In short
- Trailhead parking is closed Thursday through Sunday.
- The Sedona Shuttle is free and takes 15 to 30 minutes.
- The service also operates on major holidays.
In this article
Accessing Cathedral Rock requires a different plan during peak days. Parking is highly limited across the area. Personal cars are blocked from the trailhead four days a week to reduce congestion. Visitors use the public shuttle system to reach this specific vortex site instead.
When does the Sedona Shuttle run to Cathedral Rock?
The shuttle operates Thursday through Sunday, plus major holidays.
On these days, the Cathedral Rock trailhead parking lot is closed to private vehicles. You must park at a designated park-and-ride lot and take the bus. The ride takes 15 to 30 minutes.
How much does the Sedona Shuttle cost?
The Sedona Shuttle is completely free to ride.
You do not need a ticket to board. You also do not need to buy a $5 Red Rock Pass if you take the shuttle directly to the trailhead. Simply park at the free park-and-ride lots and wait for the bus.
Can you drive to Cathedral Rock on weekdays?
Yes, you can drive your personal or rental car to the trailhead Monday through Wednesday.
If you drive, you must display a Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Interagency Pass. A daily Red Rock Pass costs $5. Parking spots fill rapidly, so arrive before 8 AM. Roadside parking is strictly regulated.
What is the hike like at Cathedral Rock?
The trail is a strenuous 1.1-mile roundtrip hike with a 669-foot elevation climb.
This site features inward feminine energy. The trail requires steep slickrock scrambling to reach the saddle. Wear sturdy hiking boots with grippy traction. Carry at least 1 gallon of water per person per day.
Does the shuttle go to other Sedona vortex sites?
Yes, the shuttle also services the Boynton Canyon and Mescal trailheads.
If you want to visit Boynton Canyon, you will also need to use the shuttle Thursday through Sunday. The Boynton Canyon hike is a 6-mile moderate trail with a 931-foot elevation gain. The vortex is located near the Kachina Woman formation.
Are there other ways to reach the vortexes without driving?
You can book a guided open-air 4x4 jeep tour to explore Sedona's vortex sites.
Jeep tours pick up from Sedona hotels or Uptown plazas. These tours last 2 to 3 hours. Prices start from $105 to $165 per adult and change based on the provider. A professional guide explains the local geology and history.
Questions travellers ask
Is Cathedral Rock parking open on Saturdays?
No. The trailhead parking lot is closed to private vehicles on Saturdays. You must use the free Sedona Shuttle.
Do I need a Red Rock Pass if I take the shuttle?
No, you do not need to buy a $5 daily Red Rock Pass if you park at the free park-and-ride lot and use the shuttle.
How long is the ride to Cathedral Rock?
The bus ride from the park-and-ride lot to the trailhead takes 15 to 30 minutes.
