One of Arizona’s most picturesque communities, Sedona is surrounded by reddish rocks stained by rusting iron. You do not have to exercise to luxuriate at one of Sedona’s opulent spas; outdoor enthusiasts can climb or mountain bike the trails in Red Rock State Park, cool down at Slide Rock State Park, or take a yoga session on the red rocks. Aura readings and meditation in a vortex, a swirling pocket of energy that encourages healing and self-discovery, are other ways to pamper oneself.
Sedona is renowned for its outdoor adventure, but there are plenty of fun things to do nearby. Sedona has a park for everyone, whether you wish to honor veterans, meditate next to Buddhist monuments, or take in the untamed grandeur of Red Rock State Park. Here are my top suggestions for nearby activities where you may go on a trek, have a picnic, or engage in other types of recreation.
State Park at Red Rock
Just south of Sedona, on 286 acres of riparian habitat and red rocks, Red Rock State Park was established in October 1991. Locals love it, especially families who appreciate the easy routes that are frequently disregarded by tourists. The park has a 5-mile network of hiking trails, a theater, a gift shop, ramada, picnic tables, and a tourist center with educational exhibits.
What to Do
Most visitors to Red Rock State Park go hiking there. The park’s family-friendly, generally flat paths all forbid mountain bikes and horses, except for the East Gate Trail. Along with self-directed treks, the park offers daily 10 a.m. guided nature tours and at 9 a.m. on Wednesday and Saturday, guided bird walks. Red Rock State Park offers themed hikes all year long on topics including archaeology and ethnobotany.
Visit the Miller Visitor Center before or after your hike to learn more about the area’s fauna and early human settlers through interactive displays and informational panels. You can also shop for souvenirs in the gift shop or watch two informative videos about Sedona that are broadcast on repeat.
While camping is not permitted at Red Rock Creek State Park, there is plenty of dispersed camping permitted in the Coconino National Forest to the north of Sedona, primarily along SR 89A.
Places to Stay
The logical place to stay overnight when exploring Red Rock country is Sedona. Although resorts and hotels are some of the most well-liked places to stay, I suggest choosing an Airbnb for family comfort. Here are some further ideas:
Amara Resort & Spa: This five-star resort in the center of Sedona just had a multi-million dollar refurbishment that gave its 100 guest rooms, well-known Salt Rock Southwest Kitchen, and acclaimed Amara Spa a new look. In approximately 20 minutes, you may travel by car to Red Rock State Park from here.
L’Auberge de Sedona is a luxurious resort that is situated along the banks of Oak Creek. While it is also about 20 minutes from the park, you’ll feel a world apart from the visitors and pink jeeps when you reserve a hotel here.
The gourmet breakfasts served at Creekside Inn Sedona always receive high marks from guests. Choose freshly made, yeasted waffles with fresh berries and a minimalistic decor. It is a great starting point for active couples who wish to explore the red rocks because it is surrounded by green grass and is close to the city center.
Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock: This Hilton hotel offers several upscale amenities typically seen at close-by resorts, such as a golf course, tennis courts, and on-site dining, making it a more cost-effective choice. Additionally, it’s on SR 179, which is away from the congested downtown area.
Getting There
Take I-17 north to Exit 298 from Phoenix or Scottsdale, then turn left onto SR 179. When you reach Verde Valley School Road, take the third exit out of the roundabout to go northwest. Turn left onto Longbow Ranch Road after traveling 4.5 miles. Turn left again at Loy Lane, which becomes Red Rock Loop Road, in less than half a mile. Turn left again to enter Red Rock State Park at Smoke Trail Lane.
Guidelines for Your Visit
The park is accessible year-round on Monday through Thursday and from Labor Day through Memorial Day on Friday through Sunday. The time is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. is when the visitor center opens, to 4:30 p.m.
The price to enter is under $10 for adults and children aged 7 to 13 and free for those under the age of 6.
Pets are not allowed in Red Rock State Park because it is a conservation area.
Most of the trails are only for hiking. Only on East Gate Trail are mountain bikes and horses allowed.
Stupa of Amitabha and Peace Park
Visitors from all over the world come to this free, 14-acre park at the foot of Thunder Mountain in search of spiritual rebirth at its two stupas, revered Buddhist buildings stuffed with prayers, artifacts, and offerings. Expect to see people praying and meditating as bright flags fly above them, some streaming from the 6-foot-tall White Tara Stupa to pinon pine trees nearby, and others streaming from the 36-foot-tall Amitabha Stupa. A statue of Buddha watches over the scene.
It would be best to travel a short, twisting trail to this mystical park. Accessibility-related parking arrangements can be made in advance for individuals who need them. One of my favorite places to find calm and peace was the Peace Park.
Botanical Garden of Sedona
The Sedona Botanical Garden is one of the city’s several miniature parks, each measuring less than one acre. This park, which occupies a little more than 1/4 of an acre, showcases local trees, plants, and shrubs. As you relax beneath an arbor constructed by Gardens for Humanity, look for the life-sized sculptures of javelina, coyote, rabbit, and birds that are scattered throughout the park. These sculptures were all made by Sedona artists. As you unwind in this urban sanctuary, you’ll also notice little aesthetic details like the tile mosaic intended to resemble a small pool and the vibrant steppingstones.
ChocolaTree Organic Oasis is the Best Option for Vegetarians
I like to make good food choices, and many Sedona restaurants include vegetarian and vegan options. However, ChocolaTree Organic Oasis makes gluten-free, 100 percent organic food utilizing seasonal, local ingredients. A quesadilla prepared with handmade lentil wrap and vegan chipotle paneer or a green goddess salad with kale, avocado, and herb pate, among other things, are just a couple of the options available to vegans and raw vegans on the menu.
Avocado toast or a smoothie are options for breakfast, and salads, spring rolls, pizza, and sandwiches are available throughout the day. However, ChocolaTree also makes organic, stone-ground chocolates that are sweetened with honey or maple syrup, so save room for dessert. It is simple to select food for a picnic or trek, thanks to the deli case.
When to Travel
The ideal times to visit Sedona are in the spring (March to May) and from September to November in the fall, especially if you want to go hiking or camping. These months are the best times to hike in, mountain bike in, and take a 4×4 trip to Red Rock Country because the days are mainly clear and bright, and the highs are an average of 70 degrees F (21 degrees C).
They are, however, also the most expensive and crowded times to travel. Come in January or February to get the greatest rates. Despite the possibility of snow, most trips run all year.
Whenever you decide to visit, utilize this information to assist in making travel arrangements to one of Arizona’s most well-liked attractions.
Weather
Sedona is in the “Goldilocks Zone” of the state, where the weather is just right—neither too hot nor too cold. Daytime highs in the 70s are reached in the spring and fall, and the evenings turn chilly enough to call for a light jacket. While temperatures in Sedona during the daytime remain in the 50s throughout the winter, snow is not unusual on adjacent red rock formations. In the summer, temperatures soar to an average of 90 degrees.
The city receives 18 inches of rain on average each year, the majority of which falls between mid-July and September during the monsoon season. Days usually start out clear and sunny during this period, but clouds gradually gather during the day, unleashing strong but fleeting rainstorms in the middle to late afternoon. If you go during the rainy season, go on a hike first thing in the morning and avoid washes and dry beds.
Seasonal Peaks Sedona
Peak season is from March through May since the weather is at its best then. There will be a high demand for tours, crowded paths, and difficult parking, particularly in Uptown. Plan a midweek visit if you wish to travel in the spring since most Phoenicians will be at work at that time. Or get up early so you can leave for Sedona before they can drive from Phoenix.
Year-round, getting an early start is an excellent strategy to avoid the crowds in Sedona. Arriving early is the only way to guarantee you’ll be able to enter Slide Rock State Park in the summer and cool off in its waters. It’s also a smart strategy to avoid crowds on nearby trails while avoiding the heat.
Popular Festivals and Events
Most of Sedona’s events take place in the spring and fall, which increases tourism during those times. If you want to eat at Sedona’s top restaurants while attending events during these hours, reserve your lodging in advance and make reservations before you arrive. The events by month are listed below in more detail.
Particularly on days when big events and festivals are being celebrated, traffic might be a problem. Sedona is a relatively walkable city, especially in Uptown, so you can park and take a rideshare or walk to your location.
January
The coldest month of the year has the lowest visitor density and the best hotel rates. The compromise? Snow. In January, it’s not unusual for the red cliffs surrounding Sedona to be covered in snow. Winter is one of the most beautiful times to visit due to the snow, though.
Check out these events:
Vegfest is a yearly, zero-waste festival that features knowledgeable speakers, cooking demonstrations, and merchants selling wholesome, ethically produced goods.
February
Even though it gradually warms up to the high 50s, there is still a chance of snow at higher elevations, and you may get some of the greatest hotel deals of the year, especially early in the month. The one exception is Valentine’s Day when couples from Phoenix take a getaway for love and romance. Other than that, there are not many crowds in the city.
March
With spring break in March, business picks up. Mid-sixties temperatures are ideal for hiking, 4×4 trips, and Uptown shopping, while there is always the chance of a spring rainstorm. Pack an umbrella and a jacket, and plan your travel and lodging well in advance.
Check out these events:
Come hungry to experience the greatest food trucks, beers, and local wines in Sedona at the Posse Grounds Park Food Truck Festival.
April
This month sees a spike in tourism as the days become even warmer. Expect daytime highs in the low 70s and evening lows in the low 40s. April is one of the most popular months of the year to walk Red Rock Country because flowers start to bloom.
Check out these events:
Earth Month: Throughout the full month of April, Sedona commemorates Earth Day with volunteer projects, live music at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, and nature hikes.
Meet more than 50 artists during the Spring Open Studios weekend celebration of the arts as they invite you into their private studios in Sedona and the surrounding Verde Valley.
May
This month is one of the driest of the year, along with June, although the heat isn’t yet an issue. The daytime high is around 80 degrees F (27 degrees C), and the nighttime low is in the 50s. When it gets hotter at the end of the month, think about scheduling outside activities earlier in the day.
Check out these events:
On May 5, Sedona hosts a chili cookoff in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, along with mariachi music, folkloric dancers, traditional Mexican food, and other festivities.
Films that elevate, inspire, and transform people are the focus of the Illuminate Film Festival.
June
Even at 90 degrees F (32 degrees C), which is hot and dry in June, Sedona is often 20 degrees cooler than Phoenix. People go from Phoenix, as a result, to avoid the heat on most summer weekends. By midday, the city should be busier.
Check out these events:
One of Sedona’s most eagerly awaited events, the Sedona International Film Festival screens more than 100 movies over the course of nine days.
July
Mid-90s temperatures start to creep higher, but the advent of monsoon season cools things down on days when it rains. Plan your physical activities, like hiking, for early in the day and cool off in Slide Rock State Park’s water later. There are just the Fourth of July celebrations sponsored by the community this month.
August
You’ll often discover slightly reduced rates at hotels and fewer tourists due to the ongoing heat and monsoons—the city typically receives roughly 2.5 inches of rain in August.
Check out these events:
Internationally renowned musicians and storytellers perform at the three-day Piano on the Rocks International Music Festival.
Sedona Camera Club hosts the Sedona Photography Symposium, which is open to photographers of all skill levels.
September
Although the monsoon persists at the beginning of the month, daily highs drop significantly into the 80s. Before tourism picks up again in the fall, now is a fantastic time to travel.
Check out these events:
Around 25 Arizona wineries, as well as regional eateries and artisans, participate in the Sedona Winefest each year.
October
When it comes to events and festivals, this month is one of the busiest. Just north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon, the sycamore, oak, and maple trees start to change colors depending on the weather.
Check out these events:
The Sedona Arts Festival has over 125 juried artists, as well as music, refreshments, giveaways, and a KidZone.
Sedona Plein Air Festival: At the Sedona Plein Air Festival, you can take part in seminars, hear from distinguished keynote speakers, and observe plein air painters at work.
The Sedona Apple Festival is another name for the annual Slide Rock Fall Fest, which is hosted in Slide Rock State Park and offers u-pick apples, activities, concerts, vendors, and displays.
Red Rocks Oktoberfest: This festival is held in Posse Grounds Park and features artisan beer, food trucks, and live music.
November
You should bring a jacket because daytime highs only reach the mid-sixties, and nighttime lows are just below freezing. In Sedona, the leaves on the trees are already changing, and at the end of the month, the crowds start to diminish.
Check out these events:
The three-day Sedona Mountain Biking Festival features single-track rides, a beer garden, a mountain biking expo, bike displays, and live music.
December
Highs in the mid-fifties and the potential for snow at higher altitudes herald the arrival of winter. The majority of the festivities in December center around the holidays, including Sedona’s yearly tree-lighting ceremony.
Check out these events:
The Festival of Lights: Enjoy live entertainment, cider, and a Santa visit as you commemorate the lighting of more than 6,000 luminarias at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.
Wrap-Up by Doc T Elliott
Visiting Sedona, Arizona, was enjoyable and serene. The people were friendly and laid back. I particularly felt at peace with the surrounding beauty of the red rock mountains and calming atmosphere. It is a good place to go on vacation with family or by yourself and do a healing retreat. I stayed at an Airbnb and felt right at home soaking in the sun and nature’s wonders. I often travel outside the country but was reminded how much there is to see and discover in our own backyard in the USA. If you are looking for a pleasant outing and a relaxing time, add Sedona to your list.