Merry-Go-Round Rock - a colorful carousel in a park with trees in the background
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Merry-Go-Round Rock

4.6
·491k reviews·Village of Oak Creek, United States

A natural rock arch in Sedona, Arizona, offering breathtaking views and a popular spot for photography, elopements, and weddings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Midday

Sunlight through the rock hole

CrowdMedium
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Merry-Go-Round Rock - a colorful carousel in a park with trees in the background

Merry-Go-Round Rock

Best Time

Midday

Sunlight through the rock hole

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A natural rock arch in Sedona, Arizona, offering breathtaking views and a popular spot for photography, elopements, and weddings.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The iconic rock arch provides a stunning frame for unforgettable photos, especially for weddings and elopements."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 4WD Vehicle Essential

A high-clearance 4WD is crucial for Schnebly Hill Road. Otherwise, prepare for a 6.5-mile hike. :car:

☀️ Sun Timing is Key

Visit when the sun is high to get the best shot through the rock's natural arch. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Rock Arch

The Iconic Rock Arch

Merry-Go-Round Rock formation

Capture breathtaking photos through the natural archway, a popular spot for elopements and weddings.

Instagram+1
Scenic Hike to the Rock

Scenic Hike to the Rock

Munds Wagon Trail

Enjoy a moderate 6.5-mile out-and-back hike with creek beds and emerging greenery.

Instagram+1
Off-Road Adventure

Off-Road Adventure

Schnebly Hill Road

Experience an exhilarating off-road drive to the rock, requiring a high-clearance 4WD vehicle.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Vehicle & Trail Access

Accessing Merry-Go-Round Rock requires careful planning. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is essential for the rough Schnebly Hill Road. Alternatively, a 6.5-mile hike via Munds Wagon Trail is an option for those without a capable vehicle. InstagramReddit

Timing for the Perfect Shot

The iconic 'hole' in the rock offers a unique photo opportunity. Visit when the sun is high enough to shine through the opening, avoiding sun flares. Early mornings or late afternoons can also provide beautiful lighting for elopements and weddings. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Midday
Why
Sunlight through the rock hole
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Morning
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Soft light for portraits
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to get here ⬇️ This photo spot is located on the Merry Go Round Rock formation in Sedona, Arizona. ✨ There are two ways to get here: 🔹 By foot: Take the Munds Wagon Trail all the way to Merry Go Round Rock. This is a 6.5 mile out and back trail. When you get to the Merry Go Round Rock, take a left. (see next steps for both ways) 🔹 By personal or guided jeep: Take Schnebly Hill Rd al...
discoveringdistance
47 likes • 2K views

🚗 4WD Vehicle Essential

A high-clearance 4WD is crucial for Schnebly Hill Road. Otherwise, prepare for a 6.5-mile hike. InstagramReddit :car:

☀️ Sun Timing is Key

Visit when the sun is high to get the best shot through the rock's natural arch. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Merry-Go-Round Rock details ⤵️ Off-road to Merry-Go-Round Rock via Schnebly Hill and take a short hike down to this great photo spot 📸 ⏰ 15 minutes 🥾 0.3 miles out and back 📈 -66ft. elevation loss ⭐️ Easy TIPS: ☀️ Timing is very important! Make sure the sun is high enough so that it is above the rock hole formation to prevent sun flares. We took these photos about an hour before sunset. 📸 Brin...
nomad.adventurers
0 likes • 406 views
Finding this picturesque cave is a little challenging but so rewarding. It’s called “Merry Go Round Rock” and it’s a very popular photoshoot location (especially for weddings). To get there — the easiest and most direct way is to drive there, but only if you have a capable vehicle! You’ll need something with high clearance and 4WD since the road is rutted with potholes and large rocks. You will ...
kaitandbeyond
642 likes • 23.3K views

🥾 Trail Shoes Recommended

Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the Munds Wagon Trail, which can be rocky and uneven. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

📸 Popular Elopement Spot

This is a highly sought-after location for weddings and elopements, expect crowds. Instagram+1 :ring:

📍Merry Go Round Rock 🥾 6.5 miles 🏜️ 1105 feet elevation gain 😅 Rated: moderate 🐶 Dogs welcome but must be on a leash 🎟️ Red Rocks Pass required This is a pretty trail that winds along a creek bed. There was water flowing in it because of the recent rain. It was starting to get green, some trees were starting to get leaves, and there were some wildflowers. But, I think it will be really pretty i...
myrandainthemountains
72 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 4WD Vehicle Essential

A high-clearance 4WD is crucial for Schnebly Hill Road. Otherwise, prepare for a 6.5-mile hike. InstagramReddit :car:

☀️ Sun Timing is Key

Visit when the sun is high to get the best shot through the rock's natural arch. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🥾 Trail Shoes Recommended

Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the Munds Wagon Trail, which can be rocky and uneven. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

📸 Popular Elopement Spot

This is a highly sought-after location for weddings and elopements, expect crowds. Instagram+1 :ring:

🎟️ Recreation Pass Needed

A standard recreation pass is generally required for access to hiking and recreation areas. Reddit :ticket:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Merry-Go-Round Rock for its stunning natural arch, making it an iconic photography spot, especially for weddings and elopements. The challenging access, whether by a rough 4WD road or a moderate hike, adds to the adventure. Some find the crowds can detract from the experience during peak times.

What People Like

Iconic rock arch
Unique photo opportunities
Adventurous access

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Challenging vehicle access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You have two main options: drive via Schnebly Hill Road with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, or hike the 6.5-mile out-and-back Munds Wagon Trail. The off-road route is shorter but requires a capable vehicle. InstagramReddit+1

No, Schnebly Hill Road is a rough, unpaved road that requires a vehicle with high clearance and four-wheel drive. Standard cars are not recommended. InstagramReddit

The Munds Wagon Trail is a moderate 6.5-mile out-and-back hike that winds along a creek bed. It can be scenic, especially after rain when water is flowing. Instagram+1

If driving, the time depends on road conditions, but it's significantly faster than hiking. The hike itself is approximately 6.5 miles round trip, which can take 3-4 hours depending on your pace. Instagram

While specific parking fees at the trailhead might vary, a general recreation pass is often required for accessing hiking and recreational areas in Sedona. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While there isn't a specific permit for Merry-Go-Round Rock itself, a standard recreation pass is generally needed for accessing the trails and areas in Sedona. Reddit

There are no direct entrance fees for Merry-Go-Round Rock, but you may need a Red Rocks Pass or a similar general recreation pass for the area. Instagram

Merry-Go-Round Rock is an outdoor natural formation, so it's accessible during daylight hours. However, consider visiting during optimal light for photography. Instagram

No, there are no time slot bookings for Merry-Go-Round Rock as it's a natural attraction. Popular times, especially for photoshoots, can get busy. Instagram

While you can't reserve the natural formation itself, it's a popular spot for elopements and weddings. It's advisable to coordinate with any potential photographers or officiants and be mindful of other visitors. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The best time is when the sun is high enough to shine through the rock's natural arch, creating a framed view. Midday is often ideal for this specific shot. Instagram

Its unique natural archway provides a picturesque frame for photos, making it a highly sought-after spot, especially for engagement and wedding photography. Instagram+1

Ensure the sun is positioned correctly to avoid harsh glare or sun flares. Experiment with different angles to capture the rock formation and the surrounding Sedona landscape. Instagram

Drone usage in Sedona can be restricted in certain areas, especially near popular trails and parks. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch and the expansive views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or for ensuring sharp, stable shots. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Munds Wagon Trail is considered moderate, with about 1105 feet of elevation gain over 6.5 miles round trip. It's manageable for most hikers with decent fitness. Instagram

Yes, dogs are welcome at Merry-Go-Round Rock, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Instagram :dog:

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Snacks are also a good idea for the hike. Instagram

The hike can be long for very young children, but older kids might enjoy the adventure. The off-road drive is also an exciting option for families with a suitable vehicle. Instagram+1

As a popular photo spot, especially for weddings, it can get crowded, particularly during peak hours or weekends. Visiting during off-peak times can offer a more serene experience. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Merry-Go-Round Rock can be an adventure for families, but it requires some planning. If you have a capable 4WD vehicle, the drive up Schnebly Hill Road can be an exciting part of the experience for kids. Instagram If you opt for the hike via Munds Wagon Trail, be aware it's a 6.5-mile round trip, which might be challenging for very young children. Instagram+1 Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, and make it a fun exploration rather than a strenuous trek. The unique rock formations are sure to spark their imagination.

💍 Couples & Elopement Planners

Merry-Go-Round Rock is a dream destination for couples seeking a picturesque elopement or wedding backdrop. Instagram+1 The natural arch provides a stunning frame for intimate ceremonies. To ensure the best experience, plan your visit around optimal lighting conditions, ideally when the sun shines through the rock's opening. Instagram While the spot is popular, visiting during weekdays or early mornings can offer a more private setting. Remember to be respectful of the natural environment and any other visitors who may be present.

🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts

For those who love to explore rugged terrain, the drive to Merry-Go-Round Rock via Schnebly Hill Road is a must. This unpaved, often challenging route demands a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and offers an exhilarating journey through Sedona's backcountry. InstagramReddit The drive itself is part of the adventure, providing unique views and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the destination. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and ensure your vehicle is in good condition for off-road conditions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain: Vehicle vs. Hike

Reaching Merry-Go-Round Rock presents a choice between an adventurous off-road drive and a scenic hike. For those with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, the route via Schnebly Hill Road offers a more direct approach. This road is known for its ruggedness, with deep ruts and uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for standard passenger cars. InstagramReddit The drive itself can be an experience, offering glimpses of Sedona's stunning red rock landscapes.

Alternatively, the Munds Wagon Trail provides a more accessible, albeit longer, route. This 6.5-mile out-and-back trail is rated as moderate and winds through picturesque desert scenery, often following a creek bed. Instagram+1 It's a great option for hikers who prefer to leave the car behind or don't have a suitable vehicle. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water, regardless of your chosen method of access. Instagram

Capturing the Magic: Photography at Merry-Go-Round Rock

Merry-Go-Round Rock is renowned for its natural archway, a feature that makes it a prime location for photographers, especially for elopements and weddings. Instagram+1 The key to capturing the iconic shot is timing. The most sought-after view is when the sun is positioned directly overhead, shining through the 'hole' in the rock, creating a natural frame. Instagram This often occurs around midday, but the exact timing can vary with the seasons.

Beyond the main arch, the surrounding red rock formations offer ample opportunities for landscape photography. Consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for softer light and dramatic shadows that enhance the desert's beauty. Instagram+1 While the location is popular, visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours can help you avoid crowds and get those perfect, unobstructed shots. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial footage. Instagram

Understanding Access and Permits

Accessing Merry-Go-Round Rock involves understanding the local regulations for recreational areas in Sedona. While there isn't a specific permit required solely for visiting the rock formation itself, a general recreation pass is often necessary for parking and trail access in the broader Sedona area. Reddit This typically includes passes like the Red Rocks Pass, which covers many popular hiking and scenic spots. It's always wise to check the latest requirements from the U.S. Forest Service or local visitor centers before your trip to avoid any issues.

For those planning an elopement or wedding, while the rock itself cannot be reserved, it's important to be aware of its popularity. Coordinating with your photographer and officiant, and being considerate of other visitors, is key to a smooth experience. Instagram+1 The community discussions on Reddit highlight the need for proper passes, reinforcing the importance of being prepared and respecting the natural environment. Reddit

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