Although you won’t need your Jeep to drive to Crescent Moon Picnic Area, this is a scenic park to visit when you’re looking for an easy walk along Oak Creek near Sedona. And if you’ve been out jeeping in the nearby northern Lime Kiln Trail area, this is a great end-of-the-day stop. Be aware that you’ll be required to pay a visitor’s fee unless you’ve purchased a USFS Big Three Pass for the year.
The day-use park provides restrooms, covered picnic areas, grassy lawns, local farming history and easy walking trails along Oak Creek.
No matter what time of day you visit this area, be sure to bring your camera. Perhaps you’ve seen a locally famous photo of Cathedral Rock with reflecting water in the foreground. If you’ve wondered where you might find this location, you’ll discover that the photo was taken in Crescent Moon Picnic Area, out toward the end of the trail. As the sun recedes in the west, the red rocks here become exceptionally picturesque.
Crescent Moon Picnic Area is a relaxing stop. Wildlife watching is readily available to anyone who walks quietly or slows long enough to take in the majestic scenery that surrounds this beautiful red rock area.
The park is located west of Sedona via Upper Red Rock Loop Road, off 89A. At approximately 1 ½ miles begin following signs leading to “Red Rock Crossing”.
There are times when this area becomes overly crowded, but it is a beautiful place to visit during all times of the year.
For more information, including instruction for booking this area for your wedding, visit: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/red_rock/crescentmoon-picnic.shtml
