29 Must-Do’s in Beautiful Sedona, Arizona
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Sedona aka “Red Rock Country,” is a gorgeous Southwestern vacation destination, particularly for nature lovers, fitness buffs, spiritual seekers, and photographers. For anyone who loves being outside, exploring gorgeous natural landscapes, and relaxing & rejuvenating in a beautiful natural setting, there really is no better choice. In the past few years, I have traveled around the Southwest and seen so many amazing places. That being said, there is no area that compares in terms of jaw dropping scenery and incredible hiking opportunities. With stunning red rock vistas in every direction, 100’s of miles of picturesque trails, and several scenic drives, there is unending opportunity for the outdoor lover.
I had the privilege of living in neighboring Flagstaff for several years and I loved every minute. Even after years in the area, the scenery continued to impress me with each new hike. After hiking in the red rocks nearly every weekend for years, I feel confident sharing my top must-do’s. This list includes gorgeous hiking trails, magnificent red rock views, and local shopping & dining gems. I’ve also included a few scenic viewpoints and drives for those unable to hike (fortunately, this area offers something for everyone). Note: 10 activities are marked with a star. These are those which I consider the top things to focus on if you are limited on time!
1. Walk across Sedona’s largest natural sandstone arch*
On any given day, dozens & dozens of cars line up along Dry Creek Road, as this is the starting point for the region’s most popular trail, Devil’s Bridge. Unfortunately, due to the rough road which requires 4WD, you must hike a connector trail (Chuck Wagon) before arriving at Devil’s Bridge trailhead if your car won’t make it.
Don’t worry, both trails are scenic and the journey is well worth the effort for the incredible ending viewpoint of Sedona’s largest natural sandstone arch. If you are brave enough to walk this narrow bridge, the resulting photo (taken by someone on the other side) is a once-in-a-lifetime photo souvenir! Even with the connector, the trail is still just about 4 miles RT and requires a bit of climbing near the end, so come prepared and bring extra water.
My guide to hiking Devil’s Bridge
2. Explore a vortex site
What is a vortex? A vortex is reportedly a site of natural energy which provides either masculine (yang), feminine (yin), or neutral (yin/yang) balancing healing energies. Feminine vortexes are said to be meditation hotspots, while masculine vortexes are more energizing. The theory goes that a special energy swirls up from the core of the earth, making certain sites areas where intense healing can take place.
In Sedona, you will find 4 major vortex hikes. Twisted juniper trees are said to signal intense energy – you may come across several of these on your hikes. During your time here, you will notice many vortex shops & tours, new age shops, spiritual healers, etc. People now travel from across the world to experience these sacred healing sites. It’s a very popular location for New Age gurus.
There is no need to spend loads of money on a special vortex tour when you can easily get out there and explore these “magical healing” sites on your own. No one really knows for sure if these sites really do possess special powers or if they were just made up to draw in more tourists. Therefore, you are better off exploring them on your own terms so no needless money is wasted. One thing’s for sure – there is no denying that there is something special about these towering ancient red rocks (regardless of whether vortex energy is real) and you will definitely feel something in the air as you explore these jaw dropping trails/vortex sites.
Vortex hiking options
Vortex hikes include Cathedral Rock (feminine), Bell Rock (masculine), Boynton Canyon (neutral), and Airport Mesa (masculine). I’ve read stories about locals and tourists seeing UFOs at Bell Rock. This is no surprise as the area is reportedly a strong vortex site. The energy at Bell Rock is particularly strong which might help explain the frequent otherworldly occurrences.
The entire area is a hotspot for alien sightings. In fact, the small city is a UFO hotspot. The gorgeous Chapel of the Holy Cross is a no-hiking required vortex site (more info later on). Don’t worry if you cannot make it to a specific hike as the entire area is considered to be a positive vortex with the above mentioned hikes simply being areas of more concentrated energy. My personal favorites are Airport Mesa for the jaw dropping views and Boynton Canyon for the interesting trek through the Red Rock Secret Wilderness.
3. Hike to Chicken Point
Chicken Point is a scenic viewpoint, accessed via Pink Jeep tours or (preferably) via a semi challenging hike. The jeep tours, in my opinion, are a waste of money as it is so much more inspiring is to explore nature in the gorgeous red rock wilderness. The Jeep tours take away from the natural setting. That being said, they are a great alternative for those unable to hike. This tour is also quite intense and rugged and they recommend skipping out if you are afraid of heights.
Assuming you can hike, I recommend saving yourself some cash and reaching the same majestic viewpoint by hiking Little Horse or Broken Arrow. Both these trails are moderate journeys to the same incredible endpoint. Enjoy the views and the sense of accomplishment which only comes by arriving at the scenic overlook via your own 2 feet!
My guide to hiking Little Horse
4. Treat yourself to brunch at the Enchantment Resort
Enchantment is the city’s most luxurious lodging option. Incredible red rock views surround every inch of the property. While staying at the resort is the preferred option, sometimes this is impossible as the rooms are incredibly pricey, not to mention often sold out months in advance.
Regardless of whether you end up staying on-site, brunch at Che-Ah-Chi (the resort’s premier restaurant) is definitely a must. I typically prefer the more casual dining options in town, but for something fancy and an incredible viewpoint, you can’t beat Che-Ah-Chi. You can enjoy top notch breakfast fare while enjoying views via the floor-to-ceiling windows or outdoor patio dining.
And of course, excellent food and service to match the views is always a bonus. Try the Mocha French Toast or one of the skillets served with the tastiest homemade salsa! Despite the high pricing, brunch is still a great value in my opinion due to the great views and unbeatable ambiance.
5. Explore 7 sacred pools & the most active sinkhole
I really love Soldier’s Pass because it is such a unique trek. You get to see a lot of interesting features along the route besides stunning red rock vistas. Along your 2.5 mile trek, you will get to see: three natural arches, 7 sacred pools (a set of cascading natural pools carved into the sandstone), and the most active sinkhole in the area. The best part of this trail is the unique scenery changes as you go from wide open red rock panoramas one minute to a shady quiet trek through the Red Rock Secret Wilderness the next.
