Sedona

Awesome views  ∙  Great food  ∙  Endless adventure

Recommended Stay: 3 to 5 days

Distance from Phoenix Wandervans: 120 miles one way (~2 hours)

Great to Visit: Year Round

Peak Busy Season: May-September

Why Sedona?

Arizona has an amazing range of landscapes and Sedona stands out with its striking red rocks, gorgeous views, and variety of adventures. There is something for everyone at all times of year. Hikes with views that take your breath away, a cool creek to meditate or chill, biking trails to pump up your adrenaline, fun shops and art galleries to explore, and so much more! Take in the sunrise on a refreshing hike, with a relaxing brunch and mimosa by the creek at one of the nearby restaurants. An afternoon stroll through Tlaquepaque shopping center or nearby art galleries, grabbing a burger and cold soda long the way. And wrap up your day with a relaxing campfire with hot dogs, smores, and star gazing before calling it a night in your warm Wandervan.

In winter, the occasional crisp white snow holds sharp contrast to the bold iron-red cliffsides and evergreens. In spring, the bright greens and blossoms of new life breath fresh life into the canyons. In summer, the creeks offer welcoming relief from the heat of the day. In fall, the bright foliage hold yet another stark contrast with the awe-inspiring landscape.

Tips

Summer is peak season – making reservations in advance can help, but you also may find short-notice options. There are several towns within 15-45 minutes of Sedona that also offer camping and entertainment options! Always stay mindful of campfire restrictions when camping in Arizona and leave no trace when using dispersed campsites. Reminder: some trailheads in Sedona require a Red Rock Parking Pass - Wandervans PHX offers this as an add on.

Hiking Trail Suggestions

  • Soldier Pass – Distance 4.5 miles. 2 to 4 hrs. Moderate difficulty. Check out the Seven Sacred Pools and Soldier Pass Cave

  • Boynton Canyon – Distance 6.3 miles. 2.5 to 4 hrs. Easy difficulty. Connects to Subway Cave and Boynton Canyon Vista Trail

  • Devil’s Bridge  – Distance 4.2 miles. 2 to 3 hrs. Easy difficulty with one short section of steps/rock scrambling. Consider renting ATV locally to drive closer to trailhead

Biking Trail Suggestions

  • Cathedral Rock Big Loop – Distance 12.4 miles. Rated as Difficult. Incredible views.

  • Bell Rock Trail – Distance 3.5 miles one way. Rated as Easy/Intermediate. Great intro to Sedona biking.

Camping

  • Camping in Sedona info - https://www.sedona.net/camping

    • Dispersed camping along 89A (recommend having no less than ½ tank gas)

  • In Sedona - Rancho Sedona RV Park (next to beautiful Oak Creek and shaded by large Sycamore and Cottonwood Trees)

  • Cave Springs - Surrounded by lush Ponderosa trees and red rocks. Have access to the creek and hiking trials. 84 campsites, vault restrooms and available showers. 

  • In nearby Cottonwood, AZ - Verde Valley RV & Campground

  • Clear Creek Campground - Desert canyon country camp with hiking, swimming, wading and fishing. Grassy with some shade provided by tall cottonwoods.

Other Sights

  • Spend a day doing wine tastings near Sedona. Highly recommend:

    • Page Springs Cellars (check out the deck overlooking the river with a nice Syrah) 

    • D.A. Ranch (enjoy a picnic experience next to fire pit. Friendly ranch dogs roaming around)

  • Check out the Sedona Vortexes, renowned for their healing and spiritual power

  • Stop for a picnic along Oak Creek Canyon with views of the creek

AZBH