Wondering what the best time of year to visit Sedona is? We will take a look at how each season opens up a new world of possibilities when you visit Sedona AZ.
Spring
Pros: With comfortable daily temperatures and brisk evenings from the desert climate, Sedona is in high gear. Enjoy float tours along the Colorado River, rude ATVs through the mountainous trails, and even enjoy early morning balloon rides that are sure to make lasting fun for the entire family.
Cons: The height of the tourist season for Sedona starts in Spring, so expect large crowds and book reservations ahead of time.
Summer
Pros: There’s plenty to do for outdoor enthusiasts, as many tourists leave or stay inside. Enjoy swimming at Grasshopper Point and Slide Rock State Park. Nightlife is in high gear, so enjoy stargazing at many of the area restaurants, catch a theater performance at Blazin’ M Ranch Western Dinner Theater, or watch top-notch music performances at the Sound Bites Grill.
Cons: Let’s be honest: Sedona is HOT in the summer. While it doesn’t experience the 100° temperatures that Phoenix gets, you should be aware of the dry heat and mild evenings. This can be prohibitive for those with young families or elderly.
Fall
Pros: Sedona’s fall climate is perfect to enjoy an older crowd and the Sedona Arts Festival, a town-wide gathering of vendors, live demonstrations, classes and kids activities. Sedona also has its fair share of scenic drives to watch leaves turn to glorious reds and yellows, or you can hike on the West Fork Oak Creek Trail to get up close and personal with the desert’s vivid oak trees.
Cons: Some businesses will operate under reduced hours or shutting their doors until the next tourism season. Call ahead or plan your trip ahead of time to avoid any setbacks to your trip.
Winter
Pros: Experience the famous Sedona Luminarias, a festival where you’ll enjoy the nighttime lighting of over 6,000 lanterns makes the city come alive during the festive holiday season. The Sedona Yoga Festival gives yogis of all levels the ability to stretch among the perfect daytime climate. Stay at many of Sedona’s rustic accommodations that often feature indoor and outdoor fireplaces and hot tubs.
Cons: Due to the desert environment, nights can be extremely cold and may experience snow. This can be problematic for visitors that are staying in nearby Flagstaff, where road closures can complicate travel.
