3. You may also like: if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'travelswithelle_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_6',115,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-travelswithelle_com-medrectangle-1-0');report this ad. And you can easily use people as subjects with all the room up there. You will almost certainly have this vista to yourself at dawn or dusk. Hiking A very short walk up a small hill is required but it will take you 2 minutes at the most. With stunning panoramic views of the surround rock formations and the city down below, this is hands down one of the best sunset hikes in Sedona! Watching a stunning sunrise from the cliff edges of Doe Mountain was one of our favorite mornings during our first visit to Sedona. Don't step on delicate plants or small animals. Do you really have to get up early for sunrise and stay out late for sunset?! Parking Doe Mountain shares a parking lot with Bear Mountain, which is one of the most popular hard hikes in Sedona. Tour the popular Sedona red rocks. Drive slowly down the switchbacks a little over 1 mile and the viewpoint in on the left. Red Rock Crossing Sedona sunsets (state park, vortex, and byway) 4. Read about one of Sedonas best family-friendly hikes: Enjoy West Fork Trail Sedona with Your Kids An Unforgettable Hike in Oak Creek Canyon. You will be better off with a walk-around lens such as a 24-105mm so you can shoot the famous formations at varying focal lengths. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Here are our favorite places to catch the best Sedona sunset views. Its best to get to your sunset destination with more than enough time to hike to your viewpoint. It is considered a "moderate" trail and should not be hiked during the heat of the day. If you hire a Jeep in Sedona you can drive Dry Creek Road and park at Devils Bridge Trailhead, cutting out over half of the hike. Here you will get more of a 360 degree view of Sedona so you can experience the all around magic of the colorful landscape at sunset. Four: Slide Rock State Park - Views from the River. My mobility challenged parents are traveling with us. Bring your camera and your soccer chairs! Cathedral Rock Sedona 2. Photography Sunrise is a phenomenal spectacle from Doe Mountain. My favorite viewpoint and photo spot on this hike is hands-down the Edge of the World. That's great to hear, Dirk. Best Sunrise Locations in Sedona Arizona 1. Dont miss the second summit at the top. It should take around 45 minutes to summit but you need solid shoes with good traction. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Ruins Discover 5 historic ruins near Sedona you can add to your northern Arizona itinerary, including national monuments and heritage sites. It is a treat. So from mid morning to late afternoon you can go cave hunting. Jeep Trails Comprehensive guide to the 9 best Jeep trails in Sedona Arizona, including both popular and hidden gem off road routes. Four: Slide Rock State Park - Views from the River. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park. Parking Bell Rock is hugely popular and parking is limited. Do try and make a reservation though, because this place is always busy! Slip into your lounging robe and unwind. Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout 6. Hiking. But perhaps the most popular activity in Sedona is hiking. Broken Arrow Trail is a very popular hiking trail in Sedona. What to See with Three Days in Sedona. Late Afternoon Cathedral Rock Hike and Sunset. Click or touch to activate the map, zoom in and out, scroll around and familiarize yourself with the area. Lovers Knoll 5. Once the sun goes down in Sedona, it gets dark quickly. Please note, there is an $11 fee to park here. You do have to pay $3 for the pleasure, but its well worth a few bucks for the view. 251 State Route 179 (at State Route 89A), Sedona, AZ. Sedona, Arizona, AZ 86351, United States. Enjoy a sandy volleyball court, a lovely playground, a skate park and hiking trails. 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. 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. Take care on the slick rock. See Ad Specs here , Articles (blog posts) are a really fun and inexpensive way to get published on the web (and get links!). . The Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona From the red rock trails of Chicken Point to the jaw-dropping walk across Devil's Bridge. Photography Dont worry if you havent got a wide angle lens at Chapel of the Holy Cross. Just be sure to carry a headlamp and backup light source. Park at Andante trailhead or Thunder Mountain trailhead for access. Airport Mesa Scenic Vista Most Popular Sedona Sunset Location, 13. Parking Same as Chimney Rock, you can park at Andante trailhead or better you can park at Thunder Mountain trailhead. So grab your hiking boots and get ready to see some of the most amazing sunsets imaginable! It's quick and easy to do and it is the perfect way to see some of Sedona's most stunning scenery. This hike is entirely flat and has an $11 entrance fee for vehicles and $2 per person fee for individuals who are walking in. Our overall (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Simply head over to the northwest side of Dry Creek parking lot, pass by the boulders and walk for 1 minute. Some of the most extraordinary views in all of Sedona surround the chapel - and best of all, no hike is required! This article highlights 7 places in Sedona that are easy to get to and are not too far away from your parked car. Red Rock Crossing off of the Red Rock Loop road. This is a well worn trail with impressive red rock views the entire way. Hiking You do not have to hike at all to reach Chapel of the Holy Cross. Bear Mountain Trail What to Know Before Hiking in Sedona Recommended Packing List: Sedona Sunset Hiking Other Ways To See The Sunset In Sedona Sunset Jeep Tour Arabella Hotel . 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. It gets dark fast after the sun sets. Don't let its name fool you: it's one of the most heavenly sights in an area famous for them. To us, it doesnt make sense to drive miles on a dark, dirt road after your sunset hike. However, these seasons have the most comfortable temperatures, especially around sunset. The entire trail is fairly flat and extremely scenic! Sedona has over 30 trails that are under 12 miles (20 km) in distance. 5. Hiking The Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop Trail is flat and easy but will take a few hours. We watched a serene and colorful sunset here after driving our Jeep over boulders and into the Dry Creek Vista area. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Doe Mountain is set for September 4th for sunrise. Nice sunset view and nearby airport loop hike. 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. Once at the Arabella Hotel, its literally a 5-minute walk to the hotels private vista point. Cathedral Rock. This may be a good option if you plan on visiting the popular hikes during prime time and dont want to deal with the headache of trying to find parking! We experienced a very purple, dark and mysterious sunset at Lovers Knoll. Sedona Features: Natural sandstone bridge, Sedona views, best Sedona trail for sunrise and sunset Trailhead Location: Dry Creek Road, Sedona, AZ 34.9028 N, 111.8138 W Devil's Bridge is one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona. The lot isnt huge, but it will be empty for sunrise. Once youre here, enjoy a snack and soak in those orange/red glowing views. To start you off, I'll send you my FREE travel essentials checklist + travel resources guide! There are basket cairns filled with large rocks to guide you along the trail. Sunset is the more likely option unless you want a unique sunrise hike. Lovers Knoll is a simple roadside pull-off with stunning east facing views that shouldnt be missed. There is a steep drop-off here so please be careful. This post has been removed at the author's request. Three: Main Street Sedona - Views Among Shops. Dont miss our popular guide featuring beautiful sunset quotes. Its not too difficult, and the payoff is huge with stunning views of the red rocks skyline at sunset.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[120,600],'travelswithelle_com-box-4','ezslot_18',169,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-travelswithelle_com-box-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[120,600],'travelswithelle_com-box-4','ezslot_19',169,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-travelswithelle_com-box-4-0_1');.box-4-multi-169{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:600px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Sunset in the Sedona desert is a magical time when the beautiful red rock formations and surrounding landscape become even more colorful. Framing the surrounding landscape below from Cathedral Rock summit at sunrise or sunset is great, but in truth, we preferred shooting photos of Cathedral Rock from afar. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Sunset is a special time of day in Sedona. Parking Chimney Rock is relatively unheard of and lightly trafficked, despite being on the outskirts of town. Wine and Dine in Sedona. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-76604433', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Sedona now and planning on catching the sunset this evening. This annual pass will get you entry into all national parks for. Any location in Sedona and the surrounding area is great to see the setting sun, but there are some locations that showcase certain red rock formations and capture the picturesque landscape better. Red Rock Crossing & Cathedral Rock require a bit of a hike, and you should definitely pack your usual hiking gear. To get to the Cathedral Rock hike, head to the Cathedral Rock Trailhead parking area. Sunset is the best time to hike up Schuerman Mountain, to watch the vivid colors light up the rocks all around you. Thanks a lot! Sugarloaf Mountain 7. Parking If you drive your Jeep or 44 vehicle up Schnebly Hill, you can park it on the side of the road right at the Merry Go Round formation. Airport Mesa and Tlaquepaque Village. We do too! We would choose to do sunset over sunrise from Bell Rock. Little Sugarloaf Sedona Sunrise And Sunset Goldmine (Top Choice), 12. As a result, you will not have any issues photographing any of the best sunrise spots in Sedona in this guide. Cathedral Rock is one of the best moderate hikes in Sedona. This slightly elevated rocky platform is located very close to Fay Canyon trailhead at the end of 44 Forest Service Road 9587. This viewpoint is located at the far right of the summit viewing area. innkeeper@canyonvilla.com Parking Only 44 vehicles can drive up to the overlook directly from Sedona. The top of Cathedral Rock features beautiful views of Sedona and at sunset, its even more magical! Actually June may be the best as the clouds build up without storming. Visit the Grand Canyon South Rim. If you start in the late afternoon, youll be able to reach Devils Bridge for sunset and capture some truly amazing photos. Red Rock Crossing is an easy hike thats best enjoyed in the late afternoon or at sunset. Along this sandy trail, hikers can expect to make 13 river crossings, though the water isn't usually high enough for these to be much of an issue. If both parking lots are completely full, you can access Cathedral Rock via the Baldwin Trail. Bell Rock Loop Trail 5. The hoodoo-like spires atop the dome shaped mound of Cathedral Rock draw the eye from all other parts of the Sedona area. Next on my list of best sunset hikes in Sedona is the Boynton Vista Trail. Most of my shots were taken between 35 and 50mm on a full frame camera (22-31mm on a crop-frame APS-C camera). Its not very well-known. Just outside are incredible views of the famous red rock formations this area is known for. 4. If you want to see the red rocks of Sedona without hitting a hiking trail, you have three beautiful scenic drives to choose from. You will be surrounded in red rock glory towards dusk. One business can reserve this premium space only twice per month. Red Rock Scenic Byway Driving the Red Rock Scenic Byway is one of the best things to do in Sedona. Did you know about the small collection of exceptionally photogenic caves hidden away in Sedonas red rock wilderness? We never expected the view to be so far reaching and extensive from Chapel of the Holy Cross. Go off-roading through Sedonas red rock landscape on a sunset Jeep tour! Red Rock Crossing is off Red Rock Loop Road. It twists in and out of the forest, passing by beautiful greenery and swimming holes. If you want to do sunset, plan to park at either Baldwin, Red Rock Crossing, Yavapai or Bell Rock. After 8am the lots are non stop full. Photography Sunset is the best time to shoot here as sunrise would be obstructed. To get to the overlook, follow the trail for about half a mile and then take the spur trail on the left at a signed junction. We would suggest Bell Rock as an easier alternative to Cathedral Rock at sunset. 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. Only 2 or 3 cars will fit into the gravel and rocky pull off. The trail is 1.1 miles and one of the most powerful vortexes in Sedona. Boynton Vista Trail 4. The trail ends at the back of the canyon with a seasonal waterfall and stunning views of Boynton Canyon. Like LA, Sedona in Arizona has warm weather all year round. But the soft light and colorful skies around dawn and dusk provide idyllic conditions for you to take home the best possible images from your trip to northern Arizona. 1) Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout Probably the most famous place in Sedona to watch the sunset You get the sun setting towards the west and the reflecting warm light on the rock formations to the north, including the Cockscomb, Chimney Rock, Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock, the Fin, and Wilson Mountain. Thanks to its location, the small desert city is perfect for walking around and enjoying the beauty of nature. Even around sunset when it is busiest you should have no issues. 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. Want more sunset inspiration? Sunrise youd be looking at the sun with Cathedral Rock below, and sunset you can see Cathedral Rock glow a fiery red. Unsubscribe at any time. Pyramid Mountain Trail is an easy hike with an elevation climb. Broken Arrow is one of the most popular hikes in all of Arizona and the road is also available to cars, which . Yosemite The complete guide to all of the best photography locations in Yosemite National Park in California. Here are the top 5 easiest places to take in the views. Just past Boynton Pass you can park at the Doe Mesa trailhead and have a choice of two hikes: Doe Mesa is a moderate one-hour ascent (3.6 mile round trip) to a plateau with great views everywhere you look; it's across the street from Bear Mountain. Blog contact About Home. Unfortunately, it was our last day in Sedona! I think sunsets are best with pollution to give a nice deep red hue to the sun. This post may contain affiliate links. This is because several factors make it incredibly accessible for most hikers. Barely anyone ventures down Red Rock Loop Road and that is a shame because we found arguably the best view of Cathedral Rock on this side of town. It's super popular at sunset since it doesn't require a hike (I have a pic of it at the end of this post). Save. Our inn is situated amongst the gorgeous red rock landscape with Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte in full view. Before we jump into the list of best photography locations, were going to share our top tips for taking photos in Sedona to help you make the most of your Sedona itinerary. TABLE OF CONTENTS [ hide] One: Airport Mesa - Views from the Top. Mystic Vista Best Hidden Gem Sedona Photography Location, 10. If you decide to move to Sedona, AZ, consider living in one of these great Sedona neighborhoods! This is a fantastic sunset alternative if youre not a fan of the city view up top. 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 ? Parking You can park in a roadside lot at the base of the viewpoint but there are limited spaces and high demand around sunset. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-76624074', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Airport Mesa. Make sure you get safely back down to your car before it gets too dark. To one side you have clear views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, and to the other side a direct line to Cathedral Rock. Head over to our Arizona travel guides to explore the best of Grand Canyon, Sedona and beyond. The trailhead parking lot is tiny, so many visitors will opt to park at the top for $3-5 and hike the spur trail down to start the loop. Another great place for a sunset is located at the Crescent Moon Day Use Park where Cathedral Rock and Oak Creek can be found. Hiking There is no hiking involved to reach Dry Creek Vista. The viewpoint is crowded at sunset so plan to arrive early to claim your tripod space. This is where some of the most iconic red rock formations are, including Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. We hiked Cathedral Rock for sunrise and it was amazing. Some people even choose to make an evening out of it and bring along a picnic dinner. Sedona Biz Mag also maintains FaceBook and Instagram pages, as well as an eNewsletter to further share your content across multiple platforms and through email. Stargazing. Absolutely not, Sedona is exceptionally photogenic day and night. Wilson Canyon Hike Quick Facts: Trail to Summit: Wilson Canyon Trail Type of Trail: Out & Back Total Mileage: 2.6 miles round trip Total Elevation Gain: 426 feet Difficulty: Easy Permit Required: You must display a daily Red Rock Pass ($5) or show your Annual National Parks pass for parking. (Just pop Yavapai Vista Point into Google Maps to get there. Bell Rock 8. menu. 3.9 miles out and back / moderate / dog . Arabella Hotel is home to Sunset Vista, an easy and relatively effortless way to see one of Sedonas iconic sunsets. There are trails literally everywhere. The good news is we have a handful of off the beaten path Sedona sunset photography spots that will beat the crowds. More of a rock scramble than a hike, this trail up the plateau is unshaded and can be steep in places. Its very accessible and its beautiful. The hours around dawn are going to be the most important during each day on your visit to Sedona. Cathedral Rock is the epicenter of Sedonas remarkable red rock landscape. This is a super photogenic ledge that makes for a great spot to take pictures and enjoy the views in peace. Simply display your pass on your car dash and youll be good to go! Parking There are plenty of parking spaces both at the bottom of and close to the top of Chapel of the Holy Cross. Its already a picturesque spot as is, but the late afternoon sun makes for even more spectacular photography opportunities of Cathedral Rock in all its glory! Winter Off season in Sedona but it is still busier than you might imagine. Equipment. This is great for sunset, but can be a little crowded. SECRET TIP! There were already around 15 people at the bridge, the formation is much smaller than it looks and the sunrise itself was flat. Airport Mesa trail 3. The food is amazing, and the views of the red rocks from the outdoor dining patio are breathtaking. They feature your contact information, logo or profile pic, photos, YouTube videos, business descriptions, map, and a link to your website. Considered to be one of Arizona's most beautiful small towns, Sedona . Broken Arrow - 3.2 miles, ~1.5 hours roundtrip. The local's favourite - Bear Mountain. Photography Both sunrise and sunset are wonderful from the base of Chimney Rocks spires. Renowned as an excellent place to live for nature lovers due to its picturesque mountains and colorful red rock formations, the surreal Arizona city of Sedona is home to just over 10,000 people. I mean, look at those views! Please let us know if you have any questions about photography locations or your trip to Sedona in the comments below. Among some of the best trails in Sedona are: Devil's Bridge Trail; Cathedral Rock Trail; Airport Mesa . Go on a Winery Tour & Tasting. 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. There are places to sit at the picnic grounds, restrooms and wide accessible paths to the creek. City lights begin to dazzle, colorful clouds swirl above and softening light cools the mighty red rock walls as day transitions into night. This Scenic Viewpoint is about 9 miles southwest of West Sedona on State Route 89A. Devil's Bridge: famous for the "bridge" the red rocks forms, the line to take a picture on the actual bridge can sometimes top 2-3 hours! It's a moderate loop hike and it offers beautiful views, particularly from Submarine Rock with 360-degree red rock views. The loop is approximately 1.8 miles. Doe Mountain - Sedona Sunsets Devils Bridge Busiest Photography Location In Sedona, 2. If youre still looking for a hotel option, Arabella Hotel is a good one! 5. If there is a private ceremony happening there, just continue on down the road until you get to the intersection with Chavez Ranch Rd. They almost remind me of a prehistoric time. Summer Slightly less busy than Spring and Fall, with cheaper accommodation options and fewer people fighting for parking spaces. Chimney Rock is a short trail but has a fairly challenging climb during the upper portion as you approach the spires. As a result, it doesn't take much of an effort to find a trailhead. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-76606450', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Sedona Arizona - AllTrips. Parking Park at Fay Canyon and walk down the road unless you hire a Jeep or drive your own 44 vehicle to Sedona. 8 Totally Free Things to Do in Sedona. Having a better understanding of the Sedona region will help when you arrive. We offer guests a 3-course breakfast to get your day started out right, as well as afternoon appetizers and evening tea and desserts. You wont have problems getting parked up at Lovers Knoll at sunrise or sunset. Climbing straight up Bell Rock will only take 30 minutes and the elevation provides a much better photography vantage. Oak Creek at Crescent Moon Picnic Site 9. 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. Hiking You can hike Casner Canyon Trail to Schnebly Hill vista overlook but it is unmaintained and hard to follow. 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 sky from the canyon below. Dirk. Photography The west facing view over Sedona from Schnebly Hill vista overlook is magnificent. Merry Go Round Jeep Tour Favorite Sunset Spot, 7. The Airport Mesa trail circles around Tabletop Mountain to form a loop trail. 5. To get there, you can either park at the trailhead parking lot or at the top for a small fee. Airport Mesa Trail 3. 2 Quick Look at the Best Places to Hike in Sedona. However, be warned that you will deal with major crowds at any of these areas. This makes it a perfect Sedona sunrise or sunset photography location for those with accessibility concerns. Looking for the best hiking trails in Sedona? Airport Mesa is the most well known sunset photography location in Sedona. We bet youve never heard of Mystic Vista. Best Places to Live in Sedona. Its not even on Google Maps or our Gaia hiking app, but it does exist. Your expansive view is downtown Sedona, Airport Mesa and the western canyons. Keep in mind that the warmest temperatures will only last for a couple of hours, at most, so even if the high temperature looks pleasant, the hourly may still be on the colder side. Photography Merry Go Round is popular among Pink Jeep Tours, people hiring Jeeps and wedding shoots. Similarly to Doe Mountain, Mystic Vista is mostly south / southeast facing which means it is best at sunrise. Day 1. See a Business Directory Listing Template here , Read the Sedona Business Directory Resources & Guidelines here , Ads are billed monthly, every 6 months, or yearly and have several locations on this website to choose from. Lines of sight are from east to northwest, which covers both dawn and dusk. This 3.2-mile loop trail is generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1.5 hours to complete. Here are the top 5 easiest places to take in the views. 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). The combination of dramatic red rock formations, clean air, great weather, and many vantage points give visitors and locals almost daily opportunities to view a beautiful sky and glowing red rocks. The Hideaway House restaurant is a great place to have dinner when youre in Sedona, Arizona. Photography Both sunrise and sunset work equally as well here. Just don't forget your headlamps or flashlights. If youre looking for a more challenging sunset hike, the Bear Mountain Trail is definitely worth checking out. None of the caves we visited make this list of best sunrise or sunset photography locations in Sedona. Hike the West Fork Oak Creek Trail. Airport Mesa is a great place to go if you are . This location has a decent-sized parking lot close to the overlook. This is an entirely separate entrance fee. Sedona is one of the most popular places to visit in the USA and sunrise is by far the best time to be out exploring the special red rock landscape. Merry Go Round is a fun rock formation that can be climbed and it is a popular wedding photo location in Sedona. A morning hike in Sedona is a spectacular way to start off the day as you can watch the sun slowly light up the brilliant red mountains and the shadows dance away. Airport View Trail and Vortex. Drive Dry Creek Road to Boynton Pass as directed. Posse Grounds Park is where the locals go for fitness, soccer games, softball, baseball, swimming, hiking, tennis, and cultural events. Chapel of the Holy Cross. In June, if you are at just the right spot on the trail at just the right time, you will see the moon rise between the inner spires of Cathedral Rock. Four: Slide Rock State Park - Views from the River. Sunset is another story and you might have to park at nearby Fay Canyon trailhead which has far more spaces. 5 10 Best Hikes in Sedona. Length: 4.9 miles. Airport Mesa Vortex Site Unique Views Over Bell Rock, 14. Parking Airport Mesa vista is easily accessible for all visitors with a huge parking lot right next to the viewpoint. Bell Rock Sunset Alternative To Cathedral Rock, 5. To help with parking and provide more trail access to visitors, Sedona recently created a free shuttle systemSedona Shuttle. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Here youll find flat and wide red rock areas where you can swim, sunbathe, or just relax. West Fork is a great place for families to explore. Cathedral Rock Trail. Safe and happy travels! However, we did see several campers parked up that had come up the back way from I-17. Probably the most famous place in Sedona to watch the sunset You get the sun setting towards the west and the reflecting warm light on the rock formations to the north, including the Cockscomb, Chimney Rock, Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock, the Fin, and Wilson Mountain. The Doe Mountain Trail is a great option if you are looking for a quick and easy hike in Sedona with beautiful views. Devil's Bridge 7. Bell Rock is another iconic formation found not too far from Cathedral Rock. 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. Bell Rock Climb Distance: 1 mile | Difficulty: Moderate | Total Ascent: 400 feet | Time: 1 to 2 hours | Trailhead: Bell Rock Trailhead Bell Rock is one of Sedona's most recognizable landmarks. This location does not face the sunset, but you will have a glorious view of Cathedral Rock and much of Sedona glowing with the late afternoon/early evening light of the setting sun. To help you make the most of your sunset experience in Sedona, Ive put together a list of my favorite sunset hikes in Sedona. Caves How to find and access each of the 7 hidden caves in Sedona with full walkthrough steps and photos. Here's what we personally think the best hikes are in Sedona for various categories: Easy Hike - Birthing Cave via Long Canyon Trail Moderate Hike - Munds Wagon Trail Hard Hike - Cathedral Rock Trail Sunrise Hike - Chimney Rock and Little Sugarloaf Trail Sunset Hike - Airport Mesa Sedona View Trail Cave Hike - Keyhole Cave Trail So, sometimes you are actually facing opposite the sunset to see the glowing sandstone and red rock formations. Our Sedona bed and breakfast is the best place for luxury accommodations during your Arizona vacation! 7 Best Sunset Hikes In Sedona, Arizona 1. The best caves to visit for photography in Sedona are as follows: How to get around Sedona is small but youll need a car to access the best hikes to the north and south of town. The red rock faces, steep canyons, and impressive rock formations that make up the Sedona desert landscape create the perfect backdrop to reflect the beauty of the setting sun. Hot air balloons taking off will come into view on your right side. Chapel of the Holy Cross and Chapel Trail Hike. Sedona Scenic Byway aka Hwy 179 is not to be missed. We hiked to Devils Bridge in time for sunrise and we have to say it was a little underwhelming. Park here to start your hike. This is a lovely, quiet place to view the sunset. Some of the most famous images of Cathedral Rock are taken from this small mountain. Most hikes in Sedona have good signage and are well-maintained. The Fay Canyon Trail is another of my favorite easy Sedona hikes. However, temperatures can be dangerously high during the day, sunrise is very early and sunset is very late. Once at the creek, you'll find that there are plenty of sun rise viewing spots. We had thick clouds and colors exploding from the horizon, which turned out to be a fantastic morning for photography. Overflow parking for Courthouse Vista is at the Yavapai Point Parking Lot, which is about a half a mile north and on your left-hand side. Little Sugarloaf is located very close to Chimney Rock, but it is lower, flat topped and away from towering cliffs. You are at 6,000 ft, overlooking the town below at 4,350 ft with red rock formations and desert vegetation stretching as far as the eye can see. Red Rock Crossing in Sedona Arizona - AllTrips http://www.allsedona.com Nature 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. *Please note this post may contain affiliate links. Well, best is relative. Distance - 6 miles each way Elevation - 2,237 feet Difficulty - Hard & very exposed (bring sunscreen and plenty of water) Starting & End Point - Doe Mountain/Bear Mountain car park Fees - Free with National Park Pass, otherwise $5 parking fee The Bear Mountain trail is one of the harder walks in Sedona and is a local's favourite. Look for signs for the Sedona View Trail, and make sure not to walk on the road. Cathedral Rock is off in the distance a bit, so you won't need an extremely wide-angle lens. You can hike Munds Wagon up to Merry Go Round for either sunrise or sunset. Taking into account location, ease of access, view and crowds, this vantage point is hard to beat. Without a doubt, the best time to hike Cathedral Rock Trail is during the hours leading up to sunset. Here are the top 5 easiest places to take in the views. Doe Mountain is up there with the very best sunrise photography locations in Sedona, Arizona. Blessed with a rugged, red-hued landscape of mountains, rock formations and canyons, the awe-inspiring beauty of Sedona is best seen on foot. Well, this online magazine is one example. The best advice is to get there before the sunset time because the sun sets sooner in this area allowing for beautiful shadows on the rocks. Dry Creek Vista Hidden Sedona Sunrise And Sunset Photography Spot, 3. TH Photography / iStock. There are some "social trail" detours and off-trail hiking in Sedona. Sedona Grand Canyon 6. One of the best sunrise hikes in all of Sedona is the . Re: Best place to watch sunset at Sedona without hiking 6 years ago Save Red Rock Crossing off of the Red Rock Loop road. On this trail, there is also a detour to reach the hidden subway cave and the Sinagua ruins. 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. Hiking Absolutely no hiking required to enjoy the famous Airport Mesa view overlooking Sedona. Total Elevation Gain: ~320 ft. You can wander across the grassy lawn down to the creek. You dont have to go very far to get excellent views of Cathedral Rock in the setting sun. But if you're in the mood for a thigh-burning, sweat-inducing climb under the searing Arizona sun, then make your way to the trailhead of the Bear Mountain Trail. Dive in to discover the best things to do with 3 days in Sedona. Lovers Knoll Scenic Viewpoint is a popular outdoor wedding destination. Warm light bathes the scenic landscape and there are many opportunities to get out and find your favorite Sedona sunset spot. This is also a fun place to view the sunrise since this is where many of the local hot air balloon companies take off and land. If the small parking lot is full, keep going up the hill towards the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout (#1). Seeing a Sedona sunset is a must-do when visiting and luckily there are many spots in the area that will give you incredible sunsets with jaw-dropping backdrops. for Locals and Visitors Alike . Parking The only time you can guarantee getting a parking spot at Dry Creek Trailhead or Mescal Trailhead (both lead to Devils Bridge) is before or around sunrise. 3 Day Itinerary and Hiking Guide. Shop at Tlaquepaque Village and Crafts. 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! Vortex Hikes, Meditations and other Early Morning Activities to Start Your Day, Sedona Cathedral Hideaway Bed & Breakfast and Luxury Casita, READ: Sedona Mind Body and Soul Taking Care of Yourself in Red Rock Country, Enjoy West Fork Trail Sedona with Your Kids An Unforgettable Hike in Oak Creek Canyon, Directions to Sedona Driving to Sedona 9 Different Ways with Maps, See a Business Directory Listing Template here , Sedona Synergy Fine Aromatherapy Fragrances, Off-Season Bliss Winter Vacations in Sedona, Sedona to Grand Canyon The Ideal Day Trip, Sedona Website Design by Charlotte Howard. 3 What to Know About Hiking in Sedona. Google images to check it out. 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. Hiking boots recommended. You will see the unique submarine shape of Chimney Rock formation from several hiking trails and photography locations around Sedona. Best Sunset & Sunrise Hikes in Sedona We will discuss each of these hikes in detail: Cathedral Rock Red Rock Crossing Devil's Bridge via Chuck Wagon Trail Bear Mountain Soldier Pass Bell Rock via Bell Rock Access Trail Birthing Cave via Long Canyon Trail Doe Mountain Airport Mesa Vortex Sugarloaf Mountain via Teacup Trail 5.1 Cathedral Rock Trail. Sugarloaf Summit Loop Trail is a 1.9-mile loop trail located right in Sedona, Arizona that offers spectacular views of Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock and all of West Sedona. Devil's Bridge Where to Stay in Sedona But like sunset in most other tourist heavy destinations, the best spots are naturally going to be busy. Sparkling lights of downtown Sedona are your middleground, towering red rocks are your background and a colorful sky backdrop compliments the frame perfectly. We do not spam. 5 Unmissable Ruins To Visit In Sedona, Arizona, How To Drive The Awesome Broken Arrow Jeep Trail In Sedona. Hi! Ride the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams. Here are some of the best places to watch the Arizona sun dip over the popular city of Sedona: 1. Probably the most famous place in Sedona to watch the sunset You get the sun setting towards the west and the reflecting warm light on the rock formations to the north, including the Cockscomb, Chimney Rock, Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock, the Fin, and Wilson Mountain. It should take around 30 40 minutes to reach the mesa and another 5 minutes on flat land to reach the viewing area. There are places to sit at the picnic grounds, restrooms and wide accessible paths to the creek. This is a gorgeous hike that is easily a favorite in the Sedona area for good reason! Thanks for the valuable hints tips. Without those it could be an underwhelming place to watch sunset compared to others in this guide. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad. Getting to this hike can be a bit confusing, but I detail everything out in the post below! We hope you enjoy the stunning red rock landscape as much as we do. 5.4 Brins Mesa and Solider Pass Loop. Hiking Start planning your hiking itinerary with our popular comprehensive guide to the 20 best hikes in Sedona, Arizona. From a trailhead elevation of 4,600 feet, there's a mere 400 foot climb in altitude during this moderately difficult , 1.8-mile roundtrip trek. October 2, 2022. This popular sunset hike offers easy-to-get-to, stunning views of Sedonas red rocks. In your private guest room, you can relax in ultimate comfort. But you will be able to park almost anywhere you want if you arrive before first light. Sedona is a truly magical place. One: Airport Mesa - Views from the Top. And because this trail is exposed, take more water than you think you need! 7.8. Our Arizona inn is truly an oasis where you will be able to slow down and de-stress. 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. on Where to Find The Best Sedona Sunset Views, Enjoy the Best of Winter in Sedona, Arizona, Fall is Perfect for Hot Air Ballooning in Sedona, 10 Unforgettable Things To Do in Sedona this Fall, When most people think of Sedona sunsets, what usually comes to mind is the, If you are looking for a peaceful and more quiet place to watch a Sedona sunset try. With red rocks radiating orange and red glow as your backdrop, youll be treated to some of the most incredible views in all of Arizona. You need to be able to drive out, back into town or wherever you are headed next safely and easily. Whether youre looking for an easy stroll or a challenging climb, youll find the perfect hike for you on this list. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. I love the cozy treehouse vibes and the amazing food. I buy this pass every year; its the best bang for your buck if you plan on visiting at least 3 national parks within a 12-month timespan! If the lot is full keep driving up the hill to the large parking lot at the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout. Theres a tall mountain behind you so the sun takes longer to illuminate distant red rocks and trees in the canyon ahead. Two: Cathedral Rock - Views Among the Red Rocks. Sunset wouldnt be as impactful because the view is southeast facing. There are three reasons for this: However, with that said, you will have plenty of time between shooting sunrise and sunset locations found within this guide. 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. Hiking boots recommended. Five: Restaurants in Sedona - Views with Cocktails and Food. 8. Where better to start than the busiest and most chaotic photography location in Sedona. You might have to park at the paid lot near the vista and walk down. Five: Restaurants in Sedona - Views with Cocktails [] Become a Business Directory Member Today! On average, expect the highs in Sedona in winter to land at around 60 F (16 C) and the lows to clock in at around 32 F (0 C). This well-liked hike, which is 2.3 kilometers long overall, is a practical and handy nature outing for the family. Type: Out and back. Schenbly Hill Vista Overlook Highest Vantage Point To Watch Sunset In Sedona, 6. The hike is flat until you take a steep rock scramble to the base of Bell Rock. Type of Trail: loop trail. If you are staying on the west side of Sedona, this overlook is incredibly easy to access. Most Sedona hiking trails require a Red Rock Pass, which you can purchase for $5 online or in-person at trailhead parking lots. 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. Difficulty: Challenging. Best Hikes in Sedona 1. Photographing both Sedona sunrises and Sedona sunsets are featured in our popular guide about the best things to do in Sedona. 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 . Lets take a quick look at the seasons in Sedona and any impacts on photography. Red Rock Crossing in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Photography Cathedral Rock images are typically less instagram and more pro photographer. Hiking One of the best Sedona hikes to escape the crowds is called Munds Wagon Trail. Read Guidelines here . Airport Mesa Road: Sedona Airport Vortex Airport Mesa Road has one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona just minutes away from the airport runway. 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