times, but it's best to plan your hike to finish before dark.
The cost is associated with the parking pass required for the trailhead. Daily passes are available, as well as longer-term options.
You do not need to book tickets for the trail itself. The requirement is for a parking pass, which can be obtained in advance or upon arrival if available.
There is no direct entrance fee for the trail, but a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is mandatory for parking at the trailhead.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Mescal Trail itself is about 2.4 miles one way. However, it's often combined with other trails, making the total hike much longer, such as the 5.9 miles to Devil's Bridge.
The Mescal Trail has a moderate elevation gain, around 480 feet for a portion of it. Combinations, like to Devil's Bridge, can increase this significantly.
Yes, the Mescal Trail is very dog-friendly and a great option for hikers with canine companions.
Expect to hike on beautiful, open slickrock with stunning views of red rocks, green valleys, and unique desert vegetation. It's very picturesque.
The hike from the Mescal Trailhead to Devil's Bridge typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, depending on your pace and time spent at the bridge.
📸 📸 Photography
The open slickrock sections offer incredible panoramic views. Sunset is particularly magical as the rocks glow. The Devil's Bridge arch itself is also a prime photo opportunity.
Absolutely! Sunset is highly recommended for the 'golden hour' glow on the red rocks. Sunrise can also offer beautiful light with fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Forest areas like Sedona. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and flattering light for photography on the Mescal Trail.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open slickrock sections are fun for kids to explore (with supervision, of course), and the relatively smooth inclines make it manageable. When combined with Devil's Bridge, the hike becomes a bit more challenging with the rocky stairs, but many families find it to be an achievable and memorable adventure. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider starting early to avoid the heat and crowds. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking. 🐶 Dog Owners
The trail offers a mix of terrain, from smooth slickrock to some rocky areas, which most dogs can handle with ease. Just ensure your dog is comfortable with hiking and that you bring enough water for both of you. Remember to keep your dog leashed and clean up after them. 📸 Photographers
The trail's connection to Devil's Bridge also provides an iconic subject. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for capturing the vastness, while telephoto lenses can isolate interesting rock textures or distant formations. Be prepared for varying light conditions and consider a polarizing filter for vibrant skies. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Mescal Trail System
+2It's crucial to understand the trail system before you go. The Mescal Trail has sections on both the east and west sides of Long Canyon Road. This means you need to be mindful of your map and intended route to avoid confusion. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, Mescal can also be incorporated into longer loops that connect to other trails like Bear Mountain or Wilson Mountain, though these are significantly more demanding.
Key takeaway: Always have a map and know your intended route, especially if you plan to combine Mescal with other trails. The scenery is consistently praised, with descriptions ranging from 'Jurassic Park' vibes to stunning red rock vistas, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels who are prepared.
The Mescal Trail to Devil's Bridge Experience
+1The final approach to Devil's Bridge involves a steeper, rockier section, often described as a natural staircase. While considered moderately challenging, the effort is well worth it for the iconic view of the largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona. Many visitors find the climb manageable, especially if they are wearing appropriate footwear and have adequate water. The overall experience is frequently described as spectacular, day or night.
Pro-tip: To enhance your Devil's Bridge experience, consider starting early to avoid the largest crowds and the midday sun. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for those traveling with pets. Remember to bring your Red Rock Pass for parking.
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Social
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