Once summer swings around, it’s the perfect time to treat your loved ones to an exciting escape, far from the hustle and bustle of the suburbs. The charming city of Sedona in the heart of Arizona offers numerous thrills, promising a riveting summer getaway. Whether you’re a couple planning a romantic summer holiday or a group of family or friends looking for a scintillating summer vacation, this Grand Canyon State gem has plenty to offer. Here’s what to expect on your Sedona summertime escape.
Sedona’s extensive backcountry features hundreds of scenic biking trails, making it one of the nation’s premier locations for biking escapades. Big Park Loop spans 2.42 miles, offering a relatively easy biking experience with a mild elevation gain of 170 feet. The 6-mile Hangover Trail promises a moderate challenge, climbing 892 feet, while the 8.3-mile Hiline Trail climbs roughly 1,200 feet, delivering an arduous excursion. For a premium biking experience, stop by Sedona EZ Riders and enjoy an impressive selection of high-end mountain bike and e-bike rentals.
Sedona hosts over 100 picturesque hiking trails across the city’s expansive red backcountry. Deadman’s Pass Trail measures 2.4 miles, offering an easy and brief 60-minute hike with an elevation gain of roughly 265 feet. The 5-mile Jim Thompson Trail takes two hours, featuring an elevation gain of 541 feet, while the 10-mile Dogie Trail delivers an onerous five-hour hike, rising 1,784 feet. Since Sedona’s daytime summer temperatures average 98 degrees, plan for an early or late hike to avoid the heat and carry sufficient water and snacks to keep you well-hydrated and energized.
Explore Sedona’s sweeping landscape on a relaxing Jeep tour courtesy of Pink Adventure Tours. Choose from multiple tour options, including the two-hour Broken Arrow, the two-and-a-half-hour Scenic Rim 2.5, and the three-hour Broken Arrow & Scenic Rim Combo. All the tours accommodate kids aged five and up, allowing for exciting backcountry exploration with your little ones. Ride in an open-air Jeep Wrangler, custom-made to power through the rocky terrain while delivering unobstructed views. An expert guide leads the excursion, offering excellent insights into local geology, history, and wildlife.
Sedona is a stargazing paradise thanks to its clear night skies and minimal light pollution. Early summer is the best time for stargazing, with the city featuring several renowned spots, including Dry Creek Road, Fay Canyon, Jordan Trailhead Observation Area, Aerie Trailhead, and Two Trees Observation Area. As you plan your stargazing escapade, pack a red flashlight for better rhodopsin buildup, warm clothing, and ample snacks and water.
Traverse Sedona’s impressive outback on a thrilling helicopter ride as you take in the majestic red rock formations and sweeping landscape. Sedona Helicopter Tours is the city’s number-one go-to for epic helicopter excursions, offering four incredible Heli Tours, including Skyline, Anasazi, Cathedral, and Dreamcatcher. Guidance Air also offers four private tours, including Sacred Spires, Sacred Wilderness, Private Sunset Flight & Dinner, and Extended Private Sunset Flight & Dinner, perfect for couples. All helicopters feature air conditioning for cozy summer flights and forward-facing window seats, ensuring impeccable views regardless of your seating position.
Catch the gorgeous Sedona sunrise on an exciting hot air balloon ride as you soar several thousand feet above the rolling rocky landscape. Book your flight with Red Rock Balloon Adventures and experience the thrill of a laid-back aerial escapade. The tour begins with an early drive to the lift-off location before taking you on an epic journey across Sedona’s famous landmarks. All pilots have Federal Aviation Administration licensing, ensuring a safe flight. Even in summer, kindly dress in layers as temperatures considerably drop once you reach cruising altitude.
The famous Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Sedona’s stand-out pieces of architecture, offering a serene space for reflection. Architectural Digest ranks the Chapel of the Holy Cross among one of the world’s 10 most beautiful churches, highlighting its aesthetic appeal. Take the 1.3-mile hike to the chapel and enjoy breathtaking views of the local red buttes, especially during sunset.
Sedona is a vacation hub drawing millions of annual thrill-seekers thanks to its extensive landscape and ample activities. Whether you want to explore on two wheels or four or take to the skies for an aerial escapade, this scenic city delivers epic, memorable experiences. As you plan your Sedona summer escape, look no further than I Love Sedona for the city’s finest holiday rentals. We offer a robust selection of luxury properties with complimentary amenities, guaranteeing a comfortable and convenient home-away-from-home stay, catering to different travel group sizes. Contact us today to secure your Sedona vacation early and relish a thrilling summer getaway in premium lodging.
