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February 15, 2022

Visiting Sedona In Winter

Winter Sedona

You may be wondering if visiting Sedona in winter is a good idea. Well, do you like fewer crowds and perfect weather? How about snowcapped red rocks? Winter in Sedona means cozy evenings by a fire after days spent exploring this mystical place. A trip to Sedona in winter is an EPIC idea and you will find that there is plenty to do during winter. If you’re like me and live in the North East the weather in Sedona will be a nice break from the freezing temps. Why should you visit Sedona in the winter? Well, let’s talk about it…

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Table Of Content – Sedona In Winter
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    Sedona Winter Weather

    Average Winter Temperatures

    Average winter temps in Sedona range from daytime highs of 40-60 degrees fahrenheit to nighttime lows of 20-30 degrees. The high temperatures are typically only for a few hours in the afternoon and the temperature will dip quickly as soon as the sun starts going down.

    Does Sedona Get Snow?

    Yes! Snowfall is possible during December, January and February in Sedona, but heavy snowfall is uncommon. There are typically around 11 inches of snowfall annually, but you don’t need to worry about it effecting your visit.

    8 Reasons To Visit Sedona In Winter

    Sedona Winter

    1. Perfect Weather

    Now, if you love 80-degree weather then may it isn’t your perfect weather, and you may want to consider visiting Sedona in Spring or Fall. You can also head to Southern Arizona for warmer temperatures during the winter months. However, if you love perfectly crisp 60-degree weather (raises hand) then you will fall in love with Sedona in winter!

    2. Winter Hiking

    Winter hiking in Sedona is fantastic! This goes along with #1 but crisp 60 degree weather is absolutely perfect for hiking. You’ll have a ton of hiking options in Sedona including 4 energy vortexes.

    What Is A Vortex?

    Sedona vortexes are believed to be swirling centers of energy that are beneficial for healing, meditation, and self-exploration. These are places where the earth seems especially alive with energy. Many people feel inspired, recharged, or uplifted after visiting a vortex. Others believe the power of Sedona vortexes is simply a state of mind and a perception of the location. There are 4 main vortexes including Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Airport Mesa. 

    Sedona Winter
    Vortex Hiking Suggestions:
    Bell Rock 

    Distance: .8 miles 

    Rating: Moderate 

    Elevation Gain: 203 ft 

    Requires a Red Rocks Parking Pass – $5 for a day

    If you’ve only got time to hike one vortex in Sedona, I highly recommend the Bell Rock Vortex. This vortex is known as an Upflow area that is best for serenity and solving problems from a higher perspective. For decades seekers from around the world have used Bell Rock for contemplative reflection and inspiration.

    Cathedral Rock 

    Distance: 1.2 miles 

    Rating: Difficult 

    Elevation Gain: 741 ft

    Cathedral Rock is one of the most photographed locations in all of Sedona and you’ll feel the amazing energy of this place immediately. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Cathedral Rock Trail, this 1.2-mile trail generally takes people an hour to complete. To reach the top you will have to scramble up a variety of rocks, so make sure that you wear sturdy hiking boots for this one. 

    Other Hiking Suggestions:
    Sedona Winter
    Devil’s Bridge Trail

    Distance: 3.9 miles

    Rating: Moderate

    Elevation Gain: 521 ft

    Soldiers Pass Trail 

    Distance: 4.5 miles 

    Rating: Moderate 

    Elevation Gain: 839 ft

    Find out more about how to spend One Day In Sedona.

    3. Sedona’s Slow Season

    Due to tourists being scarce during the winter you’ll find great deals on accommodations during the winter months. Not only that, but you’ll find fewer crowds in restaurants, shopping hot spots and on hikes.

    Great Accommodations Options:
    Southwest Inn Sedona
    3250 W, AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
    $

    For a great location check out the Southwest Inn Sedona, just 7 miles from Cathedral Rock and 17 miles from the Montezuma Castle National Monument. They have an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi available. And each room is decorated in a southwest theme and features a gas fireplace and a flat-screen cable TV with HBO. 

    Arabella Hotel
    725 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
    $

    What a beautiful backdrop? In Red Rock Country, next to Hillside Shops & Galleries, the Arabella Hotel Sedona sits with a gorgeous backdrop. The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool and a year-around hot tub. Rooms feature free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The Arabella serves a free breakfast daily and is less than a mile from the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, Sedona Red Rock Jeep Tours and several galleries.

    Sunset Chateau 
    665 South Sunset Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
    $$

    If you’re looking for a little romance and luxury then Sunset Chateau is the place for you! This beautiful and comfortably decorated bed and breakfast features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and on-site tennis court. A full breakfast and free WiFi access are available as well. The location is great because Red Rock Crossing is only 5.5 miles away. You’ll be a 7-minute drive from the historic city of Tlaquepaque and only a 15-minute drive from the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

    4. Snow Against Red Rocks

    It’s pretty spectacular to see the contrast of snow against the red rocks of Sedona. When it does snow here, it melts very quickly and doesn’t tend to cause any issues. Snow isn’t really a factor when planning a trip to Sedona in winter.

    5. Cozy Nights

    While days are a perfect 60 degrees, the winter nights in Sedona can dip down to 20-30 degrees. These are perfect temperatures to relax by a cozy fire and sip hot cocoa with a good book. It’s the best of both worlds, really! Hiking during the day and relaxing during chilly evenings.

    6. Get Warm With Some Vino

    Sedona is home to several award winning wineries and winter is a great time to pay them a visit! There are several wine tours available in the area, like this one. Or you can go it alone and visit one of these great vineyards…

    Winery 1912
    320 AZ-89A #3, Sedona, AZ 86336

    Winery 1912 is known for Spanish varietals and for being Arizona’s largest and most diverse vineyards. Most weekends have live local music from 5 to 8 pm. Find out more here.

    Javelina Leap Winery
    1565 N Page Springs RD, Cornville, AZ 86325

    This vineyard offers award-winning legacy Zinfandel. They also have tasting flights for $18 where you can choose any 5 wines! Find out more here.

    Check out these awesome 14 Fun Things To Do In Sedona

    7. Epic Winter Sunsets

    Sedona Winter

    During January the sun sets in Sedona around 6 pm, making it easy to stay out for an early sunset. I highly recommend taking in at least one sunset during your winter visit to Sedona.

    Great Options For Sunset In Sedona Arizona: 
    • Airport Mesa Vortex
    • Bell Rock Vortex
    • Cathedral Rock Vortex
    • Devils Bridge 
    • Red Rocks Crossing

    8. Spectacular Stargazing

    Stargazing is pretty spectacular in Sedona no matter the time of year, but there is something special about stargazing in winter. Bundle up and stay out to see the Milky Way with your naked eye.

    Packing Guide For Sedona In Winter

    Sedona Winter

    During your winter visit to Sedona the best thing to do is dress in layers because of the varying temperatures. Here are some essentials that I highly recommend:

    Clothing

    • Heavy Jacket
    • Light Jacket
    • Fleece or Fleece Hoodie
    • Zip Hoodie
    • Fleece Lined Leggings
    • Leggings
    • Hiking Boots
    • Beanie

    Other

    • Reusable Water Bottle
    • Hiking Backpack
    • Sunscreen
    • Headlamp
    • Crampons
    • Tripod
    • Camera

    Need A Free Sedona Winter Packing Checklist?

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    Posted In: Packing Lists, Southwest, Travel Guides · Tagged: Hiking, Sedona, Sedona Arizona, Winter, Winter Travel

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    Hi! I'm Vanessa, a 30 something, sunset chasing traveler. I'm here to inspire you to travel wherever, whenever, and with whoever you can. My Huskies, Loki and Freya are usually along for the ride. I have a soul that likes to wander, a desire to experience the unknown, and a curiousity to discover things off the beaten path. I hope you'll stick around for awhile!

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    If your dog had thumbs, they’d book the trip the If your dog had thumbs, they’d book the trip themselves. 

This is your proof that Acadia isn’t just for lobster rolls and lighthouses—it’s a pup’s paradise too.

Acadia is basically a VIP playground for pups:
🐕 Carriage Roads = 45 miles of tail-wagging freedom
💦 Jordan Pond = picturesque vibes + hydration station
🌲 Forest trails = 14/10 sniffability
🪑 Picnic spots = ideal for treat negotiations

My adventure sidekick gave it two paws up and one muddy belly.
Because the only thing better than chasing views?

Watching them chase squirrels (and dreams).

Whether you’re leash-training a trail newbie or rolling with a seasoned wilderness woof, Acadia is a doggo-approved escape that doesn’t skimp on the wow.

Save this post for your next pup-friendly adventure 🐶⛰️ and tag your favorite trail buddy below!

Got a national park recs for dogs? Drop it—I’m building the ultimate paw-approved list. 🗺️🐾
    Happy 5th Birthday to my beautiful wolfy princess Happy 5th Birthday to my beautiful wolfy princess Freya!! 

Aka Bean, Beany, Frey Bean, Puffin, Puffin Butt, Puff, Frey, Frey Baby! 

Our champion digger, dancing for dinner, will never pass up people food girly! 

Frey is the the sweetest, most sassy, funny girl! We love you Frey, how is this girl 5? 🥹🥰
    If you’ve ever set a 4:45 AM alarm on purpose, t If you’ve ever set a 4:45 AM alarm on purpose, this one’s for you.
You might be turning into a full-fledged sunrise chaser if:
1. You have a favorite gas station coffee stop. And you defend it like it’s a Michelin star.
2. You’ve whispered “worth it” while watching the sky catch fire over a canyon rim.
3. You pack snacks, layers, and existential gratitude.
4. You’ve cried at the quiet. Not like sobbing—more like a one-tear, “wow this planet” moment.
5. You don’t see the sunrise—you feel it. Especially when the trail’s still cool and your boots are the only ones around.

Sunrises make the world feel brand new. They’re chaotic good energy for your soul and free therapy wrapped in golden light. ✨

📍Swipe for some of my favorite sunrise moments (featuring that sunrise glow, quiet trails, and questionable early morning decision-making)
    If You’re Weekend Plans Include: 
✔️ Wande If You’re Weekend Plans Include: 
✔️ Wander barefoot through powdery white dunes
✔️ Pretend you’re on the moon
✔️ Eat snacks like it’s a competitive sport
⁠
White Sands is a VIBE. And yes, it’s worth every single granule of sand you’ll find in your shoes (or camper) for the next 3 months. 🤍🏜️

🐾 It’s also incredibly dog friendly!! That’s right - the pups can join you in this epic park!
⁠
Drop a 🌙 if you’re craving a little otherworldly adventure.

👣 Follow @thewellwornshoes for more places that feel too dreamy to be real

🛑🛑🛑 We always follow leash laws and our dogs are leashed in National Parks (some leashes edited out of photos - some just hidden)

🐾 Peep baby Cal on her first trip to White Sands 😍
    Nature called—and it’s sending you bear hugs a Nature called—and it’s sending you bear hugs and turkey struts. 🐻🦃🦌
⁠
Cades Cove is basically Disney’s Bambi... but in real life and with more scenic roadblocks.
⁠
🎯 Pro Tip: Early mornings = all the wildlife sightings (and fewer crowds - we had maybe 6 cars in front of us). Sunset is juts as beautiful but you’ll be dealing with larger crowds. 
⁠
🐾 Drop your dream wildlife sighting below 👇

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