Sedona 2 days itinerary

Question

Hello! My husband and I have never been to AZ and this is going to be our first trip to the Phoneix-Sedona area. From Sedona, we'll be going to the GC and Page areas of the state for a few days.

We'll have 2 days and 1 night in Sedona and are having the toughest time in what to do. We have a car and would love to drive around to see all the geological formations as well as take short/easy to moderate trail hikes if you can recommend some. Shorttrails because we are short on time.

We'd love to try out a spa and would appreciate recommendations on them as well. We'll be staying at the Hilton Vacation Club hotel.

Please help us!! Thank you!

Answer

With just 2 days and 1 night in Sedona, it’s best to focus on scenic drives, iconic viewpoints, short hikes, and a bit of relaxation at a spa. Since you have a car, you can cover a lot efficiently.

Day 1 – Scenic Drive and Short Hikes:

Morning: Start with the Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179). Stop at Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte for short, easy hikes or simply walk around the base. Both hikes are about 1–2 miles and offer iconic views.
Midday: Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross for quick photos and panoramic views of the red rocks.
Lunch: Dine at a local spot in Uptown Sedona or Oak Creek Canyon area.
Afternoon: Do a short hike at Cathedral Rock via the Cathedral Rock Trail (moderate, about 1.5 miles round-trip to the first viewpoint). Alternatively, explore Fay Canyon Trail for an easy 2.5-mile loop.
Evening: Watch the sunset from Airport Mesa or Red Rock Crossing. Both are short drives from the Hilton Vacation Club and offer spectacular views.

Day 2 – Morning Hike and Spa:

Morning: Take the easy Doe Mountain Trail (about 1.5–2 miles) or explore Boynton Canyon for a moderate hike with scenic views.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Head back to Sedona for a spa visit. Recommended spas include:
- L’Auberge de Sedona Spa – creekside luxury treatments.
- Mii amo Spa at Enchantment Resort – award-winning wellness services.
- Sedona Rouge Spa – full-service treatments and relaxation.
Lunch: Grab a light meal at a café or at the spa if available.
Departure: Begin your drive toward the Grand Canyon or Page area in the afternoon.

Additional Tips:

Start hikes early to avoid the heat and crowds.
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for short hikes.
If you’re interested in photography, plan to capture sunrise or sunset at scenic viewpoints.
Evening dining options near the Hilton include Hudson or The Hideaway House for good local cuisine with views.

This itinerary balances seeing iconic Sedona formations, experiencing a few short hikes, and enjoying a relaxing spa visit within your limited time.