YOUR ULTIMATE 3-DAY WEEKEND SEDONA ITINERARY

YOUR ULTIMATE 3-DAY WEEKEND SEDONA ITINERARY

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So, you've heard about Sedona's vortexes and now you want to go? I've got you! This itinerary is assuming that you're arriving on a Friday afternoon and leaving Monday afternoon.
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PLANNING FOR SEDONA:

1. Red Rock Pass

2. Hiking Boots

3. Sunscreen

LODGING RECOMMENDATIONS:

Luxury Lodging:

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
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Budget Lodging:

Sedona Village Lodge
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DAY 1: HOME → SEDONA

ACTIVITIES:

➣ Explore Uptown Sedona

➣ Enjoy the beautiful red rock views at Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa Parking
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Airport Mesa Summit Trail
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TIP: Hike the summit trail, no need to hike the full hike. The Airport Mesa Summit Trail in Sedona, Arizona, is a popular hiking trail known for its stunning panoramic views of Sedona's red rock landscape. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Sedona Airport, hence the name "Airport Mesa." It's a relatively short hike, about 0.9 miles (round trip), but it offers breathtaking vistas of Sedona and the surrounding area. The trail is moderately steep in some sections but generally accessible for most hikers. It's a great option for sunrise or sunset hikes, as the colors of the rock formations are particularly vibrant during these times. Additionally, it's a fantastic spot for stargazing due to its elevated position away from city lights.
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DINNER RECOMMENDATION:

Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
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DAY 2: SEDONA

BREAKFAST RECOMMENDATION:

Cafe Jose Restaurant
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ACTIVITIES:

➣ Skip breakfast and hike to Boynton Canyon for sunrise

➣ Check out Devil's Bridge

➣ Eat lunch at 89Agave Cantina

➣ Hike to Birthing Cave for sunset

➣ Eat dinner at The Golden Goose American Grill

Boynton Canyon Trail Parking
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Boynton Canyon in Sedona, Arizona, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance. It's a popular destination for hiking, photography, and experiencing the area's unique energy vortexes. The canyon is surrounded by towering red rock formations, lush vegetation, and an abundance of wildlife. Hiking trails in Boynton Canyon offer varying levels of difficulty, making it accessible for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Along the trails, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas, ancient ruins, and perhaps even encounter some of Sedona's famous energy vortex sites, which are believed to be places of heightened spiritual energy. Visitors often report feeling a deep sense of peace and tranquility when exploring Boynton Canyon. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, spiritual renewal, or simply a quiet retreat into nature, Boynton Canyon is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don't forget your camera – the views are truly unforgettable!
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Subway Cave
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The Subway Cave in Boynton Canyon Sedona is a local name given to a natural tunnel-like formation within the canyon. It's not a traditional cave system like you might find in other areas, but rather a narrow passage created by erosion and geological processes over time. The Subway Cave is a popular spot for hikers and adventurers to explore, offering a unique experience within the beautiful surroundings of Sedona. While not as extensive as some cave systems, it can still be an exciting and memorable part of your visit to Boynton Canyon. As with any outdoor adventure, be sure to take necessary precautions and respect the natural environment while exploring Subway Cave and Boynton Canyon. Enjoy your exploration!
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Trail length: 7.2 mi RT

Elevation gain: 964 ft

Average time: 3hr 4min

🗹 Dogs on leash

🗹 Kid friendly

Devil's Bridge Trailhead Parking
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Devil's Bridge
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Trail length: 3.9 mi RT

Elevation gain: 521 ft

Average time: 2hr

🗹 Dogs on leash

Parking at Dry Creek Vista and Mescal trailhead is very limited. From the Mescal trailhead, Devil's Bridge is about 1.5 miles away. There is a offroad driving path towards the Devil's Bridge trailhead, but you need a high and AWD vehicle. 

LUNCH RECOMMENDATION:

89Agave Cantina
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ACTIVTIES:

Robbers Roost Parking (Hide Out Cave Trail)
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Robbers Roost (Hide Out Cave)
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Trail length: 3 mi RT

Elevation gain: 462 ft

Average time: 2hr 

🗹 Dogs on leash

HOW LONG THIS ACTIVITY TAKES:

Birthing Cave (Long Canyon Trailhead)
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Birthing Cave
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The Birthing Cave, also known as the Shaman's Cave, is a sacred site located in Sedona, Arizona. It's a place of spiritual significance for some people, believed to be associated with healing and rebirth. However, it's essential to approach such sites with respect and reverence for the local culture and traditions. The exact location of the Birthing Cave is not widely advertised, as it is considered a sacred and sensitive site. If you're interested in visiting the Birthing Cave, I recommend researching further to learn about its cultural significance and any guidelines or protocols for visiting. It's essential to approach such sites with mindfulness and respect for the land and its heritage.
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Trail length: 1.9 mi RT

Elevation gain: 242 ft

Average time: 1hr  30min 

🗹 Dogs on leash

DINNER RECOMMENDATION:

Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante
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The Golden Goose American Grill
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DAY 3: SEDONA

BREAKFAST RECOMMENDATION:

Pump House Station Urban Eatery and Market
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ACTIVITIES:

➣ Skip breakfast and hike to Doe Mountain for sunrise

➣ Explore Tlaquepaque Village

➣ Eat lunch at Wildflower or The Secret Garden Cafe

➣ Explore the Chapel of the Holy Cross

➣ Hike to Cathedral Rock for sunset

Doe Mountain Parking (Bear Mountain Trail)
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Doe Mountain Trailhead
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Doe Mountain is a prominent landmark located in Sedona, Arizona, known for its stunning red rock formations and scenic views. It's a popular hiking destination, offering trails that provide access to its summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The main trail leading to the top of Doe Mountain is moderately rated, making it accessible to most hikers. Along the way, you'll encounter diverse desert flora and the breathtaking beauty of Sedona's red rocks. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Sedona area, including famous landmarks like Cathedral Rock and Courthouse Butte. Doe Mountain is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Sedona. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll with scenic views, hiking Doe Mountain is an excellent choice. Just remember to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and be mindful of the desert environment.
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Red Rock Pass is required to access this trail. 

Trail length: 1.5 mi RT

Elevation gain: 511 ft

Average time: 45min

🗹 Dogs on leash

🗹 Kid friendly

Tlaquepaque
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🗹 Dogs on leash

🗹 Kid friendly

LUNCH RECOMMENDATION:

The Secret Garden Café
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Wildflower
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ACTIVITIES:

Chapel of the Holy Cross
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Food, drinks, or pets are not allowed inside the chapel.

Cathedral Rock Trailhead
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Cathedral Rock
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Cathedral Rock is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual significance. It's a popular destination for hiking, photography, and spiritual exploration. There are several trails leading to Cathedral Rock, with the most popular being the Cathedral Rock Trail. This trail offers a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding scenery. Along the way, hikers encounter unique rock formations, desert vegetation, and breathtaking vistas. Reaching the saddle of Cathedral Rock provides spectacular panoramic views of the Sedona area, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. Many visitors also come to Cathedral Rock for its spiritual energy, with some believing it to be a vortex site—a place where the Earth's energy is believed to be particularly strong. If you plan to hike Cathedral Rock, it's essential to come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be rugged and steep in places. Additionally, it's crucial to respect the natural environment and the spiritual significance of the area while enjoying its beauty and serenity.
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Trail length: 1.2 mi RT

Elevation gain: 741 ft

Average time: 45min 

🗹 Dogs on leash

🗹 Kid friendly

DINNER RECOMMENDATION:

Elote Cafe
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DAY 4: SEDONA → HOME

ACTIVITY: Sunrise at Bell Rock

Bell Rock Trailhead
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Bell Rock Vortex
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Bell Rock is another iconic landmark in Sedona, Arizona, known for its distinctive bell-shaped formation and stunning red rock scenery. It's a popular destination for hiking, photography, and spiritual exploration, similar to Cathedral Rock. There are multiple trails around Bell Rock, catering to various skill levels and preferences. The Bell Rock Pathway is a relatively easy trail that encircles the base of Bell Rock and offers excellent views of the surrounding area. For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Bell Rock Trail ascends the rock itself, providing breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock is also believed to be a vortex site by some, where the Earth's energy is thought to be particularly powerful. Many visitors come to Bell Rock to experience this energy and engage in meditation or spiritual practices.
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*Red Rock Pass is required to access this trail. 

Trail length: 0.8 mi RT

Elevation gain: 203 ft

Average time: 30min 

🗹 Dogs on leash

🗹 Kid friendly

BREAKFAST RECOMMENDATION:

Red Rock Cafe
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➣ Check out + Head home. 

Weather in Sedona:

Sedona Sunrise Times:

January 1st                             7:34 am

February 1st                           7:25 am

March 1st                                6:56 am

April 1st                                   6:13 am

May 1st                                    5:36 am

June 1st                                   5:14 am

July 1st                                     5:17 am

August 1st                               5:37 am

September 1st                        6:00 am

October 1st                             6:22 am

November 1st                         6:48 am

December 1st                         7:16 am

Sedona Sunset Times:

January 1st                             5:26 pm

February 1st                           5:55 pm

March 1st                                6:23 pm

April 1st                                   6:48 pm

May 1st                                    7:12 pm

June 1st                                   7:35 pm

July 1st                                     7:44 pm

August 1st                               7:28 pm

September 1st                        6:52 pm

October 1st                             6:10 pm

November 1st                         5:32 pm

December 1st                         5:15 pm

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