With long days full of sunshine, fun and adventure, visiting Sedona, Arizona in the summer is all about beating the heat. From exploring the natural water slides at Slide Rock State Park to morning hikes immersed in beautiful red rock landscape, Sedona offers an incredible natural playground for outdoor adventures. Keep cool at local swimming spots or browse the art galleries and specialty shops. There’s something for everyone to enjoy summer in Sedona!
Slide Rock State Park
The canyon creek beds at Slide Rock State Park create numerous swimming holes filled with crystal clear water perfect for a refreshing dip during a Sedona summer visit. But the main attraction is the natural water slide formed by the flowing waters of Oak Creek. Slip and slide with the cool water as you splash into a shallow swimming hole. There are also plenty of smaller natural pools and dry bedrock to hangout, perfect for families with younger kids.
Bell Rock During the Sedona Summer Season
With plenty of fantastic trails and natural attractions to explore, you don’t want to miss out on hiking in Sedona. Hiking during summer in Sedona can be a scorcher, so rise early to avoid the heat and wake up with an invigorating hike through the stunning red landscape. Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most famous rock outcroppings, shaped like a massive bell. There are several trails to explore at Bell Rock, but Bell Rock Crossing is one of the easier hikes with a fantastic view of Cathedral Rock.
Red Rock Scenic Byway
Want to see the natural beauty of Sedona without the heat? Hit the road at drive down the Red Rock Scenic Byway, stretching 7.5 miles through Sedona’s remarkable red rock landscape. See Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock from the comfort of your air-conditioned car, or jump out for a stop to explore local vortexes and scenic lookouts. Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center offers maps for easy navigation throughout the area.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Take a break from the sun and desert at Tlaquepaque, Sedona’s premier arts & crafts village. Here you’ll find a collection of exceptional art galleries, shops and restaurants. Discover one-of-a-kind artworks from Western bronze sculptures and traditional ceramics to breathtaking blown glass pieces and Southwestern fine art paintings. Let the cobble-stoned walkways take you from shop to shop, finishing off with a cool drink at a neighboring restaurant.
Ready to start planning your Sedona summer journey? If you’re looking for the best places to stay, Sedona.org offers a wide range of stunning vacation rentals to fit your style and budget. Contact us today to book your Sedona vacation rental!
