If you’re even remotely into nature, Sedona, Arizona, is basically your dream come true. The place is just drowning in stunning red rocks, mind-blowing blue skies, and streams so chill you’ll wanna nap beside them forever. Total heaven for photographers, hikers, or anyone who just needs to get outside and breathe for once.
Doesn’t matter if you’re rolling through for a weekend or hunkering down for a week here are the best things to do in Sedona if you want your trip to be more than just ‘meh.
1. Hike Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock is quite possibly the most well-known place in Sedona. The walk isn’t that far, but there will probably be some steep climbing in some places. Dress comfortably and have water with you. When you reach the top, the red rock and valley views are incredible. Several people say that they sense a peaceful, happy energy here and have returned to meditate and be alone. If you can only manage one hike, Cathedral Rock has to be it.
2. Explore Bell Rock
Bell Rock is another great red rock formation that is simple to find and fun to go to. There are simple trails for novices and more challenging trails for those who want some adventure. The wide vistas make it perfect for sunset viewing when the rocks turn orange and red. Bring your camera along one of the Best Things to Do in Sedona for photographers.
3. Walk Devil’s Bridge Trail
Devil’s Bridge is the largest sandstone natural bridge around. The bridge is up a small mountain. It is not far away. You can get there with a short walk. It will only take a few hours. When you get to the place, you can walk slowly across the bridge.
Or you can just look at it from the side. The bridge is good for families and kids. The pictures you will take here will be some of your favourites.
4. Visit Slide Rock State Park
On a hot day, Slide Rock State Park is the place to get cool. It’s located in Oak Creek Canyon and has smooth natural rock “slides” that the water that flows down has formed. You can picnic, soak in the creek, or swim under the large cliffs. Families favour it because it offers playtime and scenic views.
5. Discover Red Rock State Park
Red Rock State Park provides a vast variety of creeks and birds, and wildlife, and hiking, a break from more crowded tourist attractions. Take a guided nature hike and discover the plant life, wildlife, and Sedona’s history. If outdoors, this is one of the best things to do in Sedona.
6. Wander Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon is surrounded by greenery & streams that give you a sense of peace whenever you visit. It has many scenic pull-outs, and taking a stop for photographs or just to look at the view is convenient. There are some good activities to enjoy, such as fishing and hiking, and many trails of varying skill levels. In autumn, the beautiful leaves enhance the beauty of the place.
7. See Chapel of the Holy Cross
This beautiful church is constructed into the wall of a red rock cliff face. Not only a place to worship, but also to enjoy lovely views of Sedona. Quiet and serene indoors, it’s the perfect spot to have a minute or two to yourself. The combination of nature and spiritual events makes this a special destination.
8. Try a Jeep or ATV Tour
If you prefer more of Sedona’s backcountry without extensive hikes, go on a Jeep or ATV adventure. Local driver takes you over rough roads to out-of-the-way sights and interprets Sedona’s geology and history to you. The tours are undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sedona and provide the freedom to enjoy vistas you might otherwise have missed.
9. Stargaze at Night
Sedona gets virtually no pollution, and the night sky is crystal clear. If you venture out on a dark-of-the-moon evening, you will be able to see thousands of stars and planets and even the broad band of the Milky Way. Embark on a telescope stargazing tour and guided expertise. It’s a storybook experience and one of the Best Things to do in Sedona.
10. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway
For a scenic drive over the Sedona views, drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway at your leisure. It is a simple drive with very nice views and lots of parking areas on it, where you can stop, take a few pictures, and take a short stroll around. It is perfect if you do not want to hike much but still get to experience the views.
Why These Are the Best Things to Do in Sedona
Sedona has something for every type of nature enthusiast: serene spaces along creeks, exciting hikes to the top of red rock bluffs, adventure excursions, and quiet spots to enjoy the view.
These Best Things to Do in Sedona can bring you closer to nature so that you can enjoy the unique attractions of the Arizona desert. Grab your tickets, lace up those dusty boots, and don’t forget your camera. Sedona’s calling your name. You could just plop down at Bell Rock and watch the sun melt away, or maybe dive into the chilly waters at Slide Rock.
