11 Things to Do in Winter in Sedona: Insider Secrets to a Perfect Trip 

The sedona landscape in the winter with beautiful clouds and snow-capped landscape

As a proud Sedona resident, let me just start by saying that planning a winter trip to Sedona is one of the best vacation decisions you could make!

Smaller crowds, plenty of festive activities, and temperatures that won’t have you cooking like a baked potato the moment you step outside… it’s all part of the package. 

Winter in Sedona is simply the best.

Christmas decorations hanging up on a famous Sedona landmark evoking the combination of a desert landscape and festive decorations

Plus, if you think that the red rocks of Sedona look beautiful all on their own, just wait until you see them with a light covering of snow.

This is the stuff dreams are made of, people — so add it to your Arizona bucket list, stat! 

The Lowdown on Winter in Sedona

Weather

A snow-covered red rock landscape in the winter in Sedona with its characteristic geography covered in trees and snow with blue sky and clouds behind it

So, you’re probably re-reading that first section and thinking to yourself: “Snow?? I thought Sedona was supposed to be the desert!” 

Believe it or not, this part of Arizona can actually get its fair share of snow! Now, it’s no Colorado winter.

The snow usually only sticks around the tops of the red rock mountains, but it’s not uncommon to see some flurries during your visit. 

Of course, it’s also not impossible to find clear skies and sun that will have you eager to throw on your summer shorts. 

In other words, prepare for every type of weather! 

Dig out your sandals from storage but don’t forget your trusty winter beanie.

A pair of traction devices for hiking (like crampons) never hurts, but also make sure you have sunblock on hand.

I could go on, but I think you get the idea!

Drawbacks

An icy trail leading to the beginning of a popular Sedona hike, imploring people to take caution while hiking in Sedona in winter and wear proper footwear

Winter in the desert… What could go wrong? Honestly not much! 

The rattlesnakes are hibernating, the crowds are down, the weather is beautiful, what more could you ever ask for? 

Well, to be completely honest, there is one thing to look out for… ice

While Sedona doesn’t get much snow, cold night time temperatures and shaded nooks on the trail lead to impromptu ice skating rinks… oftentimes right on the side of sheer drop-offs. 

Now, this isn’t a normal occurrence and you won’t find yourself shimmying across ice patches in fear of your life every time you hit the trail, but it’s important to know that it happens.

Always check with the Red Rock Ranger Station about icy conditions on the trail and don’t be afraid to turn around if you find yourself in a slippery situation. 

Your safety is always worth more than completing a trail!

Crowds

a man in a jacket and hat watching the sun set at a cathedral rock viewpoint in sedona in winter

If you couldn’t tell already, the lack of crowds is my favorite thing to talk about but this isn’t to say that it’ll be a ghost town! 

At the end of the day, it’s still Sedona (read: busy).

But after you’ve spent your summer stuck in an hour’s worth of traffic every time you want to go five miles, winter “crowds” feel like a dream. 

You may still struggle to get a parking spot at popular spots like the Cathedral Rock trailhead during peak hours…

… but hit it at sunrise and you may be one of the only people up there. Starting to catch my drift? 

Where to Stay in Sedona in Winter

An infinity pool at a rseort in sedona in the winter with two chairs laid out on the sun deck

One of my favorite things about winter in Sedona is that the world is your oyster!

The crowds have pretty much disappeared (because apparently people prefer to be scorched during the summer months, I know, I’m puzzled too).

Maybe it’s because people aren’t doing their summer-vacation epic mutli-state Southwest road trips or smaller Arizona-only road trips.

And with less demand comes cheaper accommodations, meaning often-pricy spa resorts become a heck of a lot more affordable!

Luxury: Enchantment Resort

Easily one of the fanciest, sought-after options in Sedona, the Enchantment Resort will still cost you a pretty penny but it will feel like a bargain compared to its summer price tag!

This option is for those truly seeking luxury in the form of multiple pools, a spa, a golf club, and more.

Mid-Range: Las Posadas of Sedona

Tucked away in the charming village of Oak Creek, Los Posadas is as close to Sedona as you can get without being in the center of all the excitement.

This incredible hike is pretty much just a rock scramble to the top, and a crab walk down. Totally worth it though!

Alternative Route: To keep the good times rolling (and for a better chance at a parking spot), start at the Baldwin Trailhead for a scenic creekside addition to the main Cathedral Rock trail.

This will put you at 3.7 miles roundtrip with 931 feet of elevation gain. (AllTrails information here) — a lot more hike with just a little more elevation gain.

Devils Bridge

man standing on a snow-covered landmark of sedona in winter, the devils bridge rock formation, with a snowy landscape behind him and some light fog

Most people think that this hike is only 2 miles round trip, and it is… as long as you have a 4WD high-clearance vehicle.

If not, you’ll be adding an extra 2 miles, and I’m here to tell you how to make the most of it.

To start off: do not walk the 4WD road at Dry Creek Vista like everyone else.

Start at the Mescal Trailhead for a much more enjoyable (but equal length) route.

Bonus Tip: Double your reward by going for sunrise — you’ll have that classic walking across Devils Bridge picture in no time, vs. waiting in line at any other time of day! 

Subway Cave

Person in long shirt and long pants hiking in Subway Cave in sedona in the fall or winter months when it's a little cold out but no snow out

I was originally a little hesitant to put this one on here since it’s not technically an official trail, but look.

The views are simply amazing and everyone already knows about it thanks to Instagram, so I figured I should give you the tools for success. 

While I can tell you that it’s located along the Boynton Canyon Trail, you’ll have to do your research to find the cave itself. 

Scavenge the internet and study the directions… or follow everyone else that is going to the same place.

Whatever you do, just make sure to have an offline GPS app of some kind, just in case.

Birthing Cave

cave called the birthing cave opening to reveal red rock landscape of sedona with trees and cloudy sky

Okay so still not technically an official trail, this one has managed to find itself on Alltrails so it is much easier to find, and much shorter too!

This trail will give you some similar cave vibes without the extra fuss of the Subway Cave.

As an added bonus, it’s my favorite place to watch the sunrise! 

See the icicles at West Fork.

ice and snow building up to create icicle fairytale landscape at the west fork area of sedona

The West Fork Trail (AllTrails info here) in Oak Creek Canyon offers something new and spectacular with every season.

Cool off by the water during the summer months, marvel as the canyon becomes a blanket of reds and oranges come fall, admire spring flowers, and escape into a winter wonderland.

It’s the gift that keeps on giving!  

Of course, that natural beauty is also the reason why the parking lot is managed by a concessionaire and costs $12 per vehicle to enter.

This place is always popping! 

I couldn’t tell you which season in West Fork is my favorite but I can tell you that the winter months give this place a completely different feel that’s simply incredible. 

Gigantic icicles line the canyon walls, snow lingers in shady corners, and the creek bubbles as it navigates under the ice.

It feels so unlike Sedona in the very best way! 

The trail itself is 6.5 miles roundtrip, but you can explore this place as much or as little as you want and still have a magical time. 

Hop on the Christmas Train.

verde canyon railroad in the winter with blue painted vintage train going through a snow-covered red rock landscape of arizona

It’s not everyday that you get a chance to go for a festive train ride, let alone pick from one of two amazing choices!

Sedona is located smack dab in the middle of two charming towns that both pride themselves on their Christmas spirit. 

The Verde Canyon Railway, located in Clarkdale, offers a scenic train ride all year-round but at Christmas time, the train is transformed for its Magical Christmas Journey!

You’ll be greeted by a real life bald eagle and have the chance to explore a miniature village before hopping on the train to the North Pole. This is a great option for the kiddos!

You can book a ticket online here for the whole package deal complete with champagne toast, appetizers, and a railway ticket for the gorgeous ride!

Note that pickup is not included, though, so you’ll have to make your way to Clarkdale yourself… though you will likely want a rental car while you’re in Sedona, anyway, to access all those great hikes!

The Grand Canyon Railway, located in Williams, is meant to be a real-life impression of the famous Polar Express!

Start your journey in the winter wonderland that is Williams and enjoy movie impersonations (and hot cocoa!) as you make your way up to the North Pole and back.

This tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Sedona, will let you take the famous Grand Canyon Railway one-way [return is by van], and also allocates plenty of time to explore Grand Canyon National Park in winter by way of a heated van tour!

It’s a great way to combine a winter Grand Canyon trip with a scenic snowy festive train ride!

Attend a festive event.

Local wares for sale at a Sedona christmas market style event with beautiful handcrafted ornaments

From the Sedona Tree Lighting to the Festival of Lights at Tlaquepaque, there is no shortage of festive events in Sedona in winter!

Every weekend there seems to be something new going on (of course, that’s not just during the holiday season!) 

In other words, be prepared to spend some cash on adorable locally crafted items.

Of course, that’s usually the real reason why most people attend holiday festivals in the first place. 

Increase your options for attending an event during your visit by considering the whole Verde Valley!

Check out the Verde Valley Events page to see what’s happening in Sedona as well as nearby charming Arizona towns like Campe Verde and Cottonwood, which make perfect easy day trips from Sedona

Marvel at the night sky.

Dark sky with milky way illuminated as seen over the beautiful landscape of Sedona, Arizona

Considering the fact that Sedona is home to more than 10,000 people, there is no doubt that the city has put in a lot of effort to obtain its International Dark Sky Community certification. 

That’s right, Sedona is home to some of the darkest skies in the country!

And the bottom line is, you can experience it from just about anywhere. 

At night, the bustling tourist city that is Sedona goes pitch-black. There are no annoying street lights creating an obnoxious glow around your night sky. 

When you look up, all you see is darkness and stars… stars like you’ve never seen before!

Still, a pesky car driving by with its headlights ready to blind you will destroy your night vision, so get off the main road for the best night sky viewing experience.

Really, any trailhead on the outskirts of town will do! 

Say hello to the Milky Way for me! 

While you definitely have a great experience DIYing your own stargazing tour, you can make the experience even more fun and quirky by doing this Sedona Stargazing and UFO Tour!

This tour not only takes you to great stargazing viewpoints… it also lets you use military-grade night vision goggles to watch unexplained UFO-esque activity flying above your head, normally undetectable to your own eyes!

While I haven’t done the tour myself just yet, supposedly, the lights are wild — they flash, change size, and move around unpredictably!

If you watched a little too much X-Files as a kid (*raises hand*) this may be the thing to add to your Sedona itinerary.

Catch an epic sunset.

Sedona landscape with snow and sunset illuminated clouds in the background

Ah yes, Sedona… the place where bad sunsets simply don’t exist. 

Literally no matter where you are or what you are doing, if you are in Sedona, you will experience an epic sunset. 

The way the sun reflects on the red rocks as it sets is something that never gets old.

Plus, you don’t have to be in any particular spot to see the sun itself setting. 

You just want to be near the red rocks as they’re illuminated by the setting sun, and the good news is, there are red rocks everywhere you look.

That being said, I do have a few favorite spots…

The Obvious Choice: Airport Mesa

Winter sunset at the popular sunset spot of Airport Mesa in Sedona, with snow landscape and pink sky

While the sunset views here are incredible and it’s always on my list when friends or family come to visit, there’s no denying that it is the busiest sunset spot in Sedona.

But if you can fight the crowds (yes, even during the winter months) and are willing to pay $3 to park, you’ll be rewarded with unmatched views of some of Sedona’s most iconic rock formations. 

You can also hit the Airport Loop trail to avoid some of the crowds! 

The Adventurous Choice: Schuerman Mountain Vista 

Sedona winter landscape at sunset with pink clouds illuminating the beautiful red rocks of the mountain ranges

This is, by far, my favorite sunset spot hands down — maybe the 1.7 mile roundtrip hike with about 370 feet of elevation gain scares people off, but it’s always quiet.

Somehow this trail (AllTrails info here) has managed to stay off the radar even though it offers one of the most spectacular sunset views of Sedona’s red rock country… with zero crowds!

I can’t tell you how many times I have had this place all to myself. It’s the definition of a hidden gem!

So, do me a favor and let’s just keep this between you and me! 

The Perfect Middle Ground: Secret Slick Rock

A sunset on cathedral rock in Sedona Arizona with a natural pool at the base of the formations

This not-so-secret trail offers one of the best reward to effort ratios for sunset hikes in Sedona.

This is a beautiful hike clocking in at just 0.7 miles roundtrip with about 80 feet of elevation gain. AllTrails info here.

A short hike will take you to a massive slab of slick rock (aka plenty of room to spread out) with a close up view of the famous Cathedral Rock. 

When the weather’s right, you’ll even find water in the potholes that make for a perfect reflection image of Cathedral!

You know the one that you see in all those pictures? Yeah, it’s taken here! 

2 Days in Sedona: Your Expert Weekend in Sedona Itinerary (2023)

Sedona holds a special place in my heart. The first time I ever stepped foot in Sedona, Arizona two years ago I knew it held some type of magic.

I love the red rock formations that tower over the city. Artsy, handmade shops line every street and some of the best cuisines can be found tucked away on unassuming street corners.

I loved it so much that I’ve returned multiple times since. 

I have perfected the two days in Sedona itinerary and I’m excited to share a piece of the magic with you!

sun rising over the red rocks of sedona on a sedona weekend trip
PLANNING FOR SEDONA  AT A GLANCE: 

When to Go: Sedona is beautiful all-year-round but spring and fall bring the best out of it since the weather is perfect to enjoy all the outdoor activities it offers. Summer in Sedona can get quite hot (think average highs of 100F -- not exactly hiking whether). Sedona in winter is cold but less crowded, but I think the best time to visit Sedona is during spring or fall. 

Where to Stay: Sedona has endless options when it comes to accommodation. From the budget-friendly bed and breakfast, the sumptuous resorts that will make you feel like a million bucks to the secluded log cabins in the woods!   

If you want to splurge and take in all the luxuries of Sedona, I recommend staying at Amara Resort and Spa in Uptown Sedona. It might be a bit pricey but the soaring views will make up for that. If you're all about privacy with a homey feel, Casa Sedona Inn checks all those boxes — serenity is what you can expect here. 

And if you want to stay on a budget, I recommend staying at Sedona Uptown Suites (not much of a low budget per se but cheap on Sedona standards.) 

However, if your plan includes staying somewhere a little more homey and unique, you'll love this rustic cottageHow to Get Around: You can take a shuttle to get from Phoenix to Sedona but that can be very limiting or you'd have to rely on tours which can be a bit costly, so I recommend renting a car. If you're renting a car, compare car rentals and prices from here. Alternately, you can rent an RV or campervan via RVShare and save on accommodation.

Don't want to drive or plan? You can book a nighttime stargazing tour, a Jeep Broken Arrow Tour or even a Scenic Rim Tour.

3 Things Not to Forget to Pack: Binoculars are key for spotting wildlife like Mule deer, javelina, and coyotes -- I suggest these Nikon binoculars. For hikes, you'll want a sturdy pair of hiking boots -- I love my Ahnu boots -- and some bug spray to keep away bugs. 

Know Before You Go: If you plan to visit multiple national parks in a year, the America the Beautiful Pass will save you a bundle! It costs $80 for an annual pass (for an entire vehicle traveling together) to all US national parks and federally managed sites.  

How to Get to Sedona, Arizona

Sign that reads "Sedona founded 1902" with red rock formations and trees in the foreground of the photo

Sedona is located a 2-hour drive from Phoenix International Airport, which is the biggest flight hub in Arizona and where most Sedona weekend getaways will begin!

While there is a shuttle to get from Phoenix to Sedona, being without your own car in Sedona will definitely limit you in terms of what you are able to do and see, and it will make you more reliant on tours (which can up the cost of your trip). 

I recommend renting a car at Phoenix Airport and driving to Sedona — it’ll save you money and headache!

Not sure where to get the best deal on your rental? I’ve rented cars dozens of times through various search engines and have settled on Discover Cars as the best car rental search aggregator.

It sifts through dozens of trusted rental companies to find the cheapest price for your rental! Compare prices for car rental from Phoenix Airport here!

Visiting Sedona as Part of a Larger Arizona Itinerary

view of the Grand Canyon at sunrise with the sun cresting over the valley and river with brilliant red and orange colors

Some people may opt to spend a weekend in Sedona as a single getaway; others may be looking to combine more Arizona sightseeing into their trip!

If you want to see more of Arizona, I have this 7-day road trip itinerary which will walk you through spending a week in Arizona, including Flagstaff, Scottsdale, the Grand Canyon, Saguaro National Park, Page (and Horseshoe Bend / Antelope Canyon), and Tuscon. 

There are other ways to structure a trip to Arizona. If you have less than a week, I’d suggest flying into Phoenix, basing yourself in Sedona, and doing day trips from Sedona to Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon from there.

Alternately, perhaps you could do a vacation rental or glamping site near the Grand Canyon for a few days to reduce your driving time while still getting to see a lot of this section of Arizona.

Wait, What About the Sedona Vortexes?

Falling light of the sunrise or sunset casting a glow on the red rocks of Sedona overlooking the Verde Valley with green trees in the valley

Any post about planning a Sedona itinerary should mention the vortexes that the city is known for. Whether it’s a marketing strategy or magic is up to you to decide!

According to the Visit Sedona website, vortexes are:

“Swirling centers of energy that are conducive to healing, meditation and self-exploration. These are places where the earth seems especially alive with energy. Many people feel inspired, recharged or uplifted after visiting a vortex.”

Sedona’s four best-known vortexes are identified as Airport MesaCathedral RockBell Rock, and Boynton Canyon.

This post doesn’t have you visiting all the vortexes, as you’re limited by time since this is just a 2 day Sedona itinerary.

However, if you’re curious what this whole Sedona vortex thing is all about and want to do a vortex tour, there are vortex tours by Jeep and guided meditation tours at some of Sedona’s vortexes.

Real? Hoax? Somewhere in between? I’m not quite sure where I fall, but I can tell you that the beauty of Sedona is magical and enticing, vortexes or no.

Intrigued? Check out this Jeep vortex tour!

Where to Stay in Sedona

The red rock formations of Sedona with the afternoon light on the rocks, a green tree in the foreground to add contrast.

Sedona has endless options when it comes to places to stay. From resorts that pamper to quaint bed and breakfasts to Sedona boutique hotels, there’s plenty of options that will cover your every desire.

If I’m visiting Sedona and want to splurge a little bit, I always book a few nights at Amara Resort and Spa in Uptown Sedona. 

My absolute selling point of staying at Amara is it is smack dab in the middle of Sedona so everything is within a short walking distance. The actual resort itself is absolutely stunning. Amara is tucked away off the street in an oasis of trees along the banks of Oak Creek. 

You’re greeted at the door by a complimentary valet so the stress of parking is immediately taken off your hands!

Huge wooden French doors remain open to the airy artistry of the lobby that’s always bustling with relaxed social guests. Each room has weirdly relaxing neutral colors that are splashed with vibrant modern art and accents. 

The grounds are kept immaculate and each balcony looks out towards the common grounds where you can relax in oversized Adirondack chairs, take a dip in the infinity pool or catch a sunset dip below the red rock canyons.

All my bougie needs are filled at Amara and the staff is exceptional!

Book your stay at Amara today!

image of yellow chairs out on the outdoor area of amara sedona
The Amara Resort & Spa in Sedona. Photo Credit: Jenni Konrad via Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0)

If you’re in Sedona and are looking for something a little more private, homey, and reasonably priced, I’ve found that the Casa Sedona Inn is just the place. 

Casa Sedona is just outside the main downtown area of Sedona in the West Sedona area. A car or bike will definitely be needed if you want to stay here and explore downtown. 

But don’t let that deter you from staying here! If I’m being honest, I’d rather stay outside of town at Casa Sedona Inn because of its private beauty and location to the nature of the Verde Valley.

It’s an adobe-style mansion tucked away in the juniper forest with exceptional views of Sedonas desert. The Inn resembles the layout of an actual house. With rooms tucked away in art-filled hallways and every door has its own ornate design. 

Each uniquely decorated room has its own fireplace, private terrace, and a huge master bathroom. Casa Sedona is the ultimate escape for romance, privacy, or just relaxation off the beaten path.

Book your stay at Casa Sedona Inn today!

What to Pack for Sedona

For a complete packing list if you’re doing a longer trip, you can check out what to pack for a road trip here but below is a quick overview of what to pack for Sedona.

Travel Guides: This Sedona itinerary is packed with so much useful information but sometimes guide books provide way more since they dedicate so much time and resources to research. So together with my personal experience and this Sedona: Treasure of the Southwest guide, you can be assured of having an amazing time.

Comfortable Footwear: Enjoying the great outdoors of Sedona means hiking and a sturdy pair of hiking boots is worth the investment. I love my Ahnu Sugarpine boots for women, and for men, I suggest the KEEN Durand boot.

However, if you choose to go with sneakers, make sure they have good traction and are comfortable enough to walk in for a couple of miles.

Sunscreen: At an elevation of 4,500 feet, it’s easy to get burned even on cloudy days! Trust me — I’ve learned this the hard way. Pack and wear sunscreen while in Sedona and reapply every couple of hours.

I suggest taking this chemical-free organic sunscreen especially if you plan on swimming in one of the water holes — you don’t want to pollute the water with a sunscreen full of chemicals.

Sunhat: I suggest taking a lightweight and packable hat like this one. It has a strap to avoid being blown away by wind and if you get tired of wearing it on the head, you can easily wear it on your back.

Day pack: A day pack is essential when visiting Sedona so you can keep all your day’s essentials in a place that can easily be reached! But don’t just take any day pack — I like this inexpensive and lightweight Osprey day pack. The best part is that it has mesh panels on the back to allow for proper airflow.

Snacks: Most trails Sedona are not that hard, but you’ll still need to recharge when you get hungry — especially if you don’t want to waste time sitting down for a long lunch.

I recommend packing or picking a picnic or have lots of snacks before you make your way into Sedona. I always take various protein bars (I love CLIF bars), nuts, and other energy-giving snacks.

Camera: I love my Sony A6000! I never go anywhere without it. It’s lightweight and takes even better photos compared to other heavier D-SLR cameras. But since this is just the body, I suggest taking a zoom lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes, as the kit lens is OK, but nothing to brag about.

First aid kit: Things like blisters are likely to happen while in the outdoors but don’t let them ruin your Sedona trip. I recommend always keeping a first aid kit like this HART Weekend First Aid kit in your daypack. It’s lightweight and has everything you might need should that time come.

Headlamp (and extra batteries): If you plan to go stargazing (which I highly recommend), I suggest bringing a headlamp like this Petzl headlamp.

Sedona Travel Tips

Cloudy sky over scenic view of the Bell Rock from the highway near Sedona, two cars on the road in the distance.

Book in advance. Sedona is one of the most popular getaway destinations in Arizona. Many of the best hotels book up early, as this is somewhat of a bucket list destination.

Booking in advance will save you a headache down the road picking second- and third-best options.

Pack appropriately. You’ll want to be sure to bring your hiking boots, that’s for sure! If you’re visiting in summer, you’ll want to pack lightweight, breathable materials like linen and silk, as well as breathable hiking clothes. 

Know that it gets cold! That said, be sure to bring some layers for night: Sedona’s elevation is 4,350 feet above sea level and it’s located in the high desert. That means cold temperatures overnight! 

Especially if you’re doing the stargazing tour (a must in my book!) you’ll absolutely want some warm layers. Jeans and a fleece should be fine in summer, and you’ll want something a bit heavier for winter.

Book your activities early. There are several activities in Sedona that book up quickly — namely, the Pink Jeep tours and the stargazing tours.

If you’re visiting in the peak season (April through October), you’ll want to book this in advance!

Day 1 of Your Sedona Itinerary

Spiky cactus with pink flowers on the cacti, red rocks with green shrubs in the distance, a typical Sedona landscape you'll see on this Sedona itinerary!

As soon as you step into Sedona you find out how trendy, artsy and incredibly healthy the city is.

I know you’ve heard about the weird mythical positive vibes that Sedona radiates but it’s so true!

Blame it on the Vortexes, the red rocks, or the stars but the air is truly different here and you’re sure to feel it!

Have coffee and relax

Sunrise over the red rock formations of Sedona with trees in the valley and shrubs below

Your first morning should be spent in your room watching the sun rise from your own balcony while sipping a pot of fresh coffee.

I know you’re thinking “Wait what? I want to get out!” But hold on! Sedona is all about recharging, relaxing, and taking time to appreciate the sights before mingling among the masses.

So sit back, relax and enjoy the quiet time in your own humble abode.

Have breakfast at Chocolatree

Perfect latte art in a cup on a pink plate with a gold spoon on a table.

 Get yourself together and put on your cutest comfortable day dress!

Head over to Chocolatree for a mid-morning breakfast to fuel your day and take in more of nature’s sights.

Chocolatree is the perfect spot for its light breakfast options, cold pressed juices, and restorative coffee shots.

All of their menu options are 100% organic, farm to table. My favorite item on the menu is the avocado toast topped with chipotle paneer.

Chocolatree also has a small on-site garden that they pull their ingredients from making it a one of a kind restaurant that really makes me appreciate the food.

To top it off, they have an outdoor cafe with exceptional views!

Before you head out, stop by their in-house chocolate shop and grab a to-go box.

Each chocolate is sweetened with honey or maple syrup giving it a sweet twist on traditionally made chocolate with sugar.

Sip and shop

adobe and mosaic masonry of the tlaquepaque arts and shopping center

Work some of your breakfast off at the outdoor market called Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Tlaquepaque is such a fun place to shop! It’s a Spanish-inspired outdoor market (they call it a crafts village, which just about sums it up!)

It’s filled with handmade shops, art galleries, and music. The beauty of Tlaquepaque is worth seeing! 

As soon as you walk under the adobe-inspired gateway you’re transported into a beautiful garden area with ivy vines growing on every wall, water features flowing from the courtyard and decorations strung high above the walkway. 

It’s easy to spend hours here soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the treasures you’ll find in the small shops. 

My favorite shop is Natural Wonders. I’ve always been a rock geek, collecting weird-shaped rocks as a kid, Natural Wonders is like an adult rock shop. 

It’s full of beautiful crystallized rocks, precious gems. and ancient fossils. It’s part gallery, part store and it always leaves me in awe at how beautiful the world is.

Note: If you want to buy Native American jewelry, be sure to buy it from a Native artist who will benefit from the purchase. Unfortunately many white artists in Sedona and elsewhere steal Native designs and sell their intellectual property for profit.

In Tlaquepaque, the best place to buy Native American art pieces is at Ninibah. The shop itself is not Native-owned as far as I can tell, but all the artwork is certified to be crafted by Native jewelry designers, and the Native artists earn a fair price for their work. 

Trolley over to The Chapel of the Holy Cross

A church in the red rocks of Sedona with a large cross and stained glass

 After you’ve done a bit of shopping, wander over to The Chapel of the Holy Cross for some magnificent sightseeing.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a staple on Sedona’s skyline and worth the trip to see. Hop on the Sedona Trolley and take in the various sights across the city as you make your way towards The Chapel of the Holy across.

It’s every bit of a work of art as it is a church. A uniquely designed church with a 90-foot iron cross sits beautifully among the Sedona landscape.

On the inside, massive windows fill the southern side of the church allowing tremendous views of the desert landscape. It’s truly a work of art and will leave you speechless.

Relax at Amara Spa

Stones on a woman's back as she lays face down on a massage table

 A trip to Sedona isn’t complete without some type of spa and massage experience.

Amara Spa continues to be my go-to place for a mid-day massage. Their masseuses are world-class and the atmosphere exudes relaxation.

Amara has everything from therapeutic massages to guided meditation. The comfortable atmosphere puts me at ease and leaves me feeling recharged.

Have some pre-dinner drinks

Four hands holding colorful drinks including one with watermelon and one with lime.

 As a Texan, I’m all about a pre-dinner margarita! Javelina Cantina is the perfect spot for a sweet and sour libation on your walk back to town.

They have an awesome happy hour that runs every day from 3-6 PM, and they can mix up a mean margarita. Grab a basket of chips and head to the patio.

Javelina Cantina is full of Mexican-inspired flare and surrounded with patio views that are classic Sedona.

It’s fun to soak up some late afternoon sun while sipping a cold margarita just before heading back to the hotel to clean up for the night.

Have dinner with a view

The colors at sunset in Sedona over the red rocks of the landscape

Every successful day on vacation ends with a good dinner and a sunset. My favorite restaurant in Sedona, hands down, is Elote.

Elote is beyond famous for their cuisine and is well sought after by almost every visitor in Sedona. I’ll be honest, it’s incredibly hard to snag a seat as they don’t accept reservations and the establishment is small and intimate.

But their Southwestern-inspired cuisine is to die for. Elote takes pride in their wild game offerings and handcrafted appetizers.

I love saving some room for their Mexican chocolate pie after dinner. It’s an incredibly dense chocolate pie topped with Mexican chocolates and whipped cream. It’s close to the best thing I’ve ever tasted!

Since Elote is so difficult to find seating at, I always have a backup plan. Cucina Rustica always saves the night and its cuisine never disappoints.

Cucina Rustica features Italian-inspired dishes and has a long list of wonderful Sedona wines. They take pride in the farm-to-table approach and it shows in the freshness of their plates.

They have indoor and outdoor seating options as well as live music that sets the tone in a warm, romantic atmosphere. The Filetto di Manzo is to die for!

Although a little on the pricey side, Cucina Rustica is worth every bit of the splurge.

Do some stargazing

The Milky Way shown in the night sky above the red rocks of Sedona's landscape with light trails from a plane or shooting star

Ending your first night in Sedona should always include viewing the galactic magic that hangs in the sky. 

Sedona is one of 20 communities in America that is a Certified Dark Sky Community. There’s plenty of dark sky viewing areas around Sedona including Two Trees Observing Deck and Crescent Moon Picnic Site. 

But if you’re looking for a professional service to help guide your stargazing adventure — with a little UFO spotting on the side — then check out this nighttime stargazing tour! They take small groups out to stargaze and look for UFOs in the night sky.

Aided by UFO spotting and stargazing professionals and armed with binoculars and night-vision goggles, you’ll be able to navigate the night sky and catch some of the most amazing stars and night sky gazing you’ve ever seen.

 I can’t recommend this experience enough! It’s one of the most fun and amazing experiences I’ve had in Sedona. It is a little pricy, but I can attest that it’s worth every penny.

Book your stargazing tour here!

Day 2 of Your Sedona Itinerary

A colorful sunrise over the red rock formations of Sedona and the trees in the valley

I always feel more comfortable and ready to go on my second day in Sedona. I’m filled with the city’s energy, I’ve learned the flow and I’m ready to go! 

Day two of this Sedona itinerary is totally dedicated to the outdoors: hiking trails, Jeep tours through red rock formations, and cooling off in the river. 

Throw on your best athleisure outfit because today is the day to experience Sedona’s adventurous landscape!

See the sunrise from Devil’s Bridge

The natural bridge of Devil's Bridge in Sedona with red rocks and green trees all over the valley

Okay listen, it’s imperative to set an alarm and prepare for an early morning hike!

Devil’s Bridge is on the agenda and given it’s the busiest trail in Sedona and generally quite full of fellow hikers, you’ll want to be one of the first ones out there. 

Check out the sunrise times on Google and prepare to start your hike about 30 minutes prior. When I was there, 6 AM seemed to be the perfect balance between enjoying sleep and catching the sunrise.

Head out to the Dry Creek Road Trailhead and snag a parking spot. Devil’s Bridge is a 4-mile out-and-back hiking trail and the Dry Creek Road Trailhead offers the shortest length. 

Devil’s Bridge Trail is absolutely delightful and energizing. It’s surrounded by red rocks, vortexes, amazing cliffs, and an overall stunning desert landscape. 

Interested in learning more about the Sedona vortexes? Try this vortex and guided meditation experience!

It’s an enjoyable hike but a bit on the moderate side as there is a slight climb as you ascend to the actual bridge.

To see Devil’s Bridge in real life is absolutely tremendous! I feel like it’s the 8th wonder of the world and pictures just don’t do it justice. 

As the sun begins to peek into the sky, the desert below lights up and almost sparkles. Take a second to bask in the quiet morning. It’s a surreal experience that’ll kick your day off right.

 When finished, head back the same way you came on the hiking trail — it’s an out-and-back trail.

Have breakfast in the Secret Garden

A colorful cactus, green with purple spikes, on the ground of a garden

 After you’ve worked up an appetite on your early morning hike, head over to Secret Garden Cafe for breakfast.

This is my all-time favorite breakfast spot and it’s perfect for continuing the outdoor theme of the day!

I still remember the first time I walked into Secret Garden two years ago. I was blown away by the beauty of the patio.

It’s literally like dining in a beautiful, lush garden. There are flowers in full bloom, deep green grass cut to perfection, and colors popping all around.

To top it off their food and specialty drink menu is out of this world. As with most Sedona restaurants, Secret Garden features farm-to-table ingredients and locally grown produce.

The “world famous” deep dish quiche is truly world-famous!

Top that off with their locally distilled prickly pear vodka drink called Trouble On the Rocks and you’ve got the perfect breakfast combination!

Take a Pink Jeep tour

Allison standing on a pink jeep in the red rocks of Valley of Fire while on a pink jeep tour in Vegas - the same company runs tours in Sedona
On a Pink Jeep tour (same company) outside of Vegas

Everyone knows about the Pink Jeep Tours of Sedona. If you haven’t heard of them, surely you’ve seen them all around town by now!

 Well, join the Pink Jeep Movement because this tour company knows how to put on a good time! Pink Jeep Tours is just what it sounds like. Hop inside a bright pink Jeep, top-down, and have a heck of a time as a tour guide drives you through the Sedona backcountry. 

Book a tour with Pink Jeep Tours and be prepared for an adrenaline rush surrounded by views on views! 

Pink Jeep Tours offers several different tours but my favorite of them all is the Broken Arrow Tour. 

It is the “most extreme” option and it’s exclusive to Pink Jeep so you’re guaranteed to be the only ones exploring the desert roads.

There are also other tours like the Scenic Rim Tour which are a little less extreme if you’re on the nervous side.

Don’t let the words ‘most extreme’ scare you though. It’s not that extreme but it’s fun to take tight turns and smash over boulders while gazing out into the infamous red canyons.

You’ll definitely want to throw on comfortable shoes for the ride as you’ll be stopping and hiking very short distances to get better photographs and get closer to more scenic outlooks. 

Book your Broken Arrow Pink Jeep tour here!

[Editor’s Note: I took a Pink Jeep tour in Valley of Fire, Las Vegas and can second Sabra’s recommendation of the company — they’re excellent!]

Here are a few different versions of the Pink Jeep tour you can take:

Get your tarot read.

Tarot cards with a lit candle and flowers

 By now, you know that Sedona has some weird spiritual vibe that’s contagious. It’s not a myth, this feeling is real!

Last time I was in Sedona I took a chance at getting my Tarot cards read. When in Rome, right?

I’ve always been a little hesitant about this ‘woo woo’ magic but what better of a place to try it out than Sedona?

As you head back to town stop by Mythical Bazaar and get your Tarot read. The ladies at Mystical Bazaar are incredibly friendly and helpful.

I was there more for the experience than the actual future reading but it was a fun thing to do and I actually highly recommend it!

If you’re a little hesitant to look into the future, the storefront shop itself is worth stopping in.

They have wonderful healing crystals, handmade jewelry, and gemstones that make great gifts or memorable trinkets to take back home.

Cool off before dinner

River next to red rocks with lush trees around it and lots of shade

Oak Creek River runs the length of Sedona: a beautifully clear, ever flowing river that deserves a dip. 

Head out to Oak Creek Canyon near Grasshopper Point to soak in the cool waters and recharge your body. It’s beautifully serene and quiet!

The river is shaded by an oasis of trees and birds are singing on every branch. It’s basically magic.

Huge smooth red cliffs surround the river with rock perches that are perfect for sprawling out and catching a late afternoon nap!

Find some enchantment at the Enchantment Resort

Shrubs and high desert flora in the red rocks of Sedona

 The Enchantment Resort truly lives up to its name!

It’s a beautifully crafted resort surrounded by stunning views, and it offers three different restaurants on the property, Che Ah Chi, Tii Gavo, and View 180.

I’ve only had time to visit the Tii Gavo restaurant but from what I experienced, it may be the best and the most moderately priced.

Tii Gavo offers a seasonal menu presented by their world-famous chefs all in a fairy tale setting of massive outdoor fire pits with perfect views for a Sedona sunset.

My favorite and most unique experience from Tii Gavo is the tequila flights. If you’ve never had a tequila flight, you’re missing out!

No, it’s not the ‘hold your nose, take a shot’ type of tequila!

These tequilas are top-shelf sipping tequilas presented in a fashion that really shows off the nuance of flavor.

Everything from hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and orange can be found in these incredible tequilas. It’s a great way to warm up the night next to the fire!

Indulge in a sweet end to the night

hand holding an ice cream cone dipping in caramel

 As the night is coming to an end, stop in Rocky Rd Ice Cream Co for one last dabble in Sedona cuisine.

Rocky Rd is a family-owned ice cream shop that specializes in small-batch ice cream with Sedona flair. They have in-house custom flavors such as Mexican coffee and sea salt caramel cheesecake.

They also have seasonal flavors listed on their ice cream board but my favorite flavor continues to be the bourbon pecan. It’s exceptionally delectable!

The ice cream shop is super cute to boot!

You can tell it’s family-owned with touches of handcrafted decor hanging from the walls and faux ice cream cones decorating the walkway as you enter.

It’s a great way to top off your walk home under the dark Sedona sky.

***

the famous chapel in the rocks of sedona which blends into the natural scenery after dark

Sedona remains one of my favorite cities in the great American Southwest. It’s the perfect combination of relaxation and activity that leaves my spirit feeling recharged and energized.

Its cute, casual, and funky vibe will always draw me in and leave me wanting more, and after two days in Sedona, I expect you’ll feel the same!

More Than 2 Days in Sedona?

Allison in Antelope Canyon looking up at the slot canyon

If you have more time in Sedona and want to add something to your Sedona itinerary, I suggest a day trip!

The most popular add-on to a Sedona trip is a day trip up to Northern Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon on a small group tour to Page.

This tour is unique in that rather than bringing you to the (extremely crowded) slot canyons of Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, you visit the equally beautiful but far less populated Antelope Canyon X.

The Antelope Canyon portion of the tour is led by Navajo Native guides who will share the historical significance of their ancestral lands with you.

It’s a great opportunity to learn from Indigenous guides about their relationship with the land and their traditions, which have survived despite centuries of colonization and forced assimilation.

Book your day tour of Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon here!


Rock formations of the Grand Canyon as seen as sunset on a day trip from Sedona itinerary

Many people visit the Grand Canyon as a separate, dedicated portion of their trip.

However, if you are just staying in Sedona and only have time for a day trip to the Grand Canyon, this is another great day trip to add onto a weekend in Sedona.

This small group Grand Canyon sunset tour leaves later in the day, allowing you to sleep in a bit or even go for a morning hike.

It then brings you to the Grand Canyon South Rim and allows you to see sights such as the Little Colorado River Gorge, the Painted Desert, the Desert View Overlook, and the Watchtower Observatory along the trip.

You’ll also get to see the North Rim from across the other side of the South Rim — 14 miles away, but across a canyon so vast it would take three hours to reach the other side!

(Curious about the difference between the North Rim and the South Rim? Read this post!)

The tour also includes an epic sunset view and a complimentary dinner, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat when you get back to Sedona (exhausted) at the end of a long day trip.

Book your Grand Canyon sunset day trip!

21 Epic Day Trips from Sedona, Arizona

Red rock landscapes of Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona

There’s a lot to do in Sedona — so much so that you need at least 2 days in Sedona to even start to see some of its best sights!

From the beautiful buttes of Bell Rock to the hiking trails among Cathedral Rock, from the Tlaquepaque market to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the Arizona high desert. 

You’ll find all sorts of typical Southwest landscapes in Sedona, but the landscape in Arizona quickly changes.

Landscape near sedona at sunset with beautiful reflection

Drive 10 minutes north and you’ll find rugged canyon landscapes in Oak Creek Canyon.

Drive 30 more minutes and you’ll be spat out in Flagstaff, a funky little mountain city right on Route 66, surrounded by Ponderosa pines. 

Driving further afield from Sedona will bring you out of Red Rock Country and into a volcanic crater and lava tubes.

You’ll find the ruins of Native American villages, ghost towns that were once booming mining towns, to the Grand Canyon and so much more. 

Let’s go see what an Arizona road trip has to offer!

Best Day Tours & Day Trips from Sedona

Oak Creek Canyon

A trail through the Oak Creek Canyon in Arizona with cliffs and water and greenery

Drive Time: 10 minutes

Just a few miles north of Sedona, the landscape quickly changes, and in just the blink of an eye, you can quickly be in Oak Creek Canyon, considered “a smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon.”

You can visit independently easily. Head north on AZ-89A until you reach the turn off for Oak Creek Canyon.

Cross the creek and park your car, and then walk a short distance to Oak Creek Canyon, where you can marvel at the beauty that this miniature Grand Canyon has to offer.

Tip: This is one of the most beautiful places to go in Sedona in winter, when there are all sorts of icicles and beautiful snowy features!

If you go by Jeep tour, it takes about 1.5 hours for the guided tour from start to finish. You’ll start at the center of the canyon, looking up at 1,500-foot tall cliffs above you that were formed by being at the heart of a fault line.

Then you’ll head up on paved roads over 2,00 feet until you reach the South Rim of the Colorado Plateau, where you’ll enjoy an amazing view before being swept back to Sedona.

Book your Jeep tour online!

Slide Rock State Park

The natural "water slide" of Slide Rock State Park with mountains around it and cool water running through Oak Creek

Drive Time: 15 minutes

Slide Rock State Park is just a few more miles up the road on AZ-89A, so if you are doing a self-drive day trip to Oak Creek Canyon, it’s very easy to combine this as well. 

There are several easy trails you can take in Slide Rock State Park for a little hike out in nature. For an easy paved trail, check out the Pendley Homestead trail, which is just a quarter-mile and super-level. 

You’ll see the historic Pendley Homestead House and the original apple orchards and a barn where the apples were packed.

For another easy hike, take the Slide Rock Route. It’s only 0.3 miles and will lead to a natural “water slide” of sorts on Oak Creek, which is a popular place for people to relax on hot Sedona summer days.

Red Rock State Park

red rock formations of sedona with green trees in the foreground and two towering formations in the distance

Drive Time: 15 minutes

Red Rock State Park is located to the south of Sedona by about 15 minutes by car. It’s full of awe-inspiring landscapes and is home to 5 miles of hiking trails.

One of the best hikes is Eagle’s Nest, a 1.5-mile return hike that leads up a hill with an incredible view of the larger Sedona area. 

There’s a slight incline as you gain about 300 feet, so it is a moderate hike, but the spectacular views are quite worth it!

For a different kind of hike, check out the Kisva Trail. It’s shorter, about 0.7 miles, and you’ll pass high desert flats and then enter the riparian zone of Oak Creek. 

You’ll cross the creek a few times and be covered in shade throughout most of the hike, so it’s a good choice for a hot day or for someone looking for a family-friendly hike.

Cottonwood

A Syrah vineyard sign during winter near Cottonwood in Arizona, USA

Drive Time: 25 minutes

Who knew that just a 25-minute drive from the red rocks of Sedona’s high desert, you’d be in Arizona wine country?

Old Town Cottonwood has tons of tasting rooms, or you can visit some vineyards in the Cottonwood area for wine tasting. 

There are also more wineries in the Jerome and Clarkdale area, part of the Verde Valley wine trail.

For some nature, the Dead Horse Ranch State Park is right there in Cottonwood and it’s a lot more beautiful and a lot less foreboding than its name would suggest! 

It’s located right on the Verde River and it’s a stunning place for a walk after exploring the historic downtown area and enjoying some of the tasting rooms and art galleries in Old Town Cottonwood.

If you plan to do several wineries, I suggest going on a wine tour so that no one in your party has to abstain or run the risk of driving under the influence. This is a highly-rated wine tour that leaves from Sedona!

You can also do a combination wine + Jeep tour departing from Sedona. It only includes one winery, Alcantara, but you can taste 5 different wines there and then be back in Sedona in only a quick 2-hour excursion.

It’s great if you have limited time, but still want to see a little more than just downtown Sedona.

Book your wine tasting + Jeep tour online here!

Jerome

Abandoned mountain town of Jerome, a mining boom town in Arizona

Drive Time: 35 minutes

Once called the “Wickedest Town in the West” for its corruption and debauchery, Jerome was a mining boomtown due to its immense copper mine, which produced over 3 million pounds of copper each month.

Jerome was a large city, at one point the fourth-largest in all of Arizona, up until after World War II. When wartime demand dried up, so did demand for copper. 

The mine closed in 1953, its population of 15,000+ people dwindled down to just 50 or 100. 14 years later, it was designated as a National Historic District and promoted as a historic ghost town. 

Today, things are a little more lively — the population numbers around 450, and there’s a large community of artists and companies which cater to tourists. Jerome is now considered one of the largest ghost towns in America!

You can drive to Jerome easily with about 35 minutes of drive time. Also located in Jerome is the Tuzigoot National Monument, a pueblo ruin atop a ridge above the Verde River.

This pueblo was built by the Sinagua people, who began settling the Verde Valley around 1,400 years ago. 

This particular pueblo was built around the 11th century, but construction on it continued up until the 14th century, suggesting continual habitation up to that point.

Historians believe the Sinagua people abandoned these settlements while making a journey towards Northern Arizona, where they dispersed into different Native tribes, including Hopi, Yavapai, and Zuni. 

If you don’t want to drive (or prefer some historical context along with your sightseeing), there are tours available that cover both Jerome and Tuzigoot National Monument departing from Sedona. It’s a full day trip that takes about 6 hours.

Book your Jerome + Tuzigoot tour here!

Montezuma Castle National Monument

The scenic Montezuma Castle carved out of a cliff, a pueblo cliff dwelling of the ancient Indigenous peoples of Arizona

Drive Time: 35 minutes

Another historical legacy of the Sinagua people, this is perhaps the most impressive Native American ruin in Arizona. 

The construction of this “castle” looks similar to the Puebloan cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, though smaller in scale.

Not so much a “castle” as a sort of “prehistoric high-rise apartment complex“, this dwelling has about 5 stories and 20 rooms, which were built up between 1100 and 1425, before being abandoned in the same migration north that Tuzigoot experienced.

While visiting Montezuma Castle, be sure to also visit Montezuma Well, about 15 minutes away. This limestone sinkhole (similar to the cenotes of Mexico) is really beautiful, although you are not allowed to swim here!

Ther are caves surrounding the Montezuma Well which show that this was another place where the native Sinagua people were living before their migration.

This is one of the best day trips from Sedona for those interested in Native American history, and it’s easily paired with Tuzigoot National Monument if you are self-driving, as the sites are about 40 minutes apart by car.

Flagstaff

historic center town of flagstaff arizona on a partly cloudy day

Drive Time: 45 minutes

Flagstaff is one of the most obvious Sedona day trips for a number of reasons. Less than an hour drive away from downtown Sedona through a beautiful pine forest, Flagstaff has so much to offer travelers.

In terms of nature, Flagstaff has a ton to offer. You can forest bathe in the world’s largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest, ascend to the San Francisco peaks via the Arizona Snowbowl chairlift, or take a section hike on the AZT, the 800-mile trail that runs through Arizona from Utah to Mexico.

The Coconino National Forest is home to great opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Another great outdoor activity in Flagstaff is ziplining with Flagstaff Extreme! It’s a ton of fun and an experience I recommend wholeheartedly.

Other great things to do in Flagstaff include enjoying all the great breweries in town, ambling along Flagstaff’s stretch of Route 66 by foot or by car, and enjoying the historic downtown area.

But there’s no need to stay down to earth: Flagstaff is also home to the Lowell Observatory, a famed planetarium where Pluto was first discovered! 

Of course, the observatory is best visited at night, so this may not be the best day trip option, but planning an overnight excursion to Flagstaff that includes some time touring the observatory would be a fantastic option for space enthusiasts.

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Native American ruins in Walnut Canyon National Monument, Arizona, with a hiking path going past them.

Drive Time: 55 minutes

Walnut Canyon is another cool site that combines geology and archaeology, where you can visit a Native American pueblo and also admire the canyon in which it was built.

Take a stroll down the 1-mile Island Trail, which allows you to pass 25 individual cliff dwellings that were last inhabited some 700 years ago.

Note that while the trail is short, it is a bit difficult and it’s not accessible. The elevation is well above 7,000 feet, and the trail descends and then ascends 185 vertical feet via stairs on steep terrain. 

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Colorful volcanic hill near sunset crater in Flagstaff Arizona with lots of trees

Drive Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes

Located outside of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is a really beautiful and unique place where the Ponderosa pines give way to a volcanic landscape.

There are several beautiful hiking trails in the National Monument site, where you can explore the volcanic landscapes. 

An easy trail is the A’a Trail, a quarter-mile trail showing the basalt lava rock formations of the Bonito Lava Flow which occurred almost a millennium ago. 

If you need a paved, accessible trail, the Bonito Vista Trail is a great option too, only 0.3 miles round trip and paved over the cinders.

For a more difficult hike, take the Lava’s Edge trail, a 3.5-mile moderate hike over loose volcanic cinder and rocky basalt. You’ll see all sorts of incredible sites on this path!

There is a lava tube in the national monument area that used to be able to be walked through, but unfortunately, since it is now beginning to collapse, it is no longer able to be visited.

Wupatki National Monument

Historic Wupatki Ruin at Wupatki National Monument in Arizona, made of red rocks that look like bricks

Drive Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Often visited in conjunction with Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, the fee for Sunset Crater also includes admission to Wupatki National Monument, so you should pair both when doing a Sedona day trip.

This is another Native American archaeological site with ancient pueblos. There are some 800+ ruins in the park, though only 5 sites are open to visitors and accessible via the main road. 

These pueblos were built by the Anasazi and Sinagua Natives during the same time period as the previously mentioned pueblos and were abandoned many centuries ago during the same migration.

Williams

Road sign US road 66 in Williams, Arizona.

Drive Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Williams is considered the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”, and it’s also the start of the scenic Grand Canyon Railway. 

It’s also right along Route 66, so it’s a fun destination if you’re looking to drive a stretch of Route 66 from Flagstaff to Williams while visiting Sedona!

A great day trip itinerary would include Flagstaff, Williams, and Grand Canyon National Park in a full-day trip full of scenic drives and natural beauty. 

If you continue on to Grand Canyon Village from Williams, this is the departure point for a lot of epic Grand Canyon helicopter and Pink Jeep tours!

Book your Grand Canyon helicopter or your scenic Grand Canyon Pink Jeep tour here!

Prescott

Yavapai County courthouse in Prescott Arizona

Drive Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Prescott is a charming city near Sedona that makes a great day trip option!

Wander along the historic Whiskey Row full of bars and live music spots, check out the pioneer history at the Sharlot Hall Museum, or learn about the culture of the Southwest’s original inhabitants at the Museum of Indigenous People. 

Nature lovers will love birding at Watson Lake, which also abounds in hiking opportunities. The Prescott National Forest is also right there on the edge of town and offers up 450 miles of trail to choose from!

Prescott is easily paired with other destinations like Cottonwood, Jerome, and Tuzigoot National Monument for an epic one-day road trip from Sedona that covers several historic destinations in one go.

Winslow

Public "standin on the corner" park in Winslow Arizona on Route 66

Drive Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Winslow is another historic Route 66 town in Arizona that is worth a stop if you are driving a stretch of Route 66, such as if you are heading to Petrified Forest National Park.

Winslow is a town made famous by the Eagles in their song “Take it Easy”, where they sing about standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona — and there’s now a Standin’ on the Corner Park to commemorate the song, complete with a statue and a trompe l’oeil mural!

Winslow would be best paired with other destinations on Route 66 like Flagstaff and Holbrook. You can also visit the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark on the way — it’s just a short sojourn off the Mother Road.

Grand Canyon National Park

Orange and red rocks of the Grand canyon from a vista point with a view of the Colorado River winding below

Drive Time: 2 hours

While the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is out of reach for a day trip from Sedona, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is easily accessible within about 2 hours by car. (Read about the difference between the two here)

Considered one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is the world’s deepest canyon, carved out by millennia of erosion of the mighty Colorado River. 

It’s truly a wonder to behold, and if you’re staying in Sedona with no plans to make a larger Arizona road trip, a day trip to the Grand Canyon is the day trip to choose. 

If you only have one day at Grand Canyon South Rim, you’ll have to plan it carefully as there’s a lot jam-packed into one small area of park!

There are a few ways to do a Grand Canyon day trip from Sedona: self-drive, guided tour, and guided tour via train.

Self-driving is relatively self-explanatory. The perk of this is that it’s the cheapest: just hop in your car, drive up through Flagstaff and then head to Williams along Route 66 before turning towards Grand Canyon National Park. 

The other perk is getting to stop however long you want in these side-trip destinations, so you can spend a few hours in Flagstaff and an hour or so in Williams before checking out the Grand Canyon.

If you don’t have a rental car, or don’t want to deal with the drive, there are tons of great day tours to choose from! 

Taking a guided tour takes the spontaneity out of things, but it does also take the stress out, and it puts the onus of driving 4+ hours in a day on someone else! 

There are a variety of guided tours offered from Sedona. This guided tour is the best-rated standard Grand Canyon tour, which includes pick-up, plenty of sightseeing time at the Canyon, and drop-off back at your Sedona hotel.

Book it here!

Sunburst at sunset at Toroweap Lookout at Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

For a slightly different option, you can do this sunset tour of the Grand Canyon that also includes dinner. It gets a later start, starting around 11:30 AM, and lasts for 10 hours. 

Expect this to be a long day and to arrive back late at night in Sedona, but as someone who has seen the sunset at the Grand Canyon, I can promise you: it’s absolutely worth it!

Book it here.

The Grand Canyon Railway is a heritage railroad which carries passengers between Williams, Arizona and the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

Another option is the guided tour that includes the historic scenic train from Williams to Grand Canyon Village. 

This tour includes transit from Sedona to Williams, a one-way ticket (standard or first-class) with entertainment between Williams and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, a 4-hour tour of the Grand Canyon (including the East Rim, the Desert View Watchtower, and the Cameron Trading Post on Navajo land), and then return transit via vehicle to Sedona.

Lunch is not included, but there is free time given for lunch, so pack a lunch or be prepared to spend some money on lunch.

Book it here!

Phoenix

Capitol City of Phoenix skyline with some shrubs and desert fauna

Drive Time: 2 hours

The capital of Arizona, Phoenix, makes for an interesting day trip, though it is rather far away from Sedona. 

If you’re visiting Sedona from out of state, most likely you’ll fly in and out of Phoenix International Airport, so perhaps setting aside a half-day to explore Phoenix either coming or going would be the best use of time!

When in Phoenix, don’t miss the stunning Desert Botanical Garden, spread across 140 acres of beautiful land in Papago Park.

Other things to do in Phoenix include checking out the culture. Phoenix is home to a number of great museums including the Arizona Capitol Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, and the Heard Museum of American Indian Art.

Museums are a great way to spend a summer day in Phoenix because summer temperatures here are scorching!

Scottsdale

The city of Scottsdale Arizona at sunset with a small mountain peak in the distance

Drive Time: 2 hours

Scottsdale is part of the Greater Phoenix Area, a large city that sort of acts as a suburb of Phoenix. 

It’s best-known for its resorts and spas, but Scottsdale also has great culture! 

It’s known for its architecture, including the Old Town with its Western architecture and the beautiful Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s former winter home, which you can see on a guided tour.

Other things to do in Scottsdale include exploring all the great boutiques, checking out the museums, and enjoying the fantastic eating and drinking scene like on a Scottsdale food tour!

Tempe

Lake in Tempe with bridge and skyline

Drive Time: 2 hours

Another city in the Greater Phoenix Area, Tempe is also worthy of a day trip on your way coming or going to Sedona. 

Enjoy time out on the water at Tempe Town Lake, take a hike in the Sonoran Desert (best avoided in summer unless you can get an early start!), or enjoy the beautiful murals around the city.

Holbrook

Tipi style hotel rooms as part of the Wigwam motel on route 66, a nostalgic place to stay

Drive Time: 2 hours

Holbrook is a worthy stop along Route 66 that makes a good breakpoint on your way to Petrified Forest National Park (another 20 minutes away) or Canyon de Chelley (another hour and 45 minutes).

It in and of itself isn’t quite worthy of a day trip but it is a great waypoint to further explorations from Sedona!

Holbrook is perhaps best-known for its ultra-quirky, slightly culturally-insensitive Wigwam Village, a popular motor lodge along the Mother Road. The design of the rooms are not actually wigwams, but rather tipis, but apparently that didn’t have a cool enough ring to it?

Holbrook is a strange little city full of odd things: an award-winning sake brewery the size of a small garage, a street called Bucket of Blood Street, and lots of kitschy Route 66 stops and shops.

Hopi Nation

Red rock canyon near Hopi Lands

Drive Time: 2 hours

So far, we’ve mentioned a lot of Sedona day trips that involve ancient Native American culture and archaeological sites.

But Native Americans are very much alive and present in Arizona, and the state represents more than 10% of the United States’ entire Native population. In terms of Native populations, California and Oklahoma are the only two states with more Native peoples.

There are several important Native American tribes in Arizona, including the Navajo (Diné), Hopi, Havasupai (Havasuw `Baaja), Quechan (Yuma), and many others.

The best way to experience Native American culture is via a guided tour that benefits the community that you are a guest in, patronizing Native businesses and artists.

This tour of the Hopi Nation is led by a Hopi guide, who will share their culture with you through food, art, and history. 

The tour includes a Hopi meal enjoyed at the Hopi Cultural Center, a tour through the Hopi Museum and Art Gallery, and visits to local artisans who keep tradition alive through basket-weaving, pottery-making, and carving the famous Kachina dolls.


Book it here!

Petrified Forest National Park

Drive Time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

This National Park is often overlooked in favor of Arizona’s other two, more famous national parks (it’s hard for anything to compete with the Grand Canyon!), but it’s an absolute beauty worth visiting despite the long drive time from Sedona.

The national park is so named for its colorful array of petrified wood throughout the park, surrounded by the Rainbow Forest to the south and the Painted Desert further out in Navajo Nation. 

You can drive through the park in less than an hour via Blue Mesa Road, but I’d allocate at least 3-4 hours to stop at overlooks, do a few easy hikes, check out the petroglyphs and the Rainbow Forest Museum, and head to the Painted Desert Inn with its Hopi murals on the North edge of the park.

Page (Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon) 

Allison in Antelope Canyon looking up at the slot canyon

Drive Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes

Both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are easily accessed from Page, Arizona, a small town on the border of Utah and Navajo Nation. 

I strongly recommend visiting Page on a guided tour. The drive time is nearly 3 hours each way, leading to a nearly 6 hour return trip, which is rough for just a day. 

A day tour means you can relax and rest in the car on the way to and from Sedona without having to stress about having to drive and get back to Sedona. 

There are several excellent day tours that visit Page. Depending on what you want to see, you can pick the right tour for you. The most popular option is to visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon together. 

This tour of Antelope Canyon X is the best option because you get all the beauty of Antelope Canyon without the crowds at Upper Antelope or Lower Antelope. 

I visited Lower Antelope Canyon during my last trip to Page and while it was beautiful, the crowds were frankly rather overwhelming!

This full-day guided tour includes a roundtrip transfer; visits to Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, Antelope Canyon X, Cameron Trading Post; and lunch on the tour.

Book it here!

Alternately, you can visit Cathedral Slot Canyon, an even less crowded hidden gem near Page. This tour includes Horseshoe Bend and Glen Canyon Dam as well, with a picnic lunch at Glen Canyon. 

It doesn’t include Antelope Canyon, but it is a gorgeous slot canyon nonetheless and is definitely worth the trip.

Book your Cathedral Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour here!

Glen Canyon

Glen Canyon rafting destination on the Colorado River

Drive Time: 2 hours, 50 minutes

Want a more active day trip from Sedona? How does a 4.5-hour float trip along the Colorado River sound to you?

This peaceful float trip doesn’t include rapids, so you can relax as you float through Glen Canyon on a relaxing stretch of the river. Your river guide will tell stories of the geology, wildlife, and Native American history of the region.

At a point during the rafting trip, you’ll be able to stop for an easy hike to spot the Native American petroglyphs, and you can also eat a picnic aside the river after the hike. 

You’ll end the tour at Marble Canyon and Lees Ferry, where you can spot pioneer-era cabins, before heading back to Sedona by air-conditioned vehicle.

Book it here!

Lake Powell

Allison standing in the Lake Powell landscape at Wahweap Overlook

Drive Time: 2 hours, 50 minutes

Also located near Page, if you want an active day out without a guided tour, you can head to Lake Powell. It is a long drive, so I suggest having another person you can swap driving duty with, since it’ll be about 6 hours of driving over the course of the day!

On Lake Powell, you can do all sorts of water sports: jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, you name it!

You can also combine Lake Powell with a visit to Horseshoe Bend rather easily, because it’s just a short 1.4-mile hike out and back from the parking lot. 

It’d be difficult to try to squeeze in a tour at Antelope Canyon too if visiting independently, so I suggest picking between Lake Powell and an Antelope Canyon tour.

Canyon de Chelley

Canyon de Chelley red rock landscape with a river snaking below it

Drive Time: 3 hours, 20 minutes

Located in Navajo Nation, Canyon de Chelley National Monument is an absolute stunner. It’s like a far less crowded Grand Canyon!

From scenic overlooks, check out the massive spires and sandstone cliffs around the canyon. Take the 25-mile Canyon de Chelley Scenic Drive, or take a short hike out to the Spider Rock viewpoint.

There is tons of evidence of its importance to Indigenous peoples throughout time: you’ll find prehistoric petroglyphs and rock art, as well as ruins of Pueblo villages from centuries past.

Monument Valley

purple and reddish mesas at hunts mesa in monument valley

Drive Time: 3 hours, 20 minutes

One of the most photographed stretches of road in the entire American Southwest is located in Monument Valley. 

While technically along the Arizona/Utah border, it’s doable as a day trip from Sedona as long day out, as you don’t mind driving and have someone to switch up driving duties with (or can handle driving 7 hours in a day).

Better yet, you can book a tour of Monument Valley and shift the responsibility for driving on someone else! This tour includes Oak Creek Canyon, Cameron Trading Post, the Painted Desert, and Monument Valley Tribal Park.

In Monument Valley, you’ll see all sorts of buttes and mesas and rock formations, including Rain-God Mesa, the East and West Mittens, the North Window, and more.

Book it here!