Day Trip?

Question

Is it possible to do a day trip to Sedona from Flagstaff? I will be driving from LA to Santa Fe and planned to stop overnight in Flagstaff since it’s halfway but now people are telling me not to miss Sedona. Should I just change and maybe spend two nights in Sedona before going on to Santa Fe. What would you do with one full day in Sedona?

Answer

Yes, it is absolutely possible to do a day trip to Sedona from Flagstaff. The drive is about 30–45 minutes one way, depending on your route and traffic, making it easy to enjoy a full day in Sedona and return to Flagstaff for the night. However, spending two nights in Sedona can allow a more relaxed pace and give you extra time to explore the area without feeling rushed.

If you choose to do a day trip from Flagstaff, plan to start early in the morning to maximize your time in Sedona. A full day allows you to enjoy scenic drives, short hikes, and the town’s art and dining scene.

Here are suggested activities for one full day in Sedona:

Scenic Drives: Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) and Oak Creek Canyon Road. Stop at viewpoints like Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Slide Rock State Park for photo opportunities.
Short Hikes: Sedona has many easy to moderate trails perfect for photography and enjoying the landscape. Consider the Bell Rock Pathway, Cathedral Rock Trail (lower portions), or West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon.
Art and Culture: Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village or Uptown Sedona for galleries, boutique shops, and local crafts.
Lunch or Coffee: Enjoy a local café or restaurant with views of the red rocks. Popular options include The Hudson, Mariposa, or Creekside American Bistro.
Sunset Viewing: If timing allows, head to Airport Mesa or Red Rock Crossing for a classic Sedona sunset experience.

If you prefer a more relaxed itinerary or want to include additional activities such as a spa, jeep tour, or a more extensive photography session, spending two nights in Sedona is recommended. This also gives you the chance to start your drive to Santa Fe at a more leisurely pace the following day.

In summary, a day trip from Flagstaff is feasible and can cover the highlights, but two nights in Sedona provides a less rushed experience and allows you to truly soak in the red rock scenery, enjoy a wider range of activities, and capture great photography.