We’d always heard that Sedona, Arizona, was a place to go for stunning red rock scenery and incredible Jeep tours, but our experience proved it’s so much more. The impact it made on us ensures Sedona will be part of our vacation rotation for years to come. This captivating town offers breathtaking beauty, exciting tours, fantastic hiking trails, delicious food and great kayaking opportunities.
Our Stay: Sedona Summit, A Hilton Vacation Club
We stayed at Sedona Summit, a Hilton Vacation Club, in a spacious 1-Bedroom Suite and absolutely loved our experience — so much that we’re already planning to return. Here’s why:
Hiking trails: There are numerous scenic hiking trails just steps from the resort, and it’s also conveniently close to some of Sedona’s most famous paths, including the iconic Devil’s Bridge Trail.
Exceptional service: The staff were outstanding, extremely knowledgeable and always eager to assist with recommendations for attractions, restaurants and local events.
Pools and hot tubs: Guests can enjoy several pools and hot tubs, including an infinity hot tub that overlooks the Sedona red rocks. It’s a view you won’t soon forget.
Spacious rooms: The Suite offered all the amenities we expect from Hilton Grand Vacations, including a full kitchen and separate living area, for a comfortable, condo-like experience far beyond a standard resort suite.
Vacationing In Sedona, Arizona
We landed in Phoenix, picked up our Jeep rental and were on the road to Sedona in no time. The drive took about two hours, making for an easy and scenic start to our adventure. If you haven’t been to the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport lately, you’ll appreciate the new tram system that whisks you directly to the rental car center. It’s so much smoother and faster than the old shuttle buses.
On our first morning, we set out for the nearby town of Cottonwood, fueled by a sense of adventure. We kicked things off with a kayaking excursion on the Verde River, where skilled guides led us and a group of fellow travelers through exciting Class 1 and 2 rapids, making for a safe and exhilarating ride. After drying off, we strolled through Historic Old Town Cottonwood where its charming streets were lined with eclectic shops, farm-to-table restaurants and inviting wine-tasting rooms.
The highlight of the day was visiting a local vineyard set atop a hill with views of the Verde Valley where we enjoyed homemade pasta and sampled bold local wines. After dinner, we returned to the resort in time to soak in the infinity hot tub at sunset — an experience you shouldn’t miss, with unforgettable views that perfectly capped our day.
Over the next two days in Sedona, we immersed ourselves in the beauty of this desert gem. On our first day, we explored the trails just behind our resort, where we were treated to sweeping views of Sedona’s legendary red rock formations. The paths were easy to navigate, winding through rugged terrain and offering postcard-perfect scenes in brilliant shades of red and orange beneath the Arizona sun.
That evening, we made our way into downtown Sedona, brimming with art galleries, crystal shops and a relaxed, spiritual energy that felt perfectly at home amid the landscape. Dinner at Creekside American Bistro was a definite highlight; their happy hour featured delicious craft cocktails and irresistible truffle fries at great prices. If you go, don’t miss the lamb chops — they were outstanding.
On our third day, we tackled what might be the best hike of our lives at Devil’s Bridge Trail. The 4-mile round trip was moderately challenging, with a steady climb through juniper forests and slickrock paths. Reaching the bridge was indescribable. The natural rock arch framed against the endless desert expanse was a sight I can’t do justice to with words. The sense of accomplishment standing atop that narrow, awe-inspiring formation made every step worthwhile.
That evening, we returned to town for dinner at the Shorebird, where we enjoyed fresh seafood and took advantage of their happy hour with excellent food and drink specials.
Sedona made a lasting impression on us with its combination of adventure, natural beauty and memorable experiences. In our view, Sedona stands out as the most beautiful city in the United States. If you’re skeptical, a visit will likely change your mind.
Key Takeaways
Sedona is an outdoor adventure destination: Beyond its iconic red rocks, the area offers hiking, kayaking, wine tasting and scenic drives.
Sedona Summit is an ideal home base: Spacious suites, resort amenities and proximity to top trails make it a strong choice for active travelers.
Easy access from Phoenix: A two-hour drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor makes Sedona a convenient yet immersive getaway.
Memorable experiences at every turn: From Devil’s Bridge to sunset hot tub views, Sedona leaves a lasting impression on first-time visitors.
FAQs
Q: How many days do you need to visit Sedona?
A: Three to four days is ideal for experiencing Sedona’s highlights, including hiking trails, downtown dining, nearby towns like Cottonwood and time to relax at your resort.
Q: What makes Sedona more than just a destination for red landscapes and Jeep tours?
A: Sedona offers stunning natural beauty, a variety of adventure tours, world-class hiking, excellent food and exciting kayaking on the Verde River. The town’s lively atmosphere and diverse activities make it much more than a typical vacation spot.
Q: What are some popular activities to do in Sedona?
A: Popular activities in Sedona include hiking behind Sedona Summit and on iconic trails such as Devil’s Bridge, kayaking on the Verde River and exploring Historic Old Town Cottonwood.
