Tour Of Sedona: A Scenic Sightseeing Guide
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on
A sightseeing tour of Sedona reveals some of northern Arizona's most recognizable red rock scenery, from towering sandstone formations and panoramic overlooks to the forested corridor of Oak Creek Canyon. Visitors can explore many of Sedona's major landmarks on a scenic drive, stopping at viewpoints, trailheads and attractions along the way. This guide highlights places to consider when planning a day of sightseeing in and around Sedona.
- A Scenic Tour Of Sedona
- Sedona Sightseeing Highlights
- Oak Creek Canyon
- Planning Your Tour
- Sedona Photo Gallery
- Touring Sedona FAQ
A Scenic Tour Of Sedona
Sedona's landscape changes noticeably as you travel through the area. Red sandstone formations dominate the views around town, while the route north into Oak Creek Canyon gradually transitions into a cooler, forested environment. Seasonal changes can add spring greenery, summer foliage, fall color and occasional winter snow to the scenery.
Sedona is also known for its cultural history and contemporary interest in spiritual and vortex sites. The surrounding Verde Valley contains archaeological and historic sites associated with Indigenous peoples who lived in the region long before modern Sedona developed. Visitors interested in this history can also explore Native American heritage sites near Sedona.
A day of sightseeing can combine scenic overlooks, distinctive red rock formations, Oak Creek Canyon and other area attractions. Rather than trying to see everything in one outing, choose several stops that match your interests and allow extra time for traffic, parking, photographs and short walks.
Sedona Sightseeing Highlights
A scenic tour can be customized around the landmarks and attractions you most want to see. Some of Sedona's best-known scenery can be viewed from roads and overlooks, while other locations require a short walk or hike.
- Red Rocks of Sedona — Explore the sandstone formations that define Sedona's landscape.
- Cathedral Rock — See one of Sedona's most recognizable red rock landmarks.
- Coffee Pot Rock — Look for the distinctive formation above West Sedona.
- Sedona Vortex Sites — Learn about locations associated with Sedona's vortex traditions.
- Sedona Attractions Map — Use the map to help organize sightseeing stops around the area.
- Things To Do In Sedona — Find additional attractions and activities to add to your itinerary.
Touring Oak Creek Canyon
A drive north from Sedona into Oak Creek Canyon provides a dramatic change from open red rock country to a narrow, forested canyon along Oak Creek. State Route 89A winds through the canyon toward Flagstaff, passing recreation areas, trail access and scenic surroundings along the way.
Allow extra travel time when including Oak Creek Canyon in your sightseeing day. Traffic can slow during busy travel periods, and weather or road conditions can affect travel. If you plan to stop at recreation areas or trailheads, research parking and access before leaving Sedona rather than assuming space will be available.
Planning Your Sedona Sightseeing Tour
Sedona can be toured throughout the year, but weather, daylight, traffic and parking conditions can affect how much you can comfortably see in one day. Before heading out, check our Sedona Weather page for current conditions and average monthly temperatures, rainfall and sunset information.
- Start early when visiting popular viewpoints, trailheads and attractions.
- Allow more driving time than mileage alone might suggest, especially during busy periods.
- Choose a manageable number of stops rather than trying to see every attraction in one day.
- Carry drinking water and sun protection throughout the year.
- Check weather and road conditions before driving into Oak Creek Canyon.
- Use designated parking areas and observe posted parking and access restrictions.
- Allow time for photographs, short walks and unexpected scenic stops.
Sedona Arizona Photo Gallery
These photographs by Mike Koopsen showcase several of the landscapes and landmarks visitors may encounter while touring the Sedona area. His photographs are available as wall decor and note cards. Visit Mike Koopsen's photo gallery for information about image reproductions.
Sedona Arizona Video
Touring Sedona FAQ
Can you tour Sedona on your own?
Yes. Many of Sedona's scenic viewpoints, red rock landmarks and attractions can be combined into a self-guided sightseeing itinerary. Plan your route in advance and check parking, access and road conditions for the places you intend to visit.
How much time should I allow to tour Sedona?
A full day provides time to visit several major sightseeing locations without rushing, but Sedona has enough attractions, trails and scenic areas to fill several days. Allow extra time for traffic, parking, photographs and short walks.
What are some popular places to see on a Sedona tour?
Popular sightseeing choices include Sedona's red rock formations, Cathedral Rock, Coffee Pot Rock, Oak Creek Canyon and scenic viewpoints around the community. The best itinerary depends on your interests and how much walking or hiking you want to include.
Can I drive through Oak Creek Canyon from Sedona?
State Route 89A travels north from Sedona through Oak Creek Canyon toward Flagstaff. The drive passes through forested canyon scenery, but traffic, weather and road conditions can affect travel times.
What is the best time of year to tour Sedona?
Sedona can be visited throughout the year. Spring and fall are popular for comfortable sightseeing weather, summer brings warmer conditions and winter can occasionally add snow to the red rock landscape. Check current weather before your trip.
Should I take a guided tour or tour Sedona myself?
Both approaches can work well. A guided tour can provide transportation and local interpretation, while a self-guided tour gives you more control over your stops and schedule. Choose the option that best matches your interests, mobility and available time.
Do I need to hike to enjoy Sedona's scenery?
No. Hiking provides access to many scenic locations, but visitors can also enjoy Sedona from scenic roads, overlooks, attractions and other accessible sightseeing areas.
Guided Tours Around Sedona & Oak Creek
