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Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing. Taken well after sunset with a 10 sec exposure at f6.7 and ISO 100. The gorillapod definitely came in h

Photo: Adam Baker from Houston / Moscow / Toulouse (travel a lot), CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crescent Moon Picnic Site (Red Rock Crossing)

Upper Red Rock Loop Rd · 1–3 hours · Easy · $

The famous view of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek, with shady picnic spots.

Fee
$15 per car (up to 5 people), $4 walk-in (Forest Service)
Summer hours
7 a.m.–7 p.m. (April–September)
Good for
Photos, picnics, paddling

This Forest Service day-use site on Oak Creek gives the classic postcard view of Cathedral Rock across the water. Easy paths follow the creek, and in summer people paddle in the shallows.

The Forest Service page (updated September 2025) lists a day-use fee of $15 per vehicle for up to five people, and $4 per person for walk-ins and cyclists.

Tips

  • Late afternoon light on Cathedral Rock is best for photos.
  • Creek levels change fast after storms. Stay out of the water when it's high or muddy.

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Sources

Facts last checked November 3, 2026. Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm with the official source before you go.

More views and landmarks: see all 8 in Sedona views and landmarks · all things to do in Sedona

Guides that feature Crescent Moon Picnic Site (Red Rock Crossing)

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