9 Incredible Things To Do In Sedona + Tips to avoid the Crowds

Sedona is the kind of place that instantly takes your breath away. With its fiery red rock formations, pine-dotted valleys, and sun-drenched trails winding through canyons and cliffs, it’s easy to see why this desert town has become a must-stop on any Arizona travel itinerary.

We’ve visited Sedona as part of our own two-week road trip through Arizona, and while it’s no longer a hidden gem, it still completely swept us off our feet. Yes, the crowds are real—especially during peak season—but with a bit of insider planning, you can still find peaceful trails, magical views, and moments that feel like they’re yours alone.

Whether you’re an early riser chasing sunrise hikes, a photography lover in search of that golden glow, or just someone who wants to soak up Sedona’s energy without jostling elbows at every overlook, this guide is for you. I’ll walk you through our favorite trails, hidden spots, and smart tips to help you make the most of your time here—without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.

So grab your hiking boots, pack that wide-brim hat, and let’s dive into the ultimate Sedona experience—all the highlights, with a few hidden gems sprinkled in for good measure.

9 Incredible Things To Do In Sedona + Tips to avoid the Crowds

Top things to do in Sedona
The best time to visit Sedona
How many days do you need to visit Sedona
What's special about Sedona
How much does it cost to visit Sedona
Where to stay in Sedona

Top things to do in Sedona

1. Visit Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa is one of those must-visit spots in Sedona that totally lives up to the hype—and with the right timing, you can enjoy it without the crowds too! This stunning mesa offers 360° views of Sedona’s red rock formations, especially magical during sunrise or sunset when the entire landscape glows.

For hiking, you’ve got a couple of great options: the Airport Loop Trail is a 3.2-mile moderate hike that circles the mesa and rewards you with panoramic views the whole way around—just be ready for some rocky sections. If you’re short on time or not up for a full loop, there’s a short trail from the Airport Mesa Vortex parking lot that takes you to a scenic overlook in just about 10 minutes. It’s the perfect spot to catch golden hour light without a long trek. Just arrive early, as parking is super limited—but trust me, those views are 100% worth it!

💡 TIP – Avoid the crowds by visiting during sunrise instead of sunset. Sunrise is still a popular moment but will be way less crowded compared to sunset!

2 . Hike the Mescal Trail

If you’re looking for a trail that’s equal parts peaceful, scenic, and totally underrated—the Mescal Trail in Sedona is calling your name. Starting from the Boynton Canyon area, this out-and-back hike is the kind of adventure that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled on one of Sedona’s best-kept secrets. The trail gently winds its way along the slickrock base of Mescal Mountain, offering incredible views of Boynton Canyon, with way fewer crowds than the more popular routes. It’s one of those hikes where the scenery just keeps getting better the further you go.

At around 5.9 miles round-trip, it’s the perfect moderate hike to fill your morning or late afternoon—especially during golden hour, when the red rocks practically glow. You’ll follow a mix of smooth red rock and dusty desert path, weaving through junipers and prickly pear, with plenty of spots to stop, soak in the views, and snap a few dreamy photos. Just keep in mind it’s a shared-use trail, so you might see a few mountain bikers cruising by—but don’t worry, it still feels wonderfully peaceful.

3. Watch the sunset from Babybel Rock

If you’re craving a Sedona sunset without the crowds, Baby Bell Rock is your secret spot. This short and sweet adventure starts at the Courthouse Vista parking lot—just off Highway 179. From there, follow the Phone Trail east for about 0.25 miles, then veer right onto the Bell Rock Pathway. Keep an eye out for a subtle path on your left leading to Baby Bell Rock. The final ascent involves a brief scramble, but the reward is a 360-degree panorama featuring Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte bathed in golden light. It’s a tranquil alternative to the busier trails, offering a serene setting to watch the sun dip below the horizon.

💡 TIP – This was by far one of our favorite moments in Sedona! And on top of that we had the entire place to ourselves for the entire time!

4. Hike the Courthouse Butte Loop

If you’re craving a hike that delivers jaw-dropping red rock views without the intense climbs, the Courthouse Butte Loop Trail is your perfect match. This 3.6-mile loop, located just south of Sedona near the Village of Oak Creek, offers a moderate trek that wraps around the majestic Courthouse Butte and the iconic Bell Rock.

With an elevation gain of approximately 400 feet, it’s accessible for most hikers and typically takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete. The trail is well-marked and features a mix of flat stretches and gentle inclines, making it a favorite for both casual walkers and seasoned adventurers.

Starting from either the Courthouse Vista or Bell Rock trailheads, you’ll be greeted by expansive vistas of Sedona’s red rock formations, open desert landscapes, and, during spring, a vibrant display of wildflowers. The loop is best enjoyed in the cooler months, from October through April, to avoid the intense summer heat. Remember to carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and keep an eye out for the diverse desert flora and fauna that call this area home.

5. Hike the Margs Draw Trail

If you’re searching for a serene and scenic hike in Sedona that offers stunning red rock vistas without the bustling crowds, the Margs Draw Trail is a perfect choice. This 2-mile (3.2 km) one-way trail is rated as easy and features a gentle elevation gain of approximately 200 feet (61 meters), making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.

Starting from the trailhead at the corner of Sombart Lane and Highway 179, just east of Circle K, the path meanders through a picturesque landscape adorned with juniper, pinyon pine, and Arizona cypress. As you progress, you’ll encounter a scenic dry waterfall at the 0.75-mile mark and enjoy panoramic views of iconic formations like Snoopy Rock, Camel Head, and the Crimson Cliffs.

The trail culminates near Schnebly Hill Road, where you can choose to return the way you came or connect with other trails like Huckaby or Broken Arrow for a longer adventure.

6. Visit Secret Slickrock for sunset

If you’re chasing that perfect Sedona sunset without the crowds, Secret Slickrock is your golden ticket. Tucked away in West Sedona, this short and sweet trail leads you to a wide, open slickrock ledge with jaw-dropping views of Cathedral Rock. The trail is an easy 0.7-mile out-and-back hike with about 80 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for most hikers. The trailhead is located off Chavez Ranch Road, just past a locked gate, with parking available beside it.

7. Hike Devil’s Bridge for sunrise

Hiking to Devil’s Bridge for sunrise is one of those Sedona experiences that feels straight out of a dream. The trail begins at the Dry Creek Vista Trailhead, and if you don’t have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, you’ll start by walking along Dry Creek Road for about 1.1 miles. This initial stretch is relatively flat and serves as a warm-up before reaching the official Devil’s Bridge Trailhead.

From there, it’s another mile to the bridge, with the trail becoming steeper and featuring natural rock steps as you ascend. The total round trip is approximately 4.2 miles, with an elevation gain of about 400 feet. Starting your hike about an hour before sunrise ensures you reach the bridge in time to witness the first light illuminating the red rocks.

💡 TIP – Even at sunrise you won’t be the only one here but it will be a far less crowded experience than coming during the day!

❗️Hiking to Devil’s Bridge during Sedona’s high season (typically spring and fall) requires a bit of extra planning, but the effort is well worth it. Due to the trail’s popularity, parking at the Dry Creek Vista and Mescal Trailheads is closed from Thursday to Sunday when the Sedona Shuttle is in operation. During these times, visitors are encouraged to use the free shuttle service, which runs from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, providing access to the trailheads without the hassle of finding parking.

This means that during those weeks you can’t park your car at the parking lot cause they will close it off before you have time to come down and you’ll be stuck. The best option during these times is to make sure you can get on the first shuttle.

8. Hike the Soldiers Pass Trail in the early morning

Hiking the Soldier Pass Trail in the early morning is an absolute dream if you want a more quiet Sedona experience. This 4.5-mile loop trail offers a moderate challenge with approximately 800 feet of elevation gain, making it perfect for hikers looking to explore Sedona’s unique geological features without the intense midday heat.

Starting your hike early not only provides cooler temperatures but also allows you to enjoy the trail’s highlights—like the dramatic Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole, the serene Seven Sacred Pools, and the hidden Soldier Pass Cave—with fewer fellow hikers around.

To make your early morning adventure even smoother, take advantage of the Sedona Shuttle, which offers a free and eco-friendly way to access the trailhead. The shuttle operates Thursday through Sunday, with the first departure from the Posse Grounds Park & Ride at 7:00 AM, arriving at the Soldier Pass Trailhead by 7:08 AM.

9. Have lunch at Mariposa

For dinner at Mariposa you’ll have to reserve a table months in advance. But that’s not the case for lunch! I was able to make a reservation 2 days from before and we had one of the best tables in the restaurant!

The lunch menu features a variety of Latin-inspired dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Guests can enjoy options like the Gaucho Steak Sandwich, featuring grilled ribeye with chipotle aioli and crispy onions, or the Neptuno Cobb Salad, a refreshing mix of Gulf rock shrimp, hearts of palm, and artichoke hearts on romaine lettuce. For a lighter bite, the Ceviche de Camarones offers a zesty and flavorful experience. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, reflecting the culinary expertise of Chef Lisa Dahl.

The best time to visit Sedona

For the perfect blend of mild weather and vibrant landscapes, spring (March to May) is ideal. During this season, temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit, making it perfect for hiking, jeep tours, and witnessing the desert in full bloom. However, it’s also Sedona’s busiest time, so booking accommodations and activities in advance is recommended.

If you prefer fewer crowds, fall (September to mid-December) offers crisp air, golden foliage, and stunning sunsets. This season provides a more tranquil experience, allowing you to enjoy the trails and vistas without the peak-season hustle.

How many days do you need to visit Sedona

If you’re planning a trip to Sedona, Arizona, the number of days you should spend depends on your interests and how much you want to explore. For a comprehensive experience that includes hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation, I recommend spending at least three to five days in Sedona. This allows ample time to explore the stunning red rock formations and visit local attractions!

What’s special about Sedona

One of the most unique and intriguing things about Sedona is its energy vortexes—natural spots in the landscape believed to radiate concentrated spiritual energy. Whether you’re a believer or just a curious traveler, these vortex sites are part of what gives Sedona its special, almost mystical feel. Locals and visitors alike say that standing in a vortex can make you feel more balanced, inspired, or deeply relaxed.

There are four main vortexes you can hike to: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Airport Mesa. Each is said to have its own “energy type”—some are considered more masculine (energizing), others more feminine (calming and nurturing), and some are a blend of both. Even if you’re not into the metaphysical side of things, these spots are all incredibly scenic and worth the hike just for the views alone.

How much does it cost to visit Sedona

If you’re planning to explore Sedona’s stunning red rock landscapes, understanding the access fees and pass options can help you make the most of your visit. Here’s a breakdown of the primary passes available:

🌄 Red Rock Pass

The Red Rock Pass is required for parking at many trailheads and day-use sites within the Coconino National Forest’s Red Rock Ranger District. This includes popular spots like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Doe Mountain. The pass fees are:

Daily Pass: $5
Weekly Pass: $15
Annual Pass: $20

These passes can be purchased at various locations, including trailhead vending machines, local businesses, and online through Recreation.gov.

🏞️ America the Beautiful Pass

The America the Beautiful Pass is a federal interagency pass that grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States, including national parks and forests. In Sedona, this pass is accepted at all sites where the Red Rock Pass is required, effectively serving as an alternative. The annual fee for this pass is $80, and it covers entrance fees for the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a non-commercial vehicle.

Where to stay in Sedona

If you’re planning a trip to Sedona and wondering where to stay, the options are as diverse and enchanting as the red rock landscapes themselves.

For those seeking luxury and tranquility, L’Auberge de Sedona offers creekside cottages and fine dining at Cress on Oak Creek, providing a serene escape in the heart of nature.

Alternatively, The Wilde Resort and Spa combines modern amenities with wellness experiences, making it a perfect base for adventure and relaxation.

If you’re looking for panoramic views, Sky Ranch Lodge sits atop Airport Mesa, offering stunning vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.

No matter your preference, Sedona’s accommodations cater to every traveler’s desire, ensuring a memorable stay amidst the majestic red rocks.

❤️ PERSONAL FAVORITE – Enchantment Resort for an unforgettable experience and one of the most unique hotel locations in Sedona!