Hike Cathedral Rock Trail, Sedona, Arizona

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Cathedral Rock is a famous landmark on the Sedona, Arizona skyline, and is one of the most-photographed sights in Arizona, USA. Cathedral Rock is located in the Coconino National Forest in Yavapai County, about a mile (1.6 km) west of Arizona Route 179, and about 2.5 miles (4.0 km) south of the "Y" intersection of Routes 179 and 89A in uptown Sedona. The summit elevation of Cathedral Rock is 4921 ft. (1500 m.). The Cathedral Rock trail (USFS Trail #170) is a popular short, steep ascent from the Back O' Beyond trailhead to the saddle points or "gaps" in Cathedral Rock. The flat area 1/2 way up has wonderful views of Sedona and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The Vortex found near the base of iconic Cathedral Rock where it intersects with a creek that flows through Crescent Moon Park is believed to fortify the feminine side of those fortunate enough to find the energy field. Amplification of the feminine side is said to promote an individual’s goodness, kindness and compassion at the higher end of the scale. Geologically, Cathedral Rock is carved from the Permian Schnebly Hill formation, a redbed sandstone formed from coastal sand dunes near the shoreline of the ancient Pedregosa Sea. Ripple marks are prominent along the lower Catherdral Rock trail, and a black basalt dike may be seen in the first saddle. Cathedral Rock was called "Court House Rock" on some early maps , and Courthouse Butte was called "Church House Rock" , which has caused endless confusion ever since.

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