Things to do in Sedona
Spring and fall bring warm days, cool nights, and the best hiking weather. Summer is hot with strong sun and afternoon monsoon storms in July and August; winter is mild by day but can see snow that dusts the red rocks.
Best months: March, April, October, November
What is worth your time in Sedona
Boynton Canyon TrailDo not miss
A vortex canyon hike past red-and-cream cliffs to a box-canyon forest, with a side spur to the Subway cave.
Activity · 3.5 hr4.8
Cathedral RockDo not miss
Sedona's most photographed formation and a famed energy vortex, with a short but steep scramble to a saddle framed by towering red spires.
Viewpoint · 2.3 hr4.8
Chapel of the Holy CrossDo not miss
A striking modernist chapel built directly into the red rock, with a serene interior and a sweeping valley view.
Architecture · 53 min4.8
Devil's Bridge TrailDo not miss
Hike to Sedona's largest natural sandstone arch and stand on the iconic span for the area's most coveted photo.
Activity · 3 hr4.8
Oak Creek CanyonDo not miss
Drive the lush, river-carved canyon between Sedona and Flagstaff, a riot of color in fall and shade in summer.
Scenic Route · 2.3 hr4.8
West Fork Trail (Oak Creek)Do not miss
A shaded creekside hike with sheer canyon walls and dozens of stream crossings, spectacular in autumn color.
Activity · 4 hr4.8
Airport Mesa OverlookDo not miss
A central mesa-top overlook and vortex offering a 360-degree panorama of Sedona's red rocks, unbeatable at sunset.
Viewpoint · 1.1 hr4.7
Red Rock State ParkDo not miss
A peaceful nature preserve along Oak Creek with gentle trails, a visitor center, and classic Cathedral Rock views.
Park · 2.3 hr4.7
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping VillageDo not miss
A charming Spanish-colonial village of galleries, boutiques, and courtyard restaurants under old sycamores.
Neighborhood · 1.8 hr4.6
Bell RockDo not miss
A bell-shaped butte and easy-access vortex with a gentle loop and optional scramble, perfect for first-timers chasing red-rock views.
Viewpoint · 1.8 hr
Courthouse Butte Loop
A mostly level loop encircling Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte with ever-changing red-rock views.
Activity · 2.5 hr5
Long Canyon Trail
A gentle, less-trafficked canyon hike toward the Birthing Cave, a popular hidden alcove with a framed view.
Activity · 2.3 hr5
Bear Mountain Trail
A strenuous climb up exposed red ledges to a high summit with one of Sedona's biggest panoramas.
Activity · 4 hr4.9
Sedona Hot Air Balloon Ride
Float at sunrise over the red rocks for a once-in-a-lifetime aerial perspective of canyon country.
Activity · 3.5 hr4.9
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- Most trailheads and scenic areas require a Red Rock Pass (or America the Beautiful pass); buy one online or at a visitor center before parking.
- Summer heat is intense and shade is scarce; hike at dawn, carry far more water than you think, and save midday for shops or indoor stops.
- Popular trailheads like Devil's Bridge and Soldier Pass fill by early morning; arrive at sunrise or use the shuttle to avoid parking closures.
- Pink Jeep and other off-road tours book out days ahead in peak season; reserve before you arrive.
- Arizona does not observe daylight saving time, so sunset and tour times can differ from neighboring states for part of the year.