1. Cathedral Rock

Debatably one of the most well-known attractions in Sedona, Cathedral Rock is an incredibly charming site and a photographers dream. Just a 10-minute drive to the base of Cathedral Rock from the heart of town, you have no excuse not to visit this beauty. Accessed from the Back’O’Beyond Road, the 1 mile in and out track is open year round.

Hiking Cathedral Rock is not meant for the weak-hearted; proper hiking shoes are recommended for the short but steep trek up. You can bring your dog for company but be sure to keep them leashed to avoid injury. The hike can be particularly challenging during hot weather and is best done at sunrise or just before sunset. The view from the top is a magical combination of the illuminated red stone towers and the soft sun reflecting in the quiet waters of Oak Creek below. At sunset, a red aura seems to envelop the place.

To park at the trailhead you’ll need to purchase a Red Rock Pass from the Red Rock Ranger District located on the way into Sedona at a self-serve machine or one of the many vendors. Passes range from $5-$20 depending on the longevity of the permit.

If you'd prefer to hike with someone, you may want to book a Sedona Red Rock Hiking Tour. Meet with your guide and chose to hike the Munds Wagon Trail, Airport Loop, Doe Mountain, Bell Rock, Thompson Trail, Baldwin Trail, Cathedral Trail, Dead Mans Pass, Jordan Trail, Teacup Trail, or Thunder Mountain. You can find the Red Rocks Tour here or you may be more interested in the Sunrise Tour to hike up 400 feet and experience spectacular views of the canyon at sunrise.

2. Airport Vortex

Sedona has multiple vortex sites around the area with the most accessible being the Airport Vortex. A vortex is a place in nature where energy is either spiraling out of or down into the earth, much like an invisible hurricane of energy. At this supernatural destination, trees frequently display a twirling or curving of their trunks due to the force of power the vortex creates.

Try and find the location of this rare treasure to feel its strength. Marked on local maps and in Google Maps, in theory, they should be easy to locate, but you may find it a little harder than first thought. If like me you didn’t find it, you’ll still be rewarded. From the top of the Airport Vortex lookout, the sight of the distant red rocks radiating the warm crimson atmosphere of the sunrise is enough to set your soul on fire.

As the vortexes are so hard to find, you may consider joining a Guided Vortext Tour who will take you to most beautiful secret areas in Red Rock Country.

3. Slide Rock Swimming Hole

Slide Rock State Park, although beautiful in its own right, is avoided by most locals these days because of overcrowding. However, on weekdays it’s the perfect and most accessible swimming hole to wear that favorite swimming suit of yours. 6 miles north of Sedona, the parking lot requires the Red Rock Pass. The Red Rock Crossing was created for relaxing in the cool, soothing waters while soaking up the warm Arizona sun and admiring the stunning views. You’ll find the best scenery from the south of the bank.

Get there early in the morning to reserve a good parking spot and more importantly, the best position on the river bank with a touch of shade for when you want to retreat from the sun. The name Slide Rock comes from a smooth slide like section of the rock which when you go down, will have you landing in the waist high pool of cool water below. For the more daring there is a ledge perfect to take the 6-foot leap into the water beneath.

Make sure to check out the other Sedona swimming holes I recommend here!

Have you read my recommendations for The 5 Best Swimming Holes in Sedona yet?

Are you planning a trip to Sedona? If you have any questions please post in the comments below and feel free to share with me your list of best things to do in Sedona!