Discover Sedona Red Rock Country: A Self-Guided Tour

Explore the red rock landscape of Sedona on this self-guided tour through one of America's most breathtaking natural settings. From the towering spires of Cathedral Rock to the mystical energy vortexes, discover sixty stops across crimson canyons, ancient Sinagua ruins, and the scenic Oak Creek corridor. Learn how iron oxide painted these sandstone formations red over two hundred and eighty million years. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross rising from the cliffs, walk the artisan lanes of Tlaquepaque Village, and explore trails to Devil's Bridge and the Seven Sacred Pools. Your guide covers the history from the Sinagua cliff dwellers to the Schnebly family who gave this town its name, plus the New Age movement that made Sedona a global spiritual destination. Includes nearby Jerome ghost town, Montezuma Castle, Verde Valley wine country, and dark sky stargazing tips. Perfect for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking wonder in the Arizona desert.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   1 hour

   Begin at the Uptown Visitor Center to orient yourself with maps of Sedona's trail system, learn about the ancient Sinagua people who shaped this landscape, and pick up a Red Rock Pass — required for most trailhead parking throughout the day. The free Sedona Shuttle also departs from here, offering a smart alternative to driving during peak season.

2. 2

   Cathedral Rock

   30 min

   Two of Sedona's most iconic red sandstone formations and the most visited energy vortex sites in Red Rock Country. Your audio guide covers the geology behind these towering monuments — formed from ancient inland seas — and the spiritual traditions that draw thousands of seekers here every year. Cathedral Rock is one of the most photographed landscapes in all of Arizona.

3. 3

   Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook

   30 min

   Climb to Sedona's most accessible 360-degree panorama and one of its four recognized vortex sites, where the electromagnetic energy is said to be uplifting and invigorating. Arrive at sunrise or sunset for spectacular light on the red rock formations spread out in every direction below you.

4. 4

   Chapel of the Holy Cross

   1 hour

   Built directly into the red rock cliffs in 1956, this striking modernist chapel was designed by sculptor Marguerite Staude as a "spiritual skyscraper," with a 90-foot iron cross rising against the crimson canyon walls. The chapel welcomes visitors of all faiths and is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM — donations are welcome, and candles may be purchased inside.

5. 5

   Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

   30 min

   Modeled after a traditional Mexican colonial village, Tlaquepaque features over 40 galleries and artisan boutiques shaded by ancient sycamore trees along Oak Creek. It's one of the finest fine art shopping destinations in the American Southwest, with hand-blown glass, Native jewelry, and sculpture at every turn. No pass or fee required — just stroll and explore.

6. 6

   Oak Creek Canyon

   1 hour

   Designated one of America's most scenic byways by the US Forest Service, this 12-mile drive north from Sedona winds through dramatic canyon walls, towering red formations, and a lush riparian corridor of cottonwoods and willows along Oak Creek. Pull over at multiple overlooks along the way — your audio guide narrates the geology and ecology as you drive.

7. 7

   Slide Rock State Park

   1 hour

   Arizona's most beloved natural water park features Oak Creek cascading over smooth, slick sandstone chutes into cool swimming holes, surrounded by towering canyon walls and historic apple orchards dating to the 1910s. No walk-ins — vehicle entry only, and the park fills up fast in summer, so arrive early. Cash users must bring exact change.

8. 8

   Devil's Bridge Trail

   1 hour

   Hike to Sedona's largest natural sandstone arch — a dramatic fin of red rock you can actually walk across, with a sheer drop on both sides and panoramic views over the Dry Creek Basin. No permit is needed for the hike itself, but a Red Rock Pass must be displayed at the trailhead parking area. Start before 7:00 AM to secure parking; the 4WD access road shortens the hike to just 2 miles round trip.

9. 9

   Soldier Pass Trail

   30 min

   Follow the trail to a chain of natural rock pools sculpted by centuries of rainfall into the red sandstone, then peer into the dramatic Devil's Kitchen sinkhole — a 100-foot-wide collapsed cave that suddenly appeared in 1880. Note: a motorized-use permit is required only if driving the off-road section of Soldier Pass Road; hikers access the trailhead freely with a standard Red Rock Pass.

10. 10

    Boynton Canyon Trail

    1 hour

    Hike into a magnificent box canyon flanked by 1,000-foot red walls, home to both an ancient Sinagua village site and one of Sedona's most powerful vortexes — where masculine and feminine energies are said to meet in perfect balance. If the main lot is full, free roadside parking is available on Boynton Pass Road to the left of the stop sign.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.