a gradual climb to visit a natural sandstone arch
Warning: Sedona has recently instituted a "Red Rock Pass", which is a fancy way of saying you need to pay to play. As of May, 2010, the fee is $5 per day per vehicle. There are plenty of places in and around Sedona to pay this fee and get the receipt, which you need to put on your vehicle dash to keep from being towed.
After surviving the rough drive along FR152, you'll be ready to stretch your legs. From the East end of the parking area, the start of the Vultee Arch trail is signed and easy to find. The trail itself is also easy to follow to the views of Vultee Arch.
This trail starts in the dusty sand typical of this area of Sedona. As you hike further up Sterling Canyon, you'll be surrounded by the red rocks mountains of this area. The trail increases in elevation gradually, eventually gaining more shade from a pine forest. The canyon walls will also begin to close in around you.
After 1.6 miles of hiking, you'll reach the signed junction with the Sterling Pass trail. If you look to your left (North wall of the canyon) you'll see Vultee Arch. Stay left at the junction and hike a few hundred more yards to a good place to rest and enjoy views of the arch. There is also a plaque here to mark the passing of Gerald and Sylvia Vultee, who died in a plane crash near this spot.
If you would like, there is a scramble route to the top of the arch from this point.
When ready, return the way you came.
