25 Best Things To Do In Sedona In Winter [Essential Travel Guide]
From its picturesque red rocks to endless outdoor adventures, Sedona in winter can be an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s hiking along trails lined with towering sandstone formations or taking in the many cultural events, winter in Sedona has much to offer.
Here is a complete winter travel guide to help you soak in the breathtaking views and amazing activities in Sedona. Enjoy plenty of sunshine and pack all that is needed to appreciate what this beautiful desert paradise has to offer!
Does It Snow In Sedona In Winter?
Yes. However, Sedona is located in the high desert of Arizona, therefore it does not see much snow. Heavy snowfall is rare but you can typically get a light dusting of snow. The region sees an average snowfall of 11 inches in winter each year.
Winter In Sedona, Arizona
With its red-rock canyons, stunning vistas, and picturesque sunsets, Sedona is a sight to behold in the winter season. An extended snow season can begin in late November and goes through to early April, with the main winter period between December and February.
The climate in Sedona during the winter months can vary greatly across the day. During the day, temperatures can range from 45 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. At night and early morning, it can get pretty cold around 30+ degrees.
Be sure to pack a few layers of warm clothing and a good jacket to keep you cozy in Sedona during winter.
Sedona In December Climate
Sedona in December is cool and mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the high 50s. The days are generally sunny with little rainfall. Snowfall is rare in Sedona during December, but it can occur occasionally.
Sedona In January Climate
January is usually the coldest month of winter in Sedona with temperatures ranging from 34°F to 60°F. Chances of snowfall start to increase although it is not extremely common. The city typically sees an average of around 2 inches of snow in the month.
Sedona In February Climate
February is the tail end of winter and the weather starts to warm up slightly. Temperatures range from 34°F to 64°F. Nonetheless, this remains one of the better months for snow with the city recording an average of 2.7 inches of snow in February.
What To Pack For Winter In Sedona Arizona
When it comes to packing for winter in Sedona, Arizona the most important items are layers and a warm jacket. Be sure to bring plenty of sweaters and long-sleeved shirts as well as gloves, hats, and scarves. Additionally, make sure you also pack comfortable shoes with good grip for hiking or walking on inclines.
Best Things To Do In Sedona In Winter
Sedona is beautiful during winter and offers many things to do that can be enjoyed regardless of the cold temperatures. Here are some of our top picks for activities in Sedona in winter.
Things To Do In Sedona Outdoors
Soak in the nature through a jeep tour
Taking a jeep tour in Sedona is a must-do when visiting this stunning desert paradise in winter. With its picturesque red rocks and majestic canyons, experiencing the landscape from behind the wheel of an open-air jeep is truly one-of-a-kind.
Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most popular spots for a jeep tour. Here, you can explore the area’s natural beauty from lofty heights and at the top of the Colorado Plateau (2,000 feet). Take in awe-inspiring views of the canyon and the towering cliffs all around throughout the ride.
Get a bird’s eye view from a hot air balloon
For a unique way to explore Sedona’s stunning landscape, soar over the red rocks in a hot air balloon. This is sure to be one of your most memorable winter experiences in Sedona!
The balloons often launch around sunrise and you can expect to be up in the sky for an hour or so. During your flight, take in views of the scenic canyons and red rock formations that this captivating region is known for.
It can be both an exhilarating yet also peaceful experience from the top. What better way to kick off an epic winter adventure in Sedona?
Fully immerse in nature with winter camping
As you can see, Sedona is famous for its nature. To truly experience Sedona’s beauty without the day crowds, consider winter camping. With the sun setting early and temperatures falling, you can have a unique outdoor adventure away from civilization in some of Arizona’s most stunning parks.
Adventurous campers can explore miles of hiking trails, stay over in Oak Creek Canyon, or take a drive along Back O’ Beyond Road for impressive views. Enjoy an evening by the campfire, spot some stars in the night sky, or just take a leisurely winter stroll around your campsite with a hot cup of cocoa.
The area is home to some of the most gorgeous winter landscapes in Arizona — so winter camping in Sedona is sure to provide a memorable experience!
Hop on the Sedona Trolley
Sedona’s winter season is still a great time to explore the area. You can hop on the Sedona Trolley at Uptown Sedona and explore the city without having to worry about getting cold.
Take a ride along your select route, which travels past some of the most iconic sights in this area. Throughout your journey, admire views of red rock formations, canyons, and blue skies while learning about the local flora and fauna from an onboard guide.
The tour lasts for around an hour. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way and you can always explore individual sites again later. All aboard for a one-of-a-kind Sedona adventure!
Thrilling Things To Do In Sedona
Explore Sedona from above with a Helicopter tour
For those who prefer a more thrilling way to explore from above, a helicopter tour is another popular option in Sedona. Experience an unforgettable aerial adventure as you soar over this stunning region from the skies.
Your experienced pilot will fly you over some of the most iconic sites, such as Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. If you are lucky, you’ll also get to spot some unique wildlife, such as bald eagles and mountain goats.
During the flight, enjoy insane views of the red rocks and learn more about the area from your pilot. The flights usually last for around 30-40 minutes and offer an awe-inspiring experience that you won’t soon forget! Don’t forget to grab your camera for some amazing photos.
Have an adventure on an ATV
For a thrilling adventure, head out for an ATV ride in Sedona. The seductive red rocks and majestic canyons make for a spectacular backdrop as you race through the desert terrain. There is a reason why the region has been a popular filming location.
ATV tours are typically offered from November to April, depending on the weather conditions. Most companies provide all the equipment needed including helmets and spare parts, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure! Get that adrenaline rush in whilst admiring the stunning landscape.
Visit the area’s majestic ski resorts
Sedona offers some amazing skiing opportunities at nearby resorts in Arizona. These include popular spots such as Arizona Snowbowl and Sunrise Park Resort. The resort has a range of trails for snowboarding, skiing, and tubing, and also offers special services such as ski and snowboard rentals, ski lessons, and more.
Enjoy the winter season with your family or friends by taking a fun-filled trip to one of Sedona’s premier skiing spots. Whether you are a beginner or an expert skier, you can find something that is suitable for your needs.
Get funky on the Broken Arrow Trail in a pink jeep tour
The Broken Arrow Trail in Sedona is a popular spot for nature lovers. It’s all about the drive, and one of the best ways to get there and explore is in an exciting pink jeep tour
Experience some of the best off-roading trails in the entire Southwest on this unique adventure. As you make your way up the terrain, marvel at the spectacular views and spot some of Sedona’s unique wildlife.
The tour guides will also share interesting stories about the area’s history, geology, culture, and local legends during your trip. You get to venture deep into hidden canyons, over rocky plateaus, and around giant red rock formations for some unique photo opportunities!
Relaxing Things To Do In Sedona
Admire the night sky in Sedona
Arizona’s night sky is one of the most spectacular sights you will ever witness! The crisp winter air makes it perfect for stargazing, and Sedona’s durable skies guarantee a magical experience.
Visit the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff or join a stargazing tour to get a glimpse into the seduction of galaxies or join an astronomy tour. Professional guides will bring you to the best spots and share their knowledge about the stars, constellations, and galaxies.
Explore the night sky with night vision goggles while keeping warm with heaters. It’s a great night activity for both amateur and experienced stargazers — and an unforgettable experience you won’t soon forget!
Relax at a spa in Sedona
Sedona is home to some of the best spas in Arizona. Enjoy a relaxing day at one of Sedona’s renowned spa resorts and rejuvenate your body and mind. Get pampered with luxurious treatments, soak in a hot tub, or join yoga classes to relax and unwind.
Choose from different types of massages such as hot stone therapy, Swedish massage, and more. You can also enjoy facials with natural ingredients or try a body wrap for a truly indulgent experience.
Soak up the stunning views of red rocks while you relax at one of Sedona’s luxurious spas. Some of the popular spots are Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock, Mii Amo, and L’Auberge de Sedona amongst others.
Sample the local wine at Sedona’s wineries
Sedona is home to some of the best wineries in Arizona and offers a unique wine-tasting experience. The Verde Valley is one of the most beautiful wine regions in the country, and Sedona’s award-winning wineries promise a great day out.
Make sure you save some time to explore the many local vineyards and sample their fine wines. Experienced sommeliers will be more than happy to guide you through the distinct flavors of each of the wines and share some interesting facts about the area’s wine-making history.
For a more intimate experience, take a wine tour where you can visit and explore the vineyards and wineries in Sedona. Or join a wine-tasting class to learn more about Sedona’s unique wines.
CHECK VERDE VALLEY VINEYARD TOUR
Indulge in the local craft beer scene
If wine isn’t your choice of alcohol, fret not! Sedona also offers a thriving craft beer scene with some of the best microbreweries in Arizona.
Visit one of Sedona’s local pubs or breweries and sample their unique creations. You’ll get to enjoy the crisp taste of locally brewed pilsners, IPAs, stouts, and sours — crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Make sure you also check out the local beer festivals for a great opportunity to try some of Sedona’s best brews and interact with local brewers and enthusiasts. It’s definitely an experience that every beer lover should have at least once!
Cultural Things To Do In Sedona
Discover traditions at Sedona Heritage Museum
Sedona Heritage Museum offers an interesting glimpse into the history of Sedona. This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the historical, cultural, and natural heritage of the area through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events.
Take a tour of this unique museum to discover more about Sedona’s past and its people. From its ancient Native American roots and ancient ruins to its modern-day culture, Sedona has a long and fascinating history that you can explore here.
Go onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad Christmas Train
The Verde Canyon Railroad is a popular tourist attraction in Sedona and offers a unique holiday experience for the entire family. Every December, the railway and old-fashioned train car transforms into a Christmas wonderland with decorations, lights, and festive music.
You’ll get to explore the beautiful canyon as you pass along the Verde River while sipping on hot cocoa and eating freshly baked cookies. There will also be carolers, storytellers, and guitarists performing throughout the trip to make it an extra special experience for all. Enjoy the festive holiday music and spot Santa Claus as he waves from the caboose
The Christmas Train is a popular family activity in Sedona during the winter months. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and make some magical memories with your loved ones!
Get cultural at Tlaquepaque Art Village
Tlaquepaque is a great place to explore and experience Sedona’s local culture. This vibrant and colorful offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience featuring unique art galleries, restaurants, wine-tasting rooms, and so much more.
Take a stroll through the cobblestone pathways and admire the handcrafted artisanal products in the numerous stores around Tlaquepaque. You can find boutiques filled with antiques, paintings, and jewelry. Enjoy some of the local cuisines in one of the many restaurants, or sample some of Sedona’s finest wines.
The village is also home to several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. During winter months, you can experience Christmas carolers, live music performances, art showcases, and more!
Popular Winter Hikes In Sedona
Hike to the Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona is one of the Southwest’s most iconic landmarks. Perched atop a red rock butte overlooking the beautiful city, the chapel is an architectural marvel.
Built in 1956, this unique structure blends into its natural surroundings and offers breathtaking views from both its interior and exterior spaces. Whether you want to take in the amazing landscape or reflect on spirituality, a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross is sure to be a memorable experience!
The hike up to the chapel is steep but manageable, and you get spectacular views as you ascend through the red rocks. Once at the top, explore the chapel itself and take in the stunning surroundings. After all, this towering chapel is one of Sedona’s most renowned attractions.
Check out the red rock formation on the Devil’s Bridge Trail
Devil’s Bridge Trail is one of the best hikes in Sedona and offers some distinct views of the red rocks during winter. Starting off at a moderate altitude, you gradually make your way up the trail. As you reach higher altitudes, take in seductive views of Cathedral Rock and other nearby formations from atop Devil’s Bridge.
On the way, you’ll pass through some of Sedona’s most iconic geological formations. You’ll likely also spot wildlife such as desert lizards and birds, plus an array of native plants. At the end of the trail, you will be rewarded with amazing views from atop Sedona’s highest natural bridge. It is truly a sight to behold!
The Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. The trail is just under two miles long, with moderate elevation gain.
Don’t miss the Cathedral Rock and Hike
Cathedral Rock is one of the most iconic sites in all Sedona. This towering red rock formation stands 6,000 feet and offers 360-degree views of the city and its surrounding area. Its towering spires and sheer cliffs are breathtaking, and the view from the top is simply spectacular!
The trail to reach the top isn’t easy, but it’s worth it! You can take a short but strenuous hike up to the summit for an unforgettable view. On your journey up, you’ll get to explore some of Sedona’s most impressive scenery and pass through some of its unique geological formations.
The Cathedral Rock trail is a great option for photographers, hikers, or just those looking for an adventure in the outdoors. If you choose to experience it, make sure you take your time and take in all the beauty this area has to offer.
It’s one of those sites that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime—definitely something you don’t want to miss out on when visiting Sedona!
Admire the distinct formations at Bell Rock
The majestic Bell Rock is one of the most spectacular sights in Sedona. Located along State Route 179, it stands at an impressive 4,500 feet and is a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
The unique shape of Bell Rock makes it easily recognizable from many miles away. The immense red rock formation stands tall and proud against the winter skies — a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Take a hike to this stunning location and admire its beauty from up close. From the top, you can watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets with views of red rock formations, providing an atmosphere perfect for relaxation and appreciation of nature’s beauty. It’s really quite an experience.
Find the energy at Boynton Canyon Trail
The Boynton Canyon Trail is a popular route for hikers of all levels due to its ease of access and its reputation as one of the spiritual energy vortex sites. Nevertheless, it is a great way to explore the majestic beauty of Sedona in winter.
The trail is 7.3 miles long trail offers amazing views of red rock formations and towering pine trees to make this a truly memorable hike. Along the way, you can spot different wildlife including songbirds, eagles, and deer. The trail is also perfect for bird-watching and wildlife photography.
Winter Holidays and Events In Sedona, Arizona
You can enjoy a range of events in Sedona during the winter season. Here are some of the exciting events to check out.
Festival of Lights: This event is held every December at Tlaquepaque Shopping Village and features a spectacular display of lights. This family-friendly event also has live music, food and drinks, and plenty of activities for kids including an appearance by Santa Claus.
1st Friday in the Galleries: On the first Friday of each month, you can experience the Sedona art galleries with special exhibits, artist receptions and more. Participating vendors and galleries are situated in different locations over the city from Hillside Sedona, Uptown Sedona, West Sedona, and more.
Chamber Music Sedona Winterfest: This music festival is held every winter and features performances of works, recitals, and educational events. There is also a music concert that typically takes place at Sedona Performing Arts Center, providing an incredible atmosphere for enjoying great music.
RunSedona: For the active souls, there is a winter half-marathon and 10k race held in Sedona. The route takes runners along some of the most beautiful trails in Sedona, making it an invigorating experience.
Sedona International Film Festival: The film festival is a long-running annual event that celebrates independent film-making from around the world. It is held every February and offers a variety of films, workshops, panel discussions, and more.
Whether you’re looking to relax and admire nature’s beauty or take part in exciting events, these are just some of the many events that you can enjoy when visiting Sedona during the winter season.
Places To Stay In Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is full of accommodation options, ranging from cozy cabins to luxury resorts. Here are just a few of the best places to stay in Sedona for a winter vacation.
Budget Accommodations In Sedona
Sedona Village Lodge: Sedona Village Lodge is the perfect place to feel right at home with your pet. This lodge offers flat-screen TVs with cable channels with select units that feature a seating area for added comfort. Free WiFi, free toiletries, and a hairdryer make for a convenient stay. You can easily access different activities nearby such as hiking, golfing, and cycling. Alternatively, you can simply venture out around the area to admire the natural beauty.
Bell Rock Inn: The clean and simple mountain hotel is 30 minutes away from Red Rock State Park. The rooms are equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, and cable TV. There are even fireplaces in some of them. You can take advantage of the on-site amenities such as 2 outdoor pools, a fitness center, laundry and barbecue facilities.
Mid Range Accommodations In Sedona
Los Abrigados Resort and Spa: Located in downtown Sedona, the full-service spa offers a range of massages and facials to ensure the utmost in pampering comfort. Accommodations are spacious and well-equipped with free WiFi, cable TV, a microwave, and a patio. Select units also include fully-equipped kitchens with a dishwasher.
You can make use of the fitness center or tennis and basketball courts to get active. For added relaxation, indulge in a soak in the hot tub or sauna or chill in the resort pools.
Arabella Hotel Sedona: Conveniently located with nearby hiking trails and attractions such as the Airport Mesa and Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool and a year-round hot tub. Rooms come with free WiFi, cable TV, coffee makers, ironing facilities, and small refrigerators. There is also a business center and gym for you to take advantage of.
Luxury Accommodations In Sedona
The Amara Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort is situated on the banks of Oak Creek. Enjoy beautiful views of the Red Rocks while taking a dip in the infinity pool or relax with a massage and full-service spa treatments. Each room features 40-inch flat-screen TVs and Italian linens for maximum comfort. You can also take advantage of other amenities such as the fitness center, hot tub, and on-site restaurant.
Junipine Resort: Escape into nature and bask in the raw, peaceful charm of this resort. The accommodation features a full kitchen, a living room with a fireplace, and a broad terrace with stunning nature views. You can get many things arranged on-site such as day trips to surrounding attractions and delicious meals at the restaurant.
Sedona is just a short 15 minutes drive away. This is a paradise away from the bustle with luxury comfort.
Getting Around Sedona
Getting around Sedona is easy, with plenty of options for transportation. If you’re looking to explore the area on your own time during your winter visit, renting a car or an ATV is the way to go. You typically do not need any special winter tires in Sedona unless some crazy weather conditions happen.
If you prefer public transport, there are several shuttle services that provide affordable rides throughout the city. There is also a bus system with routes throughout the city, as well as taxis and rideshare services that are available for hire.
And if you’re looking for an adventurous way to explore Sedona, why not rent a bike? Sedona is full of breathtaking trails and roads perfect for cyclists. Cycling through Sedona in winter is a great way to get some exercise, soak up the views and explore the area at your own pace.
Getting From Airport To Sedona
Sedona does have its own airport, aptly called the Sedona Airport. However, this is mainly for charter and private flights. If you are flying into Sedona, the common airport of arrival will be the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX).
Travelers coming to Sedona from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (X) have several transportation options available. One of the most common options is to rent a car and drive, which will take approximately two hours depending on traffic.
If rental cars aren’t your thing, there are often also shuttle services that offer direct transportation from PHX to Sedona. Groome Transporation is one of the services that make daily trips between Sedona and the airport.
Why Visit Sedona In Winter
Winter in Sedona can be a magical experience combining the festive spirit with picturesque, expansive nature. The region offers a nice outdoor getaway for those looking to escape the cold and snow of other cities.
There are many things to do in Sedona that can be enjoyed regardless of the cold temperatures. With breathtaking views, amazing activities, and plenty of sunshine, experience some desert beauty in the winter in Sedona. And don’t forget about the delicious restaurants and local wineries awaiting you.
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