Sedona Adventure Guide
Welcome to the Sedona Adventure Guide, where exhilarating experiences and natural wonders await! Prepare to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Sedona as we uncover the top attractions, mouthwatering restaurants, breathtaking hiking trails, and the best places to stay. From exploring majestic red rock formations to indulging in delicious cuisine and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, Sedona has something for everyone. So, get ready to be captivated by the enchanting landscapes and embark on an unforgettable journey through this vibrant desert oasis.
In this guide...
Where To Dine
Featured Article
Featured Article
20 Mouth-Watering Restaurants To Try:
Butterfly Burger, a Couture Burger Lounge by Chef Lisa Dahl, showcases her Burger Battle Championship burgers in an elegant, low-lit setting, offering a unique and sophisticated dining experience.
Creekside American Bistro in Sedona, a cozy and beloved dining spot along Oak Creek, offers a changing seasonal menu by Chef Mercer Mohr, featuring local ingredients and stunning Red Rock views, making it a top all-day dining destination.
Cress on Oak Creek at L’Auberge de Sedona, renowned for blending Arizona’s natural beauty with French-inspired cuisine, has been recognized by Food & Wine’s Global Tastemakers list as one of “The 15 Best Hotels for Food in the U.S.”
Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano, led by Executive Chef Lisa Dahl, stands out as Sedona’s most awarded fine dining restaurant for 25 years, offering sophisticated Italian dishes with a focus on high-quality, sustainable ingredients and an extensive wine selection that has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 15 consecutive years.
Elote Cafe in Sedona, an award-winning modern Mexican & Southwestern restaurant, reflects Chef/Owner Jeff Smedstad’s extensive travel experiences across Mexico and Arizona, offering authentic cuisine with seasonal, locally-grown ingredients and a curated selection of tequilas and mezcal, all set against the scenic Red Rocks.
El Rincon, celebrated as Sedona’s best Mexican restaurant, offers a unique blend of traditional Mexican and native Navajo cuisine, serving fresh, high-quality dishes for over 44 years in a setting that is both special and unique.
Hideaway House in Sedona offers a unique dining experience with three open-air patios nestled among trees, showcasing award-winning views of the red rocks, along with cozy indoor seating options including a full bar and romantic dining rooms.
Indian Gardens, near Slide Rock State Park, provides a cozy garden patio setting complete with blankets for comfort, and is open for breakfast and lunch, offering delicious menu items like fresh salads and sandwiches.
Javelina Cantina in Sedona, led by Proprietor Sheena Curl, is committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere for memorable family dining experiences, featuring classic Mexican dishes, a diverse plant-based menu, and spirited Margarita Flights, complete with a patio offering perfect sunset views.
Mariposa offers a unique South American-inspired fine dining experience, with panoramic views of the red rocks, featuring wood-fired specialties like empanadas, ceviches, and grilled chorizos, in a stunning setting with dramatic design elements, including a handcrafted door and glass-enclosed wine vaults.
Mesa Grill Sedona offers a diverse Southwest Style dining experience for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes ranging from omelets to steaks and seafood, complemented by vegan and gluten-free options, all enjoyed with the unique backdrop of private planes landing and departing amidst Sedona’s stunning views.
Oak Creek Brewery and Grill, located in historic Tlaquepaque, offers award-winning beers and top-rated wood-fired grill fare, with a second-story patio providing amazing Red Rock views, making it a perfect gathering place for visitors and locals alike.
Picazzo’s combines modern-Italian cuisine with Asian, Mediterranean, and Mexican flavors, offering a menu rich in salads, entrees, pasta, and pizza, all made from clean, nutrient-rich whole foods, and includes a full vegan and gluten-free selection.
Pump House Station, previously voted the best lunch spot in Sedona, offers a beautiful creekside garden patio, perfect for enjoying their acclaimed coffee and breakfast favorites like benedicts and omelettes and live music on Friday nights.
At Rene’s French Mediterranean Restaurant in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, guests feast on cuisine that beautifully complements the scenic surroundings, creating an exquisite and unforgettable dining experience.
Sound Bites Grill is renowned as a prime destination for upscale dining and live music, offering fresh, all-natural cuisine including wild-caught seafood and hand-cut steaks, complemented by world-class entertainment in their Celebrity Showroom.
The Hudson, perched on a hillside in Sedona, offers lunch and dinner with a menu of seasonal American fare, including specialties like bruschetta, burgers, aged prime steaks, and homemade desserts, complemented by a selection of cocktails, wine, and craft beer, all enjoyed on a patio with spectacular red rock views.
The Secret Garden Café is a European-style bistro beloved for its fresh, healthy, and delicious menu, featuring dishes like Bistro Sliders, Chicken Corn Tostadas, and vegan Chile Relleno, complemented by premium wines, handcrafted beers, and spirits, all enjoyed in a dog-friendly, casual patio setting with garden views.
The Vault Uptown offers a unique dining experience with an open kitchen, half-moon booths, and a bar against patio windows, providing an unparalleled view of the red rocks and the heart of Uptown Sedona.
Tortas de Fuego, brought to life by the Sanchez-Jimenez family, offers a genuine taste of Mexico City in West Sedona, serving authentic and mouth-watering Mexican cuisine as a realization of their American Dream.
Where To Stay
Featured Hotels
Ambiente A Landscape Hotel
Ambiente® Sedona is your exclusive natural escape and destination in which to elevate
Enchantment Resort
Surrounded on all sides by acres of pristine wilderness, Enchantment offers you the
Los Abrigados Resort & Spa
Find the shade you need under the desert sun at Los Abrigados Resort
Featured Hotel
Enchantment Resort
Surrounded on all sides by acres of pristine wilderness, Enchantment offers you the
10 Hotels For An Unforgettable Stay In Sedona:
Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona offers a unique blend of elegance and comfort, thanks to its recent multimillion-dollar renovation. Located in the heart of Uptown Sedona, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities, explore local shops and art, and then unwind in the resort’s infinity pool or spa. This resort serves as a cozy, welcoming base for an authentic Sedona experience.
Ambiente Sedona offers a unique and luxurious experience in the heart of Sedona’s stunning landscape. It features 40 elevated Atriums, each providing a breathtaking 180-degree view of the red rocks and national forest through floor-to-ceiling, bronze-tinted glass. These Atriums are a blend of elegance and nature, equipped with modern amenities like a private rooftop lounge, fire pit, and daybed. The resort emphasizes sustainability, incorporating the restoration of an ancient waterway into its design, allowing guests to enjoy luxury while being immersed in Sedona’s natural beauty.
Nestled in Boynton Canyon, Enchantment Resort is a haven of luxury amidst acres of untouched wilderness. The resort features 218 Southwestern-style casitas and suites, each offering breathtaking views from their private decks or patios. Guests at Enchantment Resort can indulge in destination spa Mii amo, enjoy a variety of dining options, and participate in numerous outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. And, be sure not to miss the local wildlife and stunning backdrop of Sedona’s red rock formations.
The Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock, distinguished by its picturesque setting near the famous Bell Rock, is a haven for golf enthusiasts and spa lovers. This resort offers guests the luxury of playing at the adjacent Sedona Golf Resort, a top-rated 18-hole course. The expansive on-site spa includes a yoga studio, a fitness room with a wide range of equipment, and multiple treatment rooms. Dining options include The Grille at ShadowRock, which serves Southwestern-themed cuisine, and two cafes for lighter fare. The resort’s design, which features Navajo rugs and Southwestern accents, complements the natural beauty of the Sedona landscape.
The Hyatt Residence Club Piñon Pointe offers Southwestern charm in the heart of Sedona. Guests can choose from studio to two-bedroom villas, each featuring a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living space, and a stone fireplace. A year-round open outdoor pool and firepit area add to the allure, providing a perfect spot for relaxation. The prime location offers easy access to explore renowned Sedona landmarks such as Cathedral Rock and the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
L’Auberge de Sedona stands out as a luxurious retreat nestled under Sedona’s sycamore trees along Oak Creek. Voted as Condé Nast’s #1 Hotel in the Southwest and West, this resort offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy Creekside cottages to the lavish five-bedroom Creekhouse. Guests can indulge in fine dining at Cress on Oak Creek, offering Arizonan cuisine infused with French techniques and local ingredients. In addition to healing Ayurvedic spa treatments at L’Apothecary Spa, the resort provides a sanctuary for personal discovery and connection. With meaningful activities from guided stargazing talks to heart-opening meditation hikes, L’Auberge de Sedona is not just a stay but a nourishing retreat for the soul.
Tucked away from the bustle behind the famed Tlaquepaque arts and crafts village lies the luxurious Los Abrigados Resort and Spa, an oasis of relaxation bordering Oak Creek in the heart of Sedona. The resort features one and two-bedroom suites with kitchens and private patios or balconies and fun amenities including mini golf, a children’s playground, outdoor pool, sprawling chess board, and a tennis court. Guests can also unwind at the spa with nourishing treatments like clay wraps and massages or take a yoga class in the meditative gardens. From the weekly live music to the cultural events next door at Tlaquepaque, Los Abrigados creates the perfect balance of access to Sedona’s artistic scene while providing a Southwestern resort experience amidst gorgeous natural scenery.
Orchards Inn featured stunning Red Rock views from private balconies in the heart of Uptown Sedona. Guests can savor Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine at 89Agave Cantina located on-site. With its central location, Orchards Inn is steps away from Sedona’s shops, galleries, and restaurants, and serves as an ideal starting point for outdoor explorations like hiking and hot air balloon rides. Orchards Inn is a prime choice for those seeking both the natural beauty of Sedona and the convenience of a central location.
Situated amidst the stunning Red Rocks of Sedona, Poco Diablo Resort offers a delightful mix of luxury and natural charm. The resort features recently updated accommodations, a heated pool, whirlpool spa, and a well-equipped fitness center. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at Willows Kitchen and Wine Bar, with the majestic Red Rocks as a backdrop. Ideal for both relaxation and business, the resort has versatile event spaces and serves as a base for outdoor adventures, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors. With its inviting atmosphere and comprehensive amenities, Poco Diablo Resort is a standout choice for travelers in Sedona.
The Wilde Resort and Spa stands out for its unique features like a meditation labyrinth and stargazing from the rooftop deck. In addition to wellness retreats, this hotel offers an on-site spa, outdoor pool, and cozy firepits, all in a pet-friendly environment. Guests can indulge in American cuisine at Rascal, or enjoy cocktails and snacks at the pool bar. The resort also caters to fun and relaxation with activities like foosball, ping pong, and board games, all while emphasizing comfort and sustainability in its accommodations.
Flying into Phoenix for Sedona?
Kick off your adventure with a memorable night at a fantastic hotel in sunny Scottsdale.
Attractions & Fun Things To Do
20+ Attractions To Check Out Within An Hour's Reach:
Serene & Healing Escapes
14 Spas & Wellness Programs In Sedona That Are Worth A Visit:
Spas
eforea spa at Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
L’Apothecary Spa at L’Auberge de Sedona
Sedona Spa at Los Abrigados
18 Fun Tours To Experience:
FEATURED LOCAL BUSINESS
Pink Jeep Tours
Sedona’s famous red-rock landscape offers adventure at every turn. Each excursion offers an unforgettable backcountry tour with insider info from the area’s most knowledgeable
FEATURED LOCAL BUSINESS
Pink Jeep Tours
Sedona’s famous red-rock landscape offers adventure at every turn. Each excursion offers an unforgettable backcountry tour with insider info from
Possible Road Trips From Sedona
Hit The Trails & Explore Nature
Sedona’s trails promise breathtaking natural beauty and adventure. In this section, we highlight some of the most popular hikes and outdoor activities that showcase the best of Sedona’s landscapes. Have you ever felt the rush of water at Slide Rock State Park? It’s a must-try in Sedona, where nature’s waterslide offers a refreshing escape. And if you’re up for a challenge, the hike to Devil’s Bridge isn’t just a path; it’s a journey to one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Arizona. Don’t miss out on the stunning sunset views from the Airport Loop Trail, where the sky is painted in colors you have to see to believe. Early birds will love the tranquility of a sunrise hike at Kachina Woman Trail in Boynton Canyon. Add a unique twist to your hike with an outdoor yoga or meditation session among the red rocks, blending adventure with spiritual peace. While exploring, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, like the beloved javelinas, but observe them safely from a distance. As night falls, the clear skies of Sedona become a stargazer’s paradise. To delve deeper into Sedona’s landscapes, consider a guided nature tour for insights into its natural and cultural history. Sedona’s landscapes change with the seasons, offering new perspectives from spring’s wildflowers to autumn’s rich hues. Remember to tread lightly, following Leave No Trace principles, to preserve this natural wonderland for future visitors. So, are you ready to lace up your hiking boots and see what surprises Sedona has in store for you?
12 Scenic Trails To Explore Around Sedona:
Experience the thrill of elevation on the Airport Loop Trail, a 3.3-mile journey that offers a unique perspective of Sedona’s landscape. As you walk along the rim of Airport Mesa, this trail provides a panoramic experience with minimal shade, perfect for cooler days or morning hikes. Along the way, stop at key vantage points for breathtaking views, and don’t miss the nearby energy vortex, adding a mystical touch to your hike. For photographers, early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the stunning scenery. It’s an adventure that offers a new perspective on Sedona’s stunning landscape.
Take on the challenge of the Bear Mountain Trail, a 5-mile trek that tests your endurance with a significant 1,800 feet elevation gain. As you navigate the rocky and steep path, you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes, from dense vegetation to exposed, sun-drenched slopes. Along the ascent, keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique rock formations that adorn the trail. Reaching one of Sedona’s tallest peaks, you’re rewarded with sweeping views that stretch to the red rocks and the distant San Francisco Peaks. Be sure to start early, come prepared with plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes to tackle this rewarding adventure.
Explore the 4-mile Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop, an easy yet visually stunning trail. Ideal for hikers of all levels, this path circles around the iconic Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, offering constantly evolving views of these majestic formations. The trail changes names a few times, so be sure to follow the trail signs carefully. With this being such a popular hike, parking can be challenging and consider going counter-clockwise for a less crowded path. The trail varies in terrain, starting on a wide, gravel path before becoming more rugged. For a more adventurous hike, you can include the Bell Rock climb in your journey. The climb involves following trail signs and then wire baskets filled with rocks, leading to higher levels on Bell Rock. The climb is a mix of trail walking and rock scrambling, offering a fun challenge and amazing views.
Discover the Birthing Cave Hike, a gentle 2-mile walk leading to a unique cave. The hike starts at the Long Canyon Trailhead, located about 15 minutes outside of Sedona and can be a bit challenging to find, so use GPS coordinates. Parking is limited, with space for about 15 cars on the roadside, but there are more spots available down the road at the Mescal Trailhead. The trail is generally easy and flat, making it suitable for most hikers. However, the final ascent into the Birthing Cave is short but steep and can be rocky with loose gravel, requiring caution. The walls of the cave are smooth slickrock, with little to hold onto. It’s recommended to wear good hiking shoes with traction. The cave is shallow, and you don’t have to climb very high for great views. However, be very careful if you choose to hike out onto the ledges, as they can be slippery. This trail is popular for its ease and the remarkable photo opportunities it offers, set against the backdrop of Sedona’s red rocks. The cave faces southeast, making early morning a difficult time for photography due to direct sunlight. If you’re looking to grab great pics, visit in late afternoon when the cave is in shade and the red rocks are illuminated by the sun. The Birthing Cave is a sacred site in Native American history where Hopi women gave birth.
The Boynton Canyon Trail, a moderate 6-mile out-and-back hike, offers a blend of forested and desert landscapes with stunning red sandstone formations and tall buttes. This popular trail, cooler due to its shady aspects, has an elevation gain of about 860 feet, mostly in the final mile. There is a convenient parking lot on Boynton Canyon Road with overflow parking along the Boynton Pass Road. Hikers can explore two detours: the Boynton Canyon Vista Trail for breathtaking views looking down on Enchantment Resort, adding about 30-60 minutes, and the sacred Subway Cave and ruins, marked by the Alligator Juniper tree about 2 miles in. Both detours are more strenuous but rewarded with spectacular scenery and photo opportunities. Be prepared for narrow, crowded paths and adhere to Leave No Trace principles, especially around the sacred areas.
Challenge yourself with the Cathedral Rock Hike, a popular yet demanding 1-mile ascent that takes 1-2 hours to complete. This trail, known for its hands-on climbing and breathtaking panoramic views, offers an exhilarating experience in the midst of Sedona’s red rock landscape. Expect it to be crowded, especially during peak times. Convenient parking is available at two lots on Back O Beyond Road, but they fill up quickly; consider using the free Sedona Shuttle for easier access. Besides the main trailhead, there are alternative routes to Cathedral Rock from the west, starting at Red Rock Crossing or the Baldwin Trail. These routes are about 4 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain and take 2 to 4 hours to complete. The trail can be slippery, especially at night or after rainfall. It’s essential to wear proper hiking shoes for better traction during the rock scrambling sections. Upon reaching the ‘End of Trail’ sign, take a moment to enjoy the stunning vistas before heading back down. Ensure you’re prepared with sturdy footwear for the scramble, sufficient water, and remember to respect the trail and its natural surroundings.
Devil’s Bridge Trail, a 4.2-mile round-trip journey, leads to Sedona’s largest natural sandstone arch and offers breathtaking views along its path. This moderately difficult trail is a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. For those with high-clearance 4WD vehicles, the trailhead on Dry Creek Road provides a shorter, 2-mile route. Alternatively, hikers without 4WD can start from the Mescal Trailhead for a more scenic experience, avoiding the additional 2 miles along the less picturesque Dry Creek Road. The trail itself combines sandy paths with a series of steep steps and requires some rock scrambling. Due to its popularity, especially at the bridge, be prepared for waits, particularly for photo opportunities. To avoid longer queues, consider visiting during off-peak times.
For a relaxing and easy hike, the Fay Canyon Trail, located just 10 minutes outside of Sedona near the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, is a perfect choice. This 2.4-mile round trip hike features a flat and soft path surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and juniper trees, with imposing red rock cliffs alongside. About 0.6 miles in, look for two cairn rocks indicating the turn-off for Fay Canyon Arch. This side hike, though slightly elevated, is manageable and leads to the impressive arch, a great spot for photos and panoramic views of the canyon. After exploring the arch, continue to the trail’s end and return the same way. The trailhead’s parking on Boynton Pass Road is more spacious than most in Sedona but can get busy, so arrive early and remember to display a Red Rock Pass. Fay Canyon is ideal for those seeking a serene hike immersed in Sedona’s natural beauty.
Montezuma Castle and Well offer a fascinating blend of history and nature, set within an ancient, water-filled limestone sinkhole. The half-mile trail provides an easy and accessible hike, perfect for all visitors. As you walk along the rim, you’ll see remnants of cliffside rooms, once inhabited by native peoples like the Sinagua, Hohokam, Hopi, Zuni, and Yavapai. Descend the 112 stone steps to explore small rooms carved into the limestone at the water’s edge, offering a cool retreat from the Arizona heat. This area is not only a testament to the area’s rich natural history but also an important cultural heritage site. Relax and reflect in the picnic area, and remember to treat this sacred place with the utmost respect, avoiding any disturbance to the ruins or natural features. Montezuma Castle and Well, part of a National Monument, provide a unique window into the lives of ancient peoples and the enduring power of nature.
Nestled in oak and sycamore trees along Oak Creek just north of Sedona lies Slide Rock State Park, home to one of the most popular natural water slides in the Southwest. The centerpiece of the park is its namesake chute carved into the slick red rock, whisking riders down the gentle slope into cool, creek waters perfect for swimming on hot days. In addition to water play, the park offers three short hiking trails with stunning canyon vistas. For refreshments and supplies, the Slide Rock State Market is open year-round with seasonal hours of operation. Several picnic spots also dot the banks of Oak Creek, allowing guests to enjoy a bite while soaking in the scenic views. The park has a large parking lot and restroom facilities onsite, but the lot tends to fill up early during peak visitor season. Entry fees range from $20-$30 per vehicle depending on season, along with $5 per additional adult. Slide Rock State Park provides the ideal blend of water fun, idyllic nature settings, and light hiking opportunities just minutes from downtown Sedona.
Soldier Pass Trail is a popular 4-mile out-and-back trail that includes the Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools, and the Soldier Pass Cave. It is considered moderately difficult, with an elevation gain of 800 feet, and takes about 2.5 hours to complete. Starting at the gated parking lot on Forest Service Road 9904, hikers first make their way up to the Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole, located about 1 mile up the trail. This 40-foot deep limestone depression is filled with rubble and debris. Continuing another 0.5 miles leads to the Seven Sacred Pools, a breathtaking collection of natural swimming holes and waterfalls cascading down smooth red rock (depending on current rainfall amounts). These pools range from ankle to shoulder-deep and provide the perfect place to take a refreshing dip on a hot day. From there, you can continue on until you get to the fork in the trail with the Wilderness sign leading to the spur to Soldier’s Pass Cave to the right or head left to stay on the main trail. This trek to the cave is a steep rocky climb. Since the cave has become very popular, plan to spend about an hour once you’re there for photos. For those with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, you can take a short cut to all of these sites via Soldier Pass 4WD Road. Since parking can be a challenge, taking the Sedona Shuttle to the parking lot may be your best bet.
This scenic 6.9-mile out-and-back trail offers a refreshing hike along a lush canyon with numerous creek crossings and towering cliffs. The trail runs through the bottom of Oak Creek Canyon, located about 10 miles north of Sedona off Highway 89A. The trailhead has a parking lot ($12 per vehicle), picnic tables, and bathrooms, making it a perfect spot to enjoy nature all day. Over 30 creek crossings allow hikers to hop across large rocks and cool their feet while taking in the sights of vibrant wildflowers, dizzying canyon walls, and the melodic sound of water cascading over boulders. The trail is considered an easy hike, with relatively flat terrain. Plan for 2-3 hours to complete the entire trail, but many hikers opt to spend most of the day relaxing in this pleasant setting by the creek. Be sure to wear water-friendly sturdy shoes with traction to safely navigate the slick creek crossings.
More Guides You May Like:
