Why Go to Sedona
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Sedona is one of those places that looks unreal even when you're standing in it. Towering red rock buttes and sandstone spires glow against a deep-blue Arizona sky, and the colors shift all day long. Artists have been drawn here for generations, and Hollywood has filmed movies like 3:10 to Yuma, Broken Arrow and Midnight Run against this fiery backdrop.
There's more to Sedona than its good looks. With more than 100 hiking trails, it's an outdoor lover's dream, and a guided Jeep tour is a thrilling way to reach the backcountry. Many visitors also come for Sedona's famous vortexes, spots believed to have spiritual, energizing powers. After a day on the trails, treat yourself at one of the area's many spas, with treatments inspired by the land, like red clay wraps and blue corn scrubs, followed by a glass of local Arizona wine.
Sedona pairs beautifully with the Grand Canyon, about two hours away. I'll plan your hikes, Jeep tours and spa time, find you a stay with red rock views, and help with travel insurance if you're planning more adventurous outings.
BEST FOR
Hikers, photographers, wellness travelers and scenic-road explorers
BEST MONTHS
March–May and September–November
EXPLORE
Uptown Sedona has shops and tour departures; West Sedona has hotels and restaurants; the Village of Oak Creek lies south of town near popular trailheads.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Sedona
North America › Southwest › USA › Arizona
Red-rock landscapes and an inspiring desert retreat
Mountain & Alpine
Hiking
Wellness
Scenic
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Schedule a red-rock hike around cooler morning conditions, and check trailhead parking or shuttle arrangements before leaving your hotel. Build in a separate sunset viewpoint or gallery visit, since moving between busy trailheads can take longer than expected.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check shuttle service and trailhead parking rules; scrambling routes are steep.
Cathedral Rock
Iconic red sandstone formation and a popular hiking area framed by sweeping desert views.
Bring hiking water and use designated trails to protect fragile soil.
Bell Rock
Distinctive bell-shaped rock along scenic red-rock trails outside central Sedona.
Arrive early and follow posted parking and respectful-visit policies.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Modern chapel dramatically built into red sandstone cliffs, with valley views.
Confirm trailhead access and do not attempt narrow exposed sections if uncomfortable with heights.
Devil’s Bridge Trail
Popular natural sandstone arch accessed by a rocky and often crowded hiking route.
Check limited parking and follow marked paths rather than scrambling off-trail.
Airport Mesa
Scenic elevated area with panoramic views of Sedona’s red-rock formations.
A canyon-set luxury resort outside central Sedona, ideal for guests prioritizing a secluded red-rock experience. Allow time for driving to Uptown dining and shops.
Enchantment Resort
Boynton Canyon
Hotel Tags
A creekside resort close to central Sedona, appealing to travelers interested in scenic surroundings with convenient access to Uptown businesses. Confirm room positioning and parking.
L’Auberge de Sedona
Uptown / Oak Creek
Hotel Tags
An upscale resort near Uptown Sedona and Oak Creek, useful for combining a central base with scenic surroundings. Check access arrangements and current resort fees.
Amara Resort and Spa
Uptown / Oak Creek
Hotel Tags
A contemporary adults-focused landscape-oriented hotel set among the red rocks, suited to a quieter upscale stay. Check its current age policies and amenities.
Ambiente Sedona
West Sedona
Hotel Tags
A resort in West Sedona that provides access to dining and many nearby trailheads by car. Compare its setting with Uptown hotels before selecting a room.
The Wilde Resort and Spa
West Sedona / State Route 89A
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Sedona
High 64°F · Low 41°F · Rain 1.4 in
Pleasant weather and fewer crowds make November lovely.
March–May and September–November. Verify conditions, local schedules and reservation policies when arranging your trip.
Best Times to Visit Sedona
WHEN TO GO
06
Road Congestion and Tours
The main corridors can be heavily congested on weekends. Guided jeep trips have specific departure locations and should be booked ahead.
05
Walking and Hiking
Uptown is walkable in sections, while trails require appropriate footwear, water and navigation.
04
Rental Cars and Parking
A vehicle helps reach scenic areas, but trailhead lots can fill quickly. Never park illegally along highways.
03
Local Shuttles and Trailheads
Sedona operates trailhead shuttle services for selected popular routes on certain days. Check the latest schedule.
02
Local Transportation
A car is helpful; use local trailhead shuttles where offered and check parking restrictions.
01
Arrival and Regional Access
Phoenix Sky Harbor is a major gateway; Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is closer with fewer services.
A car is helpful; use local trailhead shuttles where offered and check parking restrictions.
Getting Around Sedona
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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