Devil's Bridge

Devil's Bridge is the sandstone arch you've probably already seen on someone else's Instagram — and with a 4.8 rating from nearly 2,100 reviews, it backs up the hype. The natural bridge sits above a mix of shaded juniper forest and open red-rock trail northwest of Sedona, and reviewers consistently call it one of the best hikes in the area.

What to expect

Most of the route is an easy, well-shaded walk — reviewers describe it as mild to moderate, winding through high desert with red rock views the whole way. The final approach adds some light rock scrambling to reach the arch itself, described as "exciting" rather than technical. Round trip runs roughly 3.5 miles starting from the Mescal Trailhead, with most hikers spending two to three hours total.

• Rating: 4.8 stars (2,097+ Google reviews)
• Difficulty: mild to moderate, with brief scrambling near the top
• Access: park at the Mescal Trailhead off Dry Creek Road; reviewers note the lot fills up but usually has room
• Best time: early morning — reviewers note lines can form at the arch for photos

The payoff is standing on or beside the arch itself with Sedona's red rock formations spread out below — the kind of view that's earned this trail its reputation as a must-do stop on any Sedona itinerary.