A 3 Day Summer Itinerary For Exploring Sedona
Sedona is absolutely stunning, and there’s so much to see and do! It can be challenging trying to make the most of your time and experience everything the area has to offer. That’s why our guides have put together a 3-day itinerary packed with adventure, outdoor activities, and local exploration to help you get the most out of your trip. Don’t forget to check out these must-do experiences during your visit!
Day 1: Take a Pink Jeep Tour & Explore Uptown Sedona
Kick off your Sedona vacation with an adventure! Sedona is famous for its stunning red rock formations, which were created millions of years ago, and there’s no better way to experience them than up close. Pink Adventure Tours offers 16 different excursions that explore this breathtaking landscape. Whether you’re interested in sweeping canyon views or rugged off-road terrain, you’ll find the perfect tour to match your interests. Your knowledgeable local guide will lead you through Sedona’s backcountry, sharing fascinating insights about the area. We recommend reserving a morning tour time, as you will have better chances of spotting wildlife!
All tours depart from the Pink Jeep Plaza, located at 204 State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336. The plaza is just a short drive from Mountain Modern Sedona, and you are asked to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Be sure to bring bottled water and sunscreen, as tour durations can range from 1.5 to 11 hours depending on the excursion you choose.
After your thrilling red rock adventure, head back to Mountain Modern Sedona to recharge before making your way to Uptown Sedona, the heart of the city. This vibrant area is filled with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and breweries, offering the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Sedona’s art scene is thriving, with many galleries in Uptown showcasing the work of local artists. And don’t miss the exciting events happening all year long!
Day 2: Go for a Hike & Visit Tlaquepaque
No trip to Sedona is complete without a hike! With so many options available, we’ve picked two of the best for you to explore.
Bell Rock Trail
Get up early! Sedona can get quite hot in the summer, so we recommend starting your hike early in the day. Bell Rock Trail is a favorite among visitors—and it’s easy to see why. This moderate, 1.5-mile trail leads you to one of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks, offering incredible views of the red rocks and surrounding landscape. While the trail is relatively easy and great for families and beginners, it also has some steeper sections if you’re looking to push yourself. To get there, head to the Bell Rock Trailhead, located off Highway 179. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak hours, so arriving early is a smart move. The views are definitely worth the effort!
Devil’s Bridge Trail
Devil’s Bridge is also one of Sedona’s most popular hikes, with breathtaking views and a unique natural arch. The trail is moderate, approximately 4.2 miles round-trip, with some rocky terrain and a steady incline. The hike is rewarding, leading to the amazing Devil’s Bridge, where you can stand atop the arch for unforgettable views and one of Sedona’s most iconic photo ops. To get there, you can hike from Dry Creek parking lot to the trailhead. Be prepared to arrive early to find a space.
In the afternoon, stop by Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Tlaquepaque is a charming outdoor center in Sedona, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning Mexican-inspired architecture. This open-air village features a collection of galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and artisan shops, offering everything from local art to unique handcrafted goods. Stroll through the cobblestone pathways, enjoy the beautiful courtyards, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures. You may even happen upon an artisan working on their latest masterpiece!
Day 3: Visit Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon, located just 10 miles north of Sedona, is the perfect summer getaway. The canyon is known for its cool waters and scenic beauty, making it perfect for a day of swimming, fishing, or picnicking along the creek. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy wading or kayaking in the creek, while others might prefer relaxing by the water’s edge, surrounded by towering red rock cliffs.
Grasshopper Point Swimming and Picnic area is a popular stop in Oak Creek Canyon. This cliffside swimming hole is a great place to cool off. And the adjacent picnic area is the perfect shaded place to enjoy a packed lunch.
Slide Rock State Park is also located in Oak Creek Canyon. The park, a historic apple farm, is famous for its 80-foot-long slippery slide worn into the sandstone. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of sliding down the creek or opt to swim and fish in the refreshing waters of Oak Creek.
If you’re looking for a hike, West Fork Trail is a moderate 3.3 mile hike (one-way) that follows Oak Creek. The peaceful hike has some stream crossings and gorgeous views of the towering cliffs overhead.
To get to Oak Creek Canyon, simply take Highway 89A north from Sedona, and you’ll soon find yourself in the lush canyon. It’s best to arrive early, especially at popular spots like Slide Rock, Grasshopper Point, and West Fork Trail where parking can be difficult.