Midgley Bridge Overlook is one of Sedona’s most iconic scenic viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Oak Creek Canyon, towering red rock cliffs, and the rugged wilderness landscapes that make Sedona one of Arizona’s most beloved sightseeing destinations. Located at the northern edge of town along the scenic route into Oak Creek Canyon, Midgley Bridge serves as a dramatic gateway between Sedona’s famous Red Rock Country and the richly forested canyon landscapes beyond.

Perched high above the canyon floor, the overlook provides visitors with sweeping views of sandstone cliffs, deep canyon walls, juniper-covered hillsides, and the winding course of Oak Creek far below. The combination of dramatic elevation changes, vibrant red rock formations, and lush canyon scenery creates one of the most visually striking landscapes in northern Arizona.

Midgley Bridge Overlook is especially popular with photographers, sightseers, and travelers seeking one of Sedona’s most memorable viewpoints. From the overlook, visitors can capture stunning images of the bridge itself framed by towering cliffs and expansive canyon vistas. During sunrise and sunset, the surrounding sandstone formations glow with brilliant shades of copper, orange, gold, and deep red, creating exceptional photography opportunities throughout the year.

Unlike many scenic pullouts, Midgley Bridge offers a unique perspective that blends Sedona’s iconic red rocks with the dramatic geography of Oak Creek Canyon. The overlook provides a sense of scale and grandeur that leaves a lasting impression on visitors, making it one of the most photographed and frequently visited scenic stops in the region.

Whether enjoyed as part of a scenic drive, photography tour, or exploration of Sedona’s natural wonders, Midgley Bridge Overlook remains a must-visit destination for experiencing the beauty of Arizona’s red rock wilderness.

While the spectacular canyon scenery surrounding Midgley Bridge was created by natural geological forces over millions of years, Midgley Bridge itself is a man-made engineering landmark. The landscape visible from the overlook began forming approximately 250 to 300 million years ago, when layers of sand, mud, and sediment accumulated across ancient deserts and inland waterways. Over time, these sediments hardened into sandstone and were later uplifted as part of the Colorado Plateau. Millions of years of erosion by wind, water, and weather sculpted the dramatic cliffs, mesas, and canyon walls that define Sedona today.

Long before modern roads and bridges existed, Indigenous peoples including the Sinagua, Yavapai, and Apache traveled throughout the region, utilizing Oak Creek Canyon as an important travel corridor and resource area.

The bridge itself was constructed in 1939 by the Arizona Highway Department as part of improvements to what is now State Route 89A. Named after William T. Midgley, an early Arizona highway engineer and advocate for roadway development in the state, the bridge was designed to provide safe passage across a dramatic canyon section near the entrance to Oak Creek Canyon.

Built using reinforced concrete arch construction, Midgley Bridge was considered a significant engineering achievement for its time. The graceful arch spans approximately 175 feet above the canyon floor, blending functionality with the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. Its design allows travelers to experience spectacular canyon views while preserving the natural character of the area.

Over the decades, Midgley Bridge has become one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks and a favorite stopping point for visitors entering Oak Creek Canyon. Today, it remains an important transportation structure as well as a celebrated scenic attraction that connects travelers to one of Arizona’s most beautiful landscapes.

• One of Sedona’s most iconic scenic viewpoints 
• Panoramic views of Oak Creek Canyon 
• Historic 1939 arch bridge and engineering landmark 
• Incredible photography opportunities 
• Spectacular sunrise and sunset lighting 
• Gateway to Oak Creek Canyon and northern Sedona 
• Easy access from State Route 89A 
• Stunning combination of red rocks, forests, and canyon scenery 
• A must-see stop on any Sedona scenic drive

Best Scenic Driving Tours to Midgley Bridge Overlook

• Two Hour: Call of the Canyons Tour
• Three Hour: Slickrock Scenic Byway Tour
• Three Hour: Red Rock Custom Driving Tour

Best Hiking Tours to Midgley Bridge Overlook

• Two Hour: Sedona Explorer (Custom Hike) 
• Three Hour: Guided Expedition (Custom Hike) 
• Half Day: Red Rock Excursion (Custom Hike)

Best MTB Tour to Midgley Bridge

• Three Hour: Pioneers Passage