When the days are hot, and you never know when a monsoon storm is going to pop up, we tend to stick to tried-and-true (read: short) hikes. Crescent Moon Creek Walk, more popularly known as Red Rock Crossing, fits the bill. Because of the area’s beaches and swimming holes, it can be a challenge to find parking on the weekend, so we recommend you visit early or late in the day, or check it out during the week.
The path begins as a concrete sidewalk near the fee booth at the ranch. We chose to drive to the end of the parking lot and begin our walk at the grassy meadow where you’ll find a waterwheel and shed left over from the 1930s when the area was an apple, apricot, plum, grape and peach orchard. Cathedral Rock towers over the meadow, but some of our favorite views of the monolith are found further along the trail. Just beyond the waterwheel, the concrete path turns into a flat dirt trail, meandering along the banks of Oak Creek. You’ll find plenty of spots to leave the pathway and make your way down to the creek to take a dip in the cool waters. The large oak and sycamore trees in the area provide plenty of shade, too.
After walking for a half mile, the trail opens up and crosses an undulating red rock shelf right along the creek. Here’s where you find our favorite views of Cathedral Rock. Look for the spire in between the two main domes. That section is locally referred to as “The Family” due to its resemblance of a man and woman standing back-to-back with a child by their side. This is a favorite spot for lounging, picnicking and dipping into the creek. If you are visiting with the hopes of snapping a few Instagram-worthy shots, hit this spot during the late afternoon for the best light.
The trail continues east. Cathedral Rock moves out of sight, and the route ends at Buddha Beach, less than 0.75 mile after it begins. This red sand beach is notable for hundreds of stacked rock formations and a swimming hole that begs you to while away the day. Return the way you came for a hike that’s less than 1.5 miles round trip.
