Sedona 1-day mid-September - must-sees / must-dos please

Question

Hi, as part of a road trip this September (next month), I will be in Sedona for 1 day/1 night (weekday).

I will arrive around 10-11am (driving from Grand Canyon South Rim), and staying overnight in Sedona. Also doing a hot air balloon ride the following morning, and then leaving after lunch to get to Scottsdale by 4-5pm.

So for the 3/4 day that I have in Sedona, what are the must-sees / must-dos please?

I will already have visited a bunch of "wow" places in Utah and Arizona. Sedona is my last stop.

Based solely on online reviews, the view from Schnebly Hill "Windows" looks amazing...looks like I could visit that on my drive down from Grand Canyon before I arrive in Sedona.

Also, Devil's Bridge looks impressive too. Happy to be corrected on either/both of these and looking for your "wow" suggestions please.

I'm active and fit enough to hike a few hours if it means I'll get to see something "wow", but if not, then happy not to hike. I'm active and fit but have not got previous hiking experience. Travelling solo, so don't want to go wildly off any beaten track in case I lose my way.

Thank you.

Answer

For a one-day Sedona visit in mid-September, with an overnight stay and a hot air balloon ride the next morning, you can see quite a few “wow” sights without overdoing it. Since you’re arriving around 10–11am from the Grand Canyon South Rim, you’ll have roughly 6–7 hours on your first day to explore before sunset.

1. Scenic Drives and Iconic Views

Sedona’s red rock formations are spectacular, and driving is one of the easiest ways to take in a lot without strenuous hiking. A few options:

Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) – This is a short drive connecting Highway 89A to the Village of Oak Creek, with pull-offs at Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Chapel of the Holy Cross – An iconic chapel built into the red rocks with breathtaking views; minimal walking required from the parking lot.
Airport Mesa Scenic Drive – Short drive with a popular sunset viewpoint overlooking the main red rock formations. Great if you plan to stay until sunset.

2. Short Hikes for “Wow” Moments

Since you’re fit but new to hiking, stick to well-marked trails that are popular with visitors:

Devil’s Bridge – About 4 miles round trip on a marked trail. It’s the largest natural sandstone arch in the area and provides a memorable viewpoint. There is a short but steep section near the end, but manageable for a fit beginner.
Bell Rock Pathway – Easy to moderate hike; you can do a short loop to get up close to the formation. Stunning views and close to parking.
Cathedral Rock Trail – Short but steep; even a partial climb gives great views and photo opportunities.

3. Optional Stop on Your Drive from Grand Canyon

Schnebly Hill “Windows” – This is a more rugged road; it’s often suggested for 4x4 vehicles. If you’re driving a standard car, it may not be safe to attempt. Instead, consider stopping at viewpoints along the Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive for similar dramatic vistas.

4. Evening in Sedona

Walk around Uptown Sedona for shops, galleries, and dining. Many restaurants have outdoor patios with red rock views at sunset.
Consider a short sunset at Airport Mesa if you haven’t done it during the day—very popular for photography.

5. Morning Activity Before Leaving

Hot air balloon ride (already planned) – This will give you a panoramic view of the entire area and is best early morning for weather and lighting.
Optional short walk after the balloon ride – Bell Rock or Airport Mesa are close to your hotel areas and don’t require long hikes.

Tips:

Start your day early to maximize cooler morning hours for hikes.
Carry water and sun protection; it can still be hot in September.
Use parking lots near trailheads; Sedona can get busy even on weekdays.
If traveling solo, stick to marked, popular trails to avoid getting lost.

Overall, focus on Devil’s Bridge, Chapel of the Holy Cross, a short hike at Bell Rock, and sunset at Airport Mesa. Skip Schnebly Hill unless you have a suitable vehicle, as other scenic stops are safer and just as impressive.

Sedona 1-day mid-September - must-sees / must-dos please

More Arizona (AZ) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions