Sedona is a beautiful city located in Arizona. It is home to some of the most incredible scenery in the United States.
This desert town, near Flagstaff, is surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests.
Sedona is most known for its breath-taking red rock formations, famed vortex healing energy, and outdoor recreation.
Visitors can explore the area’s hiking trails, take a jeep tour of the red rocks, or visit one of the city’s many art galleries and museums.
There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining in Sedona.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, Sedona is the perfect destination.
Things To Do In Sedona
1. Bell Rock
Sedona’s Bell Rock is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area.
The towering red rock formation is a favourite among photographers and nature lovers alike.
Bell Rock is located just south of Sedona, near the Village of Oak Creek. The best way to reach the rock formation is by hiking the Bell Rock Pathway, which starts from the Cottonwood day-use area.
The hike to Bell Rock is relatively easy, with only a few hundred feet of elevation gain.
However, it can be quite hot during the summer months, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Once you reach the top of Bell Rock, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Sedona and the surrounding area.
Address: Bell Rock, Bell Rock Trail, Arizona
2. Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular hiking and climbing destinations in Sedona.
The towering red rock formations offer spectacular views of the surrounding desert landscape.
There are several different trails that lead to the top of Cathedral Rock, making it a great hike for all levels of hikers.
The easiest way to get to Cathedral Rock is by taking the Back o’ Beyond Trailhead. This trailhead starts at the end of Soldier’s Pass Road and is well marked with signs.
The trail is a moderate 2.4 miles out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. Along the way, you’ll have stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks and the valley below.
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, you can take the Bell Rock Pathway. This trailhead starts at the Bell Rock Vista Parking Area and is about 4 miles roundtrip.
The hike is considered difficult due to the steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, the views from the top of Cathedral Rock are well worth the effort.
No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. The desert sun can be brutal, so be sure to hike early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat.
Address: Cathedral Rock Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336
3. Devil’s Bridge Trail
Being one of the most iconic hikes in Sedona, Arizona, Devil’s Bridge trail will take you to the largest natural sandstone arch in the area.
Devil’s Bridge Trail is a moderate to difficult hike, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.
There are several scenic viewpoints along the way, and the views from the top of Devil’s Bridge are simply stunning.
The trail begins in a small parking area next to Highway 179. From here, the trail heads west into a canyon called Wilson Canyon.
After about a mile, the trail begins to climb more steeply as it switchbacks up the side of a hill. After another mile or so, the trail reaches the top of the hill and levels out.
The last half-mile or so of the trail is relatively flat as it winds its way through a rocky landscape to the base of Devil’s Bridge.
Devil’s Bridge is a natural sandstone arch that spans about 50 feet across. It is one of the largest arches in Sedona, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding canyon.
This is an experience for those who crave excitement and amazing things to see!
Address: Devil’s Bridge Trail, Arizona 86336
4. Sedona Heritage Museum
The Sedona Heritage Museum is located in Jordan Historical Park, in uptown Sedona, Arizona.
The Sedona Heritage Museum was originally the home to the Jordan Family.
The museum is focused on the lifestyles and works of the people who pioneered the Sedona community beginning in 1876.
This is an indoor historical museum with a focus on conserving and teaching the history of Sedona.
Visitors can enjoy things like the telegraph office, which is the last remnant of the Sedona West movie set, which was used for filming many cowboy movies and television series.
The museum also has a children’s section where they can enjoy a scavenger hunt.
Address: Sedona Heritage Museum, 735 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
5. Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon is a river gorge located in northern Arizona, between the cities of Flagstaff and Sedona.
The distance between the two cities is about 28 miles and Oak Creek Canyon comprises about 14 miles of that distance along State Route 89A.
The canyon is often described as a smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon because of its scenic beauty.
Oak Creek Canyon is part of the Coconino National Forest and is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in the southwestern United States.
The canyon is about 12 miles long and features a number of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
There are 6 organized camping grounds in Oak Creek Canyon. Each has excellent facilities for guests, including picnic tables and grills.
Address: Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, Arizona
6. Red Rock Scenic Byway
Red Rock Scenic Byway is a gateway to the world-famous Red Rock Country of Sedona, Arizona.
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is a 12-mile loop that takes visitors through Sedona’s stunning red rock country.
The byway offers amazing views of the red rocks, as well as access to many of Sedona’s popular hiking and biking trails.
Visitors can also stop at several scenic overlooks along the way to enjoy the views.
Address: Red Rock Scenic Byway, Sedona, Arizona
7. Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park is located about 7 miles north of Sedona, Arizona along Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon.
The park is named for its signature feature: a series of slippery red rocks that form a natural water slide.
Visitors can enjoy swimming and sliding down the rocks, or simply relaxing in the picturesque setting.
Slide Rock State Park also offers hiking and picnicking opportunities.
Hikers can explore the surrounding Oak Creek Canyon, which is home to a variety of plant and animal life.
Picnickers can enjoy views of the canyon and the red rocks from one of the many scenic overlooks.
The Slide Rock State Park area of Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most popular tourist things to do in Sedona.
Address: Slide Rock State Park, Sedona, Arizona, 86336
8. Broken Arrow Trail
Broken Arrow Trail is a 4.5-mile out-and-back hike in Sedona, Arizona that takes hikers through some of the most beautiful and unique scenery in the area.
The trailhead is located at the end of Broken Arrow Road, and the hiking trail itself winds its way through giant red rock formations, canyons, and creeks.
Along the way, hikers will have plenty of opportunities to take in breath-taking views of Arizona’s landscape.
The Broken Arrow tour itself is not overly strenuous, but there are some sections that may be challenging for less experienced hikers.
However, the rewards are more than worth it and at the end of the trail, hikers will find themselves at an overlook with stunning views of Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon.
Address: Broken Arrow Trail, Sedona, Arizona
9. Airport Mesa
The Airport Mesa hiking trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Sedona, Arizona.
The trailhead is located just off of Highway 179, and the trail itself is only about 1.5 miles long.
However, the views from the top of Airport Mesa are well worth the effort required to hike up the trail.
The first half-mile or so of the Airport Mesa trail is relatively easy to hike, with only a few small inclines.
However, the last mile or so of the trail becomes much steeper, with several large rocks and boulders to clamber over.
This section of the trail can be challenging for some hikers, but the views from the top are more than worth it.
Once you reach the top of Airport Mesa, you will be treated to stunning views of Sedona and the surrounding area.
You will also be able to see the San Francisco Peaks, which are the tallest mountains in Arizona.
If you are lucky, you might even spot a few wildflowers blooming along the trail.
Address: Airport Mesa, 483 Airport Rd, Sedona, Arizona, 86336
10. Red Rock State Park
Red Rock State Park is truly a unique and beautiful place, and one of the must see things to do in Sedona.
The red rocks that give the park its name are actually part of an ancient mountain range called the Mogollon Rim.
These towering cliffs offer stunning views of the surrounding area, and are a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and just enjoying the scenery.
The park also features a variety of plant and animal life.
There are over 500 species of plants, including many native to the area.
And wildlife is plentiful, with everything from deer and javelina, to rabbits and quail making their home here.
Address: Red Rock State Park, 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
11. West Fork Oak Creek Trail
The West Fork Oak Creek Trail is one of the most popular walking trails in Sedona, Arizona.
The trailhead is located at the end of Morgan Road, just off Highway 89A.
The trail is approximately 7 miles long and follows the creek through a canyon with red rock walls.
There are several waterfalls and swimming holes along the way.
The trail can be hiked in both directions, but most people start from the Morgan Road trailhead and hike upstream to the Call of the Canyon trailhead.
There are a few things to know before you hike the West Fork Oak Creek Trail.
First, there is no drinking water available along the trail so be sure to bring plenty with you.
Second, the trail can be very crowded on weekends so consider hiking during the week if you can.
Finally, dogs are allowed but they must be leashed at all times.
Address: West Fork Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336
12. Boynton Canyon Trail
Boynton Canyon Trail is a popular hiking trail, the trailhead is located just off Highway 179, about 2 miles from the intersection with Highway 89A.
The trail winds its way up Boynton Canyon for about 2.5 miles before reaching a saddle where it intersects with the Apache Maid Trail.
From here, hikers can continue on Boynton Canyon Trail or turn onto Apache Maid Trail and hike to the top of Wilson Mountain.
The Boynton Canyon Trail is one of the most popular trails in Sedona, due to its scenic views and relatively easy hiking.
The first mile or so of the Boynton Canyon Trail is relatively flat and easy to hike.
However, the last mile or so is much steeper and can be challenging for some hikers. There are several areas along the trail where hikers can stop to rest and take in the views.
The Boynton Canyon Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of Sedona while getting a workout in at the same time.
Address: Boynton Canyon Trail, Arizona 86336
13. Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a Roman Catholic chapel and was built in 1956 and is considered one of the most recognizable landmarks in Sedona.
The chapel was designed by sculptor and architect Tex Avery.
This unusual chapel is built into the buttes of Sedona and features a cross that stands over 50 feet tall.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross has become a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.
The chapel offers stunning views of Sedona and is surrounded by hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is truly a unique experience that should not be missed when visiting Sedona.
Address: Chapel of the Holy Cross, 780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
14. Verde Valley Wine Trail
There are many Arizona wineries and tasting rooms on the Verde Valley Wine Trail that offer a variety of delicious wines to satisfy any wine taster’s palate.
When it comes to wine country, Arizona doesn’t usually come to mind. But the Verde Valley near Sedona offers the dry climate and access to water that grapes need to thrive.
The trail covers a number of towns in the valley including Sedona, and you will certainly be able to taste differences between the wide variety of wines you will be offered.
There are many different tours available to suit everyone, and it’s easy to relax and spend your afternoon hours tasting wine, having a little picnic, and strolling the vineyards.
Address: Verde Valley Wine Trail, 849 Cove Pkwy Suite C, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
15. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is an outdoor destination for prayer, meditation and the experience of peace.
Located at the base of Thunder Mountain overlooking Sedona, it’s 14 acres are designed to be a place of spiritual renewal for people of all faiths.
This little shrine is a perfect place to slow things down, meditate, and reflect. Visitors should note that the area is considered sacred ground.
The stupa is surrounded by small red spires and stunning pines, has been impressing visitors since 2004.
The stupa is just 36 feet high and opens each morning at sunrise, staying open until the sun sets.
It is just a short walk to reach it and although entry is free, donations are welcome.
Address: Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
16. Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village
Even if you have no plans to do any shopping while you are in Sedona, you should still visit this famous Arts and Crafts Village.
Located on Hwy 179 just before Uptown Sedona, this sizable outdoor shopping center was designed in the style of a traditional Mexican village.
It has been a landmark in Sedona for almost half a century.
Tlaquepaque is known for its artistic quality in the production of ceramics, pottery, blown glass, wood, and wrought iron.
There are more than three hundred picturesque stores that are a real pleasure for those looking for unique products at good prices.
Address: Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, 336 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
FAQ
What is Sedona best known for?
Sedona is known worldwide for its colorful, surreal red rock formations, which you can explore via Jeep tours or hiking.
Are there mountain biking trails in Sedona?
Sedona’s trail system is extensive.
There are easy mountain biking routes like Bell Rock Pathway so that the whole family can get out into the red rocks.
There is the Cathedral Rock Trail that is generally considered an easy mountain biking and hiking route that is very scenic.
What is the best month to visit Sedona?
The most popular time to visit Sedona is in the spring, between March and May.
People flock to visit Sedona for the beautiful temperatures that allow for plenty of outdoor exploration without it being too hot or cold.
Is it worth going to the Grand Canyon when visiting Sedona?
A Sedona to Grand Canyon Day is a popular option as Sedona is a great base for exploring Arizona.
Driving from Sedona to the Grand Canyon will take approximately 2.5 hours each way.
How long does it take to hike West Fork Trail Sedona?
The West Fork Trail should only take about 2-3 hours to hike, but you’ll most likely want to spend all day there.
On this trail you will be hiking alongside and crossing over the creek.
There are many spots where you have to cross the creek but there are strategically placed rocks in the water for you to hop across.
Where is the Crescent Moon Picnic Site in Sedona?
The Crescent Moon Picnic Site is located at Red Rock Crossing in Oak Creek nearly seven miles southwest of the city center.
The picnic area location offers a serene place to enjoy nature, with Sedona’s famous red rock cliffs setting the backdrop.
