best jeep tours in sedona arizona

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The 8 best jeep tours in sedona for 2024.

Jeep tours are an essential experience in Sedona.

The Best Sedona Jeep Tours

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Jeep tours are one of the most adventurous and iconic things to do in Sedona .

Perhaps the most popular option for this type of excursion is Pink Adventure Tours, famous for its bubblegum pink vehicles. However, there are a range of highly rated options woth considering, from trips through Diamondback Gulch to experiences that incorporate the region's mysterious vortexes.

Based on recent traveler reviews and expert opinion, these are the best Jeep tours in Sedona.

Pink Adventure Tours – Broken Arrow

Price: Adults from $147; kids from $137 Duration: 2 hours

Knowledgeable guides lead this rugged off-road adventure that features twists and turns through Coconino National Forest and past Sedona's most famous red rock formations. It also includes time for two stops, allowing travelers to get out of the vehicle and explore. What's more, Pink Adventure Tours is the only outfitter permitted by the U.S. Forest Service to use this trail. Travelers enjoy this pink Jeep tour and rave about the friendly guides and incredible views.

Tours are generally available multiple times a day, seven days a week; departure times vary by season. Note that children under age 2 are not permitted on this tour, and that the ride is moderately bumpy.

Pink Adventure Tours offers several day trips from Sedona, including excursions to Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon.

Check prices & availability on:

Pink Adventure Tours – Scenic Rim 1.5

Price: Adults from $82; kids from $72 Duration: 1.5 hours

On this rugged 90-minute adventure, hop into your pink Jeep Wrangler to navigate the rocky, winding paths that make up Sedona's red rocks trails, including picturesque Schnebly Hill Road. Travelers should expect a bumpy ride for the vast majority of the tour as they ascend through the canyons. Photo-worthy highlights include the Mogollon Rim and Munds Wagon Trail, a historic cattle highway dating back to 1902.

Tourgoers love this outing, noting the guides are fun and knowledgeable, and the scenery is gorgeous. However, some past travelers express disappointment at unexpected tour cancellations due to icy weather, so keep the time of year in mind when booking.

If a longer adventure through the wilderness is calling your name, consider Pink Adventure Tours' Scenic Rim 2.5 tour. Note that children under age 5 are not permitted on either tour.

Pink Adventure Tours – Red Rock Range

Price: Adults from $92; kids from $82 Duration: 2 hours

Looking for a less bumpy excursion? Pink Adventure Tours ranks this outing as "mild," meaning you'll encounter fewer bumps as you cruise down dirt roads. During the two-hour tour, guides regale travelers with stories about the area's history, flora and fauna. And – as the tour name implies – tourgoers will see Sedona's gorgeous red rock formations throughout their trip. Reviewers say this pink Jeep tour is a must-do when in Sedona and an "amazing" experience. They also say the guides are great.

Tours depart at multiple times daily (exact times may vary by month). Children under age 2 are not permitted.

Pink Adventure Tours – Ancient Ruin

Price: Adults from $115; kids from $105 Duration: 3 hours

Another "mild" tour option, Pink Adventure Tours Ancient Ruin tour explores the Honanki Heritage Site, where travelers can see 700-year-old cliff dwellings once inhabited by the Sinagua people of Sedona. Guests will learn about the history and culture of these people, see how they lived and worked and get up close with their ancient artwork and artifacts. This three-hour outing involves a few bumps and potholes while riding in the Jeep, as well as an easy walk on a dirt trail for a little less than a mile.

Recent guests say they learned a lot on this unique tour and wholeheartedly recommend it to those interested in archeology. Pink Adventure Tours also offers a number of combination tours that cover multiple locations in one trip.

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A Day in the West Jeep Tours – Diamondback Gulch Jeep Tour

Price: From $139.95 Duration: 2 hours

If you're on the hunt for an adrenaline-packed excursion, this Jeep tour of Diamondback Gulch may be just what you're looking for. You'll spend two hours quickly climbing through the desert and rugged trails to get up close and personal with rock formations like Capitol Butte and Chimney Rock. You'll eventually drive through Diamondback Gulch and emerge out the other side. Tourists rave about the quality of the drivers and guides and the epic views on this tour. They also say that the ride lives up to its description: it's very bumpy.

Note that prices per person lower as you add more people to your booking; travelers can book groups of up to six. There are multiple tour departures daily, and children must be at least age 3 to participate.

A Day in the West also offers Jeep tours of the Mogollon Rim and a gentler Jeep tour that traverses only paved roads.

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours – Vortex Experience

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $89 Duration: 2.5 hours

This Jeep tour takes you through Sedona's famous vortexes – or areas within Sedona's wilderness that purportedly emit heightened spiritual and metaphysical energy. You'll have to walk a bit on this tour, but you'll spend most of the journey exploring in a Jeep (on pavement) as you traverse unique landscapes and mountains in search of the mystery and wonder vortexes create.

Tour-takers encourage other travelers to take this trip because of the breathtaking views. Looking for something less mystical? Try the company's Wildlife, Seven Canyons or Outback Trail tours.

Red Rock Western Jeep Tours – Red Rock West Jeep Tour

Price: From $99.95 Duration: 2 hours

Enjoy incredible canyon views as you climb up the Dry Creek Basin. During this Jeep tour, you'll spot wildlife, rock formations and old-growth forests with an expert guide. Reviewers routinely call this tour a wild ride and say the guides make the experience educational and fun. Others complain that seating can be a tight fit if you're tall.

Trips depart several times daily. Note that children must at least 3 years old to participate.

This company also offers several other Jeep tours throughout Sedona, including a 90-minute tour that traverses Soldier Pass trail.

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours – The Outlaw Trail

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $89 Duration: 3 hours

Tour-takers regularly praise the Outlaw Trail tour because of its incredible scenery and knowledgeable guides. Reviewers also say they learn quite a bit. On this Jeep tour, guides drive you along the desert trail to see ranch country, wildflowers, red rocks and wildlife. Plus, the ride isn't too rough.

Tours depart several times daily. The company doesn't recommend this tour for children under age 3.

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours runs multiple other excursions, including an archaeology focused hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Morning tours are best for cooler temperatures and wildlife sightings.

Light, loose-fitting clothing, comfortable shoes with good traction, sunglasses and sunscreen are key; if visiting in the winter, bring a light jacket as well. Keep in mind that anything you wear will get dusty (so it's probably best to avoid white).

Seating capacity varies by tour. For example, A Day in the West Jeep tours have a six-person capacity, while Pink Adventure Tours' Jeeps seat nine people (in addition to the tour guide/driver).

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Sedona
• The Best Restaurants in Sedona
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Tours , Arizona , Travel , Vacations , Arizona Vacations , US Vacations , Southwest Vacations

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Sedona Jeep Tours

Your private sedona 4x4 adventure awaits.

Sedona Jeep Tours is Northern Arizona ’ s premier Jeep touring group, with knowledgeable, safe, and experienced guides. We can help you choose the best adventure for you and your family or group from many of our award-winning activities. We also provide custom group and VIP event services, including top-rated cuisine, activities to take in all Sedona has to offer, and comfortable and fun transportation all around the area. Contact us to begin your perfect adventure today.

See tours by Vehicle...

Adventure abounds with our iconic jeep 4x4 private tours., hummer tours, conquer rough terrains in spacious private hummers., see tours by ride....

Mild tours offer a relaxing scenic ride with few bumps along the way.

Hold on to your hat! Expect bumps and rocky accents/decents on these tours.

Extreme 4x4 fun! Big bumps and steep accents/decents on these trips!

For smooth rides try our Paved Jeep Tours or Trolley Tours .

Popular Sedona Jeep Tours...

Soldier’s pass trail, diamondback gulch, cliff hanger trail, mystic earth.

RED ROCK WESTERN JEEP TOURS

Jeep tours in sedona, az.

Offering Discounted Private 4x4 Tours Only

Experience true western hospitality! We have been operating in Sedona for over 27 years. Our tour guides are characters all their own, providing informative, fun and friendly insight about the history and folklore of Sedona’s legendary Red Rock country during our private Jeep tours. 

FEATURED SEDONA JEEP TOURS

• Most Popular
• Clock 2 hours
• User 3 yrs old and up

Red Rock West Jeep Tour

View the seven majestic canyons up the historic Dry Creek Basin from the comfort of a Jeep! Visit the old Van Deren cabin, a highlight of your Sedona tour!

• Our Exclusive Tour
• Users 2-5 People
• Clock 1.5 hours

Soldier’s Pass Trail Jeep Tour

Visit the Seven Apache Pools and the famous Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole on this serene and quiet trail that is our most peaceful adventure with hardly any other vehicles!

Colorado Plateau Jeep Tour

Ride high above beautiful Sedona along the old wagon trail below the scenic Mogollon Rim to enjoy the best stunning views of Sedona below you.

VIEW OUR TWO HOUR PRIVATE TOURS

Red rock highlights jeep tour.

See all of Sedona on an informative on-road tour of Sedona’s best famous overlooks, perfect for those who want a more relaxing Jeep ride with breathtaking scenery.

Alcantara Adventures

Book a One Hour Jeep Tour or a One Hour Jeep Tour & Wine Tasting Combo with Alcantara Adventures!

Stargazing Tour

Experience the dark skies in a whole new way as we take you on our western trails to give you the best stargazing experience in Sedona!

Full Moon Tour

Join us for a magical moonlit tour out in the Seven Canyons area in West Sedona. The only Night tour that takes you out into the desert landscape away from the city.

SEE WHY OUR JEEP TOURS ARE THE BEST IN SEDONA!

We had an awesome tour with Matt. Soldier's Pass was amazing with so much history behind it. We especially enjoyed climbing straight up the rock to see Devil's Kitchen and the Seven Pools. Matt knew everything about the whole area and the rock formations up above. If you are thinking of booking a tour, be sure to use Red Rock and ask for Matt as no one else could have done it better.

Took a Red Rocks Jeep Tour with “Little Deb” this afternoon! The scenery was awesome and she told some very good stories. Her family is 5th generation Arizonans and she is an authentic pioneer. We were whisked through town and then into the backcountry where the red rocks rose to the sky!! I loved the ride and the commentary! Hopped into her Jeep as she was the only woman guide. I loved hearing her perspective! Worth the money, highly recommend.

We booked a tour for the first afternoon/evening we were in Sedona and this excursion did not disappoint! The Canyons and Cowboys Tour was a fun introduction and history lesson to the beauty of Sedona! One of the best parts of our tour was our fantastic guide, Tim. He not only filled us in on the history of where we were but made us laugh and have a great time. Book this, you won’t be disappointed!

From the moment we walked into the office the staff were open and friendly. Our driver "Zane" was an interesting guy and told us a lot about the area as well as the geography and local plant life. We stopped at a couple of places where we could walk around and he offered to help us with pictures. On the drive back he also helped us plan the rest of our time in Sedona by giving some great suggestions for places to see before we left.

Top Sedona 4x4 Tours

Choose a Jeep Tour »

Sedona Jeep Tours

Sedona jeep tours are inarguably the most popular tours to go on when visiting this beautiful red rock country. They're affordable, ample in availability, convenient, and offer a level of excitement for all people. From mellow, scenic sunset jeep tours to adventurous, cliff-hanging rides in the middle of it all, Sedona jeep tours allow visitors to immerse themselves in areas deep within the red rock canyons that would otherwise take hours to hike. Knowledgeable and skilled jeep and Hummer drivers offer entertaining stories with history and insight regarding the rock formations and culture that make Sedona so special.

Are Sedona Jeep Tours Worth It?

Yes! There's a reason why they are so popular and why so many different options are available. Sedona jeep tours allow visitors to immerse themselves in parts of the red rock country that they might not ever get to experience unless they are willing to go for a 10+mile, rock-scrambling hike. Also, the guides are entertaining and knowledgeable about the geology. cultures, and the ecology of the surrounding areas. Sure, Sedona is beautiful to see. But it's so much better when you get to know it!

What to Wear on a Sedona Jeep Tour

Do you need to reserve a sedona jeep tour in advance.

Jeep tours in Sedona run all day, 365 days per year and you can usually make reservations at the kiosks all over Uptown Sedona when you get here. But because of their popularity, we recommend that you reserve the day, tour, and the number of people in your party in advance to get the jeep tour that interests you the most. Many of the kiosk reservation attendants can put you and your group on an available tour, but if you know you want to go on a jeep tour while you're here, just book it in advance. From mellow sunset cruises to adventure rides, and archeological tours to combo hot air balloon and jeep ride tours, there definitely one for you to enjoy.

Some Good to Know Things About Jeep Tours

Just a warning, most Sedona jeep rides can be rough and they jostle and jolt their passengers. These types of jeep tours are not recommended for guests who tend to get back pain from similar motions. Ask the jeep tour provider which trails and tours offer tours that are smoother. There are certainly jeep tours that stay on more maintained trails and roads. There really is a jeep tour for anyone who is interested in going on one.

Before you arrive, explore some of the Sedona jeep tours being offered. There are so many different tours and offerings! Some offer wine tours, combined helicopter rides to the Grand Canyon, and even romantic picnics. The more in advance you plan, the more spectacular of a tour you can get for your money.

RECOMMENDED SEDONA JEEP TOURS

Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale

Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Visit Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Chapel of the Holy Cross. Options available for shopping, galleries, restaurants in Uptown or T'laquapaque and off-road Jeep tours or guided hike add-ons.

WHAT GUESTS LIKE ABOUT THIS PLACE »

Professionally Guided | Custom Options Available | Private Tours Available | Pickup from Hotel

Pink Jeep Adventures

Family-Friendly | Native Culture & Tours | Professionally Guided

A Day In The West

Western Experience | Family-Friendly | Activities | Native Culture & Tours | Professionally Guided

Private Diamondback Gulch by Off-Road Jeep from Sedona

• 4x4 Jeep tour of Diamondback Gulch from Sedona
• Access the wilderness of Diamondback Gulch on an Extreme Jeep Trail, beyond what's available by car
• Comfortable custom Jeeps seat no more than 7 passengers
• Learn about the area’s history and wildlife from your guide as you go
• Admire unobstructed views of the desert wilderness far from other people
• Morning and afternoon departure times are available

Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Pickup from Hotel

Sedona Vortex Tour by Jeep

Professionally Guided | Vortex Experience

The Outlaw Trail Jeep Tour of Sedona

Explore the western canyons of Sedona, Arizona on this guided, 3-hour, 4x4 tour. See this desert town's red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls, and pine forests — a scenic drive full of fun for the entire family. Along the way, learn about the history of the area, the rock formations, and the local traditions. Choose from one of several departure times throughout the day. Get off the beaten track in a 4x4 Jeep vehicle Choose from several departure times throughout the day Get inside tips and information from a local guide Ideal choice for the entire family.

Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Village of Oak Creek

Private Soldier Pass Trail Jeep Tour from Sedona

Travel by Jeep through Sedona's rugged countryside toward Soldiers Pass for expansive landscape views. This tour also brings you to two interesting natural sites: Devils Kitchen sinkhole and Apache's Seven Pools. Let someone else navigate the rough terrain while you sit back and enjoy the scenery.

• Soldier Pass Trail from Sedona
• Travel through the rugged countryside and challenging trails of Sedona towards Soldiers Pass
• Ride over, around and up the red rocks
• A challenging 4x4 experience that only a Jeep can provide

Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Guided Adventure

In the Spotlight

RELATED TRIP IDEAS

MORE SEDONA JEEP TOURS

A Day in the West

Private jeep tours in sedona, az.

Arizona’s Oldest Family-Owned Jeep Tour Company

Offering Discounted Private 4×4 Tours

Sedona’s only fully private 2-hour guided 4×4 jeep adventure – your group, your adventure, experience sedona with arizona’s oldest family-owned jeep tour company.

Searching available tours for . . .

Showing Tours for -

• History, Culture & Movies
• Clock 2 Hours
• User Ages 3+
• Info Rugged Off-Road

Red Rock West Jeep Tour

Experience the true West on this Jeep tour of the Western Canyons. Hear some stories of just how wild the Wild West was in Sedona!

• Family Friendly
• Info Moderately Rugged Off-Road

Lil’ Rattler Jeep Tour

Head out and view the picturesque Sedona landscape and open vistas while making your way over big boulders and rocky roads! Always a treat for all ages!

• Info Easy Off-Road

Lil’ Outlaw Jeep Tour

Take in the majestic views of Sedona’s western canyons when you go off of the beaten path on this Jeep tour! You’ll quickly see why it is one of our most famous tours!

• Most Popular

Diamondback Gulch Jeep Tour

Buckle up for a most memorable adventure on this Jeep tour of Diamondback Gulch and famous rock formations like the Capitol Butte, Chimney Rock, and Doe Mesa!

• Scenic Views, Historic

Colorado Plateau Jeep Tour

Take in the most amazing views of the Sedona Red Rocks on this Jeep tour of the Mogollon Rim! Just be sure to bring your camera to capture the views!

• In Town Experience
• Info Easy On-Road

Red Rock Highlights Jeep Tour

Make history come alive when you book this fun and informational Jeep tour! Learn all about the local Bradshaw family and their impact on Old West movies!

• Most Popular Combo Tour
• Users Ages 21+
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Jeep Tour & Wine Tasting Camp Verde

Enjoy a great Wine and Jeep Combo Tour at Alcantara Vineyard.

Alcantara Adventures

Book a One Hour Jeep Tour or a One Hour Jeep Tour & Wine Tasting Combo with Alcantara Adventures!

Choose a Fun & Adventurous Tour

Combo tours.

Founder Bob Bradshaw began providing Sedona tours on horseback in 1949, while he worked as a stuntman, location scout, and stand-in actor for Hollywood western films. He also supplied horses and wagons and helped build the movie sets. Bob’s son, John Bradshaw, continues the family traditions of partnership, adventure, and extreme outdoor fun for the whole family at A Day in the West. Our knowledgeable tour guides entertain you with fascinating movie history and pioneer lore. Book your western Jeep adventure today!

1,300+ Excellent Reviews on TripAdvisor

We had the pleasure of having Cowboy Jimmy as our guide. He was very knowledgeable about the terrain and the flora and fauna. Interesting stories about his Native American heritage and time as a bull rider in the rodeo. Beautiful country and excellent guide!

Wyatt was top notch. A true southern “desert” gentleman. Very knowledgeable and entertaining. He kept us safe and laughing throughout our entire off-road adventure. Highly recommend Wyatt and A Day in the West to explore the wonders of Sedona.

This tour was by far the best tour we have ever been on. Our tour guide Max was not only informative but extremely knowledgable. He played the harmonica and took many beautiful pictures for us. We really enjoyed Max he made it very special for us.

My husband and I came to Sedona to celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary. Our first full day was spent with a Jeep tour, horseback riding, and wine tasting. We had a phenomenal time! I can't thank the staff enough for their kindness, the jokes, and the personalized time they spent making sure we enjoyed ourselves. If you are thinking of planning a day, they will not disappoint! We will be returning again soon.

First time visiting Sedona. Booked a jeep tour, our guide was Wyatt. He was amazing. Very informative, Great personality. He made this tour better than we had expected. Highly recommend this company A Day in the West and Wyatt. Thanks Wyatt for a great tour!!

First time visiting Sedona since moving to AZ from Michigan. Choose to take a Jeep tour to take in all the sights. Wyatt was our guide and he was great! He was informative and made our tour thrilling and fun. Would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Sedona!

9 Highest Rated: Best Jeep Tours in Sedona

Looking for the best jeep tours in Sedona? If yes, then you are in the right place!

A jeep tour will be one of the best things or the best thing you do while in Sedona! I know it was for my family and me!

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

I have done all the in-depth research for you and have personal experience myself.

⭐Editor’s Pick: Best Jeep Tour in Sedona

Canyons and Cowboys Jeep Tour

I have also provided actual reviews from others to help you make an informed decision.

Not only have I provided reviews, but I have also included the type of ride and the cost (prices are subject to change, but for the most part you will have a good estimate), so you have all this important information right in front of you.

So whether you’re looking for a Pink Jeep, a mild ride, a moderate ride, or a rugged, extreme ride , I got you covered here.

I have included only the best of the best!

Best Pink Jeep Tours in Sedona

So, if you’ve never been to Sedona before you might have never heard of Pink Jeep (now called Pink Adventure Tours ), however, they are also located in Las Vegas , The Smoky Mountains , The Grand Canyon, and Branson, Missouri…so if you’ve been to any of these places you may have seen them there.

There’s no missing the pink jeeps once you get to Sedona though, they are everywhere!

1. Pink Adventure Tours- Broken Arrow

Pink Jeep’s Most Extreme Tour

The Broken Arrow Tour is the most popular pink jeep tour and their most extreme tour . It seems like the tour everyone wants to do in Sedona.

In fact, it has over 38,000 reviews on its website!

The Broken Arrow tour is exclusive only to Pink Jeep. On this 2-hour super rugged and bumpy tour , you’ll go through remote areas of the Coconino National Forest where many Hollywood westerns were filmed including its namesake “Broken Arrow.”

The adrenaline highlight of this tour is a nearly vertical descent down a natural staircase. 😱

The only con with Broken Arrow is the price. It is steep! If you have a large family like myself, there are other amazing options to stay within budget.

TYPE OF RIDE: Extreme, rugged, bumpy COST: Adult: $132 Children Ages 2-12: $119 Private Tour: $1,056

2. Pink Adventure Tours-Scenic Rim Tour-2.5

Rugged and Bumpy

Another amazing Pink Jeep tour is the Pink Jeep Scenic Rim Tour . This is a 2.5-hour rugged and bumpy tour that takes you on a breathtaking journey through the backcountry of Sedona.

On this tour, you will climb high in elevation through winding canyons for some of the most gorgeous scenery in Red Rock country.

You’ll get out and walk around Cow Pies, where many movies and commercials have been filmed.

Just beautiful! Would highly recommend the scenic rim tour! Lindy was great. Love hearing history of area. Pictures taken at Merry Go Round Rock so dramatic with the cloudy day. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Getyour guide traveler ( see more reviews )

TYPE OF RIDE: Rugged and bumpy COST: Adult: $92.74 Children Ages 2-12: $83.90

Best Jeep Tours in Sedona (Other than Pink Jeep)

So it might be fun to ride in a pink jeep, but Pink Adventure Tours is not the only option in town.

Definitely consider the other following jeep tours in your decision.

All of the following tours come highly recommended! So pick your style, and your budget and go with it.

You can’t go wrong with any of these!

3. Canyons and Cowboys Jeep Tour

Red Rock Western Jeep Tours Most Popular Tour

Red Rock Western Jeep Tours most popular jeep tour is the private tour, Canyons and Cowboys . I can personally say this is amazing because my family and I went on this one!

Everything about this tour was phenomenal!

Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about the area. He educated us about the wildlife, plants, and geography of Sedona, but in a fun way!

I started feeling a little sick due to the nature of offroading, but our guide was nice enough to let me sit in the front which helped a lot.

Our guide showed us the rock that is rumored to be the inspiration behind the hugely popular ride at Disney, Thunder Mountain. If you’re a Disney fan like myself, I’m sure you would find this interesting!

Another fun highlight of this tour was walking in a cabin that was home to many Western films.

There are many great photo ops on this Canyons and Cowboys Jeep tour adventure.

This tour is excellent for those visiting Sedona with kids . It has just the right amount of bumps and thrills for families!

Canyons and Cowboys Jeep Tour gets a definite ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review from me.

**We actually rode in A Day in the West Jeep. We were told that it is the same company. They run out of the same building.

TYPE OF RIDE: Private Tour, bumpy, but not extreme; family-friendly COST OF PRIVATE TOUR: 2 PEOPLE: $299 4 PEOPLE: $519 5 PEOPLE: $599 6 PEOPLE: $659

4. Sedona Vortex Tour by Jeep (Walking Tour)

A Vortex Walking Tour

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Sedona Vortex Tour by Jeep is an excellent tour for those wanting a jeep experience but not so much the bumpiness and ruggedness of an offroading jeep tour.

On this tour, you’ll travel to several of Sedona’s vortexes . You’ll learn the history of vortexes and why so many people travel to Sedona to experience these.

This is a very popular tour. In fact, it has over 1,200 reviews on Viator.com .

Took the Energy Vortex tour and it was 100% worth the time and money. Joe was an awesome guide and made the sites and trips interesting with facts. And a wonderful sense of humor! Would recommend to anyone interested in learning about the vortexes around Sedona! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Paula r., ( SEE MORE REVIEWS )

TYPE OF RIDE: Mainly a walking tour COST: Adult: $124.97 Children Ages 2-12: $102.20

5. Outback Trail Jeep Tour

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Most Popular Tour; A Mild Ride

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Outback Trail Tour is a great tour for those families with small children or those who want to go off-roading but need something a little milder due to motion sickness.

On this tour, you will be educated about Arizona’s geology in a fun way while seeing some of Sedona’s most dramatic scenery including Cathedral Rock, Thunder Mountain, and Bear Mountain.

Wonderful tour! Our tour guide was Wyatt… he was fun, friendly and knowledgeable! He helped us take some really cool photo opps! And he is born and raised in Sedona so he gave some really neat trip suggestions. Highly recommend! Very fun, safe and enjoyable! We all loved it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ jill r., ( See more reviews )

TYPE OF RIDE: A mild ride, great for those with small children COST: Adult: $102.25 Children Ages 0-12: $90.88

6. The Outlaw Trail

A Moderate Ride

The Outlaw Trail Jeep Tour from Arizona Safari Jeep Tours is a fantastic 3-hour moderate ride for the whole family.

You’ll learn about the history of the area while taking in Sedona’s famous red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls, and beautiful green pine forests.

You’ll pass the amazing Snoopy Rock, Elephant Rock, Thunder Mountain, Doe Mesa, Loy Butte, Cathedral Rock, and more with plenty of time for photo ops.

We had a beautiful day for this excursion in Sedona. John was our guide and he took us on a great adventure. He certainly knows the area and made sure the ride was bumpy enough to keep our kids thoroughly entertained. We saw some incredible sights on the Outlaw trail and would certainly recommend. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐meaghan c., ( see more reviews )

TYPE OF RIDE: Moderate ride, bumpy enough but not too bumpy COST: Adult: $124.97 Children Ages 3-12: $102.25

7. Seven Canyons Jeep Tour

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Most Popular Rugged Tour

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Seven Canyons Jeep Tour is their most popular rugged tour. On this tour, you’ll explore Sedona’s Dry Creek Basin.

Admire Sedona’s breathtaking scenery as you bump around on this adventure. Your guide will educate you on Sedona’s geology and history.

This is definitely a bumpy ride, so it might not be the best for those with younger children. However, this would be an awesome choice for those who are looking for a bumpy, rugged ride.

Love the wild ride, the beautiful canyons, all the plant life & our guide Steve. He was very informative, funny, answered all of our questions & made it a memorable excursion. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ginny m., ( see more reviews )

TYPE OF RIDE: Bumpy and rugged COST: Adult: $101.14 Children Ages 3-12: $89.77

8. Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Diamondback Tour

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours Most Extreme Tour

One more highly recommended tour from Arizona Safari Jeep Tours is the Diamondback Tour .

On this extreme ride , you will enter the Diamondback Gulch, an extreme jeep trail, and admire Sedona’s beautiful rock formations.

You’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife as you pass by and see the amazing views of Thunder Mountain, Doe Mesa, and Bear Mountain.

Our guide was Wyatt and he was fabulous! Very skilled at driving the jeep and knowledgeable about the area. He made the trip exciting, fun, safe and educational! The company was professional and friendly as well, a great group to do business with for your vacation travels and adventures! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ KRISTI H., ( SEE MORE REVIEWS )

TYPE OF RIDE: Extreme tour, very bumpy and rugged COST: Adult: $119.29 Children Ages 5-12: $96.56

9. Diamondback Gulch Jeep Tour

A Day in the West’s Most Popular Jeep Tour

Last, by not least we have A Day in the West’s private Diamondback Gulch Jeep Tour . This is their most popular and extreme tour .

On this Sedona adventure, you will visit parts of the Diamondback Gulch that are inaccessible to most vehicles.

Your guide will educate you on the area’s wildlife, and archeology and talk to you about Hollywood movies filmed here.

For those who want all the thrills, this would be a great one!

We had a FANTASTIC guide who was knowledgeable, fun and who adjusted to our thrill appetite. Overall an awesome experience that I recommend to anyone traveling to Sedona. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐TRACY L., ( SEE MORE REVIEWS )

TYPE OF RIDE: Extreme tour, very bumpy and rugged COST: Adult & Children – $99.95

Are Sedona Jeep tours worth it?

Without a doubt, Sedona Jeep tours are definitely worth it!

In fact, I think it may be the most exciting thing you do while in Sedona. I know it was for me!

Yes, they are pricey, but it’s a memorable adventure you just won’t find anywhere else.

Which is the most popular Pink Jeep tour in Sedona?

The most popular pink jeep tour in Sedona is the Broken Arrow Tour . This particular tour is recommended more than any other tour. In fact, it has over 38,000 reviews on its website!

Are Pink Jeep Tours safe?

Pink Jeep has been around for over 60 years. Safety is very important. All Pink Jeep tour guides have emergency medical training (CPR and First Aid certified) and have learned driving techniques for off-roading. (Smith System Driver Safety Training)

What is the best time of day to do in jeep tour in Sedona?

Any time of the day would be fantastic for a jeep tour. But for the BEST time, it depends on the time of the year you are going. For example, if you’re visiting Sedona during the summer I would do a tour early morning or late afternoon because of the heat.

If visiting Sedona during the winter , I would recommend a Jeep tour mid-day for the most comfortable temperature.

The Wrap-Up

I hope you have enjoyed my guide!

I’m curious about which jeep tour in Sedona you have chosen. Pink jeep, walking tour, mild ride, moderate ride, extreme ride??

One thing is for sure though, I know you’re going to have an amazing time! The beauty of Sedona combined with the adventure of off-roading is the experience of a lifetime!

—————————————————–

NEED HIKING SHOES FOR SEDONA, CHECK OUT➡️ Best Hiking Shoes for Sedona-For the Whole Family

TRAVELING TO LAS VEGAS AND WANTING TO VISIT THE GRAND CANYON, CHECK OUT ➡ 7 Highest Rated: Best Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas {2024}

Kim Swanson, founder of Traveling Swansons, is a wife, mother of three and travel lover. Her love for exploration spans from the bustling streets of cities to the serene beauty of National Parks and her favorite destination, Italy. But that's not all – Kim's heart also belongs to all things Disney. Her special love for the magic of Disney has led her to become an expert in the field. Whether you seek advice on iconic destinations or a Disney adventure, Kim Swanson's expertise turns your travel dreams into reality.

• Most Popular - Rugged

THE SEVEN CANYONS JEEP TOUR

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Users Ages: Ages 3+ Recommended
• Clock Start Times: Morning, Afternoon, Evening

Explore the Western Canyons of Sedona

This rugged Seven Canyons Jeep Tour ventures into Dry Creek Basin, surrounded by seven of the most scenic canyons in Sedona.

See the historic ranch country where cowboys, Indians, and movie stars have roamed. Glimpse Indian ruins or a homestead cabin. Get insight into the diverse ecology and fascinating history of the Sedona area from your experienced and knowledgeable Jeep tour guide.

RELATED TOURS

• Most Extreme!
• Clock Afternoon , Evening , Morning
• Hour Glass 3 hours

Diamondback Tour

Set off on an exhilarating Jeep adventure with our Diamondback Gulch tour! Explore the captivating landscapes of Native American territories and rugged canyons while soaking in breathtaking views. This tour is tailored for thrill-seekers seeking an extreme off-road experience, with challenging inclines and descents that will provide lasting memories of Sedona’s natural beauty. Join us for an adrenaline-pumping expedition unlike any other!

• Clock Morning, Afternoon, Evening

The Outlaw Trail

Join us for an extraordinary Outlaw Trail Jeep tour, revealing Sedona’s stunning western canyons. This 3-hour adventure blends bumpy and smooth dirt roads, providing an exhilarating experience for all. Explore ranch areas, rolling hills, and historic red rock arroyos in Sedona’s captivating landscapes. Discover hidden gems and breathtaking vistas on this unforgettable Jeep tour!

5 of the Best Sedona Jeep Tours

One of Arizona’s most beautiful natural wonders is the Red Rock country around Sedona. Vast red monoliths of rock rise up all around the semi-arid land across which Sedona is sprinkled. The small city is a great place to spend a few days relaxing, exploring and escaping out into the kinds of vast, open natural spaces that just seem to calm to soul. But sometimes, to get a more immersive experience, a tour is the best way to go.

Your average car can only go so far in this wilderness, and many are unable to handle the unpaved tracks that really push out to remote realms. Jeep tours in Sedona are naturally an attractive prospect as a result. They give you access to areas that other routes and tours cannot, plus the fun of off-roading in a Jeep is a huge part of the experience itself. There are many Jeep tours on offer from Sedona. Here are five of the best, taking into account factors like the value for money, itinerary, previous guest reviews, and health and safety standards.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Arizona (AZ) » 15 Best Sedona Jeep Tours

15 Best Sedona Jeep Tours

To say Sedona, Arizona, is a beautiful holiday destination is a bit of a short sell. Really. The little Southwestern city of just 10,000 people has been drawing millions of visitors each year for a reason.

And it’s not all to do with Sedona being a hotspot for UFO sightings.

Nestled amidst soaring rusty sandstone rock formations in the northern Verde valley, most know Sedona as the new age capital where the spiritual go to tap into the frequencies of the Universe.

Beyond the spirituality, Red Rock Country is a dream for every outdoor lover, especially nature lovers, photographers, and fitness enthusiasts.

With extremely pleasant weather all year round, the attractions here include breathtaking natural scenery, hundreds of miles of picturesque trails, striking red rock vistas in every direction, and a never-ending supply of activities for the nature lover.

Native American ruins, sacred sites, galleries, and architecture, the Painted Desert has it all.

Now, one of the best ways to experience the wonder of Sedona is to take a jeep tour of the desert city.

Here are 15 of the best Sedona jeep tours to get you started.

1. Go on an Excursion in the Red Rock Range

The Red Rock Range promises the best views of the famous red rock formations of Sedona.

Jump in a customized Jeep Wrangler and go witness the spectacular scenery and unparalleled views of the iconic red rocks, pinyon and juniper forests.

Enjoy some of Sedona’s most famous views such as Thunder Mountain, as a certified guide narrates all things Sedona, including the area’s unique geology, flora, and fauna, not to mention Arizona’s richest mineralized zone, Bradshaw Overlook.

Evenings are the best times to visit. Just don’t forget to bring along a good camera.

2. Go on a 3-Day Tour of Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and Horseshoe Bend

Sedona has some of the coolest names of any place on the planet.

The best part is that the places which bear these straight-out-of-a-Wild-West-novel names are as majestic as the names themselves.

This 3-day tour package starts in Las Vegas and heads to Sedona, journeying through the best attractions these virgin lands have to offer.

Day 2 starts at your overnight stop, La Quinta Inn & Suites, and heads into Monument Valley where the iconic views of the American West await you.

Other highlights include a jeep tour with a member of the Navajo tribe, an outdoor BBQ lunch (included in the package), and a visit to the splendid Colorado River.

Wrap up Day 3 with a tour of Antelope Canyon and the Valley of Fire.

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3. Go on a Vortex Tour

Sedona is known as the spiritual mecca of the world.

And while the spiritual types will appreciate this package most, you would be doing yourself an injustice by visiting the cathedral without walls and not finding out for yourself what the hype is all about.

This is a two-hour jeep tour that starts with a complimentary pickup at your hotel and takes you on a spiritual journey, quite literally.

A live guide will take you to the famed vortices and you will also learn about the “sacred earth” or “medicine ground”. Explore the mystery and significance of the area as you connect with Mother Earth at this awe-inspiring site.

4. Jeep Tour, Horseback Ride, and Dinner Show from Sedona

This tour offers a full-day excursion that lets you explore Sedona from three incredibly exciting perspectives.

Start the day with a thrilling jeep tour that takes you to the western canyons on the famous Lil’ Rattler trail.

Soak in the magnificent views of the canyons and explore less rugged terrain before heading to Dead Horse Ranch State Park, 20 miles (32km) south for the horseback adventure.

Here, you will take a 1.5-hour ride on horseback as you trot along the banks of the scenic Verde River.

Then, cap off the day with a classic Western dinner accompanied by a great live music show.

5. Half-Day Jeep and Winery Combo Tour

If great wine and outdoor fun sounds like your kind of thing, then this is the tour for you.

This is a three-and-a-half hour jaunt that starts off by sampling not one, but four exquisite wines at one of Arizona’s top wineries. You will learn about the wine culture in the area as well as the winery’s crafting process.

Then, go on a two-hour narrated jeep tour of the most picturesque spots in and around Sedona, which is basically another way of saying you are in for the ride of your life.

The beauty of this wonderful land is accentuated all the more given that the tour happens at sunset, when the stunning desert landscape is at its most breathtaking.

6. Grand Canyon Experience Tour

Take one of the most comprehensive tours of the Grand Canyon available in a luxurious Mercedes Sprinter 10-seater van.

The 11-hour tour with a live guide starts with a drive up to Oak Creek Canyon, one of the most scenic highways in the U.S., leading you to the East entrance of the Grand Canyon.

Enjoy your gourmet boxed lunch as you catch million dollar views of the Colorado River at the Desert View watchtower, which stands 60 feet above the rim of the canyon.

Then head over to the Grand Canyon Village with several stops at beautiful overlooks and plenty of photo opportunities.

There will be an opportunity to shop at Hopi House once you reach your destination, and a chance to enjoy the historic architecture of El Tovar and the incredible sights of the canyon walls.

7. Grand Canyon Desert View & South Rim by Jeep from Tusayan

This is a three-hour hour by Pink Jeep that takes you on a sightseeing tour of the most spectacular viewpoints on the Grand Canyon South Rim, the rim considered to be the “true Grand Canyon”.

You will find murals from thousands of years ago depicting the Hopi people’s way of life.

The guided tour includes a visit to the Grand Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon Village, and the Desert View Watchtower, with stops at several prominent vistas.

Your expert guide will narrate the fascinating history of the canyon, as well as its geology, the legends, flora, and fauna.

The tour could include a visit to a ruined Indian site where you can gain better clarity into the lives of the first natives and their struggle to survive.

8. Soldiers Pass 1.5-Hour Jeep Tour

This jeep tour takes you off-the-beaten path to explore Sedona’s rugged countryside at its most beautiful.

You will ride over the iconic red rocks of Arizona and the ride will bring you to two interesting natural sites: Apache’s Seven Pools and Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole.

You will pass through distinguished Sedona trails like the Jordan Trail, the Teacup Trail, and the Thomson Trail.

This guided tour is also a perfect chance to connect with the spirit of this sacred land.

9. Bear Wallow Canyon Tour

The Bear Wallow Canyon Tour takes you on a 4×4 expedition of some of the hottest points in Sedona.

During the 2-hour excursion, a live guide will walk you through the fascinating stories of the early pioneers of this mystical land as you wind through Huckaby Trail or Munds Wagon Trail.

From there, you will ride past the volcanic Mogollon Rim Trail where you will feast your eyes on Sedona’s red rocks and breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon which sits 2,000 feet below.

The tour isn’t complete without stopping to smell the fragrant aroma and admire the world’s largest collection of ponderosa pines.

10. Canyons & Cowboys 2-Hour Jeep Tour from Sedona

The Canyons & Cowboys Jeep Tour will feel like a step back in time as you embark on an off-road exploration of this scenic region with a Red Rock Western guide.

The short journey will reveal a lot, including the history of Sedona’s early homesteaders and insights into the red rocks of Sedona.

If stories of the Old Wild West enthrall you, chances are you will leave a piece of your heart here once you are done with this tour.

The jeep will drive through the 7 majestic canyons that engulf the land as you make your way to Dry Creek Basin. You will come across one of the star attractions here, the Van Derin Cabin, in its original homestead.

Relive the cowboy days and hear tales of murder and moonshine, a favorite whisky of the day, as you gaze at the setting sun.

11. Sedona Jeep and Helicopter 3-Hour Combo Tour

This 4×4 jeep and helicopter tour uncovers the beauty of the famous red rock formations from two amazing perspectives.

The 1-hour chopper ride will soar through canyons and get you up-close with the archaeological cliff dwellings that cannot be observed from the ground, including the Pueblo cliff dwellings which date back thousands of years.

You will fly over the 200-foot rock walls of Secret Canyon and enjoy sweeping views of the Mogollon Rim and San Francisco Peaks.

This will be followed by a 2-hour off-road tour on the famous rugged landscape, driving through the original wagon trail to the top of the Colorado Plateau, some 7,000 feet up top, as a live guide details the region’s archaeology, history, and folklore, not to mention the wildlife.

12. Touch the Earth 4×4 Jeep Tour from Sedona

The Touch the Earth Tour is a leisurely trip to the famous energy vortexes of Sedona, specific spots believed to be where energy flows from or travels into the earth.

An experienced guide will navigate you through these special places, as they let you in on the unique geology, history, legends, and more.

Consider this two-and-a-half hour tour a spiritual awakening as it presents you with the chance to harmonize your energy with the Earth. The tour includes a long stop to meditate on Sedona’s famous vortexes, including Mystic Vista, Airport Mesa, and the Vultee Arch.

What’s more, you will get picture-perfect views of one of Arizona’s most photographed landmarks, Cathedral Rock, as well as Boynton Canyon, the area where the ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings are located.

13. Sedona 2-Hour Jeep Tour of the Western Canyons

If everything about Sedona’s landscape and panorama excites you, this 2-hour guided tour of the western canyons, accompanied by an authentic Indian, cowboy, or cowgirl is for you.

Take an off-the-beaten-path trip of Sedona’s backcountry roads and get a firsthand experience of real off-roading as you ride over boulders.

You will learn about the unique flora and fauna of the western canyons as you ride along the Red Rock Range.

There are plenty of geology and history lessons too, but it’s not all work as you will have plenty of time to enjoy eye-catching views of the picturesque scenery and open vistas of this fabled land.

For best effect, opt for a late afternoon trip when the sun is going down.

14. Red Rock West 2-Hour Jeep Tour from Sedona

This 2-hour jeep tour will pick you up from your hotel and take you on an off-road adventure on the outskirts of Sedona.

Experience the desert flora and fauna deep into Sedona’s high desert area, where you will see red rock formations in close range.

There are several forest service roads leading into the heart of the western canyon. There is also a stop at the famous filming spot that is Van Derin Cabin where films like Purple Sage and Blood on the Moon were shot.

You will have plenty of photo opportunities at the myriad panoramic spots.

15. Take a Half-Day Sedona Jeep Tour and Horseback Ride with Picnic Lunch

This six-hour adventure is a great way to enjoy the hot Sedona desert without any rush.

It starts with a hotel pickup that takes you to your jeep where you embark on a 2-hour exploration of the milder section of the Sedona desert and its wildlife.

This is followed by a one-and-a-half hour horseback ride which saunters under the shade of sycamore and cottonwood trees, before escorting you to a picnic spot for lunch – a deli sandwich, chips, cookies, and drinks make up the menu.

15 Best Sedona Jeep Tours:

• Go on an Excursion in the Red Rock Range
• Go on a 3-Day Tour of Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and Horseshoe Bend
• Go on a Vortex Tour
• Jeep Tour, Horseback Ride, and Dinner Show from Sedona
• Half-Day Jeep and Winery Combo Tour
• Grand Canyon Experience Tour
• Grand Canyon Desert View & South Rim by Jeep from Tusayan
• Soldiers Pass 1.5-Hour Jeep Tour
• Bear Wallow Canyon Tour
• Canyons & Cowboys 2-Hour Jeep Tour from Sedona
• Sedona Jeep and Helicopter 3-Hour Combo Tour
• Touch the Earth 4x4 Jeep Tour from Sedona
• Sedona 2-Hour Jeep Tour of the Western Canyons
• Red Rock West 2-Hour Jeep Tour from Sedona
• Take a Half-Day Sedona Jeep Tour and Horseback Ride with Picnic Lunch

• United States

20 Best Sedona Jeep Tours

• 7 Pinterest

Wondering what are the best Sedona jeep tours ? In this guide, you will find a complete list of 4×4 tours from Sedona, with everything from extreme adrenaline rides to leisurely scenic drives.

Be amazed by towering red rock formations, vast desert canyons, and sweeping views. This is one of Arizona’s most stunning regions, with mesmerizing geological landscapes and a rich human heritage. Most tours last 2-3 hours.

1 – Broken Arrow Jeep Tour in Sedona

Hang on tight as you take off into the desert on an adrenaline-filled ride along the rugged Broken Arrow Trail. Admire the imposing sandstone formations and famous red rocks as you bounce over the wild terrain on this guided off-road tour from Sedona.

To capture these incredible memories there are plenty of photo opportunities at all the main landmarks, including the towering Chapel Butte and Bell Rock. The tour ends with a hair-raising descent down the ominously named Road of No Return before heading back to relax in Sedona.

2 – Sedona Off-Road Jeep Tour to Ancient Ruins

Go back in time on this Sedona jeep tour through the backcountry of the Sonoran Desert. As well as stopping at major rock formations like Capitol Butte and Chimney Rock, you will also explore ancient canyons and visit the 700-year old Honanki Heritage Site.

Listen as your guide talks about the history and wildlife of the landscape, and keep an eye out for the impressive native American rock art.

There is an option to upgrade your tour to include the mysterious Diamondback Gulch on this 4×4 trip from Sedona.

3 – Canyons & Cowboys: 2-Hour Jeep Tour from Sedona

Relive the days of cowboys and ranches on this off-road adventure through Arizona’s red rock country. Keep your camera ready as you journey through seven magnificent canyons to reach Dry Creek Basin, which was once home to the early settlers of this region.

Discover the old “Van Derin” cabin where your knowledgeable local guide will recount tales of murder and moonshine from the days of the legendary pioneers.

Participants on the afternoon tour will enjoy the colorful sunset as it floods the rocky pinnacles with an enchanting display of light.

4 – Diamondback Gulch Jeep Tour from Sedona

Put on your explorer’s hat and head into the desert with a professional guide on this 4×4 jeep tour from Sedona. Feel the sun on your face as you bump along the rough terrain and encounter the staggering natural beauty of Diamondback Gulch.

Descend to the dry creek and gaze up at lofty canyon walls and the red rocks that make this desert so famous. Learn about the incredible geological forces that have shaped this landscape and have your cameras ready for the imposing Chimney Rock and Capitol Butte formations.

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5 – Highlights of Sedona Jeep Tour Including Cathedral Rock

Enjoy a whistle-stop tour of the major red desert landmarks on this popular short jeep tour from Sedona.

Highlights include the majestic formations of Airport Mesa, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Cathedral Rock. Your local guide will teach you about this colorful landscape and the people who have lived here through the centuries.

This 90-minute Sedona jeep tour starts from just $50 and includes a short hike to a spectacular viewpoint. The tour is ideal for families or those who prefer a gentle ride rather than going off-roading.

• Book Sedona Jeep Tours

6 – Sedona Red Rocks Jeep Adventure

Explore some of Arizona’s most dramatic scenery on this off-the-beaten-track 4×4 Sedona jeep tour. Discover how this incredible scenery was formed and learn about the heritage and wildlife of this mesmerizing area from your experienced guide.

Stop off at some of the most impressive rock formations in the desert, and capture photos of iconic views to Cathedral Peak, Thunder Mountain, and Bear Mountain.

Although this is an off-road tour from Sedona, it is less bumpy than some of the others so is ideal for those wanting a calmer ride.

• See price and reviews

7 – Sedona Red Rock West Off-Road Jeep Tour

Feel like you are on the set of a Hollywood Western movie as you venture into remote corners of this unusual desert landscape.

Following a wilderness trail that is only accessible on Sedona jeep tours, you will journey through the Dry Creek Basin with your guide, encountering indigenous flora and fauna on the canyon floor.

Enjoy astonishing views of rocky spires and looming peaks far away from the tourist crowds, and if you opt for the afternoon departure, make sure you have your camera poised ready to capture the sunset.

8 – Private Lil Rattler Jeep Tour

Discover the dramatic landscapes of Arizona’s Red Rock Range on this private Sedona jeep tour. Explore the photogenic Dry Creek Basin with your friends or family and soak up the environment around the seven canyons from your comfortable open-air jeep.

On this fully narrated 2-hour tour you will learn about the intriguing history of Sedona, as well as enjoying outstanding views over the iconic desert scenery of the American Southwest.

As this 4×4 tour in Sedona is exclusively yours, you can choose between a morning or afternoon departure.

9 – Sedona Red Rock Range Jeep Tour

To experience one of the best sunsets in Arizona, join this off-road tour from Sedona on a comfortable customized Jeep Wrangler. The going is less bumpy than on some other tours, which is ideal for snapping those spontaneous photos as you pass through spectacular landscapes.

Scenic stops on this Sedona 4×4 tour include the Thunder Mountain Trailhead, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Sonoran Desert. Travel along the bases of striking red rock formations and watch them change color as dusk falls, giving way to a dramatic sunset.

10 – Jeep Tour of Camp Verde’s Out of Africa Wildlife Park

This unique Sedona jeep tour takes you on a safari through the Out of Africa Wildlife Park, giving you opportunities to spot free-roaming animals from the comfort of your off-road vehicle.

This is a fun and easy way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the desert around Sedona while enjoying a safari at the same time. You can choose between a short game drive or a longer bush experience, depending on how much time you have.

Entrance to the Wildlife Park is not included on this one-hour guided tour.

11 – Sedona Vortex Tour by Jeep

Feel a powerful mystical connection at some of the most sacred sites in the Arizona desert. On this unusual 3.5-hour guided tour in Sedona, you will explore spiritual gardens at the Creative Life Center and visit a vortex spot at Airport Mesa where meditation is highly recommended.

Discover one of Sedona’s Sacred Wheels at the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, before continuing to see the famous rock formations along the Boynton Canyon Trail. Finally, sense the energies of another vortex at Rachel’s Knoll which also makes for a perfect meditation spot.

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12 – Sedona Coyote Canyons Jeep Tour

Head out along the iconic Dry Creek Road on your off-road tour from Sedona, before adventuring along dirt wilderness trails beneath the bases of spectacular red rock formations.

Your experienced guide will teach you about the unique flora and fauna of this part of the Arizona desert, and there will be plenty of photo opportunities to capture memories of this stunning environment. Discover iconic sights such as Thunder Mountain, Boynton Canyon, Doe Mesa and Camel’s Caravan, which are only accessible by joining a Sedona jeep tour.

13 – African Ambush Jeep Tour and Winery Tour Combo in Camp Verde

Get your taste buds ready for this unique combination Sedona jeep tour. Your adventure begins with a game drive through the Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde, where you will encounter native wild animals from the safety of your vehicle. Admission to the park is not included.

Next up is a spectacular ride along off-road desert trails to a Verde Valley winery for tasting several premium local wines while learning about the vineyard process.

There is the opportunity to upgrade this tour to include horseback riding and lunch.

14 – Old West Open-Air Jeep Tour of Sedona

Indulge in a spot of time travel on this old west themed jeep tour from Sedona. As well as driving through the imposing seven canyons of this red rock desert, you will be able to admire the panoramic view back over Sedona from the iconic Airport Mesa.

The highlight of this Sedona jeep tour is a guided visit to the Sedona Heritage Museum where you will learn all about the Bradshaw Family, who were famous for being expert western movie makers at their ranch just outside the city.

15 – Mogollon Rim Private Jeep Tour from Sedona

This private jeep tour from Sedona takes you along the old stagecoach road through the lands where cattle and cowboys once roamed. Ascending to 1500 feet above sea level you will love the view out over Oak Creek Canyon.

Your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into the history of this significant road between Sedona and Flagstaff, and how it was a lifeline to local settlers before the main highways were constructed. You will learn lots on this historic Sedona tour, as well as having heaps of fun.

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16 – Eater Trail: Extreme 4×4 Experience in Sedona

A wilderness epic for private groups of up to 12, this 4×4 Sedona tour is an adrenaline-filled adventure with challenging obstacles and dramatic canyons to negotiate. Perfect for thrill-seekers and anyone wanting to do something a bit different, the 4-hour long tour will be the highlight of your holiday.

Hang on to your hats in the forward-seating Hummer as you tackle some of the most extreme off-road dirt trails in Arizona. Passing through plunging red rock ravines beneath towering pinnacles, this tour is like being on a desert roller coaster.

17 – Broken Arrow and Scenic Rim Combo Tour by Open-Air Jeep from Sedona

Combine two excursions into one on this off-road tour from Sedona, the ultimate adventure for anyone interested in history and nature.

The guided 3-hour tour begins with majestic canyons and rock formations before partially ascending the rugged Schnebly Hill Road. This historic wagon trail was constructed by early pioneers to connect Flagstaff and Sedona.

Admire viewpoints at Cow Pies or Kodak Corner, and visit the Red Rock Scenic Byway to learn about the Tlaquepaque artist village. Finally stop at the Broken Arrow Trail, the filming location for many western movies.

18 – Full-Day Sedona Combo: Jeep Tour, Horseback Ride, and Dinner & Show

This 8-hour guided jeep tour from Sedona is a full-on adventurous wild west experience. It begins with an up-close and personal experience of Arizona’s otherworldly Red Rock Range, and a traverse through the famous seven canyons and Dry Creek Basin.

Next up is an air-conditioned transfer to the stables where you will discover your inner cowboy on a 1.5-hour horseback ride in the stunning wine country of Verde Valley.

Reward your exertions with a full-on country dinner and a wild-west show at Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood.

19 – Sunrise Wildlife Safari Tour by Jeep from Sedona

Enjoy the cool hours of early morning and avoid the crowds on this unique wildlife tour from Sedona. Animals are more active at this time of day, so this is a great opportunity to see them in action. Keep your eyes open for bears, foxes, and elk and admire the different ecosystems in this striking desert landscape.

On this Sedona jeep tour, you will explore three different biological zones and learn about native plants and wildlife species from your expert guide. This excursion ticks all the boxes for nature-lovers.

20 – Camp Verde Combo: African Ambush Jeep Tour, Horseback Ride, and Winery

Get to know the Verde Valley Wine Country on this combination jeep tour from Sedona. First up is the Out of Africa Wildlife Park, for desert safari encounters on an African Ambush Jeep Tour. Admission to the Wildlife Park is not included.

Your next stop is the stables for an hour-long horseback ride through landscapes that will make you feel like you are in a western movie. Then it is on to one of Verde Valley’s famous vineyards for wine and cheese tasting to celebrate your new-found cowboy skills.

• View price and reviews

If you are looking for more activities to do in Sedona, check out our article about the best things to do in Sedona .

9 Best Sedona Jeep Trails For Off Roading Adventure

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: July 20, 2022

Renting a Jeep was the best decision we made during our visit to Sedona in December 2021. We drove all 9 Sedona Jeep trails you will find in this guide and we had a blast.

There are some serious advantages for accessing many of the most popular hikes in Sedona by Jeep, so keep an eye out for bonus tips within each trail description.

Let’s buckle up and drive the best off road Jeep Trails in Sedona, Arizona!

Our Sedona Jeep Trails Experience

Hiking and photography were our two major priorities during our 8 day stay in Sedona but we also wanted to do something a little different, so we decided to splurge on renting a Jeep.

We had never attempted driving off road in a Jeep Rubicon before we visited Sedona. It was so much fun. Plus, the Jeep allowed us to reach hidden trailheads and photo spots.

Mark couldn’t get enough of the technical Broken Arrow Trail and Kristen enjoyed Outlaw the most. We completed every route in this guide, which you will see in the photos we took on each trail.

Driving Jeep trails was one of the first activities we included in our guide to the best things to do in Sedona .

9 Unmissable Sedona Jeep Trails

This list of best Sedona jeep trails is ordered by difficulty , starting with the easiest trails and ending with the hardest trails.

Last in the list is the legendary Broken Arrow trail, which will not only test your driving skills, but also your nerve.

For now, let’s start with the easiest Jeep trails in Sedona, Arizona!

1. Mystic Vista Trail

Mystic Vista Summary

Despite being the shortest and easiest Jeep trail in Sedona, Mystic Vista is one place you can’t afford to miss on your Jeeping itinerary.

Because there’s a hidden viewpoint at the end of Mystic Vista (get the name now?!) that very few people know about when visiting Sedona.

Follow a short, narrow and twisting road leading to a loop. At the very back of the loop you can park your Jeep, scale a short mound and summit onto a flat topped rock formation just above the canopy with astounding views over Sedona.

Location : Mystic Vista is also known as Forest Road 9587 and can be accessed via Boynton Pass Road close to Fay Canyon Trail .

Mystic Vista Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 1 mile roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 20 feet
• Trail Difficulty: Very Easy
• Time Required: 30 minutes (longer at sunrise)
• Gears: 4H only

Tips For Driving Mystic Vista Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Drive the short trail before first light to watch a stunning sunrise from a secret vista point at the end.
• Nearby Doe Mountain Trail is a very popular sunrise hike because you can watch hot air balloons taking off at dawn. Well, you get the same view but without the climb from Mystic Vista.
• Do not forget your camera if you drive to Mystic Vista for sunrise or sunset.
• Nobody knows about this Sedona Jeep trail so you’ll likely have it to yourself.
• Mystic Vista is a great trail to drive right after hiring your Jeep and it is directly on the way to other Jeep trails to the west of Sedona.
• Important : The trail is within a residential area, so you must be respectful and keep noise to a minimum at all times.

Pros And Cons To Driving Mystic Vista

• Spectacular hidden gem sunrise location
• Very easy trail perfect for beginner drivers
• Takes less than 30 minutes
• Not an adventurous drive
• Inside a residential area
• Easy to miss as not signposted

2. Ranch Loop Trail

Ranch Loop Summary

Are you feeling a little nervous about driving your Jeep in Sedona? Conquer those butterflies by heading over to Ranch Loop and easing your way nicely into the process.

Ranch Loop is a fantastic introductory Jeep trail easily accessed from the main highway running out of Sedona. You can glide around in 4H on mostly flat dirt track with just a few stones and rocks to navigate.

You will breeze through gorgeous rural countryside and the best part is you will barely see another vehicle.

Location : Ranch Loop trail consists of FR 525A and FR 761B. Both roads are connected in a loop by FR525 with a short stretch on N Bill Gray Rd to the west.

Ranch Loop Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 8 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 300 feet
• Trail Difficulty: Easy
• Time Required: 1 hour

Tips For Driving Ranch Loop Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Start the loop on the north side and drive anti-clockwise to transition from very easy to easy going.
• Always quiet so time of day won’t matter.
• Excellent trail for gaining confidence if there are multiple drivers in your Jeep.
• Combine with Diamondback Gulch for a 3 hour double

Pros And Cons To Driving Ranch Loop

• Located close to the highway
• Very flat and easy Jeep trail
• Perfect for harder trail preparation
• Not very adventurous
• Least exciting of the longer Jeep trail in Sedona
• Not one to drive if you’re short on time

3. Robbers Roost Trail

Robbers Roost Summary

How do you like the idea of driving a Jeep to within 10 minutes walk of a hidden cave in Sedona?

Head far out to the northwest of Sedona on gravel roads before transitioning onto a high clearance only road and parking at Robbers Roost Trailhead .

A quick 10 minute walk later and you can step inside Hideout Cave (sometimes called Shaman’s Cave) which features 2 windows with striking views over Sedona’s desert landscape.

Robbers Roost Jeep trail is slow going and rocky, but it is easy enough. This one is suitable for beginner drivers or those looking to build confidence for the adventure trails you will find later in this guide.

Location : Robbers Roost trail is also known as Forest Road 9530, which can be accessed via FR 525C in the northwest of Sedona.

Robbers Roost Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 2.4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 200 feet
• Time Required: 1.5 hours with hiking
• Gears: 4H and 4L

Tips For Driving Robbers Roost Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Time of day doesn’t matter here because it is always quiet
• Hideout Cave windows face east
• Easy to combine with nearby trails and ancient ruins
• Shift into 4L when the trail turns rocky
• Avoid the bigger stones for a more comfortable drive

Pros And Cons To Driving Robbers Roost

• Extremely quiet Jeep trail
• Cave with amazing view within 10 minutes walk
• Easy trail for beginners
• Out of the way
• Not an adventurous Jeep trail
• Hard to find compared to other trails

4. Outlaw Trail

Outlaw Summary

This is where we begin to take things up a notch. Outlaw is a very popular 4WD off roading trail in Sedona because you get a longer drive with some light adventure elements thrown in for good measure.

Outlaw combines moderately challenging driving in 4L with plenty of space to maneuver. The major downside is sharing Outlaw with loads of ATV’s.

You will pass through multiple washes and navigate bigger rocks on this trail. It is important not to get overexcited on the flatter and more open stretches because pot holes and large rocks appear out of nowhere.

Driving Outlaw trail allows Jeep drivers to advance into the next band of difficulty and provides the option to visit some of the most important ruins in Sedona .

You can easily access both Honanki Heritage Site and Palatki Heritage Site .

Location : Outlaw trail is the furthest Jeep track outside of Sedona. You need to drive all the way to the end of FR 525 to access the trailhead opposite Honanki ruins.

Outlaw Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 220 feet
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate
• Time Required: 2 hours (longer with ruins)
• Gears: Mostly 4L

Tips For Driving Outlaw Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Stay under 10mph and err on the side of caution.
• Be confident and decisive but respectful of others.
• Always pull over to let ATV’s pass.
• Consult the trail instructions provided throughout.
• Make sure you are in 4L for a wash crossing at 5 miles.
• Drive Outlaw early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

Pros And Cons To Driving Outlaw

• Perfect middle difficulty Jeep trail
• Long open drive with light adventure elements
• Easy to combine driving with nearby ancient ruins
• Very busy trail with lots of ATV’s
• Not quite as exciting as Diamondback Gulch
• Long way out from Sedona

5. Dry Creek Basin Trail

Dry Creek Basin Summary

Dry Creek Basin is definitely one of the most underrated Sedona Jeep trails.

Have you heard of the Devils Bridge hike ? Well, getting parked to hike Devils Bridge is always a problem. But renting a Jeep means you can drive Dry Creek beyond the traditional parking lot and park right at the Devils Bridge trailhead.

So what happens is everyone in a Jeep takes advantage of this huge benefit by parking at the trailhead (we did it and hiked Devils Bridge for sunrise), but then they forget Dry Creek is a fun Jeep trail of its own accord and they leave after the hike.

You should continue beyond Devils Bridge to Van Deren Cabin and even Vultee Arch hiking trail. Using 4L for almost all of the Dry Creek Basin Jeep trail, you will navigate S bends through creeks, drive over significant rocky sections and even through shallow water at times.

Location : Dry Creek Basin Jeep trail begins at Dry Creek Vista trailhead parking lot. Instead of turning left into the lot, continue straight ahead and pass over boulders to start.

Dry Creek Basin Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 10.4 miles roundtrip
• Time Required: 2 hours (longer with hike to Devils Bridge)

Tips For Driving Dry Creek Basin Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Watch for hikers who are walking along Dry Creek Basin both ways
• Take things slowly if you drive in the dark to hike Devils Bridge for sunrise
• Parking for 4WD vehicles at Devils Bridge is limited
• Don’t miss Van Deren Cabin and Vultee Arch for a second hike on this road
• At the end once back at Dry Creek trailhead, drive through the parking lot and over more boulders to enter a secret area very few know about. This hidden area is included in our guide to the best Sedona sunset photo spots .

Pros And Cons To Driving Dry Creek Basin

• Access to Devils Bridge trailhead which is a huge bonus
• The Jeep trail itself is really fun to drive
• Vultee Arch hiking trail at the end of Dry Creek Basin is very secluded
• This is a busy trail with Jeep tours
• Lots of hikers who aren’t happy about you being in a Jeep!
• Dry Creek at 2.9 miles may not be passable after heavy rainfall

6. Schnebly Hill Road Trail

Schnebly Hill Road Summary

Although Schnebly Hill Road is rated as easy in technical difficulty, we think this popular Sedona Jeep trail should be categorized as moderately difficult overall. The drive up to Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook is extremely bouncy, slow and busy with tours.

Schnebly Hill is one of those unmissable Jeep trails that you have to drive, but only drive it once! There are three places you should stop to make the most of this trail.

The first is Cow Pies for a short and flat hike out onto circular rock formations. Second is a formation called Merry Go Round which is a popular wedding photography spot with stunning views. Finally, the vista at the top of Schnebly Hill is magnificent and well worth the drive up.

At the top you can optionally drive Volcanic Rim Loop, a very rough trail with excellent views. We didn’t drive the additional loop. You will more than likely have a headache by the time you arrive back at the trailhead, even without the extra rough loop!

Location : Schebly Hill Road Jeep trail begins at Munds Wagon hiking trailhead, just 1 mile off highway 179 near downtown Sedona.

Schnebly Hill Road Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 11.4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
• Trail Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
• Time Required: 3 hours
• Gears: Mostly 4H

Read: Our complete guide to driving Schnebly Hill Road Trail in Sedona for a full walkthrough.

Tips For Driving Schnebly Hill Road Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Take care near the top with drops to the side of narrow roads.
• Pull over for tour groups as they are on a time schedule.
• Look out for drivers on the wrong side of the road.
• Prepare to bounce around constantly for a long period.
• Don’t forget your camera for the high up viewpoints.
• Drive as close to sunrise as possible so views are away from the sun.

Pros And Cons To Driving Schnebly Hill Road

• Very close to downtown Sedona
• Gain 1,800 ft in 5.7 miles to reach amazing views over Oak Creek Canyon
• Great for hikers and photographers to reach quieter locations
• By far the bounciest of all Sedona Jeep trails
• Lots of tours passing by and stopping on the road
• Not the most thrilling Jeep trail in Sedona

7. Diamondback Gulch Trail

Diamondback Gulch Summary

The thoroughly enjoyable Diamondback Gulch Jeep trail is arguably the most diverse off roading route in Sedona. You will drive in 4H and 4L, navigate a gigantic V shaped ravine, glide through dirt packed turns and cross sharp rocks at a snails pace.

Diamondback Gulch was the first trail we went back for a second run at after completing each of the 9 routes in this guide. The gulch itself is a 300 ft steep drop followed immediately by a 400 ft steep climb right back out.

Despite being one of the most popular Sedona Jeep trails, we saw no other Jeeps or tours either time we drove Diamondback Gulch. This is the perfect trail to hone your off roading skills and it gives any nervous drivers in your party a great opportunity to try out a more challenging route without the crowds.

Location : Diamondback Gulch Jeep trail is west of downtown Sedona, not far from the popular hiking trails along Boynton Canyon Road. Access either via Boynton Canyon or highway 89A and FR 525.

Diamondback Gulch Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 6.7 miles point to point
• Elevation Gain: 400 feet
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate / Hard
• Time Required: 2 hours

Read : Our complete guide to driving Diamondback Gulch Trail in Sedona for a full walkthrough.

Tips For Driving Diamondback Gulch Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Start in 4H but shift into 4L around 1 mile in.
• Take the gulch slowly but enjoy the challenge.
• Let others pass so you can take Diamondback Gulch at your own pace.
• Consult the instructions provided as you drive the trail.
• Drive anti-clockwise for the traditional route through Diamondback Gulch.

Pros And Cons To Driving Diamondback Gulch

• Driving the gulch is fantastic in a Jeep
• Much quieter than other moderate and hard Jeep trails in Sedona
• Fun and exciting drive without too much bouncing
• Not as adrenaline pumping as Broken Arrow
• Lacks optional viewpoints or side hiking trails
• The gulch is quite intimidating for any nervous drivers

8. Soldier Pass Trail

Soldier Pass Summary

The only Jeep trail in Sedona even remotely close to giving Broken Arrow a run for its money in terms of technical difficulty is Soldier Pass trail. The multi-faceted Soldier Pass 4WD road was one of our favorite drives in the Rubicon.

Important : You must apply for a motorized use permit to drive Soldier Pass 4WD off road trail. You cannot access the road without a code to unlock the gate.

Soldier Pass is a hugely popular hiking trail leading to Devils Kitchen, Seven Sacred Pools and Soldier Pass Cave . Trailhead parking is impossible with just 14 spaces, but in your Jeep you can drive straight through the tiny parking lot and beyond the gate to access the off road trail.

The 4L Soldier Pass trail itself is fantastic and testing with narrow, twisting and technical roads leading you directly to Devils Kitchen and Seven Sacred Pools in the Jeep.

Follow the road to the end, park under cover of trees and hike a short distance to enter the famous Soldier Pass cave.

Location : Soldier Pass Jeep trail (FR 9904) is located at the back of Soldier Pass trailhead. There may be cars waiting in line to enter the parking area, take care when passing cars and hikers in the parking lot.

Soldier Pass Trail Details

• Trail Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 50 feet
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate / Adventurous
• Time Required: 1-3 hours depending on hiking

Tips For Driving Soldier Pass Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Permit requirement means Soldier Pass trail is limited to less than 10 Jeeps per day.
• Expect envious eyes from people trying to park as you drive through the parking lot and enter.
• Don’t forget to drive the spur trails leading to Devils Kitchen and Seven Sacred Pools.
• Both spur trails are technical and narrow so don’t start with this trail, build up to it.
• Park right at the very end of the road and climb up to Soldier Pass cave.

Pros And Cons To Driving Soldier Pass

• Short but very technical and one of the more diverse Sedona Jeep trails
• Leads to 3 popular natural landmarks
• Guarantees you access to Soldier Pass hiking trail
• Requires permit to drive
• Narrow and technical which may not suit all drivers
• Have to be aware of hikers

9. Broken Arrow Trail

Broken Arrow Summary

Completing our list of best Jeep trails in Sedona is the legendary Broken Arrow.

We tried hard not to go with the consensus but it is impossible not to love this trail. After driving it 3 times, we have to agree that Broken Arrow is the best Jeep trail in Sedona.

Broken Arrow is all action, thrill and adrenaline. You will drive to stunning viewpoints and take on challenging obstacles that will blow your resting heart-rate into the stratosphere. Just be aware you are going to share Broken Arrow with a lot of other Jeep rentals and Jeep tours.

Chicken Point overlook is a fantastic viewpoint, but we think Submarine Rock is even better, so do not miss the short spur trail leading to the 360 degree vista point.

Back in the Jeep, you are going to enjoy “the traffic circle”, “the slide” and “the steps” so much that you will go straight back around the loop.

Location : Broken Arrow is located at the end of Morgan Road off highway 179 just south of downtown Sedona. Pass over large rocks to enter the 4WD off road section.

Broken Arrow Trail Details

• Trail Difficulty: Challenging
• Gears: Almost all 4L

Read : Our complete guide to driving Broken Arrow Trail in Sedona for a full walkthrough.

Tips For Driving Broken Arrow Jeep Trail In Sedona

• Broken Arrow is by far the most heavily trafficked Jeep trail in Sedona.
• You will be sharing the trail with other Jeep rentals, personal 4WD vehicles and tours.
• Take things slowly and err on the side of caution.
• Always pull over to let tour groups pass because they are on the clock.
• Consult the trail instructions provided upon hiring your Jeep.
• Plan to walk around both Submarine Rock and Chicken Point Overlook.

Pros And Cons To Driving Broken Arrow

• Short, sweet and packed full of adventure
• Excellent viewpoints along the route
• Very busy trail with lots of tours
• Certain parts may be intimidating
• Trail can be hard to follow around Panorama Point

Sedona Jeep Trails Map

Here’s a link to our Google Map showing the locations of all 9 Sedona AZ Jeep trails listed in this guide. We have included trail start and end points with a line showing the directions to follow.

You can move around the map, zoom in and out, orientate yourself with the locations of all Sedona Jeep Trails and get an idea about which routes you can combine.

• Green Icon – Jeep trail start points
• Red Icon – Jeep trail end points
• Blue Line – Direction to follow off road trails

Sedona Jeep Trails Itinerary

Let’s take a quick look at the best way to combine Sedona’s off road Jeep trails into your Sedona itinerary .

Here are some options for splitting the trails up:

Easy to Hard – 1 Day

Split the trails into difficulty and start with the easiest to build confidence, which works better for beginners.

• Start in the morning with Ranch Loop, then drive Outlaw and move onto Diamondback Gulch.
• In the afternoon move onto Soldier Pass and Broken Arrow.

East vs West – 2 Days

Split the trails by geography and spend 2 full days off roading in Sedona. This works better for confident and experienced drivers.

• Starting on the east side of Sedona you could do Dry Creek Basin to hike Devils Bridge for sunrise, then drive Soldier Pass, before moving onto Schnebly Hill and ending with Broken Arrow.
• Head west the next day starting with Mystic Vista for sunrise, then drive Diamondback Gulch, Ranch Loop, Outlaw and Robbers Roost.

Jeep, Hike and Sightsee – 3 Days

Take things easy and combine the Jeep trails with hiking in Sedona. This is better if you have plenty of time during your visit to northern Arizona.

• 1st Day – Start with Dry Creek Basin to hike Devils Bridge, then drive Soldier Pass and hike to Soldier Pass Cave before finishing with Schnebly Hill and hiking Cow Pies / Hangover Loop.
• 2nd Day – Start with Mystic Vista for sunrise, hike nearby Fay Canyon trail or Doe Mountain trail, drive to Palatki Ruins and Honanki Ruins, drive Outlaw and Robbers Roost to hike Hideout Cave.
• 3rd Day – Drive Ranch Loop, then drive Diamondback Gulch before heading over to Broken Arrow to drive a few loops around the technical obstacles.

Should You Rent A Jeep In Sedona?

In short, yes you should definitely consider renting a Jeep in Sedona if you have a healthy travel budget and at least 3 or 4 days in your itinerary.

Sedona is famous for its spectacular red rock landscape in which you will find a maze of fantastic hiking trails, mountain biking trails and stunning photography locations. There are even secret caves to explore in Sedona , hidden away within the rugged sandstone formations.

But not everyone knows about the collection of exciting 4×4 off roading Jeep trails in Sedona, all scattered around the edges of the small adobe city.

The best part is that the average everyday visitor like you (and us!) can rent a Jeep in Sedona and there is no better place for a first time off roading experience. It really is one of the most fun things to do in Arizona .

Jeep Rental Pros And Cons

Let’s start with the benefits:

• You get to drive amazing Sedona off road trails in a Jeep Rubicon. That alone is a pretty cool reason to rent a Jeep!
• The Jeep will let you see several areas of Sedona you otherwise would not be able to visit. That includes ancient heritage sites, caves and miles of rural countryside.
• A Jeep will give you a huge advantage over the crowds on popular hiking trails like Devils Bridge and Soldier Pass. Plus, it gives you access to other hard to reach trailheads.

Here are the obvious downsides to renting a Jeep in Sedona:

• Jeep rentals in Sedona cost a small fortune and will more than likely eat into a huge chunk of your overall travel budget.
• You will use up a significant portion of time in your Sedona itinerary and you might not want to lose an entire day or two days from your trip.

We think Sedona is one of the very best vacation spots in the US and this unique offering in such a remarkable setting is something you shouldn’t pass up lightly.

If you are still undecided, go down and speak to a few Jeep companies in town to help make your mind up one way or the other.

Should You Rent A Jeep Or ATV For Off Roading In Sedona?

You do have an option to rent an ATV instead of a Jeep in Sedona. However, we strongly recommend choosing a Jeep and here’s why:

• Jeeps are fully enclosed so you are protected from the elements whether that be sun, wind or rain.
• You will wear goggles, helmets and neck buffs in an ATV whereas you can take it easy in a Jeep.
• Stones can kick back on busy gravel roads and off road trails, in a Jeep you are protected.
• You can use the Jeep in place of your personal vehicle for driving around Sedona all day and night.
• You will be provided with a cool box for the back of the Jeep so you can carry food and drinks.
• There’s plenty of storage in the back of the Jeep for warm clothes or hiking and photography gear.
• ATV’s are limited to certain trail types in Sedona, we never saw any on the harder trails.
• Jeeps are far more comfortable to ride and they have air conditioning.
• And ATV’s are similarly priced to Jeeps, so it’s a no brainer.

Sedona Jeep Rental Companies

There are a handful of official companies operating Jeep rentals in Sedona. You can and should compare prices and reach out to any you like the look of for more information.

Here are the companies you can check out:

• Barlow Adventures Jeep Rentals
• Red Rock Rubicon Jeep Rentals
• Sedona Rent-A-Jeep
• Cobalt Escapes Jeep Rentals

After reading reviews and window shopping around town, we decided to go with Sedona Jeep Rentals by Barlow Adventures . They had extremely positive reviews and the Jeeps on display looked spotless.

Our experience with Barlow

We can’t recommend Barlow highly enough. From start to finish we were very impressed with the entire operation, from top notch customer service and professionalism to in depth help with planning the perfect Sedona Jeep trail itinerary.

We found a fantastic price point for a 3 day Jeep rental with Barlow. The timeframe and total cost worked perfectly for us.

We 100% recommend Barlow, but it is important you shop around and find the best service for your needs.

Sedona Jeep Tours

An alternative way of experiencing the most popular Jeep trails in Sedona is to take a Jeep tour. You will see loads of Pink Jeep Tours, Red Rock Tours and similar cruising around town throughout your stay.

Take a look at all Sedona Jeep tour options with Viator and Get Your Guide . In fact, if you hire a Jeep, you will pass by far more tour groups than you will other hired Jeeps.

If you are only interested in one specific trail such as Broken Arrow or you are unsure about the cost, you might be better suited to a Jeep tour experience instead.

Here are popular jeep tours in Sedona :

Sedona Tours : We have rounded up the best tours in Sedona to help you find the top options available for your visit to northern Arizona.

Driving Your Jeep In Sedona

Off roading trails in Sedona are awesome, but they are different to driving your every day car and there are a few things you need to know:

• On Jeep trails in Sedona you will frequently shift into 4H and / or 4L gear. Instructions on which gears to use on specific trails will be given to you upon hiring the vehicle and it is important to follow them.
• You must respect the Jeep, the trails and other drivers on the trails. Enjoy driving but be courteous and considerate. Allow vehicles coming uphill the right of way.
• Watch out for ATV’s flying by and kicking back loose stones which might hit your Jeep windshield. There’s not much you can do, just pull over to the side and let them pass.
• You will get mud and dust on your Jeep. The key is to have fun but at the same time be safe and respectful of the vehicle. The place you rent from will know how you treat the Jeep with one look.

Best Time To Drive Jeep Trails In Sedona

Let’s take a quick look at the best times of day and seasons to take on the best Sedona Jeep trails:

Time Of Day

You can drive any of the best Jeep trails in Sedona at any time of day and you are going to have a fantastic experience.

However, if you want to try avoiding crowds, we would suggest staying away from Broken Arrow, Diamondback Gulch, Outlaw and Schnebly Hill in the middle of the day.

If you are interested in sunrises or photography, you should consider driving Broken Arrow or Schnebly Hill at dawn or dusk. West facing views from elevated viewpoints are spectacular at sunrise and sunset.

Here’s when we would suggest driving each Sedona Jeep Trail:

• Mystic Vista – Sunrise is amazing from the viewpoint.
• Ranch Loop – Any time of day the trail will be quiet.
• Robbers Roost – Any time of day, but combine with Outlaw and ancient ruins.
• Outlaw – Any time but busiest mid morning to mid afternoon.
• Dry Creek – Before sunrise to make the most of parking for Devils Bridge hike.
• Schnebly Hill – Sunrise and sunset for best light and to avoid tours.
• Diamondback Gulch – Any time of day.
• Soldier Pass – Any time of day but the hike and cave will be busiest midday.
• Broken Arrow – Early morning or early evening for best light and avoiding tours.

Spring and Fall are the two busiest seasons in Sedona. More people in town means more Jeeps and more tours on the trails. Plus, prices for Jeeps are going to be at peak.

Summer is slightly quieter and Winter is a much quieter time to visit Sedona. There are very few instances during the calendar year in which Jeep prices are temporarily slashed to accommodate for temporary low season periods, but if you can catch one you will save a lot of money.

During our visit to Sedona in December we were fortunate enough to be in town during one of the few periods when Jeep rentals are discounted.

More From Sedona

• 20 best hikes in Sedona
• 5 best ruins near Sedona
• 15 best Sedona sunrise and sunset spots
• 7 hidden caves in Sedona
• Where to stay in Sedona AZ

More From The Southwest

• 20 best hikes in Zion
• One day in Zion itinerary ideas
• 40 best things to do in Las Vegas
• 10 best day trips from Las Vegas
• Grand Canyon South Rim itinerary
• 17 best hikes at Grand Canyon South Rim

Want more Arizona content? Head over to our Arizona travel guides to explore the best of Grand Canyon, Sedona and beyond.

We hope this comprehensive guide to the best Sedona Jeep trails helps with planning your visit to Arizona!

Please let us know if you have any questions about hiring a Jeep or off roading in Sedona in the comments below.

Happy Driving ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This Sedona Jeep Guide? Pin It For Your Visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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You will begin your journey on the historic Old Munds Wagon trail that was originally used for herding cattle around Sedona to Flagstaff.

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The Voice of Mother Earth Duration 2 hours About Embark on an offroad journey into Sedona’s red rock landscapes and dive into the mysteries surrounding the Red Rock Secret Mountain

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Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and showed us a great time! We learned a lot about the vortices and the cultural significance of many of the landmarks to the tribes that called the region home. Offered a great value for our money compared to other companies in the area.

Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours is licensed by the USFS for wilderness trail usage – permitted by, & conducted in the Coconino National Forest

Sedona with Kids: Best Things To Do in Sedona, Arizona

W ith its magical, red-rock landscape and plethora of outdoor activities, Sedona, AZ is a great destination for your next family vacation. Whether you want to explore the art and history of this rich cultural area, catch thrills in a backcountry Jeep or ATV tour, or get up-close and personal with nature on one of the many hiking trails, there is something for everyone in Sedona.

Sedona is often called the gateway to northern Arizona because of its central location among some of the most iconic attractions in the American Southwest, including the Grand Canyon. We were able to visit Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Petrified Forest in one overnight trip from Sedona, but these are also doable as day trips.

Here are 32 things to do in Sedona with kids, including family-friendly Sedona hotels and restaurants. Check out our Western US Family Travel Guide for more adventures out west, including our visitors' guides to Phoenix , Las Vegas , and Colorado Springs .

Explore Montezuma Castle, a Native American cliff dwelling. Photo courtesy of the castle

Best Things to Do in Sedona with Kids

1. explore native american culture.

Sedona is near some of the best-preserved Native American ruins in the US, including Montezuma Castle , a preserved cliff dwelling, and  Honanki and Tuzigoot , which feature native petroglyphs. Visitors can also book a Native American culture tour with a focus on art and history or a nature experience. And, there are many art galleries that feature work by local Native American artists from the tribes of Sinagua, Yavapai, Apache, Hopi, and Navajo. Families can also view ancient artifacts and see traditional dance performances at  Sedona Heritage Museum .

2. Go for a Hike

Hiking is my family's favorite vacation activity, and Sedona did not disappoint. Hikes in the area range from an easy stroll around the iconic Bell Rock to rock-scrambling up Cathedral Rock and exploring hidden waterfalls in Secret Canyon. A Red Rock parking pass is required at most of the trail parking areas. The pass—which is available as a daily, weekly, or annual pass— can be purchased online the same day as your hike (no printing required). Be aware that the parking areas fill up fast, but there is a free shuttle service that picks up and drops off at various locations around town.

3. Take a Jeep Tour

One of the most popular ways to explore Sedona is on an off-roading Jeep tour, and there are numerous companies ready to give your family a ride. The iconic  Pink Jeep Tours have the most options, but they fill up quickly, so make sure to book ahead of time. Other options are  Sedona Jeep Tours ,  Red Rock Western Jeep Tours , and  Arizona Safari Jeep Tours .

RELATED: 40 Things To Do in Denver with Kids, Other than Hiking

Sedona is one of the best places to see the stars. Photo courtesy of Sedona Stargazing 

4. Go Stargazing

Sedona is known as a top stargazing destination, as it is one of only 20 certified Dark Sky Communities in the world. Visitors can check out the stars on their own at one of the many stargazing spots in and around Sedona, or book a stargazing or UFO tour . Sedona Stargazing offers a private experience guided by professional astronomers, in which participants can use high-powered telescopes to view galaxies, star clusters, nebula, planets, and the Milky Way when visible. For a more rugged experience, Sedona Jeep Tours offers nighttime stargazing and full-moon tours from the backcountry trails.

5. Ride the Trolley

Trolley tours are a great option for seeing the sights in and around Sedona, particularly for families and those with limited mobility. Visitors will learn about the area and visit some of the most iconic viewing spots for photo ops. Popular tour companies include Sedona Trolley and Red Rock Magic Trolley .

6. Explore by Helicopter

See the amazing rock formations, surrounding mountains, and even ancient ruins from an eagle-eye view in one of the many  helicopter tours available in Sedona. Tours are accessible for all ages and mobility levels.

7. Explore the Verde River

Enjoy the lush scenery along the winding Verde River on a rafting, inflatable-kayaking, or tubing  tour . A water-to-wine tour is also available, which includes a day of kayaking on the river followed by an outdoor wine-tasting experience.

RELATED: Top National Parks for Summer Vacation with the Kids

Take a dip in one of America's top 10 swimming holes at Slide Rock State Park. Photo courtesy of Arizona State Parks

8. Go Swimming

You might not think of swimming as a typical desert activity, but Sedona offers some nice creeks and swimming holes perfect for cooling off on hot days. Popular swimming holes can be found in Slide Rock State Park , named one of America's top 10 swimming holes and known for its natural water slide, and Wet Beaver Wilderness , which has some swimming areas but is best known for a cliff-jumping spot known as "the crack." Since it is a 3.5-mile hike one way to the crack, it is less crowded than other Sedona swimming holes.

9. Catch a Fish

In addition to providing great swimming holes, Sedona's creeks are also great ecosystems for trout, making it a top fishing destination. Take your own gear to one of these local fishing holes , or check out Rainbow Trout Farm , which provides all gear at extremely low prices. There is no fee to explore the property or for parents supervising kids while they fish. Fly-fishing tours are also available for individuals or groups.

10. Go Off-Roading

For families with older teens who want a more thrilling way to see the sights, guided ATV tours explore the rugged trails and visit spots far away from the rest of the crowd. Teens must be 15-and-a-half or older with a learner's permit to drive the ATV.

RELATED: 25 Fun Things To Do in Jackson Hole with Kids

Take a stroll through Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.

Top Attractions in Sedona for Families

11. tlaquepaque arts & crafts village.

Fashioned after a traditional Mexican village, the Tlaquepaque shopping village includes shops, art galleries, and restaurants amid cobblestone walkways, stucco walls, and arches that will take you back in time. The walking areas also feature decorative fountains with sitting areas surrounded by manicured gardens and animal sculptures. My son loved Tlaquepaque Toy Town , which has a good selection of LEGO sets plus local-themed toys like scorpions preserved in glass. All the kids enjoyed playing in the fountains while listening to live Native American flute music in the plaza.

12. Red Rock State Park

Located about 20 minutes from downtown Sedona, Red Rock State Park is aptly named, with miles of simple hiking trails providing expansive views of Sedona's iconic red rocks and the surrounding landscape. The visitor center has a gift shop, a butterfly and hummingbird garden, and daily ranger-led nature programs.

RELATED: The Rocky Mountains with Kids: 30 Best Things To Do in Boulder

Slide Rock State Park features red rocks, a creek, and a natural water slide. 

13. Slide Rock State Park

Nestled between the majestic cliffs of Oak Creek Canyon, Slide Rock State Park was originally a homestead apple farm. The apple orchard and historic cabins are available for viewing, and the creek features a natural water slide, the park's namesake. When we visited in the spring, the creek was roaring with waterfalls, but in the summer it slows down and turns into multiple swimming holes perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

14.  Verde Canyon Railroad

Take a train ride through the Verde Canyon and see views of red rock formations and ancient Native American ruins that are only accessible by train. If you are visiting Sedona at Christmastime, don't miss the  magical Christmas journey to the North Pole.

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See animals up close at Out of Africa Wildlife Park. Photo courtesy of the park

15. Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Located in nearby Camp Verde, Out of Africa is a 104-acre wildlife park dedicated to preserving exotic animals that are in danger of extinction. Visitors can take an African-style safari and see the animals up close in their spacious natural habitats, book a private animal-feeding tour, or soar above the park on a zip line.

16. Chapel of the Holy Cross

This Roman Catholic Church is one of the most iconic sights in Sedona, as it is built right into the dramatic red rock formations. The chapel is known for its amazing views, especially at sunset. Prayer services are also held regularly.

RELATED: 12 Best California Family Vacation Ideas Kids Love

Take a tour of the breathtaking Antelope Canyon.

Day Trips from Sedona

17. antelope canyon.

Located in Page, Arizona—about four hours north of Sedona by car—Antelope Canyon is one of the most well-known and accessible slot canyons in the area. As the canyon is on the Navajo reservation, visitors are required to reserve a tour with a Navajo guide, who will provide information about the canyon and show how to get the best photos inside. There are numerous companies offering tours of both upper and lower Antelope Canyon, but make sure to book them well in advance of your trip.

18. Flagstaff , Arizona

Less than one hour north of the red rocks of Sedona is the hip mountain town of Flagstaff. The bustling downtown boasts a great selection of eclectic restaurants and nightlife with a majestic backdrop of (seasonally) snow-capped mountains. In the winter, these mountains are a popular destination for skiing , snowboarding, and snow tubing. In summer, the gondola rides offer spectacular views of Sedona and even the Grand Canyon from an elevation of 11,500 feet.

19. Grand Canyon

Approximately two hours northwest of Sedona is the iconic  Grand Canyon National Park . Check out the tons of family-friendly  tours and activities available in this majestic destination. Small-group  Grand Canyon Tours are also available from Sedona or Flagstaff.

RELATED: Zion National Park: A Guide for Families

Petrified Forest National Park features unique landscapes and rock formations.

20. Petrified Forest National Park

You'll find some of the most unique landscapes in this national park, named for the hundreds of 2-million-year-old remnants of petrified trees found there. Kids will love seeing some of the dinosaur and crocodile skeletons that have been found in the area displayed in the park's museum. Don't miss walking on the trail through the mineral hills of the Blue Mesa, which will make you feel like you're on another planet. If your kids are Cars fans, check out the Wigwam Motel on Route 66, a few miles outside the park. Reminiscent of the Cozy Cone Motel in Radiator Springs, it has a collection of classic cars parked outside, including Tow Mater's Grandpappy. This unexpected find was my son's favorite part of the trip.

21. Phoenix , Arizona

From Sedona to Phoenix, you will notice a dramatic change in landscape, from red rocks and mountains to smaller hills with forests of saguaro cactuses covering the landscapes. We were lucky to experience the spectacular spring wildflower bloom when we visited in the first week of April, which also happens in the fall. We hiked to Yavapai Point just outside Phoenix in  Lake Pleasant Regional Park , where we were surrounded by huge cactuses and hundreds of yellow, red, and blue wildflowers. Keep an eye out for the wild donkeys.

RELATED: Things To Do in Joshua Tree

Take in traditional southwest views at Monument Valley.

22. Monument Valley

Some of the most iconic views of the American Southwest are found in the  Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park , located at the border of Arizona and Utah. The most popular way to see the monuments is on the Valley Drive, a 17-mile road that winds through the area and offers multiple parking areas for viewing and photo ops. Don't miss out on the Navajo tacos at the  Reuben Heflin Restaurant inside the Hampton Inn in nearby Kayenta, Arizona.

Where to Stay in Sedona with Kids

23. hyatt residence club.

This family-friendly hotel is centrally located in Uptown Sedona, walking distance from tons of restaurants and activities, including Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. The hotel features a fitness center, adult and kiddie pools, and a recreation center with family activities such as tennis, ping-pong, and pool tables. Families with babies will love knowing there’s no need to pack a crib or high chair, as these are available upon request. The Kids Camp for ages 4-12 offers fun activities such as arts and crafts and scavenger hunts.

24. Sedona Springs Resort

Even though it is one of the more budget-friendly options in the Sedona area, Sedona Springs Resort is not short on amenities for families and kids. The resort features a playground, a clubhouse, hot tubs, and indoor and outdoor pools. Daily resort activities include arts and crafts, Native American cultural presentations, and live animal shows.

25. Courtyard by Marriott Sedona

For active families who still want to be close to downtown Sedona, the Courtyard Sedona is a great kid-friendly option. Families can enjoy views of the majestic red rocks from their room or from the hotel's third-floor viewing deck. The hotel also offers many outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails accessible directly from the parking lot, plus an outdoor whirlpool and a kid-friendly heated pool with multiple shallow areas.

26. Adobe Grand Villas

This kid-friendly bed-and-breakfast features 16 uniquely decorated villas inspired by local culture, including the Wagon Wheel villa, which has a bed nestled inside of a covered wagon. The hotel features a seasonal pool and a year-round heated Jacuzzi, plus a five-course daily breakfast. If your kids want to try fishing, Adobe Grand Villas will book a half- or full-day fishing excursion for your family. Another fun family activity is the Verde Canyon Railroad , which embarks just 30 minutes from the villas.

27. Amara Resort and Spa

Located in Uptown Sedona, Amara Resort and Spa is just steps away from tons of shopping and dining options as well as the Sedona Trolley. The resort also boasts an on-site restaurant, outdoor fire pits, and an infinity pool. One of its unique features is its new dedicated classroom and office space, which makes it a perfect place for families working and learning remotely. A teacher’s assistant is ready to work with school-age children for no extra charge. The resort also provides access to a professional nanny (with a reservation).

The appetizer sampler at the Cowboy Club includes unique local favorites like rattlesnake sausage and cactus fries.

Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Sedona

28. cowboy club.

Located in uptown Sedona, this iconic bar and restaurant has been in business for more than 70 years. Many famous Hollywood stars, including John Wayne and Elvis Presley, frequented the restaurant while they filmed classic Western movies in Sedona. The menu features unique local dishes such as elk chops, rattlesnake sausage, and cactus fries, plus a kids' menu.

29. Oak Creek Brewery and Grill

Enjoy a selection of craft brews and spectacular views of the Sedona landscape at this upstairs brewery inside the Tlaquepaque shopping center. Food options include gourmet burgers, artisan pizzas with unique toppings such as brie and asparagus, and a separate kids' menu.

30. Sedona Cake Couture

With two locations inside Tlaquepaque Shopping Village, Sedona Cake Couture's artistic cakes have been featured on Food Network and TLC as well as in numerous lifestyle magazines. Enjoy coffee and a variety of decadent desserts, including incredibly lifelike cactus cupcakes.

31. El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano

A visit to Arizona is not complete without trying some authentic Arizona-style Mexican cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Mexican food with native Navajo and Hopi flavors. Dishes include typical Mexican food like tacos and enchiladas, plus native favorites like Navajo fry bread (sopaipilla) pizza.

32. Red Rock Cafe

This Sedona favorite serves breakfast and lunch, with breakfast available until closing at 2pm. The breakfast menu offers traditional favorites like pancakes and omelets, plus specialty items like the famous three-pound cinnamon roll. Mexican breakfast items include huevos rancheros and breakfast enchiladas.

This article contains some affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you book a hotel or activity. There is no extra cost to the reader. We only recommend hotels and services that we have personally used or have thoroughly researched.

Unless noted, photos by the author

• The Best Small Towns in the Colorado Plateau for a Weekend Retreat

The Colorado Plateau is the name for a massive high desert plateau encompassing numerous states in the American Southwest . It is here where you will find some of the most starkly different landscapes in the country, where rusty-red buttes sprout from dusty grounds, creating a collection of scenery so recognizable on postcards, movies, and magazines. Not all is desert, as the plateau also boasts a few pockets of greenery, from ponderosa pine forests to flower-filled meadows.

In the midst of it all, several small towns have found their perfect spot to nestle and, for generations, have served as destinations themselves, with plenty of recreation to offer for the leisure-minded. Visitors have a wide range of towns to choose from, but when it comes to retreat, the following does its best to satisfy such needs.

What instantly comes to mind when most people think of Moab is Arches National Park , a geological wonderland of mesas and buttes in unique shapes and sizes created by the forces of wind and water. Another impressive natural site is Canyonlands National Park , the state's largest national park, with a similar characteristic as the former but is more defined by the Colorado River that dramatically snakes through the craggy landscape. Both national parks make this small town a big hit for tourists, as it is the gateway to such incredible backcountry, but there is just as much to offer in town.

The Moab Museum is an excellent attraction for learning about the history of the area, from its very first inhabitants to the mining of uranium, which only ceased not too long ago. A stroll along the main street will have you come across local art galleries and boutiques, as well as bars and restaurants serving local flairs. Coming for a retreat, the Moab Resort is a prime choice for its modern amenities and surrounding canyon views, while Under Canvas Moab is an unbeatable experience of glamping in the high desert.

Sedona, Arizona

One of the most breathtaking small towns in the American Southwest, Sedona knows how to charm even the most seasoned travelers with its towering multicolored buttes and surrounding scenery. The landscape of Sedona is perfectly designed for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails to embark on leading to stunning vistas and iconic features such as the Devil's Bridge and Cathedral Rock. Hopping on a jeep tour or horseback also brings great rewards with exploring the high desert. Come back into town and experience the best of Sedona's creative art and food scene; the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village has all that and more, as its name translates to "the best of everything."

Those interested in history should visit the Sedona Heritage Museum, which preserves a former farmstead and many artifacts from the pioneer era. Considered by many to be a spiritual mecca, Sedona is mainly known for its Vortex meditation sites and physiotherapy treatment, and many establishments offer services that help to rejuvenate the mind and body. A retreat here is genuinely a fantastic choice to make, and from the riverside tranquility of L'Auberge to the spas and pools of the Enchantment Resort, you will come away in the most relaxed state possible.

Taos, New Mexico

Taos is best known for its ancient pueblo, a Native American multi-storied adobe building that has been continuously inhabited for more than a thousand years, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark. The use of adobe is a commendable feature in the architecture of the town, which is also seen in the San Francisco de Asis Church, another notable icon not to be missed.

Artists have long been drawn to Taos for its historic and natural settings; they express their creativity in pottery, sculpture, and canvas, and their works are now found in more than 70 art galleries across town. The center of town is home to a significant number of them, as well as shops selling traditional Native American crafts and contemporary garments alike, mainly circulating the historic Taos Plaza.

There is plenty to offer for the outdoorsy, too, from rafting the rapids of the Rio Grande to rock-climbing the steep walls of the Sangre de Cristo range, and in winter, there are endless skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the Taos Ski Valley. Such an incredible destination to visit doesn't come without great lodging options, too, especially for a retreat, which both El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa and Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa are quite the premier choices.

Telluride, Colorado

Set in a box canyon in the Rocky Mountains , this scenic town is one of Colorado 's charmiest. Telluride immediately captures the attention of visitors for its direct view of the snowcapped peaks from its compact downtown, a National Historic Landmark filled with Victorian-era shophouses that now serve as boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.

The surrounding mountains are what made Telluride big. It is serviced by a gondola, and visitors can easily access the beautiful nature by either an afternoon walk in the alpine meadows or a multi-day cross-country hike. The warmer months are alive with music festivals right at Town Park, while the skies are adorned with hot air balloons every June. When snow begins to fall, the mountain town transforms into one of the most beloved corners in Colorado for skiing, snowboarding, or a simple sleigh ride, all done in the 2000-plus acre of terrain in Telluride Ski Resort.

A weekend retreat in Telluride is best spent in Bear Creek Lodge for its mountain views paired with luxurious amenities, although The Peaks Resort and Spa, which is home to the largest spa facility in the state, can work perfectly too.

Kanab, Utah

Next to the border with Arizona , in a picturesque reddish landscape, Kanab has been a classic American West town on silver screens for the past few decades and is attracting an increasing amount of visitors to its unique natural surroundings. Off-Highway 89 takes the adventure spirits to the desert expanse of Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, the shoulder-rubbing passages of Buckskin Gulch, and not forgetting the swirling patterns of the Wave across the state border. Other sites that are just as interesting are the history museum of Moqui Cave and the massive Glen Canyon Dam.

In town, local memorabilia can be seen at the Kanab Heritage House and Little Hollywood Museum, while the variety of restaurants serving local flares and microbreweries make the rest of the visit here worthwhile. A base for exploring the rugged Southwest backcountry, Kanab has a good number of accommodations to suit, even if it is for a quick weekend retreat, which both the Canyons Boutique Hotel and the Flagstone Boutique Inn and Suites have more than enough to make a memorable stay.

Gallup, New Mexico

Known as the "Indian Capital of the World," this dusty town on the iconic Route 66 in western New Mexico is close to the reservations of the Navajo Nation, and visitors are often delighted by the abundance of Native American handicrafts, paintings, and rugs sold here. A better insight into the local heritage is done at the Gallup Cultural Center, which also features the town's historical chapters on coal mining and trains. Perhaps the best cultural experience for visitors is to attend the Gallup Summer Indian Dances and Market in the summer months, as well as the highly-anticipated Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial held every August.

When it is time to head outdoors, strap on your boots and hit the trails of Red Rock Park, where the towering spires of Navajo Church loom in the rugged distance. Escape the desert heat in the nearby Zuni Mountains, where mountain biking and camping are set in the lush greenery of ponderosa pine forests. Despite its small size, Gallup has a handful of charming places to stay for a retreat; most notable is the El Rancho Hotel, which served movie stars who came to film Westerns in the area in the 1930s and 1940s.

Silverton, Colorado

A town rich in history and nature, Silverton is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains on all sides, which rise more than 13,000ft above sea level. This lofty elevation makes Silverton an enjoyable place to visit for its cooling climate in the summer months when the town sees hikers and mountain bikers ascending the trails in the forested backcountry and rafters experiencing a different kind of thrill on the Animas River. The famous narrow-gauge railroad between the town and the city of Durango is a trip of a lifetime on a historic steam-powered train, taking visitors through a slow but scenic journey with views that change from dry lowlands to pine-forested hills.

In winter, the area becomes a wonderland of snow, with perfect natural terrain for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-climbing. After a long full day outdoors, wind down in the many cafes, bars, and restaurants of downtown Silverton, which has a unique frontier-style ambiance to match the surrounding snowcapped peaks. Coming here for a retreat is truly an escape from it all, and to have the best convenience in terms of location and comfort, the Grand Imperial Hotel is the place to be.

Experience the Unique Charm of Colorado Plateau's Small Towns

Featuring a plethora of landscapes from rusty-toned deserts to sky-high mountains, paired with a history of both ancient and modern, the Colorado Plateau is a world of its own. There is a lot to offer for outdoor adventure and culture here, and small towns like the ones above deliver such experiences in a way few places can successfully handle. Spending a weekend retreat in them not only allows you to connect with nature but also the local heritage and people that shape them into what they are today, before leaving with a relaxed state of mind and a yearning desire to return.

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