Stunning desert sunsets. Incredible rock formations. Challenging trails and time in the great outdoors make this Arizona destination bucket-list worthy. If you plan to go, here’s our insider tips on how to make the most of your trip.
1. Cover your mug.
As you know, Sedona is in the desert. Deserts have a lot of sand. When hiking, some vehicles have off-road access or 4-wheel drive capabilities that allow them to drive through some of the hiking paths. That tends to kick up a lot of, you guessed it, sand. It also can get very windy when you’re high up which equals lots of wind burn. Not so bueno. Be sure to pack a bandana, hat or other face covering so you don’t leave there looking like you just lost a fight.
2. Carry a gallon of water with you.
Most of the hiking trails have an entrance sign that advises this and they are not kidding. Even at a mild 60 degrees, some of the hikes can be tedious and/or exhausting. You’ll want to stay hydrated even if you don’t feel thirsty. Oh, and if you stop at any local restaurants between hikes, ask them to refill your water bottles. Everyone in town knows what you’re there for and is more than happy to do so.
3. Start your day early.
This applies for several reasons. First, there are less people on the hiking trails, in restaurants and in the local shops earlier in the day. Second, there is a LOT to do in Sedona, but mostly everything (including restaurants) closes around 9/9:30 pm no matter the time of year.
4. Respect photography space.
There are plenty of well-known spots in Sedona to take photos, but there is an unwritten rule that everyone waits their turn. Want to take a photo cliff-diving at Grasshopper point? Stand aside and wait your turn. Don’t get in anyone else’s photo if you don’t want them in yours.
5. That jumping photo isn’t worth the risk.
You’ve seen it on Instagram, but try not to copy it. There are some areas, like Devil’s Bridge, that are appropriately named for how dangerous they can be. Especially when you’re not careful. Devil’s Bridge itself is only a few feet wide with a very, very long drop to the bottom of the Canyon. Plenty of accidents have stemmed from tourists thinking they could get something Insta-worthy (they were wrong).
6. Take a guided tour.
Exploring Sedona on your own is 1000% worth the experience. Hike a few trails, take some great photos, maybe even get lost and laugh about it later. But there’s something to be said for the guided tours they offer – especially the Pink Jeep Tours. These tours have permits to parts of the town and the canyons that no one else can access. Depending on the tour, they’ll drive you up onto the Red Rocks and bring you to all the best spots for photo ops. Pro tip: Schedule the tours at least a month in advance because they book up fast.
7. Lock your phone on Phoenix time.
To outsiders, it’s a little known fact that Arizona does not “spring forward” or “jump back” for Daylight Savings like the rest of the country. Moreso, while in Sedona or taking a day trip to the Grand Canyon, you’re actually on the border between two different time zones. For that reason, many locals suggest locking your phone to Phoenix time to avoid any confusion – especially if you’ve scheduled any tours.
8. Ask the locals questions.
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or out on a tour, most of the people working in Sedona also live there and have for most of their lives. You’ll come across some stories about local Navajo tribes or even just get an inside tip on the best (and worst) places to eat in town.
Ready to exercise your adventure muscle? Check out our Hiking Hotspots list on KAYAK Explore, where you can find your next trip on your budget.
