Recently, I took a trip to beautiful (and warm) Sedona, Arizona. I’m from Michigan, so while this winter has been mild, it was a nice break from the cold weather.
One of my favorite places I visited during my time there was Devil’s Bridge. It’s the largest natural Sandstone arch in the Sedona area. So, as you can imagine, it’s backed by tons of history.
I want this blog to be all about historic walks and natural wonders around the world. With that in mind, let’s explore the history of Devil’s Bridge and my experience hiking up to and around it.
The Natural History of Devil’s Bridge in Sedona, Arizona
Despite the word “bridge” in its name, this natural landmark isn’t a bridge. It’s considered an “arch.”
This impressive landmark was created by wind and weather erosion. It’s been around for hundreds or maybe even thousands of years, but history isn’t too clear on its exact origins.
Nevertheless, this grand arch has stood the test of time, and it’s not going anywhere. With its sturdy rock formation and base, you can safely walk across it. People even come from around the world to do so.
Where the Term “Devil’s Bridge” Comes From
The term devil’s bridge was first coined in the early 1800s. It comes from one of the early achievements in modern architectural design. These are long, sloped bridges that typically reside in mountainous areas to give them a sturdy base.
Most devil’s bridges are located in Europe. Some prominent ones are Pont du Diable on the Hérault River in southern France and Rakotzbrücke in Germany. The Rakotzbrücke Devil’s Bridge in Germany is especially a sight to see—almost majestic.
How Many Devil’s Bridges Are in the U.S.?
Here’s a fun fact: the Devil’s Bridge in Sedona is the only one located in the U.S. And, unlike many of these bridges in Europe that are man-made, this one is a natural formation.
That means that when you travel to Sedona to see this one, you’re experiencing quite the sight and landmark within the U.S.
My Experience Hiking to Sedona’s Devil’s Bridge
With the landmark’s great history in mind, here’s what I experienced during my historic stroll up to it.
The Trail Leading Up to It
The main access point is Dry Creek Road. You used to be able to drive right up to it in a regular vehicle. However, many of the surfaces and roadways in the area have deteriorated due to the weather conditions that created this landmark.
So, you’ll start driving your car about 3.4 miles out on Dry Creek Road. Then, about 1.1 miles away, you’ll find an access point that splits off.
There are a couple of options here. If you have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle or ATV, there’s a wide separate roadway that you can take up to the bridge (1.1-mile drive). Otherwise, there’s a hiking trail where you can walk up to it (0.8-mile walk).
I’m a big fan of a nice hike, so I decided to take the walking path.
Overall, the walkway is nice and wide and pretty smooth considering the dusty and typically windy weather in the area. The only challenging part was a pretty steep incline toward the end of the trail (the last 300 feet).
Once you reach that point, you’ll find the grand Devil’s Bridge.
Walking Across the Bridge
The trail leads to the side of the bridge, and you’ll be left looking up at this massive rocky arch. However, once you’ve made it this far, most won’t want to stop there. I certainly didn’t.
There are some steps off to the side that will lead you up to the top of the bridge. Or, those who are more adventurous can climb the rocks behind it. Balance and dexterity aren’t my specialty, so I played it safe with the steps.
The steps weren’t hard to navigate, so most people who aren’t limited by mobility should be able to get up them rather simply.
Once you’re at the top, you’re pretty much encouraged to walk across the bridge. Since there aren’t any regulations for walking over it, you can rest assured it’s very sturdy, and you won’t have any issues.
In the middle of it, you’ll encounter an amazing viewpoint. You’ll be able to look out at the vast desert, trees, and rocky landscape all around you. It was a breathtaking sight that was well worth the effort of getting up to it. I’ll always remember my experience here, looking out at the vast world around me.
