Sedona Itinerary | 2-10 Days Guide

Red Rock Country isn’t just a nickname here. Sedona rises from the Arizona desert with towering sandstone formations that glow crimson at sunset, spiritual vortexes believed to channel Earth’s energy, and hiking trails that reward every level of explorer.

This desert town built its reputation on natural beauty while evolving into a wellness and arts destination that surprises even frequent visitors. From Cathedral Rock’s spires to Oak Creek’s swimming holes, the landscape offers adventures without overwhelming crowds of larger parks.

Whether you’re hiking Bell Rock at sunrise, soaking in a spa under red rock views, or browsing art galleries in Tlaquepaque, Sedona delivers desert magic at 4,500 feet elevation with four distinct seasons.

This guide breaks down the perfect Sedona itinerary, whether for a quick weekend escape or a full week exploring Arizona’s most photogenic destination.

Itinerary Summary

2 Days in Sedona – Quick red rock highlights
3 Days in Sedona – Essential desert experience
4 Days in Sedona – Complete first-timer’s journey
5 Days in Sedona – Extended trails and wellness
7 Days in Sedona – Local living with day trips
10 Days in Sedona – Total Arizona immersion
Getting Around Sedona
Where to Stay in Sedona
Sedona Travel Tips

Planning your trip? Check out our guide on the best time to visit Sedona for ideal weather and events before building your itinerary.

2 Days in Sedona: 48 Hours Red Rock Sprint

This fast-paced itinerary works for travelers driving between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon or couples seeking a quick nature escape. You’ll experience Sedona’s most iconic red rocks without spreading yourself thin. Perfect for photographers and hikers wanting maximum scenery packed into one power weekend.

Day 1: Iconic Formations

Morning: Start with sunrise at Airport Mesa for 360-degree red rock views. The easy 3.5-mile loop trail accesses one of Sedona’s famous vortex sites believed to emit upward energy. The trailhead sits right off Airport Road with ample parking. After hiking, breakfast at Coffee Pot Restaurant for classic American fare with Coffee Pot Rock views out the window.

Afternoon: Drive to Cathedral Rock trailhead. The steep 1.2-mile hike challenges but rewards with Sedona’s most photographed rock formation towering overhead. Expect crowds on weekends. The exposed trail requires water and sun protection. Swimming in Oak Creek at Red Rock Crossing offers post-hike cooling with Cathedral Rock backdrop.

Lunch: Grab takeout at Wildflower Bread Company for sandwiches and salads perfect for creek-side picnics.

Evening: Sunset at Bell Rock, another vortex site with easier trails circling the base. The formation glows brilliant red-orange as the sun sets. Dinner at Elote Cafe for creative Mexican cuisine is worth the wait. Their lamb tacos and corn-crusted scallops earn raves. Reservations are essential or expect 90+ minute waits.

Day 2: Canyons and Culture

Morning: Drive Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive north toward Flagstaff. Stop at Slide Rock State Park for natural water slides down smooth creek rocks. The swimming hole stays cold year-round but refreshes summer visitors. Arrive early as parking fills quickly.

Lunch: Indian Gardens Cafe in Oak Creek Canyon serves casual sandwiches with shaded creek-side patio seating.

Afternoon: Return to Sedona for the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built directly into red rock cliffs. The architectural marvel requires a short walk from the parking lot but delivers stunning views. Browse Tlaquepaque Arts Village for galleries and shops in a Mexican-inspired plaza. Local artists showcase paintings, jewelry, and sculptures.

Evening: Final sunset from Airport Mesa vortex if you missed sunrise, or try Schnebly Hill Vista for elevated views. Dinner at Mariposa for Latin-inspired upscale dining with expansive red rock vistas. Their sunset views rival the food. End with drinks at Sound Bites Grill, featuring live music nightly.

Best Homes to Stay for a 2-Day Sedona Trip:

3 Days in Sedona: The Essential Desert Weekend

Three days capture Sedona’s essence perfectly for first-time visitors or couples celebrating special occasions. This itinerary balances hiking with wellness experiences, making it ideal for anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or friend reunions seeking both adventure and relaxation. You’ll experience the area’s diverse character from rugged trails to art galleries.

Day 1: Red Rock Immersion

Morning: Breakfast at Pump House Station Urban Eatery for creative morning fare. Their avocado toast and breakfast burritos fuel hiking. Head to Devil’s Bridge Trail for Sedona’s largest natural arch. The moderate 4.2-mile round trip is rewarded with a dramatic arch spanning a canyon gap. Arrive by 7 AM to beat crowds and heat.

Afternoon: Cool off at Crescent Moon Ranch day-use area. This Oak Creek spot offers swimming, picnicking, and Cathedral Rock views. The iconic red rock reflection in calm creek waters creates Sedona’s most photographed scene. Rental equipment available for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

Lunch: Pack picnic supplies from New Frontiers Natural Marketplace before heading to the creek.

Evening: Sunset from Airport Mesa vortex. The sweeping 360-degree views encompass most major formations at once. Dinner at Cucina Rustica for Italian cuisine in the Village of Oak Creek. Their wood-fired pizzas and pasta satisfy heartily. End with stargazing away from town lights, where dark skies reveal endless stars.

Day 2: Vortex Energy and Wellness

Morning: Book a vortex tour with an experienced guide explaining energy sites and local history. Multiple companies offer half-day tours visiting Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Boynton Canyon. These tours provide context about Sedona’s spiritual reputation. Alternatively, hike Boynton Canyon independently. The moderate 6-mile trail passes through a reported vortex site with beautiful red canyon walls.

Lunch: ChocolaTree Organic Eatery serves vegetarian cuisine in a garden setting. Everything is organic, gluten-free, and house-made. Their raw chocolate treats from the in-house factory make a perfect dessert.

Afternoon: Spa time at one of Sedona’s world-class wellness centers. Mii amo Spa, Enchantment Resort’s spa, or L’Auberge offer treatments incorporating vortex energy, red rock views, and local ingredients. Book a massage, facial, or sound healing. Many spas require advance reservations and minimum ages for treatments.

Evening: Dinner at Dahl & DiLuca for fine dining Italian in a romantic villa setting. This award-winning restaurant delivers special occasion elegance. Alternatively, keep it casual at Oak Creek Brewery & Grill for house-brewed beer and pub food on their second-floor patio.

Day 3: Art and Adventure

Morning: Pink Jeep Tour provides an off-road adventure accessing the remote red rock backcountry. The Broken Arrow tour is most popular with dramatic terrain and sweeping vistas. Tours run 2-3 hours, departing morning and afternoon. The rugged ride delivers thrills and photo opportunities impossible to reach independently.

Lunch: Butterfly Burger for elevated burgers and craft cocktails post-jeep tour.

Afternoon: Browse Uptown Sedona galleries featuring Southwestern art, photography, and sculpture. Jordan Road and Highway 89A host dozens of galleries. Stop at Tlaquepaque Arts Village for more shopping in a charming Mexican-style plaza. The architecture alone warrants photos. Coffee break at Oak Creek Espresso for locally roasted beans.

Evening: Final sunset at Schnebly Hill Vista requires a high-clearance vehicle or a short hike. The elevated viewpoint offers a different perspective on the red rock country. Farewell dinner at Cress on Oak Creek at L’Auberge. This fine-dining creek-side restaurant showcases French technique with Arizona ingredients. The romantic setting suits celebrations.

Best Homes to Stay for a 3-Day Sedona Weekend:

4 Days in Sedona: The Neighborhood Explorer

Four days lets you dig deeper into Sedona’s distinct areas while hitting major trails. This works perfectly for families with older kids or groups wanting both hiking and downtime. You’ll balance famous spots with hidden gems that locals actually frequent.

Day 1: South Sedona Trails

Morning: Breakfast at Secret Garden Cafe for healthy options and garden patio seating. Their smoothie bowls and egg dishes use organic ingredients. Hike Bell Rock Pathway starting at Bell Rock Vista parking. The 3.6-mile loop circles this vortex site with multiple trail options for varying fitness levels. Morning light illuminates the formation beautifully.

Afternoon: Continue to Courthouse Butte Loop, adding 4 miles for extended hiking. The trail circles Courthouse Butte with Bell Rock views. Relatively flat terrain makes this accessible for most hikers despite the distance. Pack plenty of water, as the exposed trail offers little shade.

Lunch: Picnic at Bell Rock or grab lunch back in the Village of Oak Creek at Mesa Grill.

Evening: Sunset at Red Rock Crossing with Cathedral Rock reflections in Oak Creek. This swimming and wading area stays popular with families. Dinner at SaltRock Southwest Kitchen at Amara Resort featuring regional cuisine with creative flair. Their patio overlooks the red rocks.

Day 2: West Sedona Adventures

Morning: Drive to Fay Canyon Trail for an easier 2.4-mile hike through a beautiful red rock canyon. The trail ends at a natural arch requiring off-trail scrambling to reach. The canyon walls tower overhead, creating a peaceful, enclosed feeling. Continue to nearby Boynton Canyon if energy remains.

Lunch: Head to Golden Goose American Grill for burgers and steaks with an outdoor patio.

Afternoon: Cool off at Slide Rock State Park if you skipped it earlier. The natural water slides and swimming holes attract families, but the cold creek water refreshes. Wear water shoes and prepare for crowds on summer weekends. Alternatively, visit Red Rock State Park’s gentler trails and visitor center, explaining local ecology.

Evening: Watch sunset from Sunset Vista at Sedona Cultural Park. Dinner at Hudson neighborhood restaurant for upscale casual dining. Their seasonal menu changes regularly but always highlights local ingredients. End with live music at Sound Bites Grill or Red Rock Brewing Company.

Day 3: Jerome Day Trip

Morning: Drive 40 minutes to Jerome, a historic mining town clinging to Cleopatra Hill. This National Historic Landmark features art galleries, shops, and mining history in buildings from the early 1900s. The town’s elevation provides sweeping Verde Valley views. Tour the Jerome State Historic Park’s Douglas Mansion Museum for mining history.

Lunch: Grapes restaurant serves creative cuisine in a restored historic building. Their wine list features Arizona wines from the nearby Verde Valley.

Afternoon: Explore Jerome’s galleries and quirky shops. The Jerome Artists Cooperative showcases local artists’ work. Continue to nearby Clarkdale for Verde Valley wineries. Caduceus Cellars, owned by Maynard James Keenan of Tool, offers tastings. Multiple wineries dot the valley, providing options for wine touring.

Evening: Return to Sedona, stopping at Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood if timing works. This Old West town features a cowboy dinner show with music and comedy. Shows run Wednesday through Saturday evenings, March through October. Alternatively, a simple dinner in Sedona at your rental or casual spot.

Day 4: Hidden Corners

Morning: Breakfast at Mesa Grill near Airport Road. Hike Soldier Pass Trail to Seven Sacred Pools and Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole. The 4-mile trail passes multiple geological features, including arches and sinkholes. The pools hold water after rain, creating photo opportunities. This less-trafficked trail rewards with solitude.

Lunch: Coffee Pot Restaurant for breakfast all day. Their 101 omelet options include everything imaginable.

Afternoon: Visit Palatki Heritage Site, requiring free permits obtained through the Red Rock Ranger District. The ancient cliff dwellings and rock art date back 800+ years. Rangers provide tours explaining the Southern Sinagua people who lived here. The site requires rough road access but reveals fascinating history.

Evening: Final sunset at your favorite vortex site discovered during the week. Farewell dinner at The Hudson or Pump House, depending on vibe preference. Both deliver quality food in neighborhood settings that locals love.

Best Homes to Stay for a 4-Day Sedona Trip: Cathedral View

5 Days in Sedona: The Complete First-Timer’s Journey

Five days reveal Sedona beyond the postcard views and give time to appreciate why people move here for the lifestyle. Perfect for families planning vacations or couples wanting a thorough exploration without rushing. This pace lets you experience the area’s full range from extreme hiking to gentle wellness.

Day 1: Gateway Trails

Morning: Fuel up at Coffee Pot Restaurant before tackling Cathedral Rock via Baldwin Trail. This steep 1.2-mile climb challenges but rewards with summit views. The exposed scramble requires good shoes and comfort with heights. Many turn back before the top, but even halfway delivers stunning perspectives.

Lunch: Indian Gardens Cafe in Oak Creek Canyon provides mid-day refuge with creek-side seating.

Afternoon: Swim at Grasshopper Point day-use area on Oak Creek. The creek’s cold water stays refreshing year-round. Local families frequent this swimming hole with cliff jumping spots for brave souls. Rent paddle boards or kayaks from nearby outfitters for creek exploring.

Evening: Sunset at Airport Mesa, then dinner at Pisa Lisa for wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Chef Lisa Dahl’s commitment to organic Arizona ingredients shows in creative topping combinations. Their gelato made in-house provides a perfect dessert.

Day 2: Extreme Adventure

Morning: Book an early morning hot air balloon ride with Northern Light Balloon Expeditions or Red Rock Balloons. Flights launch at sunrise, floating over red rock formations from above. The peaceful hour-long drift offers unique perspective and photo opportunities. Champagne toast follows landing.

Lunch: After ballooning, brunch at Creekside American Bistro overlooking Oak Creek.

Afternoon: Afternoon jeep tour exploring backcountry areas inaccessible by regular vehicles. Multiple companies offer various difficulty levels from scenic to extreme. The roughest tours deliver bigger thrills but require strong stomachs. Tours typically run 2.5-3 hours.

Evening: Recover from adventure day with a casual dinner at Cowboy Club featuring elk, buffalo, and rattlesnake alongside traditional steaks. The Old West atmosphere fits Sedona’s rugged character. End with drinks at Vino Di Sedona wine bar.

Day 3: Wellness and Vortexes

Morning: Sunrise yoga or meditation at a vortex site. Several instructors offer guided sessions at Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, or Airport Mesa. The combination of vortex energy and sunrise light creates a transformative experience for believers and skeptics alike.

Lunch: ChocolaTree for organic vegetarian fare post-yoga.

Afternoon: Full spa afternoon at resort spa or local wellness center. Many offer half-day packages including multiple treatments. Sound healing, crystal therapy, and energy work complement traditional massage and facials. Book ahead as popular times fill weeks in advance.

Evening: Light dinner at Secret Garden Cafe or Indian Gardens to maintain wellness vibe. Alternatively, a stargazing tour reveals Sedona’s dark skies and constellations. Several companies offer tours with telescopes and astronomy guides.

Day 4: Oak Creek Canyon

Morning: Drive scenic Highway 89A through Oak Creek Canyon toward Flagstaff. Stop at overlooks, photographing the dramatic canyon carved by Oak Creek. Pull into West Fork Oak Creek Trail for a stunning 3-mile hike through a narrow canyon with creek crossings. The trail requires wading through water, creating adventure.

Lunch: Indian Gardens Cafe or pack a picnic for the West Fork trail.

Afternoon: Slide Rock State Park swimming, if you haven’t visited yet. The natural slides and pools stay popular, but the cold creek water refreshes. Alternatively, continue to Flagstaff for mountain town exploring and elevation relief from Sedona’s heat.

Evening: Return to Sedona for dinner at The Hudson featuring a rotating seasonal menu. Their commitment to local ingredients and craft cocktails makes them a neighborhood favorite. End at Oak Creek Brewery for house-brewed beers.

Day 5: Art and Culture

Morning: Leisurely breakfast at Pump House Station. Spend the morning gallery hopping through Uptown Sedona and Tlaquepaque. Local artists create Southwestern landscapes, Native American-inspired work, and abstract pieces influenced by red rocks. Many galleries feature artists working in studios.

Lunch: Eat at Tlaquepaque’s El Rincon restaurant for Mexican cuisine in a courtyard setting.

Afternoon: Visit Sedona Heritage Museum, learning town history from the 1870s settlement through tourism development. The small museum preserves pioneer buildings and artifacts. Or tour the Sedona Arts Center, featuring rotating exhibitions and classes in painting, pottery, and sculpture.

Evening: Final sunset at Schnebly Hill Vista or your personal favorite vortex site. Farewell dinner at Mariposa or Cress, depending on budget and occasion. Both restaurants deliver memorable meals with red rock views. Toast five days well spent in Red Rock Country.

Best Homes to Stay for a 5-Day Sedona Adventure: Roca Roja

7 Days in Sedona: Red Rock Living Like a Local

A full week lets you settle into Sedona’s rhythm, discovering why retirees and artists choose this desert town despite summer heat. This itinerary works for remote workers, extended families, or wellness seekers wanting complete immersion. You’ll have time to revisit favorite trails and venture into the surrounding Verde Valley.

Days 1-5: Follow the 5-Day Itinerary

Start with the comprehensive five-day plan covering major hikes, vortexes, wellness, and day trips. This foundation ensures you experience Sedona’s essential character before exploring deeper.

Day 6: Verde Valley Wine Trail

Morning: Breakfast at your rental, then drive to Page Springs for Verde Valley wine tasting. This Arizona wine region produces surprising quality despite the desert climate. Start at Page Springs Cellars overlooking Oak Creek. Their Rhone-style wines and creek-side setting create a perfect morning.

Afternoon: Continue to nearby wineries, including Arizona Stronghold, Javelina Leap, and Alcantara Vineyards. Most wineries offer tastings daily with food trucks or picnic areas. The scenic valley with red rocks rising provides a beautiful backdrop. Plan a designated driver or book a wine tour transport.

Lunch: Most wineries allow picnics or have food trucks on weekends.

Evening: Return to Sedona, stopping at Montezuma Castle National Monument if timing permits. The ancient cliff dwelling built into limestone cliffs dates to the 1100s. A short walk from the parking lot provides views. Dinner at Thai Spices for fresh Thai cuisine adapted for vegetarian options.

Day 7: Your Choice Day

Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a favorite spot discovered during the week. Maybe return to Coffee Pot Restaurant or try Red Rock Cafe for blue corn huevos rancheros in a strip mall setting locals love.

Afternoon: Options abound for the final day. Revisit favorite trail, explore neighborhoods you haven’t fully seen, or book a final spa treatment. Munds Wagon Trail offers an easier 4-mile option if legs are tired. Shopping for local art and crystals makes meaningful souvenirs.

Lunch: Butterfly Burger or Golden Goose, depending on location.

Evening: Final sunset from Schnebly Hill Vista requires a high-clearance vehicle but delivers panoramic red rock views. Or stick with accessible Airport Mesa. Splurge on dinner at Dahl & DiLuca or Cress for a special farewell meal. Alternatively, keep it casual at a local favorite. End with night sky viewing away from town lights. The dark sky preserve status means spectacular star visibility.

Best Homes to Stay for a 7-Day Sedona Experience: Pyramid

10 Days in Sedona: Total Arizona Immersion

Ten days transform Sedona from a destination to a temporary home. This extended stay suits digital nomads, sabbatical travelers, or anyone craving complete desert immersion. You’ll establish routines, discover secret trails, and venture across Northern Arizona exploring the broader region.

Days 1-7: Follow the 7-Day Itinerary

Complete the week-long plan, ensuring comprehensive Sedona coverage from vortexes to wineries. By day seven, you’ll know your favorite cafes and trails.

Day 8: Grand Canyon Day Trip

Morning: Leave early (6 AM) for a 2.5-hour drive to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Stop in Flagstaff for coffee and breakfast supplies. The scenic drive through pine forests contrasts dramatically with Sedona’s red rocks. Arrive at Grand Canyon by 9 AM, beating peak crowds.

Afternoon: Walk rim trail between viewpoints, experiencing the canyon’s immensity. Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Yaki Point offer different perspectives. Hike into the canyon on Bright Angel or South Kaibab trails if energy permits. Even 30 minutes down reveals changing geology layers.

Lunch: Pack lunch for Grand Canyon or eat at rim cafeterias.

Evening: Return to Sedona exhausted but awed. The 5-hour round-trip drive plus hiking makes for a long day. A simple dinner near the rental or delivery lets you rest and process the full day.

Day 9: Montezuma Castle and Verde Valley

Morning: Drive to Montezuma Castle National Monument, exploring the well-preserved cliff dwelling. Rangers provide context about the Southern Sinagua people. Continue to nearby Montezuma Well, a natural limestone sinkhole with ancient irrigation systems.

Lunch: Camp Verde offers casual dining options, including El Ranchero for Mexican food.

Afternoon: Visit Tuzigoot National Monument, another hilltop pueblo ruin with Verde Valley views. The visitor center explains ancient agriculture and trade networks. Or tour Jerome’s mines and ghost town character if you skipped earlier. Blazin’ M Ranch cowboy dinner show runs select evenings if you want Western entertainment.

Evening: Return to Sedona for dinner at Pump House or Hudson. Both neighborhood restaurants deliver quality without pretense. Reflect on ten days knowing you’ve truly experienced Red Rock Country beyond tourism.

Day 10: Favorite Spots and Farewell

Morning: Return to a favorite breakfast spot from the week. Maybe Coffee Pot Restaurant or try Red Rock Cafe, you kept meaning to visit. Final morning hike to your preferred vortex or trail. Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, or Airport Mesa each offers different energy and views.

Lunch: Last meal at Elote Cafe if you couldn’t get reservations earlier, or grab takeout from Wildflower Bread Company for the final creek-side picnic.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping for crystals, art, or local products. Sedona’s crystal shops offer stones from worldwide sources. Many shops provide guidance on choosing crystals based on energy or intention. Or simply sit at your favorite viewpoint reflecting on ten days immersed in red rock beauty.

Evening: Sunset from your personal favorite vortex site. Farewell dinner at Mariposa, Cress, or Dahl & DiLuca, depending on celebration level. These upscale restaurants provide memorable final meals. Toast ten days well spent in Arizona’s spiritual heart.

Best Homes to Stay for a 10-Day Sedona Immersion: Mystic Sunset

If You Have Extra Time

If you have extra time or are looking for other things to do in Sedona, consider exploring these places to make your trip even more memorable.

Day Trips Beyond Sedona

Flagstaff: One hour north, this mountain town offers elevation relief from Sedona’s heat. Historic Route 66 downtown features breweries, restaurants, and shops. Lowell Observatory lets you view stars through research telescopes. Arizona Snowbowl provides summer chairlift rides and winter skiing.

Antelope Canyon: Three hours northeast near Page, these slot canyons create a photographer’s paradise. Tours are required for both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. Book months ahead for peak season. Horseshoe Bend sits nearby for dramatic Colorado River views.

Petrified Forest National Park: Two hours east showcases ancient petrified wood and Painted Desert landscapes. The park requires a half-day minimum for driving the scenic loop and short hikes. Fewer crowds than in other Arizona parks.

Hidden Sedona Gems

Honanki and Palatki Heritage Sites: These cliff dwellings require permits but reveal impressive rock art and structures. Rangers provide tours explaining Southern Sinagua culture. The rough road access keeps crowds minimal.

Secret Canyon Trail: This 5-mile trail near Dry Creek Road offers solitude compared to popular routes. The narrow canyon walls tower overhead, creating a peaceful hiking experience. Local secret worth discovering.

Verde River Greenway: Outside Cottonwood, this riparian area provides birding and easy trails along the Verde River. The lush corridor contrasts with the surrounding desert. Kayaking and tubing are popular in the warmer months.

Not sure where to stay? Check out our curated lists of top Airbnbs in Sedona for neighborhood-specific recommendations.

Getting Around Sedona

Sedona sprawls across red rock formations with limited public transportation. Most visitors drive rentals or personal vehicles. Understanding road conditions and parking challenges helps maximize hiking time while minimizing frustration.

Rental Cars: Essential for Sedona exploring. Book ahead as availability gets tight during peak seasons (March-May, October). Expect $50-100 daily, depending on vehicle type. Standard sedans handle most roads, though high-clearance vehicles access more remote trailheads. Many popular trails require high-clearance or 4WD for the last mile to the parking.

Parking Challenges: Popular trailheads fill early on weekends and peak season. Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Bell Rock parking lots fill by 8 AM, November through April. Arrive before 7 AM or after 4 PM for easier parking. Many trails now require a Red Rock Pass ($5 daily, $15 weekly, $20 annual) purchased at visitor centers or online.

Driving Conditions: Highway 89A connects major areas with easy driving. Some trailheads require rough dirt roads unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. Schnebly Hill Road, Soldier Pass Road, and roads to remote sites need high clearance. Winter snow occasionally closes Oak Creek Canyon Highway. Summer monsoons create flash flood risks in washes.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate in Sedona, but availability varies. Service to trailheads may be unreliable. Expect higher prices than in urban areas. Most visitors need personal transportation for hiking access.

Biking: E-bikes and regular bikes offer alternative transportation on paved roads. Multiple shops rent bikes daily or weekly. However, narrow roads without bike lanes make cycling risky. Mountain biking trails exist, but hiking trails prohibit bikes.

Where to Stay in Sedona

Choosing the right home base shapes your entire Sedona experience. AvantStay offers premium vacation rentals across Sedona’s best locations. From Uptown condos to Village of Oak Creek homes, our curated collection of Sedona homes is perfect for desert exploring.

Why Choose AvantStay

Unlike traditional vacation rentals, AvantStay properties are professionally managed with consistent quality standards. Every home features thoughtful design, high-end furnishings, and modern amenities, making your stay comfortable and memorable. Our properties span from Uptown’s central location to quieter residential areas, ensuring you’re positioned for whatever Sedona experience you’re seeking.

Concierge Services and Upgrades

AvantStay’s personal concierge service elevates your vacation beyond simple accommodation. We handle the details so you can focus on experiencing Sedona’s red rock magic.

Mid-Stay Cleaning: Keep your space fresh during extended stays, so you can relax without worrying about upkeep during your desert adventure.
Bring Your Pets: AvantStay encourages time spent with loved ones, and pets are no exception. We offer pet-friendly properties where your furry family members are welcome.
Private Chef: Elevate your dining experience with a personal chef creating Southwestern-inspired cuisine without restaurant waits.
Stocked Fridge: Skip the grocery store hassle and let us handle the shopping. Send us your list or select from our curated packages featuring local Arizona products.
Transportation: Need a ride to trailheads, the airport, or day trips? We arrange reliable transportation throughout your stay, exploring Sedona stress-free.
Find Local Child Care: Traveling with kids but want adults-only spa time? We help you find and hire local sitters with detailed profiles, references, and reviews.
In-Home Massage: Perfect after hiking, indulge in ultimate relaxation without leaving your rental with spa-quality treatments.
Rent Baby Gear: Traveling with a baby doesn’t mean packing your entire nursery. Rent cribs, strollers, car seats, hiking carriers, and more.

For other requests, rentals, or special occasion setups, our concierge team handles whatever makes your Sedona vacation exceptional.

Book Through the AvantStay App

Download the AvantStay app to browse properties, manage bookings, and access concierge services all in one place. The app provides 24/7 support, check-in details, local recommendations, and direct messaging with our team.

Download via: AvantStay iOS Application

Download via: AvantStay Android Application

Essential Travel Tips

Before you scramble up Cathedral Rock, a little preparation goes a long way. These essential travel tips will help you feel at ease while having the best Sedona experience.

Getting To and From Phoenix Airport

Most visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), 2 hours south of Sedona. The scenic drive north through the Sonoran Desert transitions to high desert and finally red rocks. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) sits just 45 minutes north but offers limited flights.

Airport Transportation: Rental cars provide the most flexibility. All major companies operate from Phoenix Airport’s consolidated rental facility. Shuttle services like Arizona Shuttle and Groome Transportation offer shared rides to Sedona for $50-60 per person. Rideshare from Phoenix costs $150-200, making it impractical for most travelers.

Driving to Sedona: From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Highway 179 (exit 298) for the most scenic approach through the Village of Oak Creek. Alternatively, continue on Highway 89A (exit 337) approaching Sedona through Oak Creek Canyon. The canyon route is gorgeous but narrow, with switchbacks making it challenging for large vehicles or nervous drivers.

Packing for Sedona

Year-Round Essentials: Sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support, multiple water bottles or hydration pack, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen), layers for temperature changes, and comfortable clothes for dining out. Trekking poles help on steep trails. Bring your own gear, as rentals add up.

Spring/Fall (March-May, September-November): Perfect weather with 65-80°F days. Pack layers as mornings start cool. Light jacket for evenings. These peak seasons bring crowds, so book ahead. Occasional rain is possible, especially during spring.

Summer (June-August): Prepare for heat with temperatures reaching 95-105°F. Morning hikes are essential before the afternoon heat. Light, breathable clothing. Monsoon season (July-September) brings afternoon thunderstorms. Pack a rain jacket and avoid narrow canyons during storms due to flash flood risk. Evenings cool pleasantly.

Winter (December-February): Mild days (45-60°F) but freezing nights. Pack warm layers, including a jacket and long pants. Snow is possible, though infrequent, in town. Higher elevations, including Flagstaff, receive regular snow. Oak Creek Canyon sometimes closes due to ice.

Practical Sedona Preparation

Elevation: Sedona sits at 4,500 feet. Some visitors experience mild altitude effects, including fatigue or headaches. Drink extra water and take it easy first day. Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet when doing day trips.

Weather Extremes: Desert weather changes rapidly. Summer afternoon thunderstorms appear suddenly. Lightning strikes are dangerous on exposed ridges. Flash floods fill washes within minutes. Monitor weather forecasts and start hikes early. Winter can bring surprise snow or ice, making trails treacherous.

Wildlife: Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widow spiders inhabit the desert. Watch where you place your hands and feet on trails. Javelina, coyotes, and occasional mountain lions live in the area. Keep a distance from all wildlife. Store food properly if camping.

Costs: Sedona prices reflect resort-town status. Expect $15-30 for casual meals, $40-80 for nice dinners, $7-10 for craft beers, and $12-18 for cocktails. Groceries at local stores cost more than in Phoenix. Activities range from free hiking to $200+ for jeep tours and $300+ for hot air balloons.

Reservations: Book accommodations months ahead for peak seasons (spring and fall). Popular restaurants like Elote Cafe, Mariposa, and Cress require advance reservations. Tours and spa treatments fill quickly. Some trailheads now require permits obtained online.

Sun Protection: Desert sun is intense at 4,500 feet. Wear sunscreen even in winter. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses protect against glare off red rocks. Start hikes before 9 AM during summer to avoid peak heat and sun exposure.

Let Red Rocks Work Their Magic

Crimson formations glowing at sunset, vortex energy tingling up your spine, that first view from Cathedral Rock summit. Oak Creek running cold over smooth stones, the Milky Way stretching overhead in a dark desert sky, red dust coating your hiking boots like a badge.

The memories you create here will absolutely become the stories you’ll tell for years. Sedona is the perfect place for wellness seekers, hikers, photographers, and adventurers seeking Southwestern beauty.

Ready to book your stay? Browse our top vacation rentals in Sedona today.