Sedona Offers Year-Round Treasure Trove of New Adventures

The unique array of cliffs, rock formations, and canyons that frame the idyllic destination were formed eons ago, molded by the formative hands of Mother Nature. This masterpiece has been in the making for over 350 million years, and few would argue that visually appealing scenery is Sedona’s only allure. 

The breathtaking splendor of the colorful terrain makes it an attractive location for those looking to experience diverse recreational offerings—ranging from riding ATVs to golfing and mountain biking, and more. Inspired by the surrounding landscape, the city offers a vibrant arts scene and numerous well-regarded dining options.

But the best part about Sedona, perhaps, is that it’s a true year-round destination with each season offering a trove of new adventures. Late winter days in Sedona are crisp (but not overly cold), with occasional transient flurries that add a stark white contrast to the stunning red rocks. 

The snow typically does not accumulate or stay long, nor does it hamper visitors’ well-curated itineraries. The wintry mix only adds to the enchantment of the area, which has a rich history dating back to the Sinagua tribe. Today there is a considerable Native American influence present, impacting the town’s distinctive art and culture scene. 

Sedona is located nearly dead center in the Grand Canyon State, roughly 120 miles north of Phoenix, 280 miles southeast of Las Vegas, and 350 miles west of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The town has just 10,000 residents yet welcomes more than 3 million visitors a year. 

The flight into Sedona is the perfect start to one’s visit. Cruising above the bold Southwestern landscape, pilots are reminded why north central Arizona is known as Red Rock Country. The landscape en route to the town is impressive, with dramatic views of the sweeping upper Sonoran Desert. 

Sandstone formations stretching hundreds of feet into the air dominate the Sedona skyline, where human-made structures pale in size and splendor. Many of the aerial landmarks en route are unnamed, but Cathedral Rock, Oak Creek Canyon, and Bell Rock are some of the key points of interest that are clearly visible by air. 

Sedona Airport (KSEZ) itself is a landmark and sits on Table Top Mesa, which rises 500 feet above the ground. The airspace around the town is largely clear, with most navigational considerations being related to surrounding terrain. 

Rarely will a GA airport be called by the nonflying public as a “must visit.” Sedona Airport is an exception, famously offering 360-degree views of the sweeping landscape below. 

The scenery during daytime hours is striking, but the natural beauty is most apparent during civil twilight. The sunsets and sunrises here are the kind that you write home about, with the slanting light dramatically illuminating the bright red and orange rock formations. Some have called the 220-acre parcel of land “America’s Most Scenic Airport.”

The paved runway is 5,123 feet, lighted, and has two instrument approaches. Due to the unique challenges posed, there are specific landing procedures. Runway 21 has a slight upslope of 1.83 degrees, equating to an elevation difference of around 100 feet between either end. Runway 3 is designated for use during calm winds when landing and Runway 21 for takeoff during calm winds. 

The airport is often discussed in pilot groups because of its various operational quirks being atop a mesa. Airport management recommends that those flying in for the first time watch a video created by the Aviation Safety Advisory Group of Arizona that can be found on the airport’s website. The video advises that turbulence can always be expected around the airport, prompting an aircraft carrier-like effect for landing aircraft. Winds are impacted by steep canyon cliffs in all directions, except for the south. This terrain, coupled with noise abatement procedures, requires attention toward rates and direction of climb. To also help assist pilots with decision making, the airport has a live webcam to showcase current weather conditions. 

This year, Sedona Airport celebrates its 70th anniversary, with humble roots as an unpaved airstrip. There are no commercial airline operators servicing the airport, but the ramp is consistently abuzz with aircraft that conduct scenic flight charters. Helicopters are a popular option for aviators and nonaviators alike looking to experience the area from a different vantage point. Hot-air balloons also commonly dot the skies but launch down in the valley. 

For those wanting to soak up the scenery from lower altitudes, there are some rules surrounding cruising altitudes. Scenic flights are not allowed below 6,500 feet msl, and noise abatement procedures are in place due to its proximity to town and a multitude of historic sites. 

The airport is the primary option for those visiting Sedona, and there is one FBO on field offering both 100LL and jet-A fuel. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (KFLG) sits 18 miles to the northeast, providing another option for those looking to visit the region. 

Arts and culture are sown into the fabric of Sedona, which is recognized as one of the best cities in the United States for the arts. There are more than 80 shops that are open year-round. These galleries provide a glimpse into how artists translate the region’s vibrancy into memorable pieces. 

Visitors and residents alike can soak up the artistic culture via a popular gathering the first Friday of the month. Many of the galleries are within walking distance of one another, so it’s easy to see a wide variety of art in one visit.

Whether functional pottery is your favorite medium, or you prefer landscape paintings or intricate tapestries, you are likely to find something that is worthy of being taken home. 

Any art exhibition pairs well with finger foods and crafted cocktails—and many of the shops offer refreshments.

In addition to this monthly event, each gallery has their own events where local artisans showcase their works. There are also a handful of festivals throughout the year that bring Southwestern culture to the forefront. 

The 20th annual run series is planned for Saturday, February 1. There are multiple races for participants to choose from, all of which are timed and USA Track & Field certified. As race organizers tout, “if the hills don’t take your breath away, the scenery will,” a succinct summation of race day’s memorable allure. 

Runners are treated to moderate elevation gains, as well as camaraderie among other runners. The three distance options all begin and end at the same spot, with the routes winding through some of the town’s most treasured sights along a paved roadway carved through Sedona’s iconic landscape. 

The half-marathon begins at 8 a.m., quickly followed by the 10K and 5K races. Following the awards ceremonies for each event, participants are invited to the airport for a one-of-a-kind race. The Run the Runway race starts at one end of the airport’s runway and ends at the other, putting a fun spin on where a mile of runway can take you. 

Fitness enthusiasts of all ages—and their furry friends, too— are invited to participate in the well-backdropped event. Whether taking it casual or pushing for a personal record, the race caters to everyone’s goals. The event also has a philanthropic component, with proceeds directly impacting several nonprofits in the local community. 

The nine-day Sedona International Film Festival is another headlining element of Sedona’s dynamic art scene. Held annually since 1994, the event attracts a diverse crowd of burgeoning indie filmmakers, Hollywood A-listers, and everything in between. 

This festival is the community’s largest single annual event and celebrates the multimedia form of expression through more than 150 films. The organizers hope through showcasing and studying independent film from all corners the world they can both educate and elevate social consciousness. 

This year, the event stretches from February 22 through March 2 at a purpose-built theater space sure to satisfy even the pickiest cinephile. Types of entries range broadly, with awards given to winners in several categories. 

In addition to this well-attended event in late winter, the same hosts offer a handful of smaller events hosted throughout the year in Sedona. A film shown in town could well be on its first viewing prior to being released across the world. 

Those serious about the sport know that Sedona, boasting over 250 miles of red rock single track, is among the best places in the country to bike ride. Festival goers of all experience levels get a glimpse of the area’s illustrious biking opportunities during the third weekend in March. 

There are numerous preset opportunities during the three days to experience the trails, while rubbing shoulders with fellow mountain bikers. These group rides are one of the most highly anticipated offerings and a perfect way for rookies and veterans to improve their abilities.

One of the event’s hallmarks is the ability for attendees to try out new gear and bikes. As one of the first spring mountain biking events each year, the festival draws thousands of attendees and more than 90 vendors. With live music and more, the Sedona Mountain Bike Festival is perfect for  both casual and die-hard riders.

There is an abundance of public land near Sedona, which serves as the site for an array of adventures. Hiking naturally is one of the most popular activities, but you can also hop on a horse, Segway, train, ATV, or Jeep and experience nearly 2 million acres of national forest land. 

Within this footprint there are two state parks, as well as four wilderness areas. These delineated zones offer hiking journeys that thrill the casual hiker and challenge the seasoned adventurer. There are plenty of paths centered around breathtaking landmarks, details which are plentiful online. There are several outfitters in town that offer guided hikes as well, ensuring no sights are out of reach when exploring the acreage.

Two of the most trafficked trails are Devil’s Bridge Trail and Boynton Canyon Trail, the first being roughly 6 miles in length (round trip) and the second about 7 miles long in total. With both taking more than several hours to complete, considerations should be made when to start and finish the hikes in order to catch the best light and photo opportunities. Each trail offers a healthy mix of terrain. 

Understanding the importance of upkeeping the region’s natural beauty, several hundred local businesses have signed the “Sedona Cares Pledge.” This volunteer oath prompts supporters to leave Sedona better than found. Whether hiking, camping, or just passing through town, the vow provides nine reminders to keep in mind. 

Areas of natural splendor typically have golf courses that boast equally impressive playing conditions. Sedona’s golf courses are no exception to this rule. There are a number of options on both public and private courses. 

These facilities cater to various handicaps, all with views that rival or beat the options in most cities. Nine-hole par-3 courses are good for a quick round, whereas the championship 18-hole courses are a great choice for outings with friends. Sweeping views throughout ensure that the round is memorable, regardless of how many balls are lost in the pervasive sagebrush. 

Average winter highs hover in the high 50s (Fahrenheit), and Sedona boasts more than 300 days of annual sunshine. In addition to ample golfing opportunities, several of the courses also offer other amenities, such as tennis facilities, clubhouses, and restaurants.

The 19th-hole celebration can easily extend from the clubhouse to any one of the many wineries in the Sedona area. While the vineyards are farther from the city center than some of the other nearby points of interest, they are well worth the journey. 

While Napa and Tuscany are more commonly synonymous with world-class vino, the Verde Valley Wine Trail benefits from a similar climate. Northern Arizona has had a wine scene for more than 300 years, when viticulture was first introduced in the late 17th century by missionaries that hailed from France. Other early immigrants to the area also imprinted their cultures and knowledge of winemaking. 

The end product speaks for itself, and those who have tasted the region’s wines compare it to other top offerings. While boasting relatively small operations, vineyards in Northern Arizona are important to the state’s overall production capability. 

There are around half a dozen wineries within a short drive worth exploring.

Sedona is an outdoor playground. For certain people, seeking adventure is a more enjoyable way to enjoy their free time. For others, resting is the truest form of relaxation—which Red Rock Country provides through a selection of resorts.

The area’s resorts all draw inspiration from the distinct landscape that surrounds Sedona. With a dozen or so options, there is a resort that is suitable for most budgets. Offerings at these facilities include massages, facials, farm-to-table food experiences, boutique shopping, fitness centers, and more reflective activities like meditation, yoga, stargazing, and art classes.

Regardless of price point, a common theme is present at all resorts—tranquility. There are plenty of places to chill. Whether poolside, on a walking path, or a private balcony, it is easy to embrace the calm surroundings and truly unwind.

This feature first appeared in the January Issue 954 of the FLYING print edition.