Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each season in Sedona, and which one is the best for you to visit this spiritual, desert oasis!
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s stunning red rock country, Sedona is a destination that captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual vortexes. But to truly make the most of your Sedona experience, timing your visit is key. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to explore this enchanting desert town.
At the end I’ll discuss what time of year I think is the best time to visit Sedona, but first we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of each season.
Sedona in Spring: The Season of Bloom
March to May is arguably the best time to visit Sedona. As winter recedes, the desert comes alive with blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the numerous trails that weave through Sedona’s iconic red rock formations. Check out my post on where to see the most wildflowers in Sedona!
Pros:
Comfortable temperatures
Wildflowers in bloom
Clear skies, perfect for stargazing
Cons:
Higher accommodation prices
Larger crowds
Sedona in Summer: Embrace the Heat
Cathedral Rock
June to August is the hottest period in Sedona, with temperatures often soaring above 90°F (32°C). Despite the heat, summer can still be a good time to visit if you plan your activities wisely. Early mornings and late evenings are cooler, ideal for hiking and outdoor pursuits. Plus, this season offers a unique chance to experience the dramatic monsoon storms that roll in, creating spectacular lightning shows against the red rocks. Oak creek also flows through Sedona and can be a wonderful way to cool down in the afternoon heat. If you go at this time of year, make sure to go on the West Fork hike, for which you can hike in the creek almost the entire way up!
Pros:
Fewer tourists
Lower hotel rates
Exciting monsoon season
Cons:
High daytime temperatures
Limited midday outdoor activities (due to excessive heat, prepare to find a way to stay cool, like a dip in the creek, or find some indoor experiences)
Sedona in Fall: A Golden Retreat
Credit: Sedona Monthly
September to November brings a second wave of ideal weather to Sedona. Temperatures drop to a more comfortable range, between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The fall foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape, with the changing leaves creating a stunning contrast against the red rocks. This season also offers various festivals and events, providing a rich cultural experience. This is the second best season to visit Sedona, after spring. It doesn’t boast the beautiful wildflowers like Spring does, but that also means it comes with slightly less crowds!
Pros:
Mild temperatures
Beautiful fall foliage – The best place to view this will be a drive along Oak Creek Canyon!
Numerous cultural events
Apple Orchards are bursting with fruit and The Verde Valley Wine Region is in its bountiful season (making for great tastings and great views)!
Cons:
Popular with tourists, especially in October
Higher accommodation costs
Sedona in Winter: A Serene Escape
Credit: Sedona Monthly
December to February is the quietest time in Sedona, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. While the temperatures are cooler, ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C), the winter months offer a peaceful ambiance and the possibility of snow-dusted red rocks, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy Sedona’s luxury spas and cozy up in charming lodges.
If you think you can’t go hiking in winter in Sedona, think again. With the right gear and some extra layers, you can enjoy just as much hiking in the winter as you can in the summer. Some particularly good hikes to go on in winter include: TeaCup trail, Little Horse trail, Yavapai trail, Margs Draw trail.
Pros:
Fewer tourists
Lower prices on accommodations
Unique winter landscapes
Cons:
Cooler temperatures, less ideal for outdoor activities
Shorter daylight hours
My Pick:
Overall, my pick for the best time to visit Sedona is Spring, particularly late April through May. While the pleasant weather does attract more tourists, planning ahead by booking accommodations in advance and hitting the trails early in the morning can help you avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the natural beauty of Sedona during this magical season. Check out some of my other posts for planning an epic trip to Sedona! If you’re only going to be in Sedona for a day or two, this is the itinerary for you! And if you’ve taken my advice and have decided to head out there in Spring, here’s a guide to the best spots to see wildflowers!
Conclusion
Each season in Sedona has its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant bloom of spring, the tranquility of winter, the dynamic energy of summer storms, or the golden hues of fall, there’s no bad time to visit this magical desert town. Consider your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels when planning your trip to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience in Sedona, Arizona.
Let’s talk about the best time to visit Sedona in Spring for wildflowers, and which trails to hike to see the most!
Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its striking red rock formations and mystical energy, is also a hidden gem for wildflower enthusiasts. As spring unfolds, this desert landscape bursts into a vibrant tapestry of colors, completely transforming the rugged terrain. Amidst the arid surroundings, wildflowers offer a stunning contrast to the earthy tones of the rocks and soil. From delicate pinks and purples to bold reds and yellows, these resilient blooms add a touch of ephemeral beauty to the enduring desert.
The sight of these colorful blossoms against the backdrop of Sedona’s iconic scenery creates a visual symphony that enchants visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, Sedona’s wildflower season is a must-see!
Certain times of spring will be better for wildflower viewings, which I’ll go over in this post. But there are also certain trails that will boast far more blooms than others (and they’re not all the trails you’d expect) so let’s dive into the best hikes in Sedona* to see the most wildflowers!
*in no particular order*
Little Horse Trail
Length: Approx. 3.5 miles roundtrip
Little Horse trail is a relatively easy hike, mostly flat, with a few stretches of more challenging terrain. There are flowers all along the trail. I found most of them to be more towards the beginning and ends of the trail. In between you can find an incredible and somewhat secret view of the Chapel of the Holy Cross!
I took this trail as a less crowded route to get to Chicken Point. This lookout has some amazing views of Sedona and the sprawling red rocks. If you’re feeling brave, you can hike up the steep slab of rock to get to the white line bike “trail”. It’s more of a daredevil experience than an actual trail. But walking along it was thrilling and the view (and distance it gave me from the pink jeep tours down below) was well worth it!
Afterwards, head to the nearby Crescent Moon Picnic site to eat lunch and soak in the beautiful scenery. This site boasts a refreshing creek lined with trees, and one of the best views of Cathedral Rock in Sedona!
Mescal Trail
Length: Approx. 5.9 miles out and back
Mescal trail is located in NW Sedona, on Long Canyon Road off of Dry Creek Rd. It’s considered a moderately challenging route, but I found it to be more on the beginners side. It was pretty flat for most of the trail, though some of the terrain can be a bit rocky!
Aside from a couple bikers and a small group of friends, I was the only one out on this trail. I did start around 8am, but some Sedona hikes would’ve already been incredibly crowded even that early in the morning! Why it’s not as popular eludes me, as I found the trail to be quite beautiful, and thanks to all the wildflowers, one of my top favorites in Sedona!
This was one of those hikes where I found myself stopping every five seconds to take photos of wildflowers. I swear every five feet there was a new and beautiful flower that was just calling out to me for a photoshoot!
Margs Draw Trail
Length: Approx. 4 miles (only roughly 100 ft of elevation gain) and can be extended by taking Huckaby trail.
This hike is another one of the lesser known gems in Sedona. It doesn’t get nearly as much traffic as other nearby routes despite its impressive, panoramic view of many of Sedona’s most recognizable mountains and rock formations and close proximity to the town. It’s a very easy hike and great for the whole family.
There are a couple trailheads from which to start this hike, including Margs Draw TH, Broken Arrow TH, Sombart Lane Trailhead, or from Schnebly Hill. However, you’ll probably encounter the most parking availability at Margs Draw TH or Schnebly Hill.
This hike had a wonderful array of flowers lining the trail, you’ll see the most about .5 miles in (from the Margs Draw TH). As you come to a fork in the road, turn right (towards Broken Arrow TH) to see the most flowers!
When to Visit Sedona For Wildflowers
When it comes to the desert, the window of time to see wildflowers in their full glory is pretty narrow. Luckily, wildflower season also falls on the best time of the year to visit Sedona weather-wise.
The peak season for wildflower viewing in this desert oasis typically spans from late April through May. During this period, the weather is just right—not too hot and not too cold—providing ideal conditions for both the flowers and the visitors eager to see them.
The earlier spring rains and the warming sun create a perfect environment for a diverse range of wildflowers to flourish. Planning your visit during these months ensures that you’ll witness Sedona at its most picturesque. Wildflowers paint the desert in hues of purple, yellow, red, and orange, a haven for nature lovers!
Some of the flowers you can expect to see include:
Claret cup cactus
Indian paintbrush
Prickly pear
Beavertail
Mexican Poppies
Black-footed daisies
Fleabane
Evening primrose
Purple owl’s clover
and cream cups!
If you’re heading to Sedona in the springtime, make sure to check out these hikes to see some wildflowers! Looking for some other tips on what to do in Sedona? Check out my recent post on how to spend one day in Sedona for some ideas!
This post will give you a full one-day itinerary plus other bonus ideas for how to spend one epic day in Sedona, Arizona, for hikers and non-hikers!
Sedona is one of those enchanting destinations that, if it’s not already, definitely needs to be added to your US bucket list! With its breathtaking red rock scenery, rich culture, alluring spirituality, and an endless supply of outdoor activities, it’s a no-brainer for the perfect mini-getaway or road trip destination!
However, if you find yourself with only one day in Sedona, you can still make the trip an epic one!
Of course, ‘one day’ can mean different things, from ‘just passing through’ to spending the night and having sunrise to sunset to spend in Sedona. This post will cover what you can do for either of those options!
In this post, I provide you with a full one-day itinerary, so if you don’t have time to plan, feel free to follow that guide as is! I also provide a broader list of some other options that you can spend your time doing, including some non-hiking options if that’s not your cup of tea!
Sedona Suggested Itinerary
Sunrise at Bell Rock via Cathedral Rock TH
If you’re able to spend sunrise in Sedona then you’ll be in for a real treat! The rising sun will make the red rocks glow a bright hue as you watch the whole town wake up.
My recommendation is to watch the Sunrise from Bell Rock, starting at Courthouse Butte. It’s the easiest path to navigate in the dark, especially if you’ve never been there before, and offers wonderful views of the surrounding famous buttes and vistas. You can walk up to the base ( 5-10 minute walk) or scramble your way to the top of Bell Rock for a stunning view (about 20 minutes from TH). Alternatively, you can also sit at the picnic table in the Courthouse Butte parking lot if hiking isn’t your thing!
Bell Rock
Hike Templeton Trail
I thought long and hard about what the perfect hike in Sedona would be if you could only squeeze in one, and I landed on Templeton trail! This hike has a little bit of everything… you’ll get views of all the main red rocks in Sedona plus a visit to one of the biggest vortex sites without having to worry about crowded trails or filled-up parking lots!
The full length of the trail is 7.5 miles (out & back), is considered a moderately route, and generally takes an average of 3 hours. However, there are multiple ways to do this trail and tailor it to your preferences. The official start is at the Bell Rock Pathway towards the northern side of Bell Rock. It then passes through a tunnel under Route 179 to meet up with the H.T. trail before heading northwest toward Cathedral Rock. The trail officially ends at the Baldwin trail intersection. From here you can either continue on this trail or turn back around.
For a better chance at a parking spot and to make your hike a little shorter, do this instead: Park at the Yavapai Vista trailhead. Start your hike on the Yavapai trail, and connect with the Slim Shady trail heading northwest (take a right when you get to the fork), which then connects you to the Templeton trail. From here hike the remaining 1.5-ish miles to Cathedral Rock.
You can stop at Cathredal Rock for a snack and continue on the Templeton trail, or you can scramble up the first portion of Cathredal Rock to get a good view of Sedona and then head back around the way you came. This is a great way to see Cathedral Rock without having to deal with the crowds, parking, and shuttles.
Alt. Hike Option: Brins Mesa
If you’re looking for something a little longer or were hoping to see some of the classic Sedona sites like Seven Sacred Pools or Soldiers Cave, then I would instead recommend hiking the Brins Mesa trail! This was another favorite of mine, probably in my top 3 hikes in Sedona. It’s got beautiful views the entire length of the trip. You’ll see the Seven Sacred Pools & can go on a detour to see Soldiers Cave before heading back on the Brins Mesa Loop.
The article linked above was what convinced me to do this hike, and I can’t re-iterate what they said any better than they did, so go read the post for all the tips and tricks for doing the Brins Mesa loop!
This trail is a bit more difficult than Templeton Trail, with some steep grades and very little shade. But the views are well worth the trip!
A red rocks pass is required to park at both trailheads mentioned and can be purchased at the trailheads.
What to bring on your hike:
Bring plenty of sun protection for your hike, as these trails don’t have a lot of shade. A good sun hat and some sunscreen are a must! As always, pack plenty of water and some snacks! For a detailed guide on what to pack for a day hike, check out this post!
Cathedral Rock
Head to Local Juicery
Head to Local Juicery for a wide array of wonderful smoothies, juices, and healthy (but delicious) breakfasts & snacks. They’ve got GF chocolate waffles, GF avocado toast, paleo banana muffins & so much more. Local Juicery provides options that are vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, grain-free & more. Local Juicery’s mantra is all about providing wellness for the mind, body, and soul!
I seriously stopped by this place more times than I can count, it was my favorite place to go after a long, hot hike or for some morning fuel to get me through my day!
Explore Tlaquepaque
Explore the traditional Mexican village of Tlaquepaque, Sedona’s arts & crafts village located on the bank of the Oak River, nestled under the Sycamore trees. It’s an absolute must when visiting Sedona! It’s got lots of cute shops, bookstores, art shops, drinks & restaurants. While the village has only been around since the 1970s, its vine-covered stucco walls, cobblestone paths, ornate & colorful decorations, and statues that line the walkways will make you feel like you’re taking a trip back through history!
It can get a bit pricier here but it’s worth the visit to just walk around & explore! Keep in mind the village doesn’t open till 10 am, which makes it the perfect post-hike stop.
Side entrance to Tlaquepaque
Dinner
The Hudson – This eatery is right near Tlaquepaque and boasts beautiful views of the red rocks all around you! Consider making a reservation for the outdoor terrace, as this is a popular spot!
Picazzos Healthy Italian Kitchen – This Italian eatery boasts a mostly gluten-free menu and takes on an Asian, Mediterranean, and Mexican fusion!
Elote Cafe – Elote’s Chef has created an award-winning menu that is inspired by his Arizonian roots and his decades of travel across Mexico. This cafe offers vibrant and bold flavors in its menu, filled with locally sourced ingredients!
Sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain
If you’re able to stay for the sunset in Sedona, it’s just as magical (if not more so IMO) as sunrise, with glowing red rocks and light catching on the cactuses as the sun sinks below the horizon, leaving streaks of color in the sky behind it. My recommendation for sunset in Sedona is to head to Sugarloaf Mountain and hike to the top. It’s a quick 20-minute walk for a 360-degree view of the sunset. This spot is far less crowded than most sunset locations in Sedona, and is my personal favorite!
Sugarloaf Mt.
Other day activities to do
These are some other ideas for fun ways to spend your time in Sedona. These are especially good if you don’t want to do any hiking, as there are options for sunrise/sunset viewing, and seeing all the major natural sites in Sedona without having to hike to them.
Pink Jeep Tours
The Pink Jeep Tours are well-known in Sedona, and you’ll probably spot a few as soon as you enter the town. Pink Jeep Tours are an excellent option for families or for those not wanting or unable to do lots of hiking. They’re a great way to pack a lot into a small amount of time. With your personal tour guide, you’ll spend a few hours off-roading in a custom-built pink jeep, exploring Sedona’s stunning red rocks and learning about Sedona’s history, Native American culture, and geology.
If you’re visiting Sedona in the springtime, mainly late April through May, then you’ll be coming during peak wildflower season! This was honestly the main reason I chose to visit Sedona when I did. I spent the majority of my time hunting down the best spots to see wildflowers. Check out my article on where to see wildflowers in Sedona for the best tips and tricks!
Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
This is a pretty iconic spot in Sedona and one of the most photographed locations in Arizona! While it can be spotted from the highway and far off from several hikes, if you have the time, it’s definitely worth a visit up close.
Scenic Drives
Head out on the Red Rock Loop Road for beautiful views of Cathedral Rock, Lover’s Knoll, and more! Stop at Crescent Moon Picnic Site along the way to enjoy the views of Cathedral Rock & take a splash in the river! (entrance costs $12).
Or drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway for a different, and just as beautiful, view of Cathedral Rock, as well as Bell Rock, the Twin Buttes, and more.
Drive to Airport Mesa Overlook
If you’re looking for a good place to view the sunrise/sunset without having to hike, then head to Airport Mesa Overlook! It offers some amazing views of the red rocks and the setting sun over the valley. Parking costs $3 and can fill up quickly. It gets pretty crowded here, which is why I didn’t love it. It felt hard to truly enjoy the sunset and was just a little too touristy for me. However, there was live music playing, and I met a gal from New York who brought a bottle of wine and some paper cups to share with her, so I can’t complain too much!
This is also a good place to drive up to in the middle of the day (when you’ll have it all to yourself) to get some good mid-day views of Sedona without having to hike.
View from Airport Mesa
Immerse yourself in the spirituality
To get a feel for the spirituality in Sedona, spend some time visiting all the vortex sites, take a yoga & meditation class, and stroll through the many crystal shops located around town.
The four major Sedona vortex sites are Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Airport Mesa. Here’s a link to a map of the Vortexes. Most require at least a short hike to get close to them. But all of them can be viewed from various scenic drives from afar.
There are various yoga & meditation classes at studios around Sedona. Some popular ones are Aumbase Sedona, 7 Centers Yoga Arts, and the Sedona Meditation Center.
I hope this one-day guide has been helpful! There’s so much to do in Sedona that trying to figure out what to do with just one day can certainly feel overwhelming. Just know that you can’t go wrong no matter what you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful & beautiful time no matter what!
Let me know below what you’re most looking forward to seeing/doing in Sedona, or if you have other questions for me!
