Sedona- 9/27/2025-10/04/25

Question

Hi,

I am planning a trip to Sedona with my husband. We are 56 and 57 and active.

Here is my itinerary so far:

9/27/25- arrive in Phoenix and drive to Sedona. Staying at The Hilton Summit. Dinner at The Hudson @7:30. Would like to do a hike on this day.

9/28/25- Twilight Pink Jeep Tour

9/29/25-Only dinner planned at Maripose for sunset. Would like another activity.

9/30/25- 2:00 tour at Antelope Canyon (tickets already paid for). Need dinner reservations.

10/01/25- spend day in Sedona. Suggestions?

10/02/25-Drive to Grand Canyon. I planned a helicopter tour at 12:30. Maybe stay so we could explore a little more on 10/04/25.

10/03/25- drive back to Sedona attend the 3:00 Healing Mass @Chapel of the Holy Cross.

10/04/25- drive to Phoenix for flight back to Pittsburgh.

Thank you very much for taking the time to look at my itinerary.

Lisa

Answer

Hi Lisa,

Your Sedona and Grand Canyon itinerary looks exciting! Here is a detailed breakdown and some suggestions to enhance your trip while keeping it active and enjoyable.

9/27/25 – Arrival and Hike

Since you'll arrive in Phoenix and drive to Sedona, you’ll probably get to your hotel in the early afternoon. For a short hike before dinner at The Hudson, consider trails near your hotel that won’t be too strenuous after travel:

Cathedral Rock Trail: A moderate, iconic hike with stunning red rock views. The climb is a bit steep, so plan for 1–1.5 hours.
Bell Rock Trail: Easier and more scenic; great for a gentle hike with excellent photo opportunities.
Airport Mesa Loop: Short, moderate trail with panoramic views of Sedona; perfect for sunset if you arrive late.

9/28/25 – Twilight Pink Jeep Tour

Perfect choice! The Twilight tour combines sightseeing and a mild adventure. Since this tour usually includes sunset views, you won’t need additional activities. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

9/29/25 – Additional Activity Before Dinner

With dinner at Mariposa at sunset, consider an early afternoon activity that doesn’t interfere with your evening plans:

Chapel of the Holy Cross: Iconic Sedona landmark; short walk, stunning views.
Red Rock Scenic Byway Drive: Stop at various pullouts for photos and easy strolls.
Slide Rock State Park: If weather permits, enjoy the natural water slides; moderate walking.
Sedona Art Galleries & Shops: Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for a relaxed afternoon.

9/30/25 – Antelope Canyon Tour

Your 2:00 PM tour is already scheduled. After the tour, for dinner, consider:

El Tovar Dining Room at the Grand Canyon: If you return via Grand Canyon area.
Cuckoo’s Nest in Sedona: Great casual option.
Mariposa: If you want to revisit or for an earlier dinner experience, otherwise try a new Sedona restaurant such as The Hudson or Dahl & Di Luca.

10/01/25 – Full Day in Sedona

You can plan a full day of hiking, sightseeing, and optional wellness activities. Some suggestions:

Devil’s Bridge Trail: Moderate hike with an iconic natural arch.
Boynton Canyon Trail: Offers scenic views and is slightly less crowded; great for a morning hike.
Vortex Sites: Visit Airport Mesa or Boynton Canyon vortex for meditation or gentle exploration.
Chapel of the Holy Cross: If you didn’t visit on 9/29, morning is perfect.
Wine Tasting: Consider Sedona Wine Tours or local tasting rooms for a relaxed afternoon.
Sunset at Airport Mesa or Red Rock Crossing: Both offer breathtaking views perfect for photography.

10/02/25 – Drive to Grand Canyon

With a helicopter tour at 12:30, you could leave Sedona early in the morning to allow time for check-in and any prep. After the helicopter tour, you can explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Some suggestions:

Walk along the Rim Trail for easy viewpoints.
Visit Yavapai Point and the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
Consider staying overnight near the Grand Canyon to explore more on 10/03 before driving back.

10/03/25 – Return to Sedona and Healing Mass

After the 3:00 PM Healing Mass at Chapel of the Holy Cross, you could enjoy a relaxing evening in Sedona:

Dinner at The Hudson or Dahl & Di Luca.
Short evening stroll through Sedona’s Uptown area for souvenirs or a casual coffee.

10/04/25 – Drive to Phoenix

Plan to leave Sedona early enough to allow for traffic and return rental car, if needed, before your flight back to Pittsburgh.

Additional Tips:

Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen; Sedona sun can be strong even in late September.
Morning hikes are generally cooler and less crowded.
Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially for sunset dinners.
Consider shorter hikes if your helicopter or tours are scheduled the same day to avoid fatigue.

Overall, your itinerary is active and balanced with hiking, sightseeing, tours, and relaxation. The suggested activities give flexibility while maximizing your Sedona experience.