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Best of Sedona

Vortex trails, desert sunsets, and swimming holes off the highway.

8 daysLocal favorites
Trip length
3-day5-day8-day10-day
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures perfect for the red-rock trails. Midsummer is hot, and trails are quietest outside the peak holiday weekends.

Day 1 · Arrival & Sunset Welcome

  • 1
    Sedona Airport Mesa

    Easy access for a panoramic introduction to Sedona's red rocks and a well-known vortex.

  • 2
    Creekside Sedona

    Relaxing dinner with creek views after your journey.

Day 2 · Red Rock Classics & Vortex Vibes

  • 1
    Bell Rock Pathway

    A relatively easy and scenic walk around a prominent Sedona landmark and vortex.

  • 2
    Chapel of the Holy Cross

    Stunning architecture built into the red rocks, offering incredible views.

  • 3
    Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

    Browse art galleries and unique shops in a beautiful, old-world setting.

Day 3 · Desert Trails & Sunset Views

  • 1
    Doe Mountain Trail

    A moderate hike to a flat-topped mesa with 360-degree views.

  • 2
    The Hudson, Sedona

    Enjoy modern American cuisine with fantastic red rock views.

  • 3
    Mescal Trailhead (for sunset)

    Less crowded sunset spot than Airport Mesa, offering serene views of Mescal Mountain.

Day 4 · Oak Creek Canyon & Waterside Retreat

  • 1
    Midgley Bridge Trailhead

    Begin a scenic descent into Oak Creek Canyon with access to the creek.

  • 2
    Slide Rock State Park

    Famous natural water slide and swimming holes in Oak Creek Canyon.

  • 3
    Indian Gardens Cafe & Market

    Historic general store and cafe perfect for a casual lunch in Oak Creek Canyon.

Day 5 · Spiritual Exploration & Scenic Drives

  • 1
    Boynton Canyon Trail

    Home to another powerful vortex, offering beautiful scenery and a sense of calm.

  • 2
    Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179)

    Enjoy one of America's most beautiful drives, stopping at viewpoints along the way.

  • 3
    Canyon Breeze Restaurant & Bar

    Casual dining in Uptown Sedona with great views of the surrounding red rocks.

Day 6 · Ancient History & Stargazing

  • 1
    Palatki Heritage Site

    Explore ancient cliff dwellings and rock art of the Sinagua people.

  • 2
    Honanki Heritage Site

    Another significant Sinagua cliff dwelling site, offering a glimpse into the past.

  • 3
    Sedona Star Gazing

    Experience the incredible dark skies of Sedona with a guided stargazing tour.

Day 7 · Adventure & Hidden Gems

  • 1
    West Fork Trail of Oak Creek Canyon

    A beautiful and often tranquil creekside hike, sometimes requiring stream crossings.

  • 2
    Grasshopper Point Swimming Hole

    A popular local spot for swimming and picnicking by Oak Creek.

  • 3
    Distant Drums RV Resort (for views if not staying)

    While an RV park, nearby overlooks provide surprisingly stunning views of the red rocks.

Day 8 · Farewell & Last Views

  • 1
    Sugarloaf Trail

    A short, easy hike with rewarding views of Coffee Pot Rock and the surrounding landscape.

  • 2
    Creekside Coffee & Bakery

    Grab a coffee and pastry for a relaxed start to your departure day.

  • 3
    Sedona Heritage Museum

    Learn about the history and pioneers of Sedona before heading out.

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