Sedona, Arizona, is filled with mystique, wander, and breathtaking views, which is why we have gone to Sedona not once but twice—deciding where our 2021 spring break destination would reside proved to be challenging. We knew the trip should be outdoor-oriented. We also knew that a road trip would be best. Thinking back to previous trips we’ve been on, our one-night stay in Sedona was brought up. Admittedly, we all knew once, leaving Sedona for the first time, one day in this quaint town with amazing views wasn’t enough. So after calculating drive-times and the like, we decided to travel to Sedona, Arizona.
Living in South Texas, we decided to break the trip up into segments. The first segment consisted of driving to Las Cruces, New Mexico. Las Cruces made the drive more doable for us but is not a must-see if it’s out of the way.
After spending the night in Las Cruces, we drove to Scottsdale, Arizona. On our way to Scottsdale, we made a detour and traveled to Saguaro National Park. Saguaro National Park offered up-close views of gargantuan saguaro cacti. You can see our pictures from Saguaro National Park in our National Park Collection, accessible through the homepage of our website.
The following day, we traveled from Scottsdale to Sedona. On this drive, we went to the Wave Cave Trail. We found this tremendous 3-mile trail on the way to Sedona from Phoenix in the Superstition Wilderness. The trailhead and parking on Arizona State Trust Land and a permit are required. The trail’s road entails 4 miles down a gravel/dirt road which adds to the adventure and is suited for any vehicle. AllTrails mapped the route well. When you come to the fence, go through the path that leads you straight through. Enjoy the Saguaros on the journey. The last portion is steep with a bit of a scramble. There is no shade along the path, so bring some water. Not much traffic on the way up early, but the parking was getting full on the way out in the afternoon. Take plenty of water and get ready for the spectacular views of the gorgeous desert and Superstition Mountains in the shaded Wave Cave, which is a rewarding end to the hike up. The Wave Cave provides an excellent place for capturing the beautiful landscape and a fun photo opportunity for the hikers looking to surf the “wave”! The hike is challenging, but the view at the end is worthy of such effort. With ideas for miles and the wave rock formation, this is easily one of our favorite hikes.
Afterward, we drove to Tonto Natural Bridge. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful lunch and a nice walk in the middle of picturesque scenery as you travel through a pine forest to a beautiful canyon to see the incredible natural phenomena. The Tonto Natural Bridge towers 183 ft above Pine Creek and is believed to be the largest travertine bridge globally, creating a 400 ft tunnel. The arch is in Central Arizona near Payson and includes trails for all skill levels, including a waterfall trail.
Once we had our share of the incredible views that Tonto Natural Bridge offers, we headed to Sedona. Arriving in time to drop our luggage off at our VRBO before sunset, we decided to go to Bell Rock/ Bell Rock’s parking lot isn’t spacious, and at a popular time such as sunset, it can be hard to find parking. So instead of going to Bell Rock, we went to Baby Bell. Baby Bell, though not as prestigious as Bell Rock, gave some beautiful sunset pictures. Since we were near the trail, we decided to find one of the infamous vortexes Sedona has.
Over the next four days, we went on all the hikes we could. Including Soldier’s Pass, Red Rock Crossing, Birthing Cave, Fay Canyon Arch, Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park, Cathedral Rock, Schnebly Hill Vista, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Airport Mesa. Below is our journey on each hike and our tips.
Soldier’s Pass proved to be one of Sedona’s most famous hikes for a reason. This six-mile trail offered a multitude of scenic views. This hike is home to the Seven Sacred Pools, Devil’s Kitchen, Brin’s Ridge, and the Hidden/Secret Cave. Unlike its mysterious name, the Secret Cave is not hard to find, but it is off the trail and adds more to an already long hike, but we think it’s worth it.
We went to Red Rock Crossing for sunset and, as a result, got some of our favorite photos. This 1.9 out and back trail offers a little bit of everything. For those wanting a southern, rustic view, a water mill and barn look stunning with Cathedral Rock in its background. It also has a river that reflects the glowing Cathedral Rock in the sunset amazingly.
The Birthing Cave is also one of Sedona’s most popular hikes. As well as a sacred cultural site, the uniquely shaped cave gives you great views of Sedona’s red rocks. The hike isn’t challenging, although it’s a little steep going into the cave.
Fay Canyon Arch Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that gives you a great picture moment under the arch. Unfortunately, the trail isn’t marked well, so be cautious about turning right at the right spot.
If you are looking for a robust cultural experience, we recommend going to Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park. For a glimpse into Buddhism, the stupa is surreal with its tranquil atmosphere and calming red rocks.
If you’re looking for a break from hiking, Schnebly Hill Vista is a drive you can take. Make sure you are equipped with a good car that can take this dirt road. The views of Sedona are amazing.
For a lot of reasons, Cathedral Rock is our favorite trail. For one, the view is spectacular. Secondly, it’s challenging, requiring you to move past your comfort zone. When thinking of Cathedral Rock, often a quote comes to mind: “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” So for us, Cathedral Rock was genuinely empowering. Tip: though you can stop anywhere on this trail and get great views, follow the trail markers to the farthest point, the spire. The spire is breathtaking.
It is hard to find words for the atmosphere of the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Beginning on the road up to the Chapel, and sense of serenity is present, and inside the Chapel, that feeling is only amplified. The Chapel is lovely.
Our last hike in Sedona was at the Airport Mesa at sunset. From the Airport Mesa, you can see some of the famous rock formations, including Bell Rock. It is a beautiful sunset spot that you should check out.
Sedona is one of those places that leaves you with renewed energy in your life. It is one of our favorite travel destinations, and feel everyone if given the opportunity, should go.
August 2021