Explore Crescent Moon Ranch

Sedona, Arizona

Description

Best view of Cathedral Rock Sunsets.

Crescent Moon Ranch was established in the 1880's, and now serves as a day use facility for the U.S. Forest Service. It lies on Oak Creek directly below Cathedral Rock, one of the most iconic towering monuments in Sedona. The ranch is beautiful, and is popular for picnic's, swimming, hiking, and photography.

Most of the Cathedral Rock photos you will find in Sedona's gift shops were taken here. This hike along Oak Creek through thickets of brush and cottonwood trees gives way to amazing views of the red rock vistas. The path eventually makes its way to one of the most famous vortex sites know as Buddah Beach. The area is easily noticed due tot he hundreds of hand-stacked "prayer rocks".

There is a small entrance fee to the day use area. Hours and rates are found here.

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin

Photography

Swimming

Bathrooms

Beach

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Food Nearby

Groups

Picnic Area

River

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Swimming Hole

ADA Accessible

Explore Crescent Moon Ranch Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike the Oak Creek Trail

Great, short hike in Red Rock Crossing. Make sure to check out the hundreds of cairns at Buddha Beach. Beautiful views of Cathedral Rock. Lots of places to relax and have lunch, with picnic tables near the parking lot. Lots of parking, good amount of shade down near the creek. Good for all skill levels. Very busy, lots of families (especially on the weekends!). As with all outdoor adventure...

Hike the Baldwin Trail

As with most areas in Sedona, you will need to have purchased a Red Rock Pass to park at the trailhead, which is located just south of Verde Valley Road. The trailhead, starting at an elevation of 3,950 feet, is well marked and the trail is defined. You have an option to either hike clockwise or counterclockwise, my personal recommendation is counterclockwise as it offers you the most dynamic v...

Hike or Bike Secret Slickrock Trail

Wanting a short and sweet sunset or sunrise spot in Sedona away from some of the crowds? This easily accessible trail is great for people wanting picnics, a quick photography spot (we saw a couple from their wedding doing a photo shoot here), and a cool spot to watch the sun rise or set with the grand view of Cathedral Rock! This trail is a connector trail to the Ridge Trail. Our group decided ...

Templeton Trail to Oak Creek

Beginning at the Cathedral Rock trailhead down Back O' Beyond Rd., this path at the base of the Cathedral Rock climb takes the hiker down into a lush, tree covered area perfect for swimming and enjoying the views of red rock above and all around. Start by heading up the main trail, and as you emerge into a clearing after a brief climb, bear right and find the Templeton trail instead of continui...

Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular landmarks in Arizona. This amazing rock formation is located in Sedona, Arizona. The hike is steep and requires a bit of climbing in some spots. The 1.5 miles roundtrip is pretty strenuous, leading you up a moderately steep incline, but well worth the reward once you make it up. Follow the basket cairns up and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top....

Hiking Kisva Trail in Red Rocks State Park

This easy hike features a lovely creek and the beautiful red rocks of Sedona! This is a flat, shady, 1.3 mi hike and follows Oak Creek for a portion. Beautiful spots to stop and have a picnic or just relax and watch the birds. Lots of signage, and great to do with kids of all ages. If you’re looking for an easy way to experience Sedona’s beauty, this is a great place to start!