Getting to Devils Bridge trailhead from Sedona

Question

We are arriving into Sedona November 23rd (Sunday morning) at approx. 9:30 or so coming from Flagstaff. We would like to do Devil's Bridge as soon as we get there. Have been to Sedona before and done many other hikes but this one remains on our bucket list. We will be driving a mid size suv rental... probably a Rogue or something like that. What is the best way to get to the Devil's Bridge Hike? Some say "off roading" with a four wheel drive is totally doable and that gets you a lot closer to the Bridge. Others have suggested the shuttle from Sedona. Not sure which fits our bill better. Would prefer to avoid the extra walk in the heat if possible, but can totally handle it if that's the way to go. Any suggestions? We are heading out in the afternoon to Goodyear so we won't be doing any other hikes that day. Thanks in advance. :-)

Answer

Devil's Bridge is one of Sedona’s most iconic hikes, and getting there efficiently depends on your comfort with driving off-road, walking, and timing.

Since you’re arriving mid-morning on November 23rd and plan to leave in the afternoon, you have a limited window, so planning the easiest access is key. Your mid-size SUV (Rogue) will handle paved roads easily, but high-clearance or 4WD is usually recommended for the dirt portion if you want to get closer to the bridge without hiking the full trail.

Here are the main options for reaching Devil’s Bridge:

Standard Trailhead Parking (Full Hike): Drive to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead on Dry Creek Road. From here, the hike is approximately 4 miles round-trip with an elevation gain of about 400 feet. This is the easiest option for your SUV and does not require off-roading, but it does involve a moderate walk uphill.
Back-O’-Beyond Trailhead (Shorter Hike / Some Off-Road Driving Required): If you have a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD, you can take the dirt portion of Dry Creek Road to the Back-O’-Beyond Trailhead. This cuts the hike to around 1.5–2 miles one-way, saving significant time and energy. With a mid-size SUV like a Rogue, this may be doable carefully, but watch for ruts or loose rocks. Drive slowly and assess conditions.
Guided Shuttle / Tour: Sedona offers guided jeep tours that will take you to Devil’s Bridge or very close to it. This option eliminates concerns about off-roading and parking and allows you to reach the bridge with minimal walking. Tours usually take a few hours, so timing in the morning is important to avoid missing your afternoon departure.

Additional considerations:

November temperatures are mild, but mornings can be chilly and afternoons can warm quickly. Start early to maximize your hike window.
Parking at the standard trailhead can fill up quickly even on a Sunday, so arriving around 10:00 a.m. may be okay but be prepared to wait or shuttle elsewhere.
Bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes. Even a shorter hike has some uneven, rocky sections near the bridge.
If using your SUV to attempt the Back-O’-Beyond route, check local conditions at visitor centers or online forums, as recent rains or erosion may affect passability.

Recommended approach for your situation:

If minimizing walking is your priority and you are confident driving your Rogue on dirt roads, attempt the Back-O’-Beyond route to reduce hiking distance.
If off-roading feels risky, park at the standard trailhead and enjoy the full 4-mile round-trip hike, which is moderate and scenic.
If you prefer zero driving risk and more convenience, book a morning guided jeep tour that includes Devil’s Bridge.

With your limited schedule, starting shortly after arrival and using one of the closer access options ensures you can enjoy the bridge and still have time to depart for Goodyear comfortably in the afternoon.