Cathedral Rock Elopement Guide
Your Ultimate Cathedral Rock Elopement Guide
Cathedral Rock stands high and mighty in the middle of Sedona, Arizona with her vivid sunset-hued colors and mighty rock stacks pulling in visitors from all over the world- and for good reason. The steep, though short, hike provides a low barrier to entry for all to enjoy the sweeping red rock views and magnificent sunsets. It is the perfect ambiance for a wedding day and any desert nature lover’s dream location to say “I do”. On paper (or photo) it looks like the easy choice for an elopement location. Is it the perfect spot to say “I do”? As an Arizona elopement photographer having photographed Cathedral Rock countless times in various scenarios, I’ll break down everything you need to know to plan your Cathedral Rock Elopement.
Where is Cathedral Rock?
This beautiful red rock stack is located in Sedona, Arizona, approximately 4.4 miles north of the Village of Oak Creek and 3.7 miles south of Tlaquepaque Square.
How long is the hike to Cathedral Rock?
The hike to the top of Cathedral Rock can be found on All Trails under “Cathedral Rock Trail and is a 1.2-mile round trip with a 741-foot elevation gain. This red rock adventure requires a bit of scrambling and would be best with comfortable, protective footwear. Avid hikers can complete this hike roundtrip in one hour while more novice hikers may require up to three hours. I always recommend taking more time than you need and including time at the top to enjoy the scenery. I would budget about 4 hours of your elopement day (or 4.5 if you have your ceremony at the base) for this beautiful scenic hike.
How do I get to Cathedral Rock?
The trailhead for Cathedral Rock is accessible off State Route 179 and Back O’Beyond Road. Parking is limited and a free shuttle system has been implemented from Thursday to Sunday when the parking lots at the trailhead are prohibited because of the increased popularity of this hike. You can park for free at the designated NORTH SR-179 “park and ride” located 1294 SR 179.
PLEASE NOTE If you are taking the shuttle, the first bus to the trail leaves at 7 am and the last departs from the trailhead back to NORTH SR-179 at 5:12 pm (as of July 2024). Please check the Sedona shuttle website and stay informed on any route changes.
A Red Rock Pass is required for $5 for daily parking or $15 for weekly parking if you do park at the trailhead. There are pay stations on site.
When is tourist season at Cathedral Rock?
Tourist season in Sedona is from March to May in Spring and from September to November in the Fall. Foot traffic on the Cathedral Rock trail runs heavily during these times.
What is the weather like at Cathedral Rock?
The heat at Cathedral Rock is extreme in the summer with temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit. There is little to no shade on the trail. Spring and Fall offer more forgiving temperatures, with the daily high falling between 70 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter you’ll see temperatures between 30-60 degrees Fahrenheit with a chance of snowfall- or rather snow dusting. Snow in Sedona never sticks for long but when it does it looks dreamy juxtaposed against the vivid red rock.
What if it rains during my Cathedral Rock elopement?
Call me crazy but I LOVE the rain. I have taken some of my absolutely favorite photos in the midst of rainfall at Cathedral Rock! If you embrace it, a little rain will not ruin your wedding day. In my experience, the storms pass through pretty quickly and I always bring my photogenic clear umbrellas for some fun photos!
When is the best time to elope at Cathedral Rock?
If you want to beat the heat and crowds, the best time to elope at Cathedral Rock would be early March or late November. Whatever you do AVOID HOLIDAY WEEKENDS like the plague. Sedona’s roundabout, one-lane road system was not built for the amount of tourism it sees and a 5-minute drive will easily turn to 30. It is not uncommon to be stuck in snail traffic between 4-7 pm even during a regular weekend!
Wednesday is the best day of the week to elope if you are trying to avoid the crowds from a long weekend or the early birds trying to jumpstart their weekend. If you really want to make your elopement as private as possible I recommend a sunrise elopement! I love planning sunrise elopements and can help with your timeline to make the whole day flow after early morning vows!
Sunrise vs Sunset on Cathedral Rock?
Cathedral Rock may be known for its sweeping sunsets but the early bird gets the worm! If you truly want a unique experience and a shot of getting Cathedral Rock all to yourself- and man what a feeling that is!-then sunrise is for you. And let me tell you, being one of a few people to witness the magic of dawn on the red rock is something you will never forget. One of my favorite photography memories was capturing a sunrise proposal on Cathedral Rock where I played a random tourist and completely surprised the bride-to-be with epic shots of the emotional moment!
If you are not a morning person, sunset on Cathedral Rock is for you. Yes, there will be more people but there is still plenty of room to spread out. You will need to wait your turn for the iconic cliffside photo but fellow hikers are pretty courteous, especially to those decked out in their wedding attire! Speaking of, logistically how the heck do you get all of your stuff up there? I got you on that too!
Do I have to hike in my dress up to Cathedral Rock?
No, you do not have to. Ultimately, it is your choice but I recommend bringing it up in your dress bag and I will help you find a private spot or bring a pop-up changing tent for you to change when you get to the top. I am also more than happy to hike up your shoes and any other accessories for you.
Can I bring friends and family to my Cathedral Rock Elopement?
Legally, you can be married at Cathedral Rock with 75 people present. This includes yourselves and your vendors, such as the officiant and photographer. However, I recommend a smaller grouping of no more than 25 people because of the limited space of the ceremony area at the base of Cathedral Rock and considering all logistics. Less is more on your elopement day!
Can I bring my dog to my Cathedral Rock Elopement?
While Cathedral Rock Trail does allow dogs, please be considerate of your fur babies and honest about their abilities, especially in the hotter months. If your dog is an avid hiker and you include them remember to have them leashed.
Please take note even in the nicer months an unexpected heat wave is not uncommon and it may be best to celebrate another portion of your day with your pups! If you are interested in a dog-friendly ceremony location, I got you! I have a few easily accessible locations, including my top secret one- where dogs thrive!
Is Cathedral Rock Wheelchair/ ADA accessible?
Unfortunately, the Cathedral Rock trail is not ADA accessible, and if you would like a more inclusive ceremony location in Sedona I can help you find the perfect spot. And do not worry! We can always time it so we can head to Cathedral Rock after your ceremony with just the two of you for some epic sunset portraits!
Do you need a permit to elope and get married at Cathedral Rock?
No, as of now (July 2024), the Red Rock Forest Service does not currently require special use, photography or any permit to get married at Cathedral Rock with under 75 guests. This requirement could change and this is why it is important to hire professional vendors who can guide you through the legal processes. The last thing you want on your special day is a huge fine! As an elopement photographer, I offer permit information and resources for all of my couples.
What are the rules and regulations for eloping at Cathedral Rock?
Regulations and rules need to be followed to preserve and respect this beautiful land:
- No props or arches
- No flower petals or bird seeds thrown
- No chairs or other large obstructive obstacles
- No loud music
- No blocking trails or disrupting other hikers
Can you get married on Cathedral Rock?
Yes, you can! In the state of Arizona, you need a marriage license, an officiant, and two witnesses over the age of 18, and wallah! The perfect recipe for a legal marriage! If you are just eloping the two of you, no worries! Along with being a professional photographer, I am also a professional witness;) I am also great at finding a fellow hiker-who is always more than eager- to help sign and legitimize your marriage!
You and your partner will need to set up an appointment with the Clerk’s Office and be over the age of 18 with a valid ID to obtain a marriage license without guardian consent. The cost ranges from $70-$86 for the marriage license and can be obtained as far as one year in advance. Your officiant, or you, will need to return the signed marriage license to the same office within 30 days of the ceremony.
It is important to note, that marriage ceremonies may only be performed at the base of cathedral rock in forest service land– don’t worry- this is a GOOD thing. This offers more privacy, and more space if you have guests, for your wedding ceremony. I help all of my couples with their elopement timeline and locations. I also time it so we can continue to the top of Cathedral Rock right in time for your dreamy sunset portraits.
If you are taking proposal, engagement, bridals, or any other kind of photo session not involving a ceremony, then you can head right to the top of the hike.
Do you have to be an Arizona resident to get married on Cathedral Rock?
No, you do not need to be an Arizona resident to get married at Cathedral Rock or in Sedona, AZ. You do need an Arizona marriage license to be married in the state of Arizona, but this can be obtained by non-Arizona residents.
What else do I need for my Cathedral Rock Elopement?
Florist
Your florist will guide you with the best options and florals for the season. Don’t worry! I’ll help hold your bouquet on the hike up!
Hair and Makeup
booking a hair and makeup team to glam you up is a great way to feel pampered and confident on your elopement day. I can help with timing and most artists will go to your location.
Invitations, details, and heirlooms
having a copy of your invitation and any jewelry, heirlooms, or other details at the ready gives me a chance to photograph beautiful flatlays at the beginning of your day. It’s a great way to look back and see all the little yet important details!
Officiant
You can have a friend get ordained online or hire a local professional. The professionals will help with all the legal processes and even mail back your license.
Activities/Excursions
Your day is more than saying “I do”. Your marriage, and adventure, start now. Take advantage of the red rocks and explore! Who says an elopement has to be just one day? I can help recommend companies and organize surprises!
Don’t know where to start? I will help recommend local vendors and make sure you have a smooth planning process. I know Sedona like the back of my hand and cannot wait to help you have the BEST elopement experience!
Where should I stay for my Cathedral Rock Elopement?
The best place to stay for your Cathedral Rock elopement is in Sedona, Arizona in Uptown or near Tlaquepaque Square. Airbnb or VRBO will give you a more unique experience but there are plenty of hotels that offer stunning views and hospitality. Here are a few I recommend:
What are the best places to eat in Sedona?
Sedona offers delicious cuisines from Mexican to burgers to fine dining. Here are a few of my favorites! Make sure to book a reservation.
Javelina Cantina– you have to get the prickly pear marg!
Butterfly Burger– Gluten Free options
The Vault Uptown– Beautiful scenery right from the bar
Pump House Station Urban Eatery– Their coffee is amazing!!!
What are the best activities to do in Sedona?
Pink Jeep Tours– Okay this one is just too iconic to skip. If you do not have a 4-wheel to explore on your own, this is a close second to get you to those hard-to-get hidden gems. Plus they are pink! How cute!
Red Rock Balloons– Fly above Sedona for some breathtaking views. Hot air balloons only depart mornings and are weather-dependent.
Stroll Tlaquepaque Square- teleport to Italy with the gorgeous architecture and leafy vines, and explore the unique shops, galleries, and all this quaint square has to offer.
Where is the best nightlife in Sedona?
A town surrounded by desert beauty offers plenty of daytime hiking and activity. But what can you do when the sun goes down? You won’t find any nightlife as crazy as Old Town Scottsdale (just a 2-hour drive if you are trying to go hard) but there are a few fun spots to go out for a drink after a long day on the trails. Your elopement deserves a full-day celebration. I am happy to recommend places and ideas to keep the fun going well after sun down.
Sundowner (dive bar)
Meet your Cathedral Rock Elopement Photographer
Hi! I’m Ashly. I am Arizona born and raised which means Sedona is practically my backyard. I have hiked up Cathedral Rock more times than I can count and I am ready to do it again in a heartbeat to document your love story! I have so many suggestions and knowledge I am excited to share with you to give you the BEST Sedona elopement experience. Fill out my contact form and I will be in touch to plan your EPIC Sedona elopement.
Not ready to reach out? Join the fam on Instagram to hear more from me and learn my elopement tips and tricks! @ashlyarts
