02 March 2025

Best Day Trips from Sedona

Day trips from Sedona with iconic landscapes.

Sedona is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, vibrant art scene, and spiritual energy, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking both natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. However, this charming town also serves as an excellent base for exploring some of Arizona's most remarkable attractions. Whether you are captivated by breathtaking landscapes, curious to uncover rich history, or eager to embrace outdoor adventures, Sedona offers easy access to a variety of unforgettable destinations.

In this guide, we will explore the best day trips from Sedona, offering insights into iconic landmarks, picturesque towns, and other must-visit attractions within a convenient driving distance. Dive in and discover the adventures that await beyond Sedona’s scenic horizons.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Best Destinations for a Day Trip from Sedona

1.1 Grand Canyon National Park

  • Distance from Sedona: 113 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
  • Location: Grand Canyon Village, AZ
  • Highlights: South Rim viewpoints, Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, Visitor Center

A visit to the Grand Canyon National Park is arguably one of the most iconic day trips you can embark on from Sedona. The South Rim, which is the most accessible portion of the park from Sedona, offers breathtaking views of the canyon’s layered rock formations carved over millions of years by the Colorado River. At just over two hours’ drive via scenic routes such as US-89A and AZ-64, the journey itself provides a captivating introduction to Arizona’s unique landscapes.

Upon arrival, the Grand Canyon Visitor Center serves as an excellent starting point to gather maps and information on suggested trails and viewpoints. Spectacular vistas await at popular spots like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes along the Rim Trail or more challenging options, such as the descent into the canyon along the Bright Angel Trail. For those looking for a more expansive perspective, helicopter tours are also available from nearby locations, offering unparalleled aerial views of this natural wonder.

Whether you're captivated by awe-inspiring geology or eager to explore one of America’s greatest landmarks, a trip to the Grand Canyon promises an unforgettable experience.

1.2 Flagstaff

  • Distance from Sedona: 30 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 45 minutes
  • Location: Flagstaff, AZ
  • Highlights: Lowell Observatory, Walnut Canyon National Monument, Historic Downtown, Museum of Northern Arizona

Located just 30 miles north of Sedona, Flagstaff serves as a refreshing escape into cooler climates and a city rich in cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Accessible via the scenic US-89A through Oak Creek Canyon, the route itself is a memorable journey showcasing picturesque forests and dramatic landscapes.

Flagstaff is known as the gateway to many Northern Arizona attractions and is home to the renowned Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered. Visitors can explore its interactive exhibits, historical telescopes, and enjoy stargazing sessions under some of the nation’s clearest night skies.

For history and nature enthusiasts, the Walnut Canyon National Monument highlights ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people, accessible via hiking trails that provide both archaeological insights and striking views of the canyon.

The city’s Historic Downtown area offers charming streets lined with local eateries, breweries, and shops, while the Museum of Northern Arizona provides fascinating exhibits on the region’s natural history and Native American cultures.

A day trip to Flagstaff offers diverse opportunities, from outdoor exploration to cultural immersion, all within a short drive from Sedona's stunning red rock landscapes.

1.3 Jerome

  • Distance from Sedona: 27 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 45 minutes
  • Location: Jerome, AZ
  • Highlights: Jerome State Historic Park, art galleries, Gold King Mine Museum, ghost tours

Perched on Cleopatra Hill at an elevation of 5,200 feet, Jerome is a historic mining town that offers visitors a fascinating step back in time. Located only 27 miles from Sedona, it is easily accessible via AZ-89A, which provides a scenic journey through mountainous terrain.

Once known as the “Wickedest Town in the West” during its copper mining heyday, Jerome has transformed into a vibrant artistic hub and popular tourist destination. The Jerome State Historic Park, housed in the former Douglas Mansion, provides detailed exhibitions on the town's mining history and spectacular views of the Verde Valley. Another must-visit attraction is the quirky Gold King Mine Museum, which showcases an eclectic collection of vintage machinery and vehicles.

Strolling through Jerome’s winding streets, visitors can explore a variety of art galleries, boutiques, and locally-owned restaurants. For those intrigued by the town’s ghostly past, guided ghost tours uncover its reputed haunted locations, offering an intriguing blend of history and legend. A day trip to Jerome guarantees a unique experience combining history, art, and a touch of the supernatural.

1.4 Montezuma Castle National Monument

  • Distance from Sedona: 26 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 40 minutes
  • Location: Camp Verde, AZ
  • Highlights: Ancient cliff dwellings, visitor center exhibits, Verde River access, scenic picnic areas

Located just 26 miles south of Sedona, the Montezuma Castle National Monument is a must-visit for history and archaeology enthusiasts. This well-preserved site, situated in Camp Verde, features ancient cliff dwellings nestled into a limestone cliff. These structures were built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago and provide a fascinating glimpse into a thriving pre-Columbian culture.

Visitors can explore the monument via a short, easy path offering striking views of the impressive five-story, 20-room dwelling. Informational plaques along the trail provide context about the Sinagua’s ingenious adaptations to the arid environment and their connections to trade networks across the region. The onsite visitor center features engaging exhibits, showcasing artefacts such as tools, pottery, and textiles that shed further light on the daily lives of the site's inhabitants.

Apart from its historical significance, the area is also a natural oasis, with access to the nearby Verde River and scenic picnic spots under the shade of Arizona sycamores. As an accessible and enriching day trip, Montezuma Castle offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty.

1.5 Payson and Tonto Natural Bridge

  • Distance from Sedona: 90 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours
  • Location: Payson, AZ
  • Highlights: Tonto Natural Bridge, scenic hiking trails, Water Wheel Falls, Payson’s local dining and shops

Located approximately 90 miles southeast of Sedona, Payson and the remarkable Tonto Natural Bridge State Park make for a rewarding day trip. Accessible via State Route 260, this scenic drive transitions from Sedona’s red rocks to the cool, pine-forested highlands of Arizona’s Mogollon Rim.

The main attraction, Tonto Natural Bridge, is considered the largest natural travertine bridge in the world, spanning 400 feet in length and rising 183 feet above Pine Creek. Visitors can explore several trails of varying difficulty, such as the Gowan Trail, which descends into the canyon and provides dramatic views of the bridge. Feeling adventurous? Descend to the creek bed for a closer look at the bridge’s stunning geological formations, waterfalls, and rock pools.

In addition to its natural wonders, the nearby town of Payson offers a charming small-town atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy local dining options, browse antique shops, or stop by the Rim Country Museum to learn about the area’s history and its connections to the Old West.

This day trip provides a perfect balance of outdoor exploration and small-town charm, making it an appealing option for those seeking a change of pace and scenery.

1.6 Oak Creek Canyon

  • Distance from Sedona: 12 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 25 minutes
  • Location: Oak Creek Canyon, AZ
  • Highlights: Slide Rock State Park, hiking trails, West Fork Trail, scenic viewpoints

For a serene escape into an area of striking natural beauty, Oak Creek Canyon is a must-visit day trip just north of Sedona. Located along the meandering US-89A route, this picturesque canyon is renowned for its lush vegetation, dramatic red rock formations, and cool creek waters. The drive itself offers breathtaking views from pullouts like the Oak Creek Vista, where visitors can pause to take in panoramic scenes of the canyon’s layered cliffs.

A popular highlight within the canyon is Slide Rock State Park, offering the opportunity to glide down smooth, natural rock water slides in the summer months, or enjoy the scenic area year-round. For those who enjoy hiking, options such as the West Fork Trail provide a moderate and shaded adventure through forested landscapes and creek crossings, making it one of the most famous trails in Arizona. Additionally, several picnic areas along Oak Creek make it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature.

Whether you prefer tranquil strolls, family-friendly water activities, or simply soaking in the stunning views, Oak Creek Canyon offers a revitalizing retreat within a short distance from Sedona.

1.7 Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

  • Distance from Sedona: 161 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours
  • Location: Page, AZ
  • Highlights: Narrow sandstone canyons, unique light beams, breathtaking Horseshoe Bend overlook, guided tours

Located near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are two of the most visually stunning landmarks in the American Southwest. While this day trip from Sedona requires a longer drive, the reward is an unparalleled experience of natural beauty and geological wonder.

Antelope Canyon, divided into Upper and Lower Canyon, features narrow sandstone passages formed over centuries by flash flooding and erosion. Its undulating walls and otherworldly light beams make it a sought-after destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Given the canyon’s fragility and cultural significance to the Navajo Nation, guided tours are mandatory. It is recommended to book tours in advance, as availability can be limited.

Just a short drive from Antelope Canyon, the iconic Horseshoe Bend offers a dramatic viewpoint of the Colorado River. A 1.5-mile round-trip hike from the parking lot leads you to the overlook, where the river carves a near-perfect horseshoe shape into the surrounding rock. Visitors should exercise caution near the edges, as the cliffs drop nearly 1,000 feet.

This excursion combines surreal landscapes and unforgettable vistas, making it a bucket-list experience for travelers willing to invest the time for the journey from Sedona.

1.8 Page and Lake Powell

  • Distance from Sedona: 166 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes
  • Location: Page, AZ
  • Highlights: Lake Powell, Glenn Canyon Dam, water activities, scenic boat tours

Situated in Northern Arizona, on the border with Utah, Page and Lake Powell offer a remarkable blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making them an excellent day trip from Sedona. Located approximately 166 miles away, the drive to Page provides stunning desert views, taking you through scenic routes such as US-89.

Lake Powell, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States, is framed by magnificent red rock formations and endless blue skies. Visitors can enjoy a range of water-based activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. For a unique perspective, scenic boat tours are available, offering access to notable sites like Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world’s largest natural bridges.

The nearby Glen Canyon Dam, which created Lake Powell, is another must-visit destination. At the Glen Canyon Visitor Center, visitors can learn about the dam’s engineering and environmental significance while enjoying picturesque views of the Colorado River below.

The combination of serene waters, dramatic landscapes, and activities makes Page and Lake Powell a destination perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

1.9 Tucson

  • Distance from Sedona: 230 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes
  • Location: Tucson, AZ
  • Highlights: Saguaro National Park, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Mission San Xavier del Bac, Tucson Botanical Gardens

As one of Arizona's largest and most culturally rich cities, Tucson makes for an exciting and diverse day trip from Sedona. Situated approximately 230 miles southeast, Tucson is accessible via Interstate 17 and Interstate 10, offering a scenic journey through varying desert landscapes. This vibrant city combines a thriving arts scene, historic landmarks, and stunning desert environments.

One of Tucson's standout attractions is Saguaro National Park, which is divided into two districts on either side of the city. The park is celebrated for its extensive forests of iconic saguaro cacti and offers numerous hiking trails and scenic drives where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combination of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, provides an engaging introduction to the region’s unique flora and fauna.

For those interested in history and architecture, the 18th-century Mission San Xavier del Bac showcases stunning Spanish Colonial design and serves as a significant cultural and religious site. Visitors can also explore the tranquil grounds of the Tucson Botanical Gardens, a peaceful retreat featuring desert plants, butterfly exhibits, and seasonal displays.

Tucson offers a perfect blend of outdoor exploration, history, and cultural activities, making it a well-rounded option for a day trip that caters to diverse interests.

1.10 Verde Canyon Railroad

  • Distance from Sedona: 25 miles
  • Driving Time: Approximately 40 minutes
  • Location: Clarkdale, AZ
  • Highlights: Scenic train ride, historic sights, luxury passenger cars, Verde River views

The Verde Canyon Railroad, located in Clarkdale, just 25 miles southwest of Sedona, offers a leisurely yet immersive excursion through one of Arizona’s most picturesque landscapes. Known as the “Wilderness Train,” this experience showcases the Verde Valley's pristine beauty, with its red rock cliffs, lush riparian areas, and abundant wildlife. The round-trip journey from Clarkdale covers 20 miles along the Verde River and is highly regarded for its scenic and educational value.

Passengers can enjoy luxurious class options, including open-air viewing cars and vintage cabins designed for comfort while providing panoramic views of the canyon. Throughout the ride, commentary offers historical and geological insights into the area, including stories of early railroad pioneers, native flora and fauna, and the region's mining legacy. Notable highlights include the historic Perkinsville Ranch and a breathtaking, ivy-covered tunnel carved through the canyon walls.

This family-friendly activity is perfect for all ages and offers a peaceful way to explore Northern Arizona's hidden gems. With options for first-class service and seasonal specials like holiday-themed trains, the Verde Canyon Railroad provides a memorable and unique perspective of the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

2. Frequently Asked Questions

2.1 What is the closest national park to Sedona?

The closest national park to Sedona is the Grand Canyon National Park, located approximately 113 miles to the north. Specifically, the park’s South Rim, known for its accessible viewpoints and iconic landscapes, can be reached via a 2-hour and 15-minute drive. This makes the Grand Canyon an ideal and highly popular day trip for those staying in Sedona, offering breathtaking vistas and unique hiking opportunities.

2.2 How far is the Grand Canyon from Sedona?

The Grand Canyon National Park, specifically its South Rim, is approximately 113 miles north of Sedona. The drive via US-89A and AZ-64 takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey offers scenic vistas and transitions into one of the nation’s most iconic landscapes. This distance makes the Grand Canyon an excellent option for a day trip filled with breathtaking viewpoints and trails.

2.3 Are there guided tours available for day trips from Sedona?

Yes, a variety of guided tours are available for day trips from Sedona, catering to different interests and destinations. Tour providers offer convenient options to visit popular attractions such as the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Montezuma Castle. These tours often include expert commentary, transportation, and even meals, ensuring a stress-free experience. Custom experiences like hiking tours or Jeep excursions within Sedona’s red rock landscapes are also available, allowing visitors to explore with knowledgeable guides.

2.4 What is the best season for day trips from Sedona?

The best season for day trips from Sedona largely depends on the destinations and outdoor activities you are planning. Spring and autumn are ideal, offering mild temperatures and vibrant landscapes, especially for exploring trails like Oak Creek Canyon or visiting places such as the Grand Canyon. Summer is perfect for higher-elevation spots like Flagstaff, but lower areas may experience intense heat. Winter, while cooler, provides fewer crowds, particularly for attractions like Montezuma Castle and Jerome.

2.5 Is it easy to drive to these destinations?

Driving to most day trip destinations from Sedona is generally straightforward and convenient, as the majority are accessible via well-maintained highways such as US-89A and AZ-179. Signage is clear, and the routes often feature scenic views, enhancing the overall experience. Hiring a car is recommended for flexibility, though guided tours are an excellent alternative for those who prefer not to drive.

2.6 Are there family-friendly options for day trips?

Yes, there are numerous family-friendly options for day trips from Sedona. Attractions such as Montezuma Castle and Oak Creek Canyon cater to families with easily accessible paths, picnic areas, and educational opportunities. The Verde Canyon Railroad offers a scenic train ride perfect for all ages. Additionally, Slide Rock State Park provides fun water activities, making it an ideal spot for families with children.



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