Sedona: Trails, Culture and Views

Sedona can be planned from different perspectives: shared-use paths, individual hiking trails, viewpoints, and cultural and spiritual sites each offer a different focus. If you’re looking for a hotel in Sedona, these interests can help you choose a theme for your trip.

Trails and Viewpoints

The Sedona Trails & Pathways System (ST&PS) is a citywide network of shared, non-motorized paths for cyclists, walkers, hikers and runners. It connects residential neighborhoods, shopping areas, workplaces, schools, parks and open spaces, as well as the surrounding national forest. The network therefore offers a broad range of connections; individual hiking trails have their own destinations and routes.

Some hiking trails in Sedona lead to viewpoints and archaeological cultural sites. Information and maps about the trails are available at the Visitors Center. As visitor information may change, check the services before your trip. Pass requirements also apply to activities on National Forest land in Red Rock Country, and you should check the latest requirements in advance.

The Airport Scenic Overlook in West Sedona offers views of Chimney Rock, Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot and other mountains. The Sedona View Trail is 0.7 miles long and connects the overlook with the Vortex parking lot below. The viewpoint and its mountain backdrop, along with a specifically named trail connection, serve as distinct points of reference.

Culture and Art

The permanent exhibits at the Sedona Heritage Museum cover the first settlers, ranching and cowboys, fruit growing, films made in Sedona, and Sedona Schnebly, the city’s namesake. The specific presentation may change. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village offers a different focus: the Spanish-style plaza is home to galleries, arts and crafts shops, and studios.

The Sedona Arts Center offers classes, exhibitions and events for artists and people interested in art of all ages and skill levels. It has offered them since 1958; the current program may vary. Together, these places offer different ways to experience Sedona’s culture: historical themes at the museum, galleries and crafts at Tlaquepaque, and artistic programs at the Arts Center.

Spiritual Sites and Visitor Planning

The Chapel of the Holy Cross was built on land belonging to the Coconino National Forest. Visitors can experience the Chapel through a Catholic Mass, the Taizé prayer service, the artworks, or the Healing Prayer Team. Programs and services may change; check the schedule before your visit. There are only 45 parking spaces at the Chapel. Parking conditions may also change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest visitor information.

The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona, Arizona, is a spiritual site for prayer and meditation. In addition to the Chapel’s various offerings, this is another named site focused on prayer and meditation.

Getting There and Pass Requirements

Those driving from the north can take State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon; it is one of Arizona’s designated Scenic Byways. Road conditions and access may change seasonally, so plan this route using current information. SR-179 is designated an All American Road for its natural, recreational and scenic qualities; the designation comes from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The information about the two roads concerns different aspects: SR 89A is one possible route for driving in from the north, while SR-179 holds a special designation.

A Red Rock Pass or a Golden Eagle, Golden Age, or Golden Access Pass is required for recreational activities such as hiking, biking and swimming on National Forest land in Red Rock Country. Check the current requirements before your activity. When planning your stay in Sedona, you can use the information provided to assess trails, cultural sites and travel conditions.

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