Where?

Sedona, Arizona

In the midst of a pandemic a trip to savor the warmth of the desert and enjoy time outdoors was just what we needed before heading into a long Minnesota winter. We traveled in early November and although the weather was all over the map during our visit, we got a good dose of sunshine, an abundance of fresh air and a wonderful change of scenery.

How to get there?

We took a direct flight from Minneapolis to Phoenix where we rented a car for the 1.5 hour drive to Sedona. 

Where did you stay?

November is considered high season, so prices are high and it can be difficult to find available lodging. We wanted to be in Uptown Sedona and stay at a place that offered a private entrance, so after weighing our limited options we decided on The Orchard Inn. In my opinion, it's in need of some updates and a deep cleaning. Although the outstanding views of the Red Rock Canyon and the large rooms may sway you. 

We had considered the Amara Resort and Spa, centrally located with an abundance of beautiful outdoor space, including an infinity pool and killer views. Unfortunately, it was completely booked during our visit. We did have the pleasure of spending some time on the property of L'Auberge De Sedona (just steps away from where we stayed), and if you can swing that price tag, I would absolutely recommend it. The grounds are extraordinary, situated at the base of the canyon under a canopy of Sycamore trees, you feel like you’re nestled in your own little world. Complete with a luxury spa and suburb creekside dining, I would have a hard time leaving to explore the rest of Sedona.

What should we do?

The hiking and outdoor excursions are endless in Sedona, but here are a few suggestions.

Hiking/Sightseeing

The Devil's Bridge is an iconic stop, boasting the largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona. If you're visiting the area, this hike is beautiful and the view at the top is extraordinary. If you can stomach heights, there is access to walk across the beautiful and somewhat narrow bridge, but be prepared to wait in line. Don't worry, the line moves quickly and you’ll have the added benefit of easily finding someone willing to take your photo. Most visitors we encountered were conscious of keeping their distance and many wore masks. However, if crowds are a concern for any reason I would suggest going early in the day or skipping it altogether.

We booked a 'yoga hiking" excursion that began at The Chapel of the Holy Cross Trailhead. Our guide and Yogi Brianna led us partway up the trail to a lovely spot on the Red Rocks where we enjoyed a yoga practice with sweeping Sedona views. We started the morning rushed and out of sorts, and this experience was just what we needed. Perhaps it was the healing effects of the vortex, but we definitely walked away feeling more grounded and appreciative of our surroundings. Before or after you hike, be sure to stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built into the buttes of the desert and towering 100 feet high. Peek inside, light a candle if you’d like and take a moment to admire the unique architecture, built in 1956 by Richard Hein.

Our Yogi Brianna suggested The Baby Bell Trail for a quiet, sunset hike. A little more off the beaten path it tends to be less traveled. The trail can be accessed from the Bell Rock parking lot. Follow the Phone Trail from the parking lot trailhead, continue on past the Bell Rock junction (which merges with the Bell Rock Trail), and finally make a right at the next junction which is the Baby Bell Trail you’re looking for. Don’t worry, all of the trails are well marked and easy to find. Along with any hikes in Sedona, look for cairns along the way, these rock cairns are maintained by park rangers to mark the trails and keep you moving in the right direction. 

Our favorite trek was the one that took us to the Birthing Cave. A secluded and quiet hike that brings you to a large hollow, resembling a womb, hence the name. Here you can rest and look out on what feels like all of Sedona. The connection to the sacred ground can be felt in this space, and I don't normally feel that kind of pull. We both took it all in, grateful for the grounding experience. To find the Birthing Cave in Sedona, look for parking off the side of the road at Long Canyon Trailhead. Rule of thumb, if the very small parking area is full, try again later.

Hikes we did not have time to go on but were recommended were Cathedral Rock, Soldier Pass Trail and Airport Mesa for more sunset views.

Rtip: We downloaded the Sedona Hiking app for detailed instructions and tips to help access trailheads and navigate parking.

Day trips

If you are visiting Sedona you should consider taking a day trip to the Grand Canyon via the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic by-way. The road parallels a meandering brook, creating a lush green oasis. A completely different feel from the dry Arizona desert. Stop at the scenic overlook just past the switchbacks and visit the Native American vendors and take a moment to appreciate your beautiful surroundings. From here continue on to Flagstaff, where you must stop at Proper Meats and Provisions for a sandwich. I ordered a Rueben and it was one of the best I’ve ever had, and that’s really saying something. Take your lunch with you to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for a picnic. If you don't want to venture all the way to the Grand Canyon, be sure to spend some time in Oak Creek Canyon to hike the gorgeous West Fork trail or make a stop at a swimming hole, like Grasshopper Point.  Whatever you choose, bring a water bottle. At the base of the canyon, you can stop at the Sterling Springhouse and get your fill of Natural Artesian Springwater. It was once rumored that Living Springs, where the spring flows, "was a mystic healing ground of the Native Americans.”

Just outside of Sedona you will find Page Spring Cellars. You can order a picnic lunch and a bottle of wine from their Picnic Window, play bocce and explore the pretty grounds located on the banks of Oak Creek. They are family-friendly, and allow kids but no pets.

“With its vast scenery, majestic red rocks and vortex energy, Sedona felt like the perfect place for a reset.”

Where should we eat when we’re there?

Traveling during a pandemic and high season made eating out more difficult than normal. We chose to only eat outdoors and made many reservations well in advance of our trip. For popular restaurants like Mariposa and Elote, I would suggest a month or more, if possible.

ChocolaTree offers delicious vegetarian fare and the most lovely outdoor garden oasis. If you go, try the homemade Ginger lemonade, served ice cold in a copper mug, it's the perfect beverage after a desert hike. I mentioned this to a local I met on the trails, and she said, "Oh, I know! I think about it whenever I'm thirsty."  Another good lunch spot is Saltrock Kitchen for tacos and a Prickly Pear Margarita, the region’s signature flavor. 

For dinner consider some comfort food at The Hudson. Arguably one of the best views in town, we sat on the deck overlooking the city, ate Mushroom burgers, and watched the sun go down. If you are in the mood to go back to your room and watch the sunset, grab some pizza to-go at Pisa Lisa or enjoy the patio and views at The Hideaway House. Finally, if you have the opportunity, enjoy a meal at Cress at Oak Creek. Find a table alongside the rushing creek, sit back, and enjoy. 

Where can we do some shopping?

We took a stroll through Tlaquepaque Village after dinner, stopped for a traditional Butter Chai at the Chai Spot, dessert at Cream & Cake Couture and wandered the grounds. Fashioned after a traditional Mexican village this lovely outdoor space is full of an eclectic mix of shops and galleries.  

What should we take with us on the trip?

A fanny pack with room for a water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable hiking boots, and a smartwool layer- my favorite for hiking.

Tell us something we don't know?

Sedona’s population hovers around 10,000 residents and is visited by nearly 3 million tourists each year.

What’s the one can’t miss item on your itinerary?

Spending time in Oak Creek Canyon.

What you’d do differently next time?

I think I may choose to go to Sedona in the off-season. I wasn’t prepared for the number of people both in town and on the trails.