Red Rocks and Slow Mornings: A Perfect Weekend in Sedona

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Red Rocks and Slow Mornings: A Perfect Weekend in Sedona

Sedona has a way of pulling you in before you even arrive. Maybe it’s the red rocks glowing at golden hour or the quiet way the desert air wraps around you at night. Just a short drive from Phoenix, this small town in northern Arizona has become a favorite for travelers looking to unplug, recharge, and explore some of the most iconic landscapes in the Southwest.

Here’s a look at what makes a weekend in Sedona so special — whether you’re here for hiking, healing, or simply a slower pace.

Morning: Start with the Red Rocks

There’s nothing quite like a Sedona sunrise. The cliffs light up in warm oranges and deep reds, and the trails are blissfully quiet.

A few favorite easy-to-moderate morning hikes:

  • 🏞 Seven Sacred Pools – A family-friendly trail with postcard views and natural pools carved into the rock.

  • 🌄 Cathedral Rock – A short but steep climb that rewards you with one of Sedona’s most breathtaking viewpoints.

  • 🌿 Soldier Pass Trail – A local favorite that winds through red rock formations and shaded stretches of forest.

☕ Insider tip: Grab a coffee to-go from Firecreek Coffee Company before heading out. It’s a local staple and the perfect pre-hike stop.

Midday: A Little Wellness, a Little Wandering

Once the sun warms up, most visitors head into town to explore Sedona’s more laid-back side.

  • 🧘 Book a short sound bath or mini energy session at one of Sedona’s vortex-inspired wellness studios. Even if you’re not “woo,” the calm is undeniable.

  • 🛍 Stroll through Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village — cobblestone courtyards, local artists, and shade when you need a break.

  • 🌮 Stop for lunch at Tamaliza or Café Jose for casual, locally loved eats.

Afternoon: Chase the Light

Sedona’s afternoons are made for slow drives, scenic overlooks, and golden hour adventures.

  • 🚗 Take the Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) — it’s short but stunning, with multiple pullouts to stop and take it all in.

  • 📸 Stop at Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte for that classic Sedona view.

  • 🌅 If you’re up for it, a sunset hike at Doe Mountain gives you panoramic views without the big crowds.

Evening: Under the Desert Sky

When the sun sets, the desert gets quiet. Temperatures drop, the stars show up in full force, and time slows down.

  • 🍷 Grab dinner at Elote Café (reservations recommended) or Mariposa for a view with your meal.

  • 🔥 End your night outdoors — whether around a fire pit or simply stretched out under the stars. Sedona is an official Dark Sky Community, which means stargazing here is spectacular.

If You Go

  • Best time to visit: March–May and September–November for mild weather and perfect hiking conditions.

  • What to pack: Layers (desert temps can swing), sunscreen, sturdy shoes, reusable water bottles, and a hat.

  • Getting there: 2 hours from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

A Little Local Tip: Prickly Pear Retreat 🌵

If you’re dreaming of your own Sedona escape, our Prickly Pear Retreat offers the perfect base to explore everything the red rocks have to offer — with a spa-style hot tub, sauna, and cozy spaces to unwind after a day on the trails.

We’re currently booked through February 2026, but we still have select openings during peak seasons — ideal for long weekends, family trips, or a quiet desert recharge.

👉 See Availability & Learn More: https://www.everwildretreats.com/prickly-pear-retreat-orp5b57724x