Discover Sedona: Guide to Red Rock Adventures, Scenic Hikes and Wellness Retreats

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Advisor - Lauren Leversee
Curated By

Lauren Leversee

  • Active Travel

  • Family Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Wellness Travel

  • Sedona

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Entertainment

Two silhouettes stand at the edge of a natural divide, bridging the gap between towering cliffs under a vast blue sky.
Curator’s statement

Nestled in the Arizona desert, Sedona is renowned for its stunning red-rock formations, steep canyon walls and surrounding pine forests. The hiking here is absolutely gorgeous, offering trails for every skill level. If outdoor adventures are your thing, you can enjoy activities like golfing, mountain biking, jeep tours and hot air balloon rides. For those seeking a more relaxing getaway, indulge in a spa day or join a meditation or yoga class. I absolutely adore Sedona and can’t wait to return — hopefully soon!

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Where to stay in Sedona

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Things to do in Sedona

Three people sit on a rock formation with expansive red rocky terrain in the background under a clear blue sky.

Hiking:

  • Cathedral Rock - About 1.2 miles round trip, strenuous and uphill. You are greeted to an amazing view at the top! Well worth the trek.

  • Devil's Bridge — A classic must-see! The hike is a moderate 4-mile out and back. This is an epic photo spot, so there is usually a little wait to get your photo out on the "bridge."

  • Subway Cave / Boynton Canyon - Moderate, 7-mile out-and-back hike. Fantastic photo op in the caves.

  • Bell Trail to the Crack - About a 7-mile easy out-and-back hike. At the turnaround at roughly 3.5 miles, there is the "crack," an area to swim and cliff jump! Bring plenty of water and some snacks.

  • Bell Rock- 0.8 miles, more of a climb but great surrounding views.

  • Chapel of the Holy Cross - A place for prayer and reflection atop the red rocks with surrounding hiking trails. We did the Mystic Loop, which is about four miles total.

  • Soldiers Pass to Caves - A moderate out-and-back 4.8-mile hike. This trail takes you through stunning red rock formations, past the Devil's Kitchen sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools and hidden caves.

Other things to do

Day trips:

If you haven't yet visited the Grand Canyon, this is a must! From Sedona, it's typically a 2 - 2.5-hour drive away. A day trip hiking the Grand Canyon offers an exhilarating experience. It starts with an early-morning descent on popular trails like the South Kaibab or Bright Angel. Hikers can marvel at the ever-changing colors of the canyon walls, enjoy breathtaking vistas and descend partway into the canyon before turning back. This will give them enough time to return before sunset. This was a strenuous hike but definitely do-able. There are trails around the rim that are more of an easy walk, making this a day trip that everyone will enjoy.

Places to eat & drink in Sedona

A vibrant spread of pizzas and colorful bowls on a wooden table, perfect for a shared meal outdoors.
  • Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen is a vibrant, health-focused restaurant offering organic, gluten-free and vegan-friendly dishes with an emphasis on fresh, flavorful Mediterranean and Italian-inspired cuisine.

  • Javalina Cantina Restaurant is a delicious Mexican restaurant with a beautiful patio on the red rocks. Definitely get the margs and chips!

  • Mariposa is an upscale Latin-inspired grill offering breathtaking panoramic views and a menu featuring gourmet dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Come here for a sunset dinner!

  • Before and After Java Café is a cozy spot offering a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies and light bites in a laid-back, artsy atmosphere with stunning views.

  • The Hudson is a chic, yet casual American eatery known for its modern comfort food, extensive wine list and sweeping views of the red rocks from its expansive patio.

Advisor - Lauren Leversee

Travel Advisor

Lauren Leversee

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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Sedona. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Jessica Rausch's guide, Discover Romance in Red Rock Country: Top Resorts in Sedona, AZ, for Couples