Coming from Grand Canyon South Rim

Question

Hello, we will be driving down next month from grand Canyon national Park to Sedona. When we arrive in Sedona, we pretty much just would like to spend a day or so driving around to scenic view points, not really doing any hikes, if any, very short hikes. My question has to do with logistics. Once we enter into Sedona coming from the Grand Canyon,

What scenic points would you recommend we visit in what order logistically?

After Sedona and we will be driving down to Phoenix. Thank you.

Answer

Driving from the Grand Canyon South Rim to Sedona offers a beautiful transition from high desert plateaus to the red rock country. Since you prefer mostly scenic viewpoints with minimal hiking, here is a suggested order of stops and scenic points to maximize your time and efficiency once you enter Sedona.

Entering Sedona from the North (via US-89A):

Once you reach Sedona from the Grand Canyon, you will likely come in via the Oak Creek Canyon route (US-89A). This road itself is very scenic, with cliffside views and the winding canyon adding to the experience.

Oak Creek Vista / West Fork: A quick pullout near the beginning of Oak Creek Canyon, offering sweeping views of the canyon and creek below. Perfect for a first stop.
Slide Rock State Park viewpoint: Even if you don’t hike into the park, there is a small overlook near the entrance to see the famous red rock formations and the creek.
Airport Mesa: One of the most convenient and classic viewpoints. You can drive up and do a short, flat walk to the main overlook for panoramic views of Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the surrounding Sedona area. Sunset is particularly stunning here.
Bell Rock / Courthouse Butte: From the main parking area, you can do a very short loop walk or simply enjoy the view from the base. Easy access from Highway 179.
Cathedral Rock Viewpoint: There is a pullout on Back O’ Beyond Road, allowing you to photograph Cathedral Rock from a distance without hiking.
Red Rock Crossing / Crescent Moon Ranch: A classic location to photograph Cathedral Rock across Oak Creek. The walk to the water is optional and easy.

Optional Short Hike: If you feel like a brief, easy hike, the Bell Rock Pathway allows a gentle 0.5–1 mile walk with great views and minimal effort.

Driving Logistics:

Starting from US-89A southbound through Oak Creek Canyon is scenic and a natural way to enter Sedona from the Grand Canyon direction.
After the scenic stops, a logical order is: Oak Creek Vista → Slide Rock area → Airport Mesa → Bell Rock → Cathedral Rock Viewpoint → Red Rock Crossing.
This route loops you efficiently through the main highlights and ends near the south side of Sedona, making it easy to continue on AZ-179 south toward Phoenix.

This plan keeps the day flexible, with plenty of photo opportunities, minimal walking, and ensures you see the iconic red rock formations without strenuous hiking.

Coming from Grand Canyon South Rim

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