Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing
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Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing
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Crescent Moon Ranch is a beautiful picnic park along Oak Creek. Locals and visitors come here to swim, snack, play games, and relax. The Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing hike is a short jaunt beside the creek that takes you to one of the best places to photograph Cathedral Rock, a place where the rock reflects in the glassy waters of the creek.
This hike is suitable for all skill levels, but note that you’ll need to cross the creek. There is no bridge, so you’ll need to cross the water, which can be knee-high depending on the recent rainfall. Bring wading shoes!
Getting there
The trailhead for the Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing hike is near the picnic site off Red Rock Crossing Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | Year-round |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing
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Weather
Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing Description
Crescent Moon Ranch is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, games, and relaxing in the summer sun. Locals and visitors alike come here to spend sunny afternoons, splash in the water, and hold special events.
Nearby is one of the best views of Cathedral Rock around, where the rock reflects in the glassy water. This is one of the most popular places to photograph Cathedral Rock from. Bring a camera!
There is a rustic cabin on site that was built by ranchers of the original homestead here. It can be rented if you’d like a very unique, very authentic stay.
This hike is easy and short, but you’ll need to cross Oak Creek without a bridge. Bring wading shoes. The water can be quite chilly and the level can vary, sometimes up to knee-deep.
We definitely recommend bringing a picnic, a deck of cards, and some blankets and beach towels. You’ll want to spend some time relaxing in this beautiful spot before or after your hike!
The hike begins from the picnic site. Head down to the creek and cross wherever the water’s the most shallow. The trail pulls away from the creek and merges with Baldwin Trail. Then, cross an arm of the creek onto Templeton Trail.
A few more steps and you’re at the end of the hike. Admire the perfect view of Cathedral Rock right above you; adventurous hikers can continue on to the northeastern side of Cathedral rock and climb up. We don’t recommend this unless you’ve brought water and proper footwear.
Once you’ve snapped your photos, head back to the picnic area the same way you came out.
Trail Highlights
Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock is a sandstone butte in Sedona, Arizona, in Yavapai County and the Coconino National Forest. It was formed from coastal sand dunes in the ancient Pedregosa Sea. This rock is one of the most photographed sites in the state and the trail to reach it is one of the busiest hikes in Sedona. The top of Cathedral Rock sits at 4967ft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you stay at Crescent Moon Ranch?
The original homestead cabin is available for rent if you want to stay.
Are dogs allowed at Crescent Moon Ranch?
No, dogs are not allowed here.
How much does it cost to get into Crescent Moon Ranch?
The fee is $11 daily. Rates are subject to change.
Insider Hints
Bring plenty of water if you’re hiking this trail in the summertime. Sedona can get very hot..
Grab takeaway from The Hideaway House if you don’t want to pack your own picnic.
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