Sedona
I’ve called Sedona home since 1995. But my relationship with it began a year earlier, in 1994, when I had one of the most profound and life-changing experiences of my life. I felt distinctly called here — long before Sedona became the international destination it is today.
Back then it was widely known as the “New Age Mecca of the world.” I was originally drawn by the vortex energy and the spiritual undercurrent that seemed to hum beneath the red rocks. But I stayed because of the land itself — the beauty, the accessibility, and the sheer abundance of hiking opportunities.
Sedona has a way of amplifying whatever you bring to it. I’m often asked whether I “feel the energy.” The best way I can describe it is that all of Sedona feels like a vortex. It seems to magnify what’s already present — clarity, confusion, transition, inspiration. During a year I spent running a spiritual retreat center here in the 90s, I witnessed countless people have deeply transformative experiences. It wasn’t uncommon for someone to visit, go home, pack up their life, and move here.
Despite the growth, the tourism, and the rising costs, Sedona and the greater Verde Valley remain extraordinary. I wouldn’t still be here otherwise.
Exploring and Hiking
Here’s the reality: most visitors hike the same five trails. The most crowded are Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and the “Subway” in Boynton Canyon. They are beautiful — and often extremely congested.
But there are dozens of hikes just as stunning, if not more so, where you may encounter only a handful of people — or none at all. Knowing where to go changes everything.
One of my biggest tips: when you see a subtle cairn or a clearly worn side path branching from a main trail — especially in canyon areas — pay attention. Many of Sedona’s most rewarding spots lie just beyond the obvious route. A hidden arch. A quiet sandstone bowl. A ruin tucked into a cliff wall.
That said, this is not an invitation to bushwhack or create new paths. Sedona’s cryptobiotic soil is fragile and easily damaged. Stay in washes or on clearly established use trails. Explore responsibly.
Another gift of Sedona hiking is accessibility. Most system trails are moderate and not terribly long. While strenuous climbs and off-trail adventures certainly exist, you don’t need extreme mileage to have a meaningful experience. You can come for a weekend or stay for a month and never run out of options.
Traffic strategy matters. If you’re driving up from the south, consider approaching through Cottonwood rather than Highway 179 through the Village of Oak Creek, which often becomes severely congested. West Sedona, in particular, offers excellent trail access, restaurants, and services without requiring you to navigate Uptown traffic.
Featured Hikes
Things to Know
Expect extreme congestion at Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Boynton Canyon during peak seasons. Early starts make a significant difference.
A Red Rock Pass is required at many trailheads (or a valid federal recreation pass).
Parking enforcement is active, and lots fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
Highway 179 through the Village of Oak Creek is a traffic bottleneck; plan accordingly.
Respect cryptobiotic soil — do not step on dark, crusty ground. Stay in washes or on established trails.
Flash floods are a real risk in narrow canyons during monsoon season.
Fire restrictions are common during dry periods — check current regulations before your trip.
West Sedona, Uptown, and the Village of Oak Creek each have very different feels — choose your base intentionally.
When to Visit
Where to Stay
There is no camping within Sedona proper. Oak Creek Canyon offers several established campgrounds — especially beautiful in late October when fall color peaks — but they are busy and book quickly.
Dispersed camping is available outside town in areas such as Forest Road 525. These require self-sufficiency and respect for Leave No Trace principles.
Sedona isn’t my first choice as a camping destination. This is a place where I recommend staying in a motel or renting an Airbnb — ideally with a kitchen. Dining out here adds up quickly. Sedona offers every amenity you’d expect in a world-class destination: fine dining, art galleries, Whole Foods, and walkable shopping districts.
West Sedona is my preferred area for easier access and less congestion, though each part of town has its advantages depending on what kind of experience you want.