Sedona, Arizona, is a dream destination for outdoor adventurers, offering an array of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities. Nestled amidst the stunning red rock formations of Northern Arizona, Sedona is a hub for hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and much more. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just getting started, Sedona provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Mountain biking in the world of red rock landscape of Sedona, AZ. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why an Adventure Traveler Should Visit Sedona
Sedona is a paradise for adventure seekers. Its iconic red rock landscapes are not only visually stunning but also provide diverse terrains for all kinds of outdoor activities. The area is renowned for its spiritual vortexes, hiking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging scrambles, world-class rock climbing spots, and some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country. With its mild climate, Sedona is accessible year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the desert’s natural beauty.
Top Adventures You Don't Want to Miss
Hiking
Cathedral Rock Trail: This iconic trail is one of the most photographed spots in Sedona. The hike is short but steep, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the red rock formations and the Verde Valley. It’s a must-do for any hiker visiting the area.
Devil’s Bridge Trail: As one of Sedona’s most popular hikes, Devil’s Bridge features the largest natural sandstone arch in the area. The 4-mile round trip takes you through lush desert scenery, culminating in the thrilling experience of walking across the narrow arch with stunning views below.
West Fork Trail: Located in Oak Creek Canyon, the West Fork Trail is a moderate hike that takes you along a beautiful stream through a canyon. The 6.5-mile round trip is particularly popular in the fall when the leaves change color, offering a striking contrast against the red rocks.
Peak Bagging
Bear Mountain: For those looking to conquer one of Sedona’s challenging peaks, Bear Mountain offers a strenuous hike with a 2,000-foot elevation gain. The 5-mile round trip provides rewarding 360-degree views of Sedona and beyond, making the effort well worth it.
Wilson Mountain: The highest peak in Sedona, Wilson Mountain offers a demanding hike with a 7-mile round trip. The trail ascends through dense forests and eventually opens up to spectacular views of the surrounding red rock country and the Verde Valley.
Schnebly Hill: For a less intense peak-bagging experience, Schnebly Hill offers a moderate hike with panoramic views. The 4-mile round trip takes you up a scenic trail that provides an excellent overview of Sedona’s unique geological formations.
Camping
Manzanita Campground: Located in Oak Creek Canyon, Manzanita Campground offers a serene camping experience nestled among pine trees and beside a flowing creek. It’s an excellent base for exploring the nearby trails and enjoying the natural beauty of the canyon.
Cave Springs Campground: Another gem in Oak Creek Canyon, Cave Springs Campground is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The campground offers access to hiking trails and swimming spots, making it perfect for a nature-filled getaway.
Pine Flat Campground: This peaceful campground is situated along Oak Creek, offering beautiful scenery and easy access to hiking and fishing spots. The cool creek waters provide a refreshing escape from the desert heat, making it a favorite among campers.
Rock Climbing
The Mace: Known as one of the classic rock climbs in Sedona, The Mace is a must-try for climbers seeking a challenge. The multi-pitch route offers stunning views and a variety of climbing styles, from cracks to chimneys, all set against the backdrop of Sedona’s red rocks.
Queen Victoria: This striking spire offers a unique climbing experience with breathtaking views from the top. The climb is considered moderate, making it accessible to a range of climbers looking to experience the thrill of Sedona’s vertical terrain.
The Overlook: Located in Oak Creek Canyon, The Overlook is a popular spot for both beginner and experienced climbers. The area features a range of routes with varying difficulties, all offering incredible views of the canyon and the surrounding forest.
Stargazing
Crescent Moon Picnic Site: This popular stargazing spot offers clear, dark skies with minimal light pollution, making it ideal for observing constellations, planets, and meteor showers. The site is also known for its iconic views of Cathedral Rock, which is stunning at night under a star-filled sky.
Merry-Go-Round Rock: Accessible by a rugged trail, this unique rock formation is a fantastic place for stargazing. The elevated position offers unobstructed views of the night sky, making it a favorite spot for photographers and astronomy enthusiasts.
Airport Mesa: This well-known vantage point is not only great for sunset views but also for stargazing. The high elevation provides a sweeping view of the surrounding area, and the clear desert skies make for excellent stargazing conditions.
Flat Water Kayaking & SUP
Oak Creek: While not a typical kayaking destination, certain sections of Oak Creek offer calm waters perfect for a leisurely paddle. The lush surroundings and the serene atmosphere make it a peaceful escape from the more rugged adventures in Sedona.
Lower Salt River: Although a bit of a drive from Sedona, the Lower Salt River near Phoenix is worth the trip for those looking to kayak or paddleboard. The calm waters wind through desert scenery and offer a unique way to experience the Arizona landscape.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park: Located in nearby Cottonwood, this state park features several lagoons and the Verde River, where you can enjoy flat water kayaking or SUP. The tranquil waters and abundant wildlife make it a great spot for a relaxing day on the water.
Fishing
Oak Creek: Known for its cool, clear waters, Oak Creek is a prime spot for fishing in Sedona. The creek is stocked with rainbow trout, making it a favorite for both fly fishing and traditional anglers. The beautiful setting and the sound of the flowing water add to the experience.
Beaver Creek: Located just outside Sedona, Beaver Creek offers a more secluded fishing experience. The creek is home to a variety of fish, including smallmouth bass and catfish, and the quiet surroundings make it a great spot for a peaceful day of fishing.
Verde River: For those willing to venture a bit further, the Verde River offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for bass and catfish. The river winds through a scenic desert landscape, providing a serene environment for anglers.
Backpacking
Secret Canyon Trail: For a multi-day backpacking adventure, the Secret Canyon Trail offers a 12-mile round trip through remote red rock canyons. The trail provides solitude, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to camp under the stars in the heart of Sedona’s wilderness.
Bear Mountain to Doe Mountain: This challenging backpacking route connects two of Sedona’s iconic peaks. The 14-mile round trip offers a rigorous adventure with spectacular views and diverse terrains, from high desert plateaus to dense forests.
Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness: This expansive wilderness area offers numerous backpacking opportunities with trails that lead through rugged canyons, across mesas, and along scenic ridges. It’s an ideal location for those looking to immerse themselves in Sedona’s natural beauty over several days.
Cliff Jumping
Grasshopper Point: This popular swimming hole in Oak Creek Canyon offers several spots for cliff jumping. The clear, deep waters are perfect for a refreshing plunge, and the surrounding red rock formations create a stunning natural amphitheater.
The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek: Known for its dramatic cliffs and cool waters, The Crack is a favorite spot for cliff jumping near Sedona. The hike to the spot adds to the adventure, and the secluded setting makes it a hidden gem for thrill-seekers.
Slide Rock State Park: While primarily known for its natural water slide, the park also offers some opportunities for cliff jumping into the refreshing waters of Oak Creek. The park is a fun place for families and adventurers alike to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty.
Other Highlights of the Area
Places to Eat
Elote Cafe: A local favorite, Elote Cafe serves up authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. The must-try elote corn and flavorful tamales are just the beginning of a memorable dining experience.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: Offering stunning views of the red rocks, Mariposa delivers a unique blend of Latin-inspired dishes. The menu features everything from wood-fired steaks to fresh seafood, making it a great spot for a special meal.
The Hudson: Located in Hillside Sedona, The Hudson offers a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere with a menu that includes American comfort food with a gourmet touch. The patio provides incredible views, making it perfect for a sunset dinner.
Must-See Spots
Chapel of the Holy Cross: This iconic chapel, built into the red rocks, offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. It's a must-see for its unique architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Red Rock Crossing/Crescent Moon Ranch: One of the most photographed spots in Sedona, Red Rock Crossing offers stunning views of Cathedral Rock, especially at sunset. It's also a great place for a leisurely walk or a picnic by Oak Creek.
Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte: These towering rock formations are easily accessible and offer stunning views, making them perfect for a short hike or a photo opportunity.
Photo Locations
Airport Mesa: Known for its panoramic views of Sedona, Airport Mesa is a popular spot for photographers, especially at sunset. The 360-degree views make it an ideal location for capturing the beauty of the red rocks.
Devil's Bridge: As one of Sedona’s most iconic natural features, Devil's Bridge provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. The short but steep hike to the bridge is rewarded with breathtaking views.
Cathedral Rock: This iconic landmark is one of the most photographed spots in Sedona. Whether you hike up to the saddle for panoramic views or capture it from afar, Cathedral Rock offers stunning photo opportunities.
Best Sunset Locations
Crescent Moon Picnic Site: Offering a picturesque view of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek, this spot is a favorite for watching the sunset. The peaceful setting makes it an ideal place to unwind as the sun goes down.
Airport Mesa: With its elevated position, Airport Mesa is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Sedona. The colors of the red rocks are even more vibrant as the sun dips below the horizon.
Red Rock State Park: This park offers several trails that lead to great sunset viewing spots. The combination of red rock views and the setting sun creates a truly magical experience.
Great Places to Swim
Grasshopper Point: Located along Oak Creek, Grasshopper Point is a popular swimming hole surrounded by towering red rock walls. The cool, clear water is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Slide Rock State Park: Known for its natural rock slides, Slide Rock State Park offers fun swimming opportunities in Oak Creek. The smooth rock formations create a natural playground, making it a favorite for families.
Wet Beaver Creek: For a more secluded swimming experience, head to Wet Beaver Creek. The creek’s clear pools and lush surroundings provide a peaceful retreat, ideal for cooling off after a day of hiking.
Cultural Highlights
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village: This arts and crafts village is a cultural hub in Sedona, featuring galleries, shops, and restaurants in a charming, Spanish-style setting. It's a great place to explore local art and pick up unique souvenirs.
Sedona Heritage Museum: Learn about Sedona’s history and culture at this museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the area's pioneer days, film history, and more.
Sedona Performing Arts Alliance: Experience local theater, music, and dance performances at this vibrant cultural venue. The alliance hosts a variety of events throughout the year, showcasing Sedona's artistic community.
Looking at the town of Sedona, AZ from the Airport Mesa. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Sedona, AZ, is more than just a picturesque destination—it's an adventurer's paradise. Whether you're scaling red rock formations, kayaking along serene creeks, or stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the country, Sedona offers a wealth of outdoor experiences that cater to every thrill-seeker's desires. Beyond the adrenaline-fueled adventures, Sedona enchants with its rich cultural highlights, stunning sunset spots, and local culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the diverse activities and natural beauty that Sedona has to offer, you’ll truly experience this extraordinary destination like a local adventurer. Pack your gear, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of Arizona's red rock country.