Midgley Bridge - Over pass in the streets of EDSA Philippines.
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Midgley Bridge

4.8
·1k reviews·Sedona, United States

Iconic bridge and scenic Oak Creek Canyon access point, offering hiking, swimming, and stunning red rock views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for a dip

CrowdLow
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Midgley Bridge - Over pass in the streets of EDSA Philippines.

Midgley Bridge

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for a dip

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic bridge and scenic Oak Creek Canyon access point, offering hiking, swimming, and stunning red rock views.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"A hidden gem in Sedona with many hiking trails and beautiful river access."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended

The trail to the creek is rocky and can be steep. Wear good hiking shoes for safety and comfort.

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic spots.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oak Creek Swimming Hole

Oak Creek Swimming Hole

Down the Huckaby Trail

A refreshing escape into the cool waters of Oak Creek, surrounded by red rocks. Perfect for a dip on a warm day.

Scenic Bridge Views

Scenic Bridge Views

From the parking area and overlook

Admire the iconic Midgley Bridge and the dramatic red rock formations of Oak Creek Canyon.

Picnic Under the Canopy

Picnic Under the Canopy

Near the vault toilets

Enjoy a meal with a view at the shaded picnic area, offering a pleasant spot to relax.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Creek Access

While Midgley Bridge offers stunning views, the trail down to Oak Creek can get busy. Arrive early or later in the afternoon to enjoy the water and picnic spots with fewer people. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

Trail Difficulty & Preparation

The hike down to the creek is short but can be steep and rocky. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for an uphill return. It's a rewarding walk, but not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children without careful planning.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, perfect for a dip
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Golden light, peaceful creek
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring/early fall
Why
Ideal weather for hiking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There’s nothing better than a day at the creek with good company and good food. 💖🫶🏼 🌲🥪✨ #Arizona #oakcreekcanyon #Sedona ##picnicdate #couplegoals #dateideas #CreekDays #OutdoorAdventures #PackAndGo #NatureLovers #PicnicVibes #ExploreArizona #HiddenGems #WeekendGetaway #FreshAirAndSunshine #AdventureAwaits
@bobbii.jean
136.1K likes • 708.6K views

🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended

The trail to the creek is rocky and can be steep. Wear good hiking shoes for safety and comfort. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic spots. TikTok

the perfect lunch spot away from the crowds #sedona #sedonaarizona
@cailsadventures
88.3K likes • 707K views
Midgley Bridge Picnic Area Great lookout point from under the bridge & you can also hike down to the creek but it was much longer than we realized! We later determined that the .5 miles referenced on the sign was the length to connect to another trail that led to oak creek. The section of the creek we made it too was beautiful & we only saw a few other people in the area. Its not a difficult h...
lilnbear
18 likes • 933 views

🚗 Limited Parking

The parking lot is small. Arrive early or be prepared to wait, especially on weekends. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning red rock landscapes and the bridge itself. Ideal for photographers. Instagram+1

Midgley bridge is the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon just north of Sedona. This site offers beautiful views of Mitten Ridge and the surrounding red rock landscape. It is the trailhead for these hiking trails: Wilson Canyon, Wilson Mountain, Huckaby and Jim Thompson Trail plus Allens Bend Trail can be accessed from Huckaby Trail. #thisissedona
conceptuallysedona
40 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended

The trail to the creek is rocky and can be steep. Wear good hiking shoes for safety and comfort. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic spots. TikTok

🚗 Limited Parking

The parking lot is small. Arrive early or be prepared to wait, especially on weekends. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning red rock landscapes and the bridge itself. Ideal for photographers. Instagram+1

🤫 Quieter than Slide Rock

If you're seeking a less crowded swimming experience than Slide Rock, Midgley Bridge is a great alternative. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Midgley Bridge for its beautiful scenery, refreshing creek access, and peaceful atmosphere, often highlighting it as a less crowded alternative to other Sedona attractions. While the hike to the creek is rewarding, some note the trail can be rocky and the return uphill. Parking is limited, so early arrival is recommended.

"There is a picnic table under a canopy with the view of the bridge, you can't see it that well from the parking lot, which is very small, it's just past the vault toilets. There is a trail that leads down some steps and past the picnic area, we didn't use the trails, we just stopped to have lunch, it was a perfect place to do so."

Elizabeth Martel

"The place is nice to get beautiful scenery and have a little walk.
I didn't go to the trail but at the beginning it looked well-marked and nice to go on a walk to."

Diana _

"We visited here just for the bridge. We like to pay tribute to the bridge builders 75 years ago. Without them, we won't have today's Sedona. Besides, the bridge looks beautiful."

Zhong Shang

What People Like

Beautiful red rock scenery
Refreshing creek access
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Rocky trail

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Midgley Bridge is located just 5 minutes north of Sedona along Highway 89A. It's easily accessible by car. There's a small parking lot on the north side of the bridge. Instagram+1

Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Midgley Bridge. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.

From uptown Sedona, head north on Highway 89A. Midgley Bridge will be on your right, just past the main Sedona area and before you enter the heart of Oak Creek Canyon. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a perfect spot to pull over, stretch your legs, and take in the iconic red rock scenery. Many road trippers use it as a scenic viewpoint. Instagram+1

While the highway is accessible, the parking lot is quite small and may not accommodate large RVs or trailers easily. It's best suited for standard passenger vehicles.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit Midgley Bridge or access the trails. It's a free public access point within the Coconino National Forest. Reddit

Midgley Bridge and its surrounding trails are generally accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no set operating hours, but it's advisable to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

Parking at Midgley Bridge is free. However, the lot is small and can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Reddit

Yes, you can swim in Oak Creek by taking the Huckaby Trail down to the water. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip. InstagramReddit

For day hiking on established trails like the Huckaby Trail, no special permits are typically required. However, always check the Coconino National Forest website for any current alerts or regulations.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic views of the bridge and red rocks, hike down to Oak Creek for swimming or wading, have a picnic, and take photos. TikTokInstagram

The hike down to Oak Creek via the Huckaby Trail is about half a mile. It takes roughly 15 minutes to descend and 25 minutes to ascend due to the uphill return. InstagramReddit

It's considered family-friendly, but the trail is rocky and has slopes. Parents should supervise children closely, and it might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Reddit

You might spot small animals near the creek and various bird species in the canyon. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna. Reddit

Yes, it's an excellent location for photography, offering views of the bridge, the canyon, and the red rock formations. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no restaurants directly at Midgley Bridge. It's a natural area focused on outdoor recreation. You'll need to bring your own food or dine in Sedona.

Yes, there is a picnic area with tables under a canopy, making it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch with scenic views. TikTokReddit

Pack your favorite picnic foods, drinks, and any necessary utensils. Don't forget trash bags to pack out everything you bring in.

Food vendors are not typically found at Midgley Bridge. The nearest dining options are in Sedona, about a 5-minute drive away.

Campfires and grilling are generally not permitted in picnic areas or along trails in Coconino National Forest to prevent wildfires. Check local regulations for any exceptions.

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly stunning. Instagram+1

It's ideal for landscape photography, capturing the bridge, red rocks, and the creek. It's also great for capturing the Milky Way at night. Instagram+1

Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and Coconino National Forest rules. It's essential to check the latest guidelines before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

The bridge itself, the view from under the bridge looking up, and the creek banks are all highly photogenic. The surrounding red rock formations are also a key feature. Instagram+1

Yes, long exposure photography can create beautiful effects with the water and light. Consider bringing a tripod for stability, especially during low light conditions.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Midgley Bridge is a great family-friendly stop in Sedona, offering a taste of the outdoors without an overly strenuous commitment. The picnic area is perfect for a relaxed lunch, and the short hike down to Oak Creek provides an adventure for kids. TikTokReddit

While the trail to the creek is rocky and has some slopes, it's manageable for most families with supervision. Kids will likely enjoy exploring the creek bed, looking for small creatures, and dipping their feet in the cool water. Reddit It's a good alternative to the more crowded Slide Rock State Park if you're looking for a quieter swimming experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike, Midgley Bridge serves as a gateway to several trails within Oak Creek Canyon. The Huckaby Trail is the most direct route to the creek, offering a moderate challenge with its rocky terrain and uphill return. Reddit This trail is part of a larger network, allowing for longer excursions for more experienced hikers. Instagram

Beyond the immediate creek access, the area is surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, offering opportunities for more extensive exploration. Photographers will find ample subjects, from the bridge itself to the dramatic red rock formations and the flowing creek. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers

Midgley Bridge is a prime location for photographers seeking iconic Sedona imagery. The bridge structure itself, set against the vibrant red rocks, makes for a striking composition. Instagram+1 Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Instagram+1

The Oak Creek provides opportunities for capturing reflections and the movement of water, especially with longer exposures. The surrounding canyon walls offer panoramic vistas and unique rock formations that are perfect for landscape shots. Night photography enthusiasts can also find excellent conditions for capturing the Milky Way. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking to Oak Creek

The primary trail accessible from Midgley Bridge is the Huckaby Trail. This trail offers a relatively short but rewarding hike down to the banks of Oak Creek. While often described as easy, the descent involves rocky terrain and steps, and the return journey is a steady uphill climb. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes, to navigate the uneven surfaces safely. Reddit

Many visitors find the effort well worth it for the chance to cool off in the refreshing waters of Oak Creek. The creek bed is dotted with smooth rocks, and the sound of the water flowing over them creates a peaceful ambiance. It's a popular spot for wading, skipping stones, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the natural beauty of this area. Reddit

For those looking for a longer hike, the Huckaby Trail connects to other trails in the area, including the Wilson Canyon Trail and the Wilson Mountain Trail. These offer more challenging routes for experienced hikers seeking to explore deeper into Oak Creek Canyon. Always check trail conditions and carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Instagram

Photography Opportunities

Midgley Bridge is a photographer's dream, offering a variety of scenic subjects. The bridge itself is an iconic structure, providing a strong foreground element against the backdrop of Sedona's famous red rocks. Capturing the bridge from different angles, both from the overlook and from below near the creek, can yield stunning results. Instagram+1

The surrounding landscape of Oak Creek Canyon is equally photogenic. The vibrant red hues of the rock formations contrast beautifully with the green of the riparian vegetation and the blue of the sky. Early morning and late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hours,' are particularly magical, casting a warm glow on the rocks and creating dramatic shadows. Instagram+1

For astrophotographers, Midgley Bridge offers a unique vantage point for capturing the night sky. The relatively dark skies away from city lights, combined with the silhouette of the bridge and the red rocks, can make for breathtaking Milky Way shots. Instagram Drone photography can also capture expansive aerial views of the canyon and bridge, offering a different perspective on this beautiful location. Instagram

Picnicking and Relaxation

One of the understated pleasures of visiting Midgley Bridge is the opportunity for a scenic picnic. A designated picnic area, complete with tables and a canopy for shade, is located near the parking area and vault toilets. This spot provides a comfortable place to enjoy a meal while taking in the views of the bridge and the surrounding canyon. Reddit

Many visitors find this picnic area to be a perfect place to pause during a road trip or after a short hike. It offers a moment of tranquility away from the more crowded attractions in Sedona. Packing a lunch and enjoying it amidst the natural beauty of Oak Creek Canyon is a highly recommended experience. TikTok

Beyond the picnic tables, the banks of Oak Creek itself offer numerous spots to sit, relax, and enjoy the sounds of the water. Whether you're having a full picnic or just a snack, these serene locations provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash. Reddit

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