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The Perfect 3 Days in Sedona Itinerary (For Hikers and Non-Hikers)

The Perfect 3 Days in Sedona Itinerary (For Hikers and Non-Hikers)

Sedona is one of the most sacred and beautiful destinations on earth. People travel worldwide to enjoy a spiritual or outdoorsy adventure in Sedona’s Red Rock Country. From the majestic red rock formations to epic off-roading Jeep tours, amazing hiking trails, vortex healing, and delicious Southwestern cuisine—Sedona is pure magic, and my three days in Sedona itinerary has it all! 

My 3-day itinerary in Sedona is perfect for both hikers and non-hikers. Whether you are visiting for healing or your next adventurous hike, I have daily activities to fill your day. The itinerary also includes where to eat, suggestions of places to stay, and more.

Three days in Sedona is the perfect amount of time to embrace the energy of the Red Rock Country. However, if you can spare more days, you will not regret it because there are so many fun things to do in Sedona.



Best Time to Visit Sedona

A car driving the Red Rock Scenic Byway with the iconic Bell Rock butte in view.

The summer brings potential monsoons and scorching temperatures of 95°F to 115°F, especially when hiking in the canyons because of the reflectivity of the rocks. So, the best time to visit Sedona is spring and fall.

March through May is the prettiest time when native flowers bloom, bringing a pop of color to the vast desert landscape. The weather is perfect—a hiker’s ideal condition with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s. 

Leaves change from late September through November, and mild temperatures range from the 70s to 80s. Since spring and fall are peak seasons in Sedona, expect an increase in visitors, more traffic on the one-lane roads, and higher room rates.



Where to Stay in Sedona

During your three days in Sedona, you will travel on two main roads that form a “Y.” All of Sedona’s top attractions are located along this “Y,” and it only takes 20-30 minutes to go from one end to the other.

Sedona’s stunning scenery surrounds you at every turn, so nearly every hotel offers breathtaking views—and popular destinations are only a short drive away from anywhere you stay. Therefore, the best place to stay in Sedona comes down to amenities, budget, and preference. 

Resort pool at Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock—one of the best places to stay in Sedona, especially for families.

Luxury Hotels in Sedona:

  • Enchantment Resort – Consistently rated one of the best hotels in the country. Guests can book a tee time at the private Seven Canyons golf course and enjoy world-class treatment at the exclusive Mii Amo Spa.
  • L’Auberge de Sedona – Another top-rated hotel in the country. L’Auberge de Sedona is a tranquil place to stay, with luxury cottages tucked away on the banks of Oak Creek.

Mid-Range Hotels in Sedona:

  • Arabella Hotel Sedona – An award-winning boutique hotel in the heart of the city. They have complimentary cruiser bikes to enjoy off-property and a sunset vista overlook for guests to enjoy stunning views.
  • Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock – We are loyal Hilton Honors members, so we stayed at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. It is outside the busy part of town but near popular hiking destinations such as Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. It’s also a wonderful hotel for families. The resort has a splash area for kids, s’mores around the fire pit, and movie nights. 
  • The Wilde Resort and Spa – A beautiful boutique resort with ample opportunities to relax and rejuvenate. Take a dip in the pool, do yoga by the medicine wheel, or get a spa treatment.

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Sedona:

  • GreenTree Inn Sedona – An affordable hotel that will exceed your expectations. There is a complimentary breakfast, spacious and comfortable rooms, a lovely pool, and a hot tub.
  • Los Abrigados Resort & Spa – The best budget-friendly prices for a resort in Sedona. There are ample amenities for guests of all ages, such as garden chess, pickleball, mini-golf, bocce ball, and much more.



How to Spend 3 Days in Sedona

Panoramic views of the Sedona landscape from the summit of Bell Rock.

If you visit Sedona in late spring through early fall, sunrise is the best time to start your day because you beat the heat and crowds. Sunset is also a great time to explore Sedona because the golden hour light radiates off the red rock formations for the most beautiful views.

Therefore, most activities during your three days in Sedona are in the morning. This also helps give you more freedom to park and hike before parking lots close so that the Sedona Shuttle can begin its schedule. The afternoon is for relaxation, shopping, and dining. 

Like most of my itineraries, I have written this guide for four nights and three full days. If you arrive in Sedona early, have a late departure, or stay more than three days, you are in luck because my guide has additional things to add to your trip!

You can follow my 3-day itinerary in Sedona as written or use it to inspire and tailor your own. In any case, I hope you find it helpful! 


3 Days in Sedona Itinerary Overview for Hikers

Day 1: Sunrise hike to Devils Bridge, afternoon jeep tour, and sunset at the Airport Mesa Vortex.

Day 2: Sunrise hike to Cathedral Rock, morning (or sunset) hike to Bell Rock, visit Chapel at the Holy Cross, and explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

Day 3: Morning hike to Subway Cave, get a psychic reading or crystal sound healing, afternoon winery hopping, and sunset dinner at Mariposa.

You will need a Red Rock Pass to park at many trailheads and attractions. I would get the weekly pass to cover your entire trip. Once you get your rental car, purchase the pass online so you are ready to go! If you have an America the Beautiful Pass, it will work in place of the Red Rock Pass.

Red rock formations from a scenic lookout at Chapel of the Holy Cross.


3 Days in Sedona Itinerary Overview for Non-Hikers

Day 1: Sunrise yoga, afternoon Jeep tour, and sunset at the Airport Mesa Vortex or scenic overlook

Day 2 Sunrise hot air balloon ride, visit the wolf sanctuary and the Chapel at the Holy Cross, and explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

Day 3: Morning meditation at Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, get a psychic reading or crystal sound healing, afternoon winery hopping, and sunset dinner at Mariposa.



Sedona Itinerary Day 1: Devil’s Bridge, Yoga, Jeep Tour, and Vortexes

Kick off your first day in Sedona with a few of the best sights and activities in Red Rock Country. You will enjoy one of the most popular hikes (or a lovely yoga session), an off-roading adventure, and end with a sunset at a vortex.


Sunrise Hike to Devil’s Bridge

A couple holding hands walking across the iconic Devil's Bridge in Sedona.

A sunrise hike to Devil’s Bridge is the perfect way to start your three days in Sedona. After all, it’s the most popular hike in Sedona. 

There are several ways to hike Devil’s Bridge. I recommend hiking the Mescal Trailhead. It is a scenic 3.9-mile (1 hour and 40 minutes) roundtrip hike through the desert landscape. Make sure you arrive as early as possible at the Mescal Trailhead parking because there are limited parking spots.

If you have a 4WD, you can drive directly to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead for a shorter 2-mile roundtrip hike. Another option is to park at the Dry Creek Trailhead, which involves a 4.6-mile roundtrip trek along a dull and dusty road.

The hike is moderately easy on a mostly flat trail with a steep incline near the end. Once you reach the iconic sandstone arch, soak in the views and get your camera ready to take that Instagram-worthy picture!

As the day progresses, more hikers arrive to capture their photos. And yes, people start lining up for their turn on the arch. Thankfully, everyone is usually patient and generous in helping take pictures. 

For any non-hikers, if you want to do a hike, this is the one because of its difficulty level and rewarding views.


Or a Sunrise Yoga Hike

Unlock your full potential in a gentle hike to a sacred vortex and discover peace through your mind and movement. 

I know this option is for non-hikers, but a yoga hike in Sedona is unlike any hike or yoga session. It is a one-of-a-kind transformational experience of self-discovery as you embrace the vortex energy among a breathtaking backdrop of Sedona’s red rocks.

Whether this is your first yoga session or an experienced yogi, these classes are for anyone. The yoga instructor specially curates the hike and yoga session to fit your needs and level. By the end of your session, you will feel rejuvenated and have a deeper connection with yourself and nature.


Go on an Off-Roading Jeep Tour

A Jeep Gladiator from Arizona Safari Jeep Tours with Merry-Go-Rock in the background. This Jeep tour is one of the best things to add to your 3-day Sedona Itinerary.

An off-roading jeep tour is easily one of the best things to do in Sedona. From mild to very rugged, there are so many off-roading routes that you could fill your three days in Sedona with only jeep tours. There are also a handful of jeep tour companies to choose from.

I highly recommend Arizona Safari Jeep Tours for the best and most personal experience. Arizona Jeep Tours drives custom-built Jeep Gladiators with one-of-a-kind patent parts to provide a safe and comfortable journey.

The best tour from Arizona Safari Jeep Tours is the Rim Run Supreme. It’s a 2.5-hour off-roading adventure on a very rugged terrain.

A couple enjoying views of Mogollon Rim at Merry-Go-Rock.

The tour follows a narrow, rocky path on the edge of a cliff, providing a thrilling experience and breathtaking views of the Mogollon Rim. Along the way, you can see red rock formations like Snoopy Rock and Cow Pie Rock before reaching the highest vantage point.

Then, you take a short hike to the iconic Merry Go Around Rock for sweeping panoramic views of Mogollon Rim and beyond. This is easily one of the best views in Sedona, and you can only get here with a 4WD vehicle. So book this tour!


Watch the Sunset at the Airport Mesa Vortex

A view of the sunset in Sedona from Airport Mesa Summit.

Every Sedona itinerary needs a sunset experience. When you think Sedona could not look more beautiful, the golden hour light intensifies the red rock formations for a breathtaking red-painted landscape. 

The Airport Mesa summit is a vortex and one of the best places to watch a Sedona sunset, relax, and feel the positive effects of the phenomenon. It is an easy five-minute hike to the flat-topped red rock, which offers stunning views of iconic formations like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.

The Airport Mesa parking lot has only 10 – 12 spots, so it’s highly recommended that you arrive at least an hour before sunset to park there.

A couple sitting on the edge of the Airport Mesa summit enjoying sunset views of Sedona.

Need to kill time? Hike the Sedona Airport Loop Trail. It’s a moderate 3.3-mile hike (1 hour and 20 minutes) that loops around Airport Mesa’s Table Top Mountain and has excellent views of Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.

If you are not one of the lucky ones to park at the bottom of the summit, do not worry. You can park at the Airport Mesa scenic lookout for a $3 fee. To get to the Airport Mesa Vortex from here, you will hike the Sedona View Trail—a moderately easy 1.4-mile hike on a narrow, rocky trail.

Another option is to park at the Airport Mesa scenic lookout and walk across the street to the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout. You can also dine at Mesa Grill for a delicious sunset dinner with amazing views and the best prickly pear margaritas.



Sedona Itinerary Day 2: Rock Scrambling, Spirituality, and Shopping

On your second day in Sedona, you will get an uphill cardio workout with fun rock scrambling at Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock (or enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride and a healing experience with wolves). Then, you will visit one of the most beautiful chapels in the world and shop for artwork or souvenirs at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.


Sunrise Hike to Cathedral Rock

A couple on the edge of a butte at Cathedral Rock enjoying gorgeous views during sunrise.

Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most iconic red rock formations and photographed sites. The natural sandstone butte is gorgeous throughout the day, but it’s picture-perfect at sunrise or sunset. 

It’s also a vortex. So, like the Airport Mesa, its beauty combined with a stunning sunrise or sunset enhances the sacred energy to give you a surreal experience. 

Cathedral Rock is a short yet challenging 1.2-mile out-and-back trail. It is an unshaded, uphill trek (more of a rock scramble) that takes about an hour and a half to complete.

Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Eastern mountains and rock formations, but the views at the top are unmatched. As the name suggests, the top resembles a cathedral, featuring towering rock formations that create a breathtaking natural atrium with an atmosphere infused with sacred energy—leaving you with a profound sense of spirituality and rejuvenation.

The Cathedral Rock parking lot has limited spaces (about 10 spots) and is closed from Thursday through Sunday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. During that timeframe, the trail is only accessible via the Sedona Shuttle service.

This is why I prefer to hike the trail at sunrise. You can park at the trailhead any day of the week. Whereas, a sunset hike needs to be planned accordingly (hike Monday through Wednesday).


Rock Scramble to Bell Rock

A man standing on the edge of a summit at Bell Rock admiring the red rock butte and beautiful landscape.

Consider the rock scrambling at Cathedral Rock a warm-up for Bell Rock. Of all the hikes in Sedona, this is by far my favorite! 

A few hikes at Bell Rock are suited for all hiking levels, but the Bell Rock Climb (also called the Bell Rock Trail) is the most challenging and fun.

The Bell Rock Climb is a moderately challenging 1.1-mile hike, or more like a rock scramble, up the easily recognizable butte. At first, the trail is well-marked, but as you ascend along the butte, it becomes a free-for-all. 

The goal is to make your way up to two spires on the eastern side of Bell Rock. Supposedly, there is a “right” path to take, but you want to make your way up the best and safest way fit for you. Or, if you are lucky, follow other hikers going up or coming down.

Once you reach the top, it’s an easy hike to the spires and small platforms, which offer unbelievable panoramic views. 

The Bell Rock parking lot is closed Thursday through Sunday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (when the Sedona Shuttle operates). For this Seonda itinerary, you can hike it after Cathedral Rock or before sunset. Just plan accordingly with the parking lot/shuttle service.


Or Enjoy Breathtaking Sunrise Views from the Air

Two yellow hot air balloons floating in the sky above the red rock landscape—an ultimate bucket list experience for a 3-day Sedona Itinerary.

All of the hiking in Sedona will not give you a better view of the red rock formations illuminated by the warm glow of a sunrise than in the air. So take flight in a sunrise hot air balloon and glide over Red Rock Country. It is an exhilarating experience that will surely be the highlight of your three days in Sedona. 

From the moment you step into the basket, you are in for a bucket list adventure! Your guide will skillfully navigate the hot air balloon and share informative knowledge of Sedona and the history of the aircraft—while you enjoy the gift of Mother Nature painting the sky over Sedona.

As your feet find land again, you finish your journey with a lovely champagne toast to commemorate your airborne experience with fellow passengers. 


And Experience a Spiritual Wolf Encounter

The Sedona Wolf Sanctuary is a unique opportunity to encounter wolves in a spiritual formality. Following the belief of Native Americans, wolves are spirit animals that hold a special ancient energy that has the power to heal you.

During your visit to the Sedona Wolf Sanctuary, you will learn about the sacred native land, the local Yavapai Indians, ancestral history, and the wonders of wolf magic. When you enter the wolf sanctuary, you will immediately feel a sense of tranquility. As the wolves approach and interact with you, be prepared for an indescribable feeling—wolf magic.

It is truly remarkable how each wolf can sense and provide what you need. At the end of your extraordinary experience, you will feel more connected to nature, your body, mind, and soul.

The Sedona Wolf Sanctuary is located 30 – 40 minutes outside of Sedona. You need to book your reservation in advance, be on time (early), and dress appropriately.


Say a Prayer at the Chapel at the Holy Cross

Even if you are not religious, you should visit the Chapel at the Holy Cross. It is undoubtedly an architectural masterpiece and one of the most magnificent chapels in the world.

The Chapel at the Holy Cross is a Roman Catholic chapel built into the red rock buttes and welcomes everyone. You may attend its intimate Catholic mass, adoration, confession, and taize prayer service. 

You may also light a candle for a loved one, fill a vial with holy water, browse the gift shop, and if you stand in the bronze footprints, you will find Christ looking down on you.


Find Something Special at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

A gorgeous plaza with vine covered walls at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

Exploring the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is one of the best things to do in Sedona. It is an acclaimed arts, culture, and outdoor shopping destination inspired by Guadalajara that encapsulates the city’s authenticity.

Walking on the cobblestone paths and through the decorative arches, you no longer feel like you are in the Southwest. You feel like you have just stepped foot into a traditional Mexican village.

A cross in front of a beautiful church at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

We are not art enthusiasts, but we became one after browsing the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village art galleries. There are so many talented local, Native American, and international artists.

Our favorite gallery is Renee Taylor Gallery, nestled in the back adjacent to a wind sculpture garden. I wanted to take every piece in the gallery and put it inside my home.

One of the coolest stores is Sedona Candle Gallery. They turn candles into art by hand-dipping them in wax and sculpting them into intricate designs. When you enter the store, you can watch the artists make the candles by hand. It’s hard not to walk out with a dozen candles—they are so unique!



Sedona Itinerary Day 3: Caves, Meditation, Wineries, and Sunset Dinner

The last day of your Sedona itinerary includes everything encompassing the magical city. Start your morning with one more amazing hike (or enjoy meditation at a peaceful park). Get a psychic reading and/or crystal sound healing. Go winery hopping. And, to end it all, have a sunset dinner at one of the most beautiful restaurants in the country. 


Morning Hike to Subway Cave

A couple at the edge of Subway Cave looking out into the canyon during sunrise.

The Subway Cave is my favorite of all the caves we explored in Sedona. The Subway Cave Trail is a long 6.1-mile hike (about 3 hours and 30 minutes), but it’s an easy, mostly flat trail with a short rock scramble incline at the end.

The trail to the Subway Cave is at the 2-mile point on the Boynton Canyon Trail. Therefore, you want to start at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, which has minimal parking. So arrive early.

Once you reach the sandstone incline, you are there! Make your way up, turn around, and be prepared to say, “Wow!”. Soak in the spectacular cave with breathtaking canyon views.

I recommend getting AllTrails+ for your three days in Sedona to help guide you on all the hikes—especially this one. You can download trails to use while offline, and it will track your movement to help keep you on the trail. We encountered at least a handful of hikers who got lost on the trail. We were able to help them find the right way—thanks, AllTrails!

To see the ruins, walk out onto the right side of the cave and continue around the bend. The trail continues along the canyon wall, where you will find petroglyphs until you reach the ruins.


Morning Meditation at Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a spiritual haven for individuals of all faiths. It is owned by Kunzang Palyul Choling, a Tibetan Buddhist temple rooted in the Vajrayana tradition.

Each day, countless residents and visitors gather at this beautiful, sacred place to pray, meditate, and find peace. In the park, you will discover two Buddhist stupas, a Native American medicine wheel, a wooden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, and many serene spots perfect for meditation and quiet reflection.

The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park are free to visit, but donations are appreciated.


Get a Psychic Reading or Crystal Sound Healing

A tarot reading of five cards at Sedona Healing Arts.

Embrace the vibrant energy of Red Rock Country with a psychic reading or crystal sound healing. Sedona is home to many renowned readers, including those at Sedona Healing Arts, where you can get an aura photo analysis, tarot, psychic, and palm readings.

My session with Kristen was transformative. She tapped into my soul with such genuine care that I cried during my tarot reading and left with a better understanding of myself and my future. 

Crystal sound healing uses crystal bowls as a musical instrument to produce vibrational frequencies that move through the body’s skin, fluids, and bones. The experience of the vibrational frequency promotes relaxation, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and improves sleep.

Crystal sound healing is available throughout Sedona, including Sedona Healing Arts and Sacred Soul of the Soul. Luckily, all our hiking at Vortexes helped release our stress, but I wish we had done a crystal sound healing session, too.

Whether you get a tarot reading, aura reading, or find balance through crystal singing bowls—it is all a journey of self-reflection and healing. Go into it with an open mind, and you might be surprised by what you find. I know I did!


Sip Arizona Wines on the Verde Valley Wine Trail

A wine flight of white wines and a dark red wine at the end from Oak Creek Vineyards and Winery.

The Verde Valley Wine Trail, located about 20-40 minutes south of Sedona, features over 25 wineries scattered through six cities.

I recommend visiting Page Springs Cellars, nestled on the banks of Oak Creek, for a tasty lunch with a bottle of wine. It’s a picture-perfect winery with a French bistro, art gallery, scenic views overlooking the vineyard, and picnic areas by the creek.

A sweet couple holding a bottle of wine and glasses walking under a vines at Page Springs Cellars.

Then, make your way across the street to Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery and enjoy an exquisite wine tasting with small bites of food. On the weekends, they have their signature wine cocktail, a prickly pear moscarorita that is not to be missed!

We had such a great time here. I went home with a bottle of wine (it could have been more, but I didn’t have room in my suitcase).

If time permits, the last winery to visit on the Verde Valley Wine Trail is DA Ranch—a gorgeous estate with a country-esque setting and friendly horses, dogs, and goats. You can sip wine inside the cozy ranch, by the pond, by the fireplace, or under weeping willows.


Enjoy a Sunset Dinner at Mairposa

A sunset view of red rock formations from Mariposa in Sedona.

Mariposa sits atop a scenic bluff with panoramic views of the surrounding red rock canyons. It is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the country and the perfect place to end your three days in Sedona.

Lisa Dahl is an acclaimed chef who welcomes guests to her upscale Latin-inspired steakhouse for world-class hospitality and food that feeds the soul. From handmade empanadas to wood-grilled USDA-certified black Angus steak cooked to perfection, luscious lobster scampi mashed potatoes, and decadent desserts, you will surely feel that Mariposa has touched your soul. 

You should make dinner reservations 30 minutes before sunset for outside dining or kindly ask for a table by the window. This way, you can enjoy the golden hour glow during cocktails and appetizers. At one point, half of the dining room was empty because everyone went outside to enjoy the gorgeous sunset. 



More Things to Do in Sedona

If you have more than three days in Sedona or some of the suggestions in the itinerary above do not interest you, here are a few more things you can do.


Slide Down a Natural Water Slide

A woman in an orange bathing suit sliding down the natural water slide at Slide Rock State Park—one of the best things to do in Sedona.

Grab your swimsuit and get ready to escape the heat in the chilling waters of Oak Creek. Slide Rock State Park is one of the best things to do in Sedona.

Slide Rock State Park is one of the top swimming holes in the country. The algae on Sedona’s red rocks form the ultimate 80-foot-long water slide. Enjoy the stunning landscape surrounding Oak Creek and have fun sliding down the water chute or swimming in the refreshing water.

If there is one activity you could squeeze in or substitute in the Sedona itinerary, it should be this one— especially if you have kids or a kid at heart!


Hike the Sedona “Narrows”

A man knee-deep in a creek inside a slot canyon from the West Fork of Oak Creek Trail in Sedona.

You have probably heard of The Narrows Trail at Zion National Park, but have you heard of “the narrows” in Sedona? The West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is 20 minutes outside the city but within the vast and beautiful Coconino National Forest.

The West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is a change of pace from all of the hikes in Sedona. The easy 6.5-mile trail takes you on an enchanting hike through a canyon with towering walls and a dense forest. You will cross 13 creeks by balancing on log beams and stepping over rocks until you reach the trail’s end—a knee-deep creek in a slot canyon. 

You can turn around and head back or, better yet, wade your way through the chilly waters for an awesome experience. 

Every slight bend brings a better view of this breathtaking slot canyon, and it’s up to you how far you want to hike. Wading through the creek goes on for two unmaintained miles. 

I would do this hike last in your Sedona itinerary because your shoes will be soaking wet. I also recommend packing a dry bag for your shoes, so your suitcase is not ruined.


Visit the Honanki and Palatki Heritage Sites

If you love history and architecture, visit the Honanki and Palatki Heritage Sites. They are the largest ancient cliff dwellings of the Red Rock Country, built between AD 1150 and 1350.

To reach the ancient sites, you need a high-clearance vehicle with off-roading skills, but the journey is well worth it. Book a guided tour or explore the three trails at Palatki Heritage Site.

The most accessible trail takes you to a view of the ruins. Another trail has 60 uneven, strenuous steps to the ruins, and the last one goes to the alcoves that house the painted symbols and pictographs from every native culture that has inhabited the Verde Valley.

A little further out is the Honanki Heritage Site. There are no guided tours, but Pink Jeep Tours offers a guided excursion to the ancient site. Some say Palatki is more impressive than Honanki, but they are both remarkable.


Hike to Seven Sacred Pools and Soldier Pass Cave

A golden glow inside the stunning Soldier Pass Cave in Sedona.

Soldier Pass Cave is another famous cave in Sedona. It is an enjoyable 3.2-mile hike (3 hours) with tricky rock scrambling to reach the cave. Along the way, you can see other unique sites like the Seven Sacred Pools and Devil’s Kitchen. 

The Seven Sacred Pools are a series of small pools of water naturally carved out of red sandstone. Although they could dry up during warmer months, they are still cool to see.

After some rock scrambling and climbing, you arrive inside Soldier Pass Cave. This uniquely shaped cave glows from sunlight peaking through the top. There is also a window cave with stunning views and a great silhouette photo opportunity. 

As usual, you need to know about parking. The trailhead has gated parking with only 14 spots, which is open Monday through Wednesday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. From Thursday through Sunday, you have to park one mile away at Posse Grounds, which extends your hike an extra two miles. 



Where to Eat for 3 Days in Sedona

As a foodie and former chef, I was very impressed with the caliber of talent from all of the restaurants in Sedona. The city might be known for its hiking and sacred energy, but it’s also easily a foodie destination.

You will find some of the best southwestern cuisine, modern-Mexican cuisine, coal oven pizza, tasty prickly pear margaritas, and local craft beer. Here are a few restaurants to fill your three days in Sedona’s itinerary.


Coffee Pot Restaurant

Someone pouring coffee from a coffee pot into a mug next to a plate of hash browns and an omelette at the Coffee Pot Restaurant in Sedona.

The Coffee Pot Restaurant is an iconic establishment known for its warm hospitality, local charm, delicious coffee, and 101-omelet menu. In addition to omelets, they have an extensive breakfast selection, including eggs benedict, pancakes, Belgian waffles, and huevos rancheros—served all day.

Must order: a pot of hot coffee with any omelette. We had #80 (corned beef hash with cheese) and #92 (smoked salmon with sauteed onions and cream cheese).


Hideaway House

The Hideaway House is a casual Italian restaurant with breathtaking views of the red rocks. You want to dine outside on the deck. It’s one of the best places to eat lunch in Sedona, especially after a morning of hiking or at sunset. 

Must order: their signature Roasted Peach & Caramelized Pancetta Pizza is amazing!!!! Or Kat’s Way Pizza—half Roasted Peach & Caramelized Pancetta and half another signature pizza.


Sedona Beer Company

What’s better than a cold glass of beer after a hike? Good food to go with it! Sedona Beer Company is an excellent local craft brewery and restaurant with a rotating, creative menu. Try one of Sedona Beer Company’s signature beers on tap or their vintage bottle selection of unique beers.

Must order: a cold glass of beer, deviled eggs, and the Motherclucker Chicken Sandwich.


The Hudson

A bowl of fettuccine Southwestern pasta with chicken, black beans, and corn from The Hudson in Sedona.

The Hudson is a neighborhood, chef-driven restaurant serving seasonal American cuisine focusing on Southwestern flavors and fun twists on classic dishes. The restaurant sits high on a hillside, making it a wonderful place to eat lunch or sunset dinner while soaking in gorgeous views of red rock formations. 

Must order: Chef Jeff’s Famous Corn Chowder, a tasting board of bruschetta, Southwest Chicken Pasta, and the huge Chicken Pot Pie.


Mesa Grill

Mesa Grill is another iconic Sedona restaurant adjacent to the Sedona Airport. It is known for its stunning sunset views and lively atmosphere to watch planes take off. Capitalizing on its prime location, the Southwestern restaurant offers a thoughtfully crafted menu featuring bold flavors that perfectly complement its vibrant setting.

Must order: Prickly Pear Margarita, Blackened Salmon, and Mesa Grill’s Famous Fried Chicken.


Elote Cafe

A half-moon shaped beef enchilada topped with vibrant ingredients at Elote Cafe in Sedona.

Elote Cafe is an award-winning modern, authentic Mexican and Southwestern restaurant. Chef Jeff incorporates local, organic ingredients into the menu to showcase responsible cooking and provide guests with a sustainable dining experience. 

I wish we had dined here more than once because the 14-hour-smoked brisket in my enchiladas was the best brisket I’ve ever had—and I am from Texas, aka a BBQ snob. I can only imagine how tender and delicious the other entrees, like carne asada, pork belly, and lamb adobo, taste.

Must order: Elote, Goat Cheese Balls, and Smoked Brisket Enchiladas.

That concludes my 3 days in Sedona itinerary. I hope you have found it helpful to plan your trip!

Carol Westrich

Wednesday 23rd of October 2024

Thank you so much for this very detailed and informative itinerary. I’ve been to Sedona but have always wanted to go back for a lengthier stay and enjoy more of it’s beauty.

oursweetadventures

Wednesday 23rd of October 2024

Aww my pleasure. I am so delighted to hear that you like my itinerary. I hope you get to go back soon and enjoy the magic of Sedona!