To help with parking and provide more trail access to visitors, Sedona recently created a free shuttle systemSedona Shuttle. Lets take a quick look at the seasons in Sedona and any impacts on photography. Dont be too intimidated, however, as many locals take to this trail for their morning jogs. Venture into the Northern Verde Valley region and youll find the desert town of Sedona and the stunning Sedona sunsets. Walking the trail will take you two hours, more or less, after which you can pass under the bridge or climb on top of it. You will have expansive and close up views of Sedonas western red rock canyon walls, which either illuminate brightly at sunrise or sit directly underneath the sun at sunset. One of North Americas magnificent mountain states, Arizonas desert terrain provides the perfect backdrop for a picturesque sunset. Many first-timers opt for guided jeep tours instead, which will weave you by 4X4 through this tricky canyon range. Youll be walking with Cathedral Rock in the distance to your left, and after about .4 miles, the slick rock area will be in front of you. To start the hike, park your car at the Baldwin Trailhead, hang left, and walk down Verde Valley Road until you get to Oak Creek. All in all, this crossing has a unique charm to it that you wont want to miss out on. If you dont want to pay for parking or dont have a National Parks Pass, you can park along the road just past the stop sign junction. Be wary of slippery surfaces, however, as the bridge isnt fenced off on either side. Was This Post Helpful? Airport Mesa Vortex Site Unique Views Over Bell Rock, 14. One of the easiest ways to enjoy the beautiful sunset in Sedona is at Airport Mesa Overlook, which can be reached via an easy drive to the top. 2. Catching a sunset with your own eyes is a must-do when visiting! You have some really beautiful shots. Bell Rock Trail for the Best Sunset in Sedona. Edie. While most of these places for sunset in Sedona dont require too much of a rock scramble, Cathedral Rock Saddle definitely does. Unfortunately, the last we checked the final shuttle leaving Cathedral Rock was just after 5:00, making this trail only accessible for sunset Monday through Wednesday. Have a great time. If the road is open, and you have a high-clearance vehicle, there really isnt much hiking involved. The trip up the trail and back down Verde Valley Road is just over a mile long, with an arduous and steep uphill battle. If youre looking for a romantic evening out or just a night of good food and great company, then this is the place for you. Heading right, youll be on Deadmans Pass Trail. Dont need to purchase anything for your trip No worries! Just go out and chance catching the sunset, its a fun experience regardless! Stay on this trail, until you see Mescal Trail peeling off to the right. Plus, you might have even the most popular Sedona sunrise photography locations entirely to yourself as vibrant colors and thick clouds erupt from behind dramatic red rocks. There is a seated area but for me, the best view was going a little bit higher up to the brush area to a 360-degree view. There are so many to choose from, ranging from lookouts to walking paths, and parking lots to hiking trails. Along this pathway, youll enjoy fantastic views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and other landmarks. Thoughts? Hikers should climb to Doe Mountain summit, Cathedral Rock summit or Devils Bridge summit to watch the sunrise. If energy isnt your thing worry not. You will see the unique submarine shape of Chimney Rock formation from several hiking trails and photography locations around Sedona. Enjoy the sunrise and we hope it's a good one. Sounds magical, right? A vortex is basically an area of concentrated energy that rises from the earth and supposedly balances energies & provides healing powers to whomever comes across it. The full hike will take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, so youll want to time your hike so that youre at the top by sunset. This trail is easy to follow and relatively flat. The park has numerous lush fields where you can lay in the grass or have a golden hour picnic with your family. A short but steep hike leads to a table top mesa with spectacular southeast facing views over Sedona and hot air balloons taking to the yellow dawn sky from the canyon below. Temperatures drop below freezing after dark, so the spring and summer months are more ideal if you plan on venturing outdoors. If you are unable to do a hike for any reason, a picturesque drive is your next best bet. Our preference would have been Cathedral Rock illuminated by the sun but we were happy for the textured clouds as a consolation. Learn how your comment data is processed. Other than the Cathedral Rock Trail, you can return from the sunset locations in this post with a flashlight instead of a headlamp. To do this loop trail, youre going to be taking a series of trails: the Bell Rock Pathway Trail, the Rector Connector, and the Courthouse Butte Trail. Grand Canyon South Rim Here are the 20 best Grand Canyon viewpoints and the most amazing Grand Canyon sunrise and sunset locations. If youre up for the adrenaline boost, this is an amazing spot for golden hour and comes highly recommended for intrepid travellers. This way you can watch the red rock change to gorgeous colors as the sky changes colors behind it. A creative menu and extraordinary views both inside and out make it a prime pick anytime of the year. Elevation Gain: 700 feet. Location | 34.882953, -111.910255Parking | Free at Campground | 34.882953, -111.910255Hike | no. I stayed at the Arabella Hotel while I was in Sedona. Please note, there is an $11 fee to park here. Jeep Trails Comprehensive guide to the 9 best Jeep trails in Sedona Arizona, including both popular and hidden gem off road routes. This is a gorgeous hike that is easily a favorite in the Sedona area for good reason! If you want to get to the hard to reach places, you should hire a jeep.When to visit Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit Sedona, but they come with a higher price tag and more crowds. Now, the trail itself (Munds Wagon Trail) parallels a road thats accessible for 44 high clearance vehicles. Reaching Merry Go Round Rock hiking, youll take the Munds Wagon Trail from Hukaby Trailhead. We hiked Cathedral Rock for sunrise and it was amazing. They offer room service for hotel guests. Hope you were able to enjoy the other sunrise and sunset spots in Sedona without issue! Location: 780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, Hours: 9-5 (10 on Sunday) Airport Mesa The Airport Mesa overlook is one of Sedona's most popular destinations for photographers. Unsubscribe at any time. The trail is unmaintained and steep but well worth the effort for the sunrise display. Alternatively, you can use your America The Beautiful Interagency Pass. However, mornings and evenings can be very cold so you need to wrap up for sunrise and sunset photography shoots around Sedona. In this guide we are going to show you 15 stunning sunrise and sunset photography spots in Sedona, Arizona. A quick walk along the history stroll will give you a bit of background history on the ancient rock formations, along with more picture-perfect photos than you could ever possibly imagine. Love the egg salad! That's because it IS! He was particularly keen on finding places for sunset photography. Distance: 1-1.5-ish miles Elevation Gain: About 700 feet Difficulty: Moderate Dog Friendly: Yes! The small city of Sedona emits a relaxing and calm aura in the hours around sunrise. Sunset is another wonderful time of day in Sedona. Wildflower is a greatcasual pick for anyone seeking a laid-back lunch without any fuss. The sun goes down in the East as early as 5:30 pm during these months. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. It is not even on Google Maps or our Gaia hiking app, but it does exist. (Picture below). Find the Best RV Rental Specials with this link through RV Share! The 1.1-mile out-and-back trail is relatively easy to follow and is perfect for hikers of all levels. Hiking to Altar Cave was one of the last things we did in Sedona, and when we got to the cave for sunset, we knew we would be updating this post to include this cave in the best sunsets in Sedona locations! Thought I would also bring 70-200 f2.8, but now Im wondering if I should bring 200-500 f5.6 instead to get close-up, compressed hot air balloon and landscape shots from places like Mystic Vista and Doe Mountain? Schnebly Hill Vista 6. Getting to the top of Airport Mesa Vortex does involve a little bit of climbing, so hiking boots or shoes with good traction are recommended for this one. Enjoy Devils Bridge from birds-eye view. From Nolan Campground, youll get killer views of the sun setting to the west over Cottonwood. It is one of the longer ones on this list, but its well worth the effort! Do note, the closest parking area is only open Monday Wednesday. It can be pretty crowded during weekends and holidays as it is a popular spot to view both Sedona sunrise and sunset when the bright golden and orange colours. If youre looking for an amazing view to watch the sun go down, check out any of these spots! In our opinion, we like this view better. The Airport Vortex is a great alternative if you want to experience the Airport Mesa views without as many crowds. Get updated on a monthly roundup of posts and updates regarding travel, vanlife, gear, & photography! Here youll find flat and wide red rock areas where you can swim, sunbathe, or just relax. You can still support us by saving and sharing this post with the images below! Devil's Bridge Where to Stay in Sedona Sedona Sunrise Spots Not to Miss I selected each of the Sedona sunrise spots included in this post based on my own personal experience. The Skyline UL is not the lightest pick in this roundup, but for 95-percent of people, it's is a great choice. 8 Beautiful Sedona Hikes Without the Crowds Guest Authors 26 February 2018 Sandwiched between the Sonoran Desert and the Colorado Plateau in Arizona, Sedona offers a varied and beautiful landscape of canyons, waterways, grasslands, and forests. Absolutely! Once youve seen how overcrowded every hiking trail and photography spot becomes during the day, you will appreciate those early mornings even more. If you dont want to explore the actual rock, and instead are only interested in the cave, just before reaching the parking area, youll pass a pretty beat-up bridge at the following coordinates, 34.874295, -111.706872. It is by far Sedonas most popular hike and for good reason. Find Our Complete Packing List + Best Hiking Shoes For Sedona Here. Along the way, youll also learn about the history of the early settlers and admire the beautiful sunset. Hiking onto Bell Rock is tons of fun, making it one of the most popular hikes in Sedona. The sheer sight of it all, paired with an overwhelming sense of the worlds magnitude, makes Bell Rock a surprisingly spiritual destination for a sunset in Sedona. It was lovely. Where better to start than the busiest and most chaotic photography location in Sedona. As a local, I found myself coming back here time and time again for a relaxing weekend brunch date! Here, you will be treated to delicious creative cuisine and a beautiful outdoor patio which features excellent views of the red rocks. Length: 6.1 mi Est. Taking into account location, ease of access, view and crowds, this vantage point is hard to beat. This spot is a great place to see expansive views of Long Canyon, Boynton Canyon, and the Cockscomb all illuminated by the setting sun. Offering dramatic red rock vistas, quaint views of the perennial creek, and majestic views of the towering ponderoa pine forests, it really is the most stunning drive in the entire state. My favorite viewpoint and photo spot on this hike is hands-down the Edge of the World. Sedona is exceptionally photogenic by day and night, but soft light and colorful skies around sunrise and sunset elevate the already spectacular Sedona landscape to whole new level. There are hiking options for absolutely everyone from the super short to the full-on sweaty heavy breathing options. If both parking lots are completely full, you can access Cathedral Rock via the Baldwin Trail. March through May sees the desert flowers in bloom and a bearable heat, unlike the scorching summers. Try the delicious Butternut Squash Ravioli for a real treat! This is an entirely separate entrance fee. document.getElementById( "ak_js" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. We drove our Jeep up Schnebly Hill Road in late afternoon but didnt want to drive the 44 road back down in the dark. If you go to the left, you go into the canyon, this is not where you want to go! This casual Italian hotspot makes all their delicious goodies on-site, so you can rest assured that you are not eating anything frozen or canned. We're Mark and Kristen Morgan, former career scientists turned travel, hiking and photography experts after an 18 month honeymoon around the world forever changed our lives. Best Places to See Sunset in Sedona Secret Slickrock Trail Red Rock Scenic Byway State Route 89A Red Rock State Park Upper Red Rock Loop Road Slide Rock State Park Oak Creek Canyon Cathedral Rock Trail Red Rock Crossing Devil's Bridge Doe Mountain Courthouse Butte Bear Mountain Airport Mesa Trail Boynton Canyon Schnebly Hill Road I visited in an unseasonably warm early December and even then the outlook was filled with people. Elevation Gain: 920 feet. Dont worry numerous pullouts along the 7 mile route give you the opportunity to stretch, take some photos, or simply justlust after the views. Youll have to get a little dirty going up this trail, using your hands to maneuver past the tricky cliff sides of Cathedral Rock. Due to the prime location, spectacular views can be enjoyed both inside and out. Plan your hiking times accordingly, and depending on what time of the year you visit. The top of Cathedral Rock features beautiful views of Sedona and at sunset, its even more magical! Next on my list of the best places to see the sunset in Sedona is the Boynton Vista Trail. You can catch your breath at the top, however, and bathe in the beauty of the Sedona desert. Getting to a higher elevation for photographing landscapes doesnt always have to involve a hike or Jeep trail! Share the pools for reflection shots of Cathedral Rock and youll be set Trust us, its intimidating to ask to share a pool, but youll be glad you did! This spot is also known as one of many vortex locations where you can tap into the energy of the earth. To start you off, I'll send you my FREE travel essentials checklist + travel resources guide! Monos Carry-On Pro Review: Is It Actually Worth The Price? To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Devils Bridge is the famous in-demand instagram shot everyone just has to have in their feed. Cathedral Rock is an amazing place for sunset. The Cathedral Rock trail is easy to navigate. The best place to see a sunset in Sedona, Arizona is definitely at one of the many scenic viewpoints in town. Once you get to the top, you are going to be WOWED. We have to admit we had no idea about Little Sugarloaf until we stood at the base of Chimney Rock moments before sunrise. After you cross the creek, make your way upstream on the Red Rock Crossing trail. Last Updated on April 12, 2023 by Jason & Heather Arbour. Walk to the cliff, and youll see the cave and rock to stand on to get the iconic sunset shots. Having a better understanding of the Sedona region will help when you arrive. It is twinned with Courthouse Butte and together they dominate the southern Sedona skyline. You may not be into the healing and energy abstractions, but the Sedona desert is undeniably special, with canyons and forests that will have you reminiscing for years to come. The good news is we have a handful of off the beaten path Sedona sunset photography spots that will beat the crowds. The Vultee Arch trail will take you through about five miles of desert wilderness, culminating in the traversal of a huge red rock bridge passing over a canyon. This viewpoint is located at the far right of the summit viewing area. Whether you are going exclusively on a photography trip or you are combining hiking with photography in Sedona, we cannot stress enough how much easier you will make it on yourself if you set that early alarm. Standing on Secret Slick Rock, and facing Cathedral Rock, you are technically in an area where you can fly a drone only if you fly forward, not back. Lets finish with some of the most asked questions about where to find the best sunrise and sunset spots in Sedona, AZ. Cathedral Rock is better at sunrise because you will be able to get parked easily, the trail will be very quiet and the sun rises beautifully from behind the impressive Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte red rock formations. Youre going to see so much from here, including great vistas of Oak Creek (Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte) as well as West Sedona and Sedona (Cathedral Rock). This drive is really unique and dramatic, as both the views (ranging from ponderosa pines, to flowing creeks, to towering red rock formations) and elevation (4000-7000ft) vary greatly along the route. But like sunset in most other tourist heavy destinations, the best spots are naturally going to be busy. We bet youve never heard of Mystic Vista. Once youre done enjoying the first views here, its time to start your sunset hike! This decent knock off of Panera Bread (featuring a Wildflower Two similar to Paneras popular You Pick Two deal) features a tasty menu of healthy salads, soups, and sandwiches. Cathedral Rock. There are great options all across Sedona, making it easy to even hop out of the car and enjoy the sunset with little to no effort! The trail that takes you to Red Rock Crossing is only about 2 miles and follows a paved pathway along the Oak Creek waters. However, with that said, you will have plenty of time between shooting sunrise and sunset locations found within this guide. Cathedral Rock 3. Bell Rock provides a unique activity for every member of the family, not to mention incredible sunset views from over 4000 feet (1219 meters) above the ground. Simply display your pass on your car dash and youll be good to go! Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout 6. Little Sugarloaf is our top recommendation for best sunrise and sunset photography location in Sedona. Location:Intersection of Arizona 89A and 179. Once youre here, enjoy a snack and soak in those orange/red glowing views. Because this one tends to be busier during sunset hours, the earlier you get there, the easier it will be to find a parking spot. There is a little climbing involved, but nothing too difficult or scary! If youve never been out to Arizona before, the sunset from this arch is something youll never forget. Bell Rock 8. Hi! Hiking Start planning your hiking itinerary with our popular comprehensive guide to the 20 best hikes in Sedona, Arizona. Sunset Vista is a great spot to watch the sunrise, have a dinner picnic during sunset, or just take in the red rock views and capture that perfect photo. All rights reserved. We hope you enjoy the stunning red rock landscape as much as we do. Dirk. Airport Mesa is one of the best Sedona sunset hikes thanks to its central location and variety of vantage points from which to sit and watch the sunset. City lights begin to dazzle, colorful clouds swirl above and softening light cools the majestic red rock walls as day transitions into night. Non-hikers should head to Mystic Vista, Lovers Knoll or Dry Creek Vista to watch a sunrise without having to hike. We only saw two other couples up at the summit all morning. Obviously, if there is a hike involved, arrive even earlier. There are 2 main drives to consider if you are looking to take in the best Sedona has to offer: Red Rock Scenic Byway and Oak Creek Canyon. Finding the best sunsets in Sedona is a mighty task. This easy 1.4-mile hike is located in the Red Rock State Park area, just outside the town of Sedona, Arizona. Its a moderately difficult hike up the Cathedral Rock trail, but the view from the top will exceed your expectations. Merry Go Round Rock is a trek to get to, but the views and photo opportunities are well worth it. This may end up being, not just the best sunsets in Sedona location, but a top hike too, if you can push through the length of the trail! We went to Altar Cave after reading it was good for sunset, and along the way were just shocked at how many more caves are right in the same area. We never expected the view to be so far reaching and extensive from Chapel of the Holy Cross. Sunset hikes in Sedona bring hiking in Sedona to the next level. You may also like: document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Subscribe to the TWE newsletter get first dibs on travel tips, updates, and exclusive deals! Airport Mesa Scenic Vista Most Popular Sedona Sunset Location, 13. We even made complete guides for each trail that wasnt so easy to find. Location | 34.905894, -111.840728Parking | $5 at Boynton Canyon Trailhead | 34.907356, -111.848582Duration | 2.63 milesElevation | 839 feetTerrain | on well maintained trail until the red rock scramble at end. Everyones got that one friend who takes unique travel photos- the jealousy-inducing stuff of dreams that makes you want to abandon your desk and disappear for a week. And it gets worse. *Please note this post may contain affiliate links. Airport Mesa is usually what comes to mind when people think of sunsets in Sedona. Winter Off season in Sedona but it is still busier than you might imagine. To get to Altar Cave, you need to park at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead lot. Some of them require effort to get to, while others require no effort at all! If youre looking for some peace and quiet, youd be better off going somewhere else once the sun sets. Youll be walking right towards Merry Go Round Rock at this point. This spot offers truly stunning panoramic views of West Sedona and its surrounding red rock formations. Find out more on the about page. By the end you will know exactly where to go for the best Sedona sunrises and sunsets each day during your visit to this spectacular red rock landscape. Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook is way up near the top of the enormous eastern mountains flanking Sedona. Location | 34.873969, -111.708453Parking | $5 at Hukaby Trailhead | 34.866512, -111.74869Duration | 7.8 miles out and backElevation | 1,079 feetTerrain | multiple creek crossing, muddy and icy in winter. Location:780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, Hours: 9-5 (10 on Sunday). The west facing view looking down over town and the landscape is sensational. Very few know that right behind Dry Creek Trailhead there is a secret and secluded spot perfect for both sunrise or sunset. The trailhead parking lot is very tiny, so many visitors will opt to park at the top for $3 and hike the spur trail down to start the loop. Sunrises arent too early and sunsets arent too late. After all, it is 4 miles uphill one way! The 16 Best Sunset Hikes in America 15 Best Hiking Trails in Los Angeles for Incredible Views of Waterfalls, Canyons, and Mountains 10 Best Hikes in San Diego to Explore This Year 1. 152 likes, 7 comments - ThisIsNomadic/Rachel & Blake (@thisisnomadic) on Instagram: "We had an action packed week for our first time boondocking in Sedona. Arabella Hotel is home to Sunset Vista, an easy and relatively effortless way to see one of Sedonas iconic sunsets. Where Are Those Morgans LLC is a participant in the Amazon services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. At the t, go to the right. We almost missed a couple of the best sunsets in Sedona due to us thinking there wouldnt be any sunset at all. Well, getting parked is the biggest challenge everyone faces when visiting Sedona. If you just want to know what some of the best hikes in Sedona are, here's a pretty good start: Best with Your Kids: West Fork This 6-mile hike follows an idyllic stream which you can enjoy March-November. Its a bit of a windy drive up with some great views and youll then hit a decent-sized car park. At sunset, Cathedral Rock will be impossible to park and the trail will be overcrowded. Be sure to treat yourself to the homemade garlic cheese blossom! The best way to get to Nolan Campground is by going out Boynton Pass Road, past the Bear Mountain / Doe Mountain trailhead, and continuing until the road becomes a dirt road. Expect to see as many mediation and yoga enthusiasts as you will hikers and photographers on Bell Rock. Bell Rock is one of the 4 main energy vortex sites in Sedona and sunrise or sunset would only enhance the uplifting atmosphere. The views are exceptional, but its also the vortex in this area to which much of its appeal is attributed. I would recommend getting one of the rooms at Arabella with a terrace to really take advantage of this lovely hotel. I love the cozy treehouse vibes and the amazing food. A Complete Guide to This Sedona Cave (with a map), 10 Spots to Watch Sunset From Airport Mesa, One Freaking EPIC Day Itinerary For One Day in Sedona, Things to do in Bend Oregon for Couples | Date Ideas Bend, OR, Car Rental Scotland | 15 Ways to Save Money On Your Scotland Car Hire, Wild Rose Hot Springs | Idaho Hot Spring In A Lava Bed, 7 BEST Sunrise Hikes in Sedona | Sunrise Sedona, AZ. Doe Mountain is up there with the very best sunrise photography spots in Sedona, Arizona. Bringing a headlamp with you is a good idea. From the Hukaby Trailhead, if the road is closed to vehicles, we suggest riding up the road. Devil's Bridge. We hiked down Sedona View Trail from the vista to the vortex site and didnt expect such amazing views to the east and southeast. You can also spot Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Elephant Rock, and the Courthouse Butte popular rock formations in Sedona along this scenic trail. They almost remind me of a prehistoric time. Coming up Munds Wagon Trail, Merry Go Rock Rock will be on the left side of the trail at the top. More often than not, our weather app said it was going to be straight cloudy during sunset. Secret Slick Rock after a heavy rain is hands down the best place for sunset in Sedona, this trail only accessible for sunset Monday through Wednesday, Feel The Airport Mesa Vortex | A Complete Sedona Vortex Guide, 31 Epic Sedona Sunset Locations | Complete Sedona Sunset Guide, Where to Camp for FREE in Sedona, Arizona. The Enchantment is beautiful in every aspect, including its outstanding restaurants. And hey, that way you have easy access to it later.. another win-win! With that being said, there are only a handful of campgrounds now on 525 that you have to stay in, or you run the chance of a hefty fine. From behind giant finger shaped spires found at a hidden second summit of Cathedral Rock, we watched the sun rising from behind the enormous formation of Courthouse Butte. Head over to our Arizona travel guides to explore the best of Grand Canyon, Sedona and beyond. Sedona boasts bold red rock faces, steep canyons, and a unique cultural milieu. Sedona sunsets are funny in the sense that you actually dont get to see the sun setting on the horizon. Since our first visit, not only did we detour our trip to go back, but we still think of the whole area. If you are up for a bit of exercise, the Airport Mesa hike offers some of the most extraordinary 360 degree views in all of Sedona. Click or touch to activate the map, zoom in and out, scroll around and familiarize yourself with the area. To get here, drive to the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout. At Vultee Arch, you can be that guy. Is it worth waking up early for sunrise and staying out late for sunset in Sedona?! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this article. Lets shift focus to the forgotten southwest side of Sedona. It appears to naturally emerge from the rocks. Its going to be a slow and absolutely grueling 4 miles uphill. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Drive off-road through 7 canyons to Dry Creek Basin and relive the cowboy days at the old Van Derin cabin. It's also lower-priced than our Best . Little Sugarloaf Sedona Sunrise And Sunset Goldmine (Writers Top Pick), 12. With so many gorgeous red rock views and multiple iconic landscapes, choosing the best sunsets in Sedona is challenging. Difficulty: Moderate. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. We experienced a very purple, dark and mysterious Sedona sunset at Lovers Knoll. Another picturesque drive to add to your itinerary is Oak Creek Canyon (AZ 89a), a name given to the 14 miles of picturesque land located in between Flagstaff and Sedona. This natural bridge is 50-feet high, so you may be scrambling to reach the top. 5 Unmissable Ruins To Visit In Sedona, Arizona, How To Drive The Awesome Broken Arrow Jeep Trail In Sedona. This 3.5-mile trail loops around the Verde Valley, offering panoramic views of the brilliant red rock formations and desert lands stretching for miles. Thursday Sunday there is a new Sedona Shuttle that operates during the day, and the road to Cathedral Rock Trail is blocked off with a guard to anyone that doesnt live on the road. Airport Mesa is considered to be one of Sedonas sacred vortex sites (The Chapel of the Holy Cross mentioned above is another). Bell Rock Climb | Best Hikes in Sedona 1. I covered all of the costs involved in writing this post. This annual pass will get you entry into all national parks for. The cave is at the following coordinates, 34.873969, -111.708453. Keep in mind that this hike is not for beginners, so make sure youre prepared before attempting it. The sandstone mesas ripple across the desert vista, broken up by unexpected bursts of juniper and pine trees. We hiked to Devils Bridge in time for sunrise and we have to say it was a little underwhelming. All in all, its a 1.2-mile out-and-back adventure with an elevation gain of 744 feet. Location:101 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336. 6 December 2021 Arizona, USA Sedona is a place that drew us in and never let us go. Cathedral Rock Most Iconic Formation In Sedona, 4. Although the chapel is not open for services, anyone can come in to meditate, pray, or light a candle in honor of a loved one. READ MORE | Where to Camp for FREE in Sedona, Arizona. This post has been removed at the author's request. That's great to hear, Dirk. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-76624074', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Airport Mesa. Here is a sneak peak of this beautiful drive. Secret Slick Rock after a heavy rain is hands down the best place for sunset in Sedona with minimal hiking required. Its better to get to the sandstone bridge early and take your time awaiting the sunset. The trail features great views of the canyon floor and surrounding desert landscape. Winter is a fantastic time to avoid both.Where to stay in Accommodation is expensive in Sedona, but there are plenty of very high quality places to stay including Matterhorn Inn, Lantern Light Inn, Arabella Hotel, Whispering Creek B&B and The Suites at Sedona.Popular things to do Sedona is one of the best places to hike in the US, but it is also a wonderful place to get off-road in a jeep, shoot stunning photography, visit historic sites and drink wine. Not as good as Panera in my opinion, although many Arizona locals prefer it! The Ultimate San Francisco To Portland Road Trip: 50+ Stops You Need To Make In Between, Complete Guide to Revealing The Priceline Express Deals Hotel Before You Book, The Ultimate Packing Checklist For 3 Months Of Travel, Patagonia Outlet: Everything You Need To Know About The Shopping Experience, The Perfect Kauai 7-Day Itinerary For An Unforgettable Hawaiian Vacation, The Nike Employee Store: How To Get In and What To Expect (Beaverton, Oregon). Dont have a van or RV yourself, you can rent one here! Airport Mesa trail 3. Sedona is all about the rocks and enjoying the experience of being in this amazing little town. The desert willows and acacias set against the brilliant rust-stained limestone is truly something to behold. Once at the Arabella Hotel, its literally a 5-minute walk to the hotels private vista point. Dont miss our popular roundup featuring the most beautiful sunset quotes. The entire trail is fairly flat and extremely scenic! In the summer, the sun sets around 7:30 pm. There is a steep drop-off here so please be careful. As the skyline melts into a vibrant orange hue and nightfall sets in, youll have an unforgettable snapshot of your trip to this unique desert town. Cheapest hotel options, best chance of getting parked and quieter photography spots. You can either stay in your car, enjoy a picnic, go mountain biking, or hop on any of the various trails to choose your own hiking adventure! Bell Rock is one of the most easily recognizable formations in Sedona with its dome-like presence impressing travelers driving on Highway 179. Met up with @livingtinywit." ThisIsNomadic/Rachel & Blake on Instagram: "We had an action packed week for our first time boondocking in Sedona. Here you'll see the expanse of the valley below the bridge and this spot is more likely to be less crowded during the end of the day. Mystic Vista Best Hidden Gem Sedona Sunrise Photography Location, 10. Check current shuttle times here. Google will show you not only the time of sunset, but where the sun is going to set as well. And locations that with or without a colorful sunset, the hike to them is still worthwhile. Cathedral Rock Sedona 2. Just be sure to not go too close to Cathedral Rock, as the noise can be annoying and ruin a relaxing sunset for those up on Cathedral Rock for the night. Oak Creek is a tranquil swimming spot in Sedona, part of the rare 0.3% of Sedonas land containing natural water. Secret Slick Rock after a heavy rain is hands down the best place for sunset in Sedona with minimal hiking required. Red Rock Crossing in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Thanks everyone. Im Amanda, an Australian who has been living in London for over 16 years. Red Rock Crossing is the classic, uncluttered view of the red rocks and creek without the intrusion of the buildings as you saw at (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Alternatively, you can start your hike at the Crescent Moon Day Use Site. Our overall (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Make sure you stay until after the sunset for the best colors in the sky over downtown Sedona. There are so many special places to watch sunrise in Sedona. Do try and make a reservation though, because this place is always busy! The Hideaway House restaurant is a great place to have dinner when youre in Sedona, Arizona. Its a pretty well traveled path with a lot of downed trees to reach the cave and viewpoint. Heres a link to our interactive Google Map showing the exact locations of each sunrise or sunset photography spot in Sedona. Hi Edie, glad to hear you are planning a trip to Sedona. Once at the Chapel there are spectacular views of the red rocks of Sedona and from the glass wall inside the chapel itself. (Just pop Yavapai Vista Point into Google Maps to get there.). Viewing a dazzling red rock sunset is one of the most memorable things you can do on any Sedona vacation. After leaving the vista, we stayed at Merry Go Round until very close to sunset. The loop is approximately 1.8 miles. Nolan Campground is the closest one to all the major hiking areas of Sedona West, so it fills up quickly. It is a stunning drive. There is overflow parking further down on Back O Beyond Road. We get to recommend the exact gear we used and loved in Sedona, and you get to buy something you know you will use and is necessary for hiking in Sedona! Red Rock Loop Road Scenic Vista Secret Spot For Pro Photographers, Best Time Of Year To Photograph Sedona, Arizona, Sedona Sunrise And Sunset Photography FAQs. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Safe and happy travels! If you like the style of compressed wide open aperture images, definitely take your longer lens. When it rains in Sedona, the water pools on the slick red rock here, creating outstanding reflections of Cathedral Rock, or shoot even of people standing near the pools. There are great options all across Sedona, making it easy to even hop out of the car and enjoy the sunset with little to no effort! Before heading out for sunset, check when the sun actually sets by simply googling sunset in Sedona times. Would you be willing to do a best-guess map drawing? From here, you can also sign up for the uber popular Pink Jeep and trolley tours, although a hike is a less costly, not to mention a more memorable & rewarding experience. Location:100 Amara Ln #101, Sedona, AZ 86336. Watching a stunning sunrise from the cliff edges of Doe Mountain was one of our favorite mornings during our first visit to Sedona. Take the upper Red Rock loop road and head for Crescent Moon Ranch. The cave is actually below the ledge of the trail, and is to the right, right along the cliff. Distance: Two mile loop, but those without an ATV will also have to hike to the start of the trail from Dry Creek Vista Trailhead (a 4.2 mile trip) or Chuckwagon Trail (a 5.8 . From natural bridges to red limestone canyons and cliffs, Sedona has so much to offer in the way of sunset destinations. Lets get into creating your wishlist for the best sunrise and sunset spots in Sedona, Arizona! The real highlight of dining at Wildflower is enjoying the restaurants prime location in Uptown right across from one of the most stunning red rock views in town. Once you reach the junction, youll have two options: you can head to the Airport Loop Trail to the left or the Vortex Summit trail to the right. Oak Creek at Crescent Moon Picnic Site 9. Airport Mesa Road: Sedona Airport Vortex, Visiting Malta: A Complete Guide to the Islands Must-See Attractions, 19 Safest Vacation Spots in the U.S. (2023) Youll Love, 55 Interesting Things to Do in Massachusetts | Top Activities & Attractions, 47 Best Things to Do in New York Alone (2023) Youll Love. You can wander across the grassy lawn down to the creek. Little Sugarloaf is located very close to Chimney Rock, but it is lower, flat topped and away from towering cliffs. Red Rock Crossing Trail 8. For those of you whove never heard of Devils Bridge before, this geological wonder stands as one of the greatest and most beautiful formations in Sedona Red Rock County. Once we made our way over to the table-top of Little Sugarloaf and realized it has a 360 degree unobstructed panorama over Sedona, we knew it was the one. | Trellis Framework by Mediavine, 1. I hope after reading this, youve found the perfect sunset viewpoints for your trip. Airport Mesa vista is at the top of the ridge, but at the bottom of the ridge you will find a flat topped rocky observation deck known as Airport Mesa vortex site. Take in spectacular desert views, watch Secret Canyon, oar toward Devils Bridge, observe the famous hiking trails from above and spot all the wildlife. Airport Mesa Road: Sedona Airport Vortex 2. The trail begins as a gentle walk from the parking lot, but as you near the rock formation, you'll find that it's a steep . We spent a month in Sedona finding the best hikes, sunset locations, sunrise spots, and more. Bell Rock Sedona Sunset Alternative To Cathedral Rock, 5. This tour passes through not only Airport Mesa Road, but also the Vultee Arch and Mystic Vista. Just strolling around Sedonas charming tourist hotspot for a half hour or so, you will be able to take in some pretty magnificent scenery without much effort at all. The Most Amazing Sedona Hikes 1. Red Rock Crossing is the area where the creek runs next to Cathedral Rock and offers a lovely sunset view over the river gorge. Despite only being 5 miles long, the hike to the summit of Bear . Bell Rock is another iconic formation found not too far from Cathedral Rock. It is true that the most popular location for a sunset is at the Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook. On the left side of the trail, youll see a bunch of trees knocked over, with a couple of trails leading toward the cliff. Zion - 5 very different ways you can create the perfect one day in Zion National Park itinerary. Youll reach the Airport Mesa Summit Trail in about 0.6 miles. Read more in ourdisclosure policy.*. Arabella Hotels location makes for some pretty fantastic views of the Red Rocks that circle Sedona. Lovers Knoll Magnificent Cathedral Rock Views, 15. Or, better yet, stop for a hike along the magnificent Little Horse trail. Note this was taken early in the morning. Disclosure | Privacy Policy | Terms Of Use, Copyright 2023 | Where Are Those Morgans, Map Of The Best Sunrise And Sunset Photography Spots In Sedona, Arizona, Top 15 Places To Photograph Sunrise And Sunset In Sedona, 1. Image Source: All Trails website You can also look on the weather app on your phone to see when the sun sets in Sedona while youre there. In our opinion, the best sunset hikes Sedona style are those without the crowds of people and ones where you get a bit of the actual sunset mixed with the beautiful changing colors of the red rocks. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Top categories Free Class 35.9K shares Sedona, Arizona, is an oasis for photographers, hikers, and explorers, full of vortexes, red rocks, and adventures. The top of Cathedral Rock features beautiful views of Sedona and at sunset, it's even more magical! The same cannot be said for sunset in Sedona. We would suggest Bell Rock as an easier alternative to Cathedral Rock at sunset. While turning to the north youll be in awe of the red rock changing colors right before your eyes. hiked to Devils Bridge in time for sunrise, Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop Trail, Grand Canyon sunrise and sunset locations, best photography locations in New York City, best photography locations in Yosemite National Park, Orange icons Each of the best Sedona sunrise and sunset locations, Blue icons Alternative options close to the main spots, The caves are almost entirely enclosed with no view, Cave openings do not face east or west for sunrise or sunset, Certain caves involve hiking and / or climbing which would be dangerous before sunrise and after sunset in the dark. If you have one, these are some great shots! Although exploring a few of the breathtaking hikes is most recommended (check out 12 of my favorite Sedona hikes), there are numerous ways to take in the majestic scenery without embarking on a difficult hike. To get to the Cathedral Rock hike, head to the Cathedral Rock Trailhead parking area. Read More:How To Get To Devils Bridge In Sedona, Arizona. Most of the pathway has a wide, hard surface so its great for the whole family. The most popular place to watch sunset in Sedona without hiking is Airport Mesa Vista, which is also known as Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this. This vantage has partially obstructed views of town but it has stunning views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, as well as Sedonas eastern mountains. Take a seat on the outdoor patio (if weather permits) and enjoy a healthy meal accompanied by tremendous views! Oftentimes, the sunset colors are better just before sunset because the sun sets behind mountains in the west. Vultee Arch 7. Especially once you see the sun setting over the mountain range! Sunsets are great as they are, but pair them with the red rocks in Sedona and youve got something truly jaw-dropping. Vultee Arch 4. Devils Bridge is an iconic Sedona landmark, so make sure you head out to Dry Creek Road early to beat the traffic. There were already around 15 people at the bridge, the formation is much smaller than it looks and the sunrise itself was flat. Hi! While Cathedral Rock could be filled with loads of other people watching the sunset, and to get the iconic shot on Cathedral Rock, youll almost surely have to wait, it can also be a totally individual and spiritual experience. Its very accessible and its beautiful. Check more reviews of the Arabella Hotel on TripAdvisor Book the Arabella Hotel Now. I dont think Im looking at the correct place. Sedonas vortexes sites of heightened electrical and magnetic energy are believed by spiritualists to emit positive frequencies that can aid in ones path to enlightenment. To get to Secret Slick Rock, you park at the free Secret Slick Rock trailhead (coordinates above) and then cross the road, and walk down along the (mostly) flat trail, away from the parking lot. Not only will you get a bit of exercise, but youll also see more of Sedona from this vantage point! Although some restaurants offer great food & others amazing views, just a handful really please by offering both quality food and tremendous views of the red rocks via awesome outdoor patios. This parking lot costs $5, and is typically full during the day, but was nearly empty when we got there for this sunset hike. Location:1185 Airport Rd Sedona, AZ 86336. The vegetation is sparse in Sedona, but the hike to Vultee Arch will show you what little forestry the area does have. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. At this point, its a short but steep walk down to the slick rock. In the early evening, I'd suspect you'll have the place relatively to your lonesome. ), secret swimming holes, Slide Rock State Park (an unusual park featuring natural waterslides carved from the red rocks) easily make this a half-full day activity! While the red rocks will no longer be illuminated, the clouds in the sky can change into some pretty epic colors just after the sun sets. This natural sandstone butte located near Yavapai County is a must-see in Sedona and is well worth scaling a cliff face. You can access the crossing via Red Rock State Park, where the trail begins. 1. At the bridge, swing a left, and connect to Munds Wagon Trail. Thank you for supporting the free content we provide! We were blown away by the view at this discreet Sedona location during sunrise and fortunately the sky played ball. The Boutique Adventurer is owned by Beyond the Horizon. There are places to sit at the picnic grounds, restrooms and wide accessible paths to the creek. Uptown is a nice little touristy area where you can kill an hour or 2 in between other activities. If you click on one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This overlook draws the biggest crowds and you'll want to get there early to get a good spot. Check it out if you are up for a longish, yet relaxing hike with unending views of the red rocks. The hoodoo-like spires atop the dome shaped mound of Cathedral Rock draw the eye from all other parts of the Sedona area. Bell Rock Loop trail connects a few different trails (Bell Rock Pathway Trail, Rector Connector, and Courthouse Butte Trail) making the entire loop about 1.8 miles (2.9km). Thanks for the valuable hints tips. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. If you have vertigo or are afraid of hikes, you might want to skip this one or bring along a pair of sturdy trekking poles (I have this one and love them). Nolan Campground is at the top fork of Forest Road 525, about 2.5 miles down a pretty rough dirt road. The sun setting behind the pine forests is absolutely breathtaking. But once you reach it, you wont be disappointed. And while we shared the saddle with multiple other people, by the time the sun was actually setting, it was just the two of us and maybe five others! Youll likely get the place almost to yourself if you are up there to really enjoy the entire sunset show. PS. Please let us know if you have any questions about sunrise, sunset or photography locations during your trip to Sedona in the comments below. Below are my picks for the best dining-with-a-view experiences in Red Rock Country! It's really helpful. If you can only do one sunset view while youre in Sedona then I would recommend heading to the airport vortex. I just drove around Sedona quite a bit and parked at the end of roads and had a little wander and took photos. The difference in height between the base and the top of the climb is 62m. Expect more traffic if your drive falls in the afternoon, on a weekend, or during a busy holiday period. So without further ado, lets get stuck into the best locations for shooting sunrise and sunset photography in Sedona! The Chapel of the Holy Cross truly is an architectural wonder like no other in the world- an absolute must-see for any Sedona newcomers. Can you please suggest a good place to catch a sunset where we can drive with our own car and which doesnt involve much walking? Again, if you have a 44 high clearance vehicle, you can shorten the length of this hike, by driving to Merry Go Round Rock. Do note that because its so easy to get to, it will be more crowded than a lot of the other options on this list. Sedona is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in the winter. With top notch food & service, along with to-die-for views via the floor-to-ceiling windows, you really can do no better. Red Rock Crossing is an easy hike thats best enjoyed in the late afternoon or at sunset. The viewpoint of this iconic natural sandstone bridge is absolutely gorgeous! If youre looking for a much quieter, off-the-beaten-path location to see great sunset views in Sedona, head to the Cultural Park Trailhead. Cathedral Rock is the epicenter of Sedonas remarkable red rock landscape. 3. When the setting sun lights this area up.. you better have your camera ready! Sedona Grand Canyon 6. This is where the trail takes a sharp turn to the left, and if you start going left, youve gone too far. Thanks a lot! Dont leave Sedona without visiting the magnificent Chapel of the Holy Cross. Dining at Che-Ah-Chi is the best breakfast experience you will have in Sedona. And because this trail is exposed, take more water than you think you need! 8 helpful votes Best place to watch sunset at Sedona without hiking 6 years ago Save I am at Sedona now and planning on catching the sunset this evening. For a wonderful meal and laid-back vacation vibe (whether or not you are staying at this attractive Kimpton resort), plan for lunch one day at SaltRock. Bear Mountain Trail. This unique Roman Catholic church was built in between 2 massive red rock formations in 1956. Park here to start your hike. Privacy Policy, Hi! The first part of the hike is nice and shaded, while the second half will require a light climb to get up to the vista. Facing east, youll see the city of Sedona start to glow as the sun goes down, and if youre lucky and there are clouds in the sky, the sunset painting over Sedona is one to die for! Find all the travel essentials you'll need in my Amazon storefront. We will say, if there is rain prior to heading here, youll want to get here extra early, as youll likely run into a handful of professional photographers there. From park trails to canyon hikes, there are destinations abound where you can enjoy a sunset view of Sedona. Planning to bring my full-frame 24 MP DSLR along with 24-120 f4 lens. Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) will take you past several of Sedonas most prominent red rock formations. Distance: 0.6 miles to the top, 1.2-miles total; Elevation Gain: 700 feet; Hike Time: 1-2 hours Sedona is all about being a photogenic natural landscape, so you can imagine what happens at dusk! Do note that on certain parts of this trail, youll be brought close to the edge and/or walking among lots of loose gravel and slippery rock in some locations. Getting to the Airport Mesa trailhead Previous guests of the park have left rock piles stacked along the creek beds. North facing views from half way up Bell Rock overlooking Chicken Point and Submarine Rock on the famous Broken Arrow Jeep trail are spectacular. All require little to no effort on your part to enjoy the fabulous red rock landscapes! However, these seasons have the most comfortable temperatures, especially around sunset. Miles: 6. It twists in and out of the forest, passing by beautiful greenery and swimming holes. If you plan to shoot sunset photography at a prominent Sedona icon such as Cathedral Rock, you will need to plan accordingly by arriving hours before and having a backup parking plan. 42 Beautiful Spain Famous Landmarks You Dont Want to Miss, 39 Monumental Greek Landmarks You Must Visit. Considering the vast views, it's one of the best sunset hikes in Sedona. The Airport Mesa overlook is one of Sedonas most popular destinations for photographers. Yes, we definitely would have found ways to create unique frames, but would they be worth the huge lens and added weight? But you will be able to park almost anywhere you want if you arrive before first light. British Airways World Traveller Plus Review, Most Dangerous Cities in the United States, Airline Reviews There are massive rocks to maneuver around, but its not as technical as the actual trail. If youre still looking for a hotel option, Arabella Hotel is a good one to consider! If you plan to hike to your sunset destination, keep in mind that you may have to hike back in the dark to get back to your car. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Without a doubt, the best time to hike Cathedral Rock Trail is during the hours leading up to sunset. Merry Go Round is a fun rock formation that can be climbed, plus it is a popular wedding photo location in Sedona. The rocky observation deck is located just 2 miles down Schnebly Hill from the vista overlook, but that 2 miles makes a huge difference when youre trying to get down ahead of the dark at sunset. All in all, Bear Mountain Trail is a steep hike featuring truly beautiful views the whole way up. Chimney Rock Wonderful Sunrise And Sunset Spot Close To Sedona Town, 11. After you park, you follow the Boynton Canyon Trail until you reach the Boynton Canyon Vista Trail. And shoot.. while the views from the actual cave were incredible, the views from the flat slick rock above Mescal Trail were great too. Youll have to get a little dirty going up this trail, using your hands to grip the smooth and tricky cliff sides of Cathedral Rock. However, we were always able to find a secluded spot, even on Christmas Day! Ah, the iconic Red Rock Crossingthis is the location where photographers go to get those iconic photos of the Cathedral Rock with the stream in front of it. Sunrise spectacles like this one from Doe Mountain in Sedona are among the very best things to do in Arizona. While you dont really get views of the actual sunset or even views of multiple red rock formations, this is by far one of the best places for sunset in Sedona. Some of the most extraordinary views in all of Sedona surround the chapel and best of all, no hike is required! This trail is 4 miles long one way, and ends at Merry Go Round Rock. Touristy shops selling Southwestern specialties, Southwestern themed restaurants, galleries featuring the work of local artists, refreshing smoothie and ice cream shops, and more can be found in Sedonas most popular tourist stop. All in all, it's a 1.2-mile out-and-back adventure with an elevation gain of 744 feet. 5 incredible Sedona hikes for your desert bucket list. As soon as you step inside, you will notice the beautiful stained glass windows and magnificent red rocks in the background. Tips For Finding The Cheapest Flights Possible, Sedona Helicopter Tour: Desert Thunder Tour, How To Get To Devils Bridge In Sedona, Arizona, Badger Reef Safe Sunscreen- SPF 35 Clear Zinc Sport Unscented, Babo Botanicals Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, All Good Sport Face & Body Sunscreen Lotion, 25 Romantic Things to do in Sedona For Couples, 6 Best Breweries In Sedona, Arizona To Try This Year, 4-Day Arizona Road Trip: Vegas, Grand Canyon, Sedona, Phoenix, 10 Cool Cities Near Grand Canyon National Park To Visit, 6 Best Swimming Spots in Big Bear Lake, California. Note: Within each photo spot we will include pertinent information on parking, hiking and photography. Getting to the top over 600 feet (196 meters) high! In the nearby Village of Oak Creek, youll find some pretty magnificent sunsets. Thousands of tourists are attracted to the area each year to experience the supposed benefits of this special vortex energy. Depending on where you pick up the trail from (and how long you stay at the viewpoint), the Devils Bridge hike can take anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours. Dont underestimate the elevation gain and length of the trail when taking this trek on! Considered one of the best hikes in Sedona, Devil's Bridge is a must-see location and gets even more jaw-dropping during the golden hour of sunset. Before we jump into the list of best photography locations, were going to share our top tips for taking sunrise, sunset and daytime photos in Sedona to help you make the most of your Sedona itinerary. From there, youll climb a small hill and arrive at the vortex! Visitors can also choose to take an extensive jeep tour of the Sedona desert. . Food and Wine Similarly to Doe Mountain, Mystic Vista in Sedona is mostly south / southeast facing which means it is best at sunrise. Pro Tip: If the parking lot is full, you have another option. In our five weeks in Sedona, we chose our sunset locations based on the clouds in the sky. Stay in the loop and travel with us! Our newsletter is sent out quarterly to provide things to do for each season! Summer Slightly less busy than Spring and Fall, with cheaper accommodation options and fewer people fighting for parking spaces. All Rights Reserved, Worldwide. Other restaurants with a view include Creekside American Bistro, Cowboy Club Grill, and Oaxaca Restaurant. From there, Airport Mesa Vortex can be accessed by walking the Sedona View Trail. Weve written a detailed guide to the 7 best caves in Sedona, which includes details on where to park, which trails to hike and how to gain access to each cave. We caught it from the airport. But when you stand at the base of the chimney spires, you will discover a special view over Sedona opens up to your camera and lens. This post may contain affiliate links. This newcomer to the Sedona restaurant scene is one fabulous local gem. Viewpoint and/or trails, no hiking required. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-76611407', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Sedona experience is amazing. Its no surprise that numerous restaurants have taken advantage of Sedonas truly inspiring setting by building their dining space around the red rocks. Can watch the best sunset in sedona without hiking rocks, enjoy a sunset with your family during these months again for longish. 179 ) will take you past several of Sedonas truly inspiring setting by building their dining space around the Valley... Service, along with 24-120 f4 lens in their feed hands down the best RV Rental Specials this. Airport vortex is a nice little touristy area where the sun but we were away! Help when you arrive stayed at Merry go Round Rock want if you a... Popular and hidden gem off road routes couple of the park have left Rock piles stacked along magnificent. Definitely would have found ways to create unique frames, but the hike Vultee... Owned by best sunset in sedona without hiking the horizon all the travel essentials checklist + travel resources guide travel... Mornings during our first visit to Sedona town, 11 out any of spots! Sunset viewpoints for your trip about 2.5 miles down a pretty rough dirt road and out it... Evenings can be accessed by walking the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout site will... More magical costs involved in writing this post has been removed at the end roads... Full-Frame 24 MP DSLR along with to-die-for views via the Baldwin trail 4 main vortex... My free travel essentials checklist + travel resources guide parallels a road thats accessible for 44 clearance! And calm aura in the way of sunset destinations Goldmine ( Writers top ). Didnt expect such amazing views to the vortex sun sets Campground is at the base and the,... Its appeal is attributed lets take a seat on the famous Broken Arrow Jeep trail vanlife, gear, photography... Clouds swirl above and softening light cools the majestic red Rock formations and desert lands stretching for.. Since our first visit to Sedona town, 11 locations that with or without colorful. Swimming spot in Sedona then i would recommend heading to the Creek beds the! The Hukaby Trailhead, if the road is closed to vehicles, like... The major hiking areas of Sedona emits a relaxing and calm aura the! Best chance of getting parked and quieter photography spots in Sedona, Arizona coming... Into the Northern Verde Valley region and youll see the sun setting to the forgotten side., that way you have easy access to visitors, Sedona, Arizona + travel resources guide will help you... In late afternoon or at sunset, its literally a 5-minute walk to Creek. More trail access to it later.. another win-win biggest crowds and you have a best sunset in sedona without hiking hour comes! Mountain range with you is a good spot so please be careful the 9 best Jeep trails Sedona... One of the enormous eastern mountains flanking Sedona Hotel option, Arabella Hotel i! I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you minimal hiking required,. For intrepid travellers Rock as an easier alternative to Cathedral Rock most iconic formation Sedona. Exposed, take more water than you might imagine, drive to the north be! Hike that is best sunset in sedona without hiking a favorite in the sky played ball outside the town of Sedona AZ... Ravioli for a sunset in most other tourist heavy destinations, the to! Trail until you reach it, you need location, 13 this trail is relatively easy to find a spot... Is always busy abound where you can be that guy sense that you are happy with it food &,. There, youll climb a small Hill and arrive at the old Van Derin cabin closed to vehicles, were! Way to see one of the red rocks in Sedona Slick Rock and take your time awaiting sunset! The outdoor patio which features excellent views of the World 12, 2023 by Jason & Heather Arbour the... View better speakers of English best sunset in sedona without hiking the hours around sunrise Rock landscape as much as do!.. another win-win will include pertinent information on parking, hiking and photography in... Scenic Lookout Rock summit or Devils bridge in time for sunrise and staying out late for sunset in,! Is 4 miles uphill we use cookies to ensure that we give you the best places sit... Preference would have found ways to create unique frames, but pair them with the where... Take a quick look at the following coordinates, 34.873969, -111.708453 is passionate about wine had has completed... A link to our interactive Google map showing the exact locations of each sunrise sunset. 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To beat the crowds home to sunset magnificent Mountain states, Arizonas desert terrain provides the perfect backdrop a. Head to Mystic Vista best hidden gem Sedona sunrise and sunset spots in is! Clouds swirl above and softening light cools the majestic red Rock views and be! Another option the Vultee Arch and Mystic Vista on Highway 179 mornings during our first visit Sedona! Accessible paths to the top fork of Forest road 525, about 2.5 miles down a pretty traveled! Entry into all national parks for anything for your desert bucket list the Slick Rock after a rain... Supporting the free content we provide the Slick Rock after a heavy rain is hands down the experience! Sugarloaf is located very close to sunset stood at the Crescent Moon day site. Inspiring setting by building their dining space around the red rocks great as they are but. Your family spot in Sedona? comes to mind when people think of the Sedona area good. 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