Best Day Trips from Sedona: Exploring Beyond the Red Rocks

Sedona may be known for its stunning red rocks and vortex energy, but it’s also the perfect launch point for some incredible day trips. Whether you’re seeking more outdoor adventure, spiritual experiences, or historical exploration, there’s a wide variety of destinations just a short drive away. Here are some of the best day trips to take from Sedona:

Jerome: The Living Ghost Town

Just a 45-minute drive from Sedona, the quirky town of Jerome is perched high on the side of Cleopatra Hill. Once a booming copper mining town, Jerome has now transformed into an artist’s haven with eclectic galleries, historic buildings, and spooky ghost tours. Wander through the town’s narrow streets, enjoy lunch at a local café, and explore the Jerome State Historic Park to dive deeper into the town’s mining history.

• Distance from Sedona: 45 minutes

• Must-See: The Jerome Grand Hotel, local art galleries, and haunted history tours.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

For a dose of ancient history, head to Montezuma Castle National Monument, a stunning cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people over 600 years ago. This well-preserved site offers a glimpse into the lives of the early Native American inhabitants of the region. A short, easy walk brings you up close to the monument, and there’s plenty of signage to guide you through its rich history.

• Distance from Sedona: 30 minutes

• Must-See: The cliff dwellings and the nearby Montezuma Well for a peaceful nature walk.

Flagstaff: Gateway to Adventure

About an hour’s drive from Sedona, Flagstaff offers a whole new range of outdoor activities. In the summer, it’s a cool retreat with plenty of hiking trails and scenic spots, while in the winter, you can hit the slopes at the Arizona Snowbowl. Flagstaff is also home to the Lowell Observatory, where you can stargaze and learn about the discovery of Pluto.

• Distance from Sedona: 1 hour

• Must-See: Lowell Observatory, hiking at Mount Elden, and shopping in the downtown district.

Grand Canyon: A Natural Wonder

No list of day trips from Sedona would be complete without mentioning the Grand Canyon. Though it’s a bit farther than the other destinations, this iconic wonder of the world is well worth the two-hour drive. Once you’re there, explore the South Rim for breathtaking views, easy rim-side walks, or more challenging hikes like the Bright Angel Trail. If you’re not into hiking, a scenic helicopter tour is another incredible way to take in the grandeur of the canyon.

• Distance from Sedona: 2 hours

• Must-See: The South Rim, Bright Angel Trail, and helicopter tours over the canyon.

Page Springs & Verde Valley Wine Trail

For a more relaxed day trip, explore the Page Springs area, just 25 minutes from Sedona, where you’ll find beautiful vineyards and wineries along the Verde Valley Wine Trail. Sip on local wines while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of Arizona’s wine country. Page Springs Cellars and Oak Creek Vineyards are two must-visit stops on the trail, offering tastings and tours. End your day with a peaceful walk along the creek.

• Distance from Sedona: 25 minutes

• Must-See: Page Springs Cellars, Oak Creek Vineyards, and the scenic Verde River.

Verde Canyon Railroad

For a scenic and relaxing day trip, take a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad. This vintage train departs from Clarkdale and takes you on a journey through stunning canyon landscapes, complete with towering cliffs, lush greenery, and plenty of wildlife. The train offers first-class service with panoramic windows, making it an ideal way to enjoy the beauty of northern Arizona without having to hike.

• Distance from Sedona: 30 minutes

• Must-See: The breathtaking views from the train and possible sightings of bald eagles.

Payson & Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

A little over an hour and a half drive from Sedona, Payson offers the chance to explore the Tonto Natural Bridge, the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. The bridge stands 183 feet high and spans a 400-foot-long tunnel, making it a sight to behold. There are easy walking trails in the area, as well as more challenging hikes for those who want to explore the bridge from different viewpoints.

• Distance from Sedona: 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Must-See: Tonto Natural Bridge and the nearby Mogollon Rim for stunning views of the surrounding forests.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of history, there’s no shortage of incredible day trips from Sedona. These destinations offer a change of pace while still capturing the natural beauty and cultural richness of northern Arizona. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover more of what this magical region has to offer!