Red Rock Crossing- Route and Parking

Question

Hi,

We are planning to visit the red rock crossing tomorrow for the great view of cathedral

Rock , trails and wading in the water . I am getting little confused on the route and the parking . I see that Baldwin trail is the best starting point but I also see the parking is limited there . Can you please let me know the best route to take , will using gps take me to the right locations and parking information

If it helps , we are staying in Hilton Sedona vacation summit .

Thanks

Answer

Red Rock Crossing, also known as Crescent Moon Picnic Site, is one of the most iconic locations in Sedona, offering stunning views of Cathedral Rock and access to several hiking trails. Since you are staying at Hilton Sedona Vacation Summit, your drive there will be relatively straightforward.

From Hilton Sedona Vacation Summit, the most direct route is:

Head west on Hwy 179 (also called the Red Rock Scenic Byway) towards the Village of Oak Creek.
Turn right onto Red Rock Loop Road.
Follow the road until you reach the Crescent Moon Picnic Site entrance, which also serves as the main parking area for Red Rock Crossing.

Using GPS will reliably take you to the Crescent Moon Picnic Site. Simply enter “Red Rock Crossing” or “Crescent Moon Picnic Site” in Google Maps or Apple Maps, and it will guide you correctly. The GPS may also suggest routes via local roads, but Hwy 179 is the main scenic and easiest route.

Parking at Red Rock Crossing can get crowded, especially on weekends or during peak times. The main parking lot at the Crescent Moon Picnic Area has a limited number of spaces. To avoid disappointment:

Arrive early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) to secure a parking spot.
Consider weekdays if possible, as weekends tend to be busier.
There is limited roadside parking along Red Rock Loop Road, but be mindful of posted no-parking signs to avoid fines.

If you plan to start your hike from Baldwin Trailhead, note that parking there is very limited, often only a few spaces. Many visitors prefer to park at the Crescent Moon Picnic Site and walk to the Baldwin Trail, which is just a short distance away.

Additional tips for your visit:

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for wading in the water if you plan to cross Oak Creek.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as Sedona can get hot even in the morning.
Arrive with some flexibility in case the main lot is full—you can explore nearby trails or find alternative parking along the roads leading to the site.

In summary, the best approach is to head to Crescent Moon Picnic Site using Hwy 179 and Red Rock Loop Road, arrive early for parking, and then explore the Baldwin Trail or the water area. GPS will take you directly there, and the area has clear signage for the trailheads and picnic area.

Red Rock Crossing- Route and Parking

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