Hiking Devil's Bridge

Question

We are seniors and are interested in hiking Devil's Bridge Trail . I am confused by the length and difficulty of the trail. Am I correct that the 1st mile begins at the Dry Creek Trailhead (where there is limited parking); you walk the one relatively flat mile until you get to the last half mile, at which time there is an elevation gain of 320 ft. on rock steps, steep. If you do this, starting at Dry Creek Trailhead, the total length is 3.9 miles out and back. Other places tell me it's a 1.8 mile hike; is that because you're not hiking Dry Creek Trail?. So, is there a way to avoid the first mile, the Dry Creek Trail? If so, where do you park? Also, what about the Sedona Free Shuttle...where does it take you to start this hike? Thanks

Answer

Devil's Bridge Trail in Sedona is a popular hike, and your understanding is mostly correct. The trail can be approached from different starting points, which is why you see varying distances reported.

Starting from Dry Creek Trailhead:

Yes, if you start at the Dry Creek Trailhead, you will begin with about 1 mile of relatively flat terrain through the Dry Creek area. After this initial stretch, the last half mile to Devil's Bridge involves a steep climb with about 320 feet of elevation gain on natural rock steps. The total out-and-back distance from this trailhead is roughly 3.9 miles.

Shorter Route (1.8 miles out-and-back):

The shorter distance commonly quoted, about 1.8 miles round trip, is from the unpaved parking area along Dry Creek Road, just before the main trailhead. This parking lot is sometimes called the “Devil's Bridge parking” and saves you the first mile along Dry Creek Trail. From this point, the hike is primarily the steep half mile to the bridge, so it is more direct but involves the same elevation gain at the end.

Parking Options:

Dry Creek Trailhead: Limited parking, often fills early in the day.
Devil’s Bridge Parking Lot (unpaved, off Dry Creek Road): This is closer to the bridge and reduces hiking distance to around 1.8 miles out and back. Arrive early as spaces fill quickly.

Sedona Free Shuttle:

The Sedona Shuttle can take visitors to various trailheads, but for Devil’s Bridge, the shuttle typically stops at the Dry Creek Trailhead area. You would still need to hike the initial mile of relatively flat trail unless you arrange alternate transportation to the smaller parking area closer to the bridge.

Summary for Seniors:

If you prefer a gentler, longer hike, start at Dry Creek Trailhead (3.9 miles out and back).
If you want a shorter but steeper hike, park at the closer unpaved Devil’s Bridge lot (1.8 miles out and back).
The Sedona Free Shuttle is convenient but mainly serves the longer Dry Creek Trailhead route.

Either way, make sure to bring water, wear good hiking shoes, and allow time to enjoy the spectacular views at the bridge.