Weather, Snow, Hikes & Tips
Updated October 2026
Is Sedona worth visiting in winter? Yes! From December through February, highs average around 58–61°F and lows sit in the mid-30s. You’ll get thinner crowds outside the holidays, seriously good hiking weather, and the occasional light snow that’s usually gone by afternoon. Pack layers and traction for icy, shady trails, and plan around the free Sedona Shuttle. It runs Thursday through Sunday all winter, and the Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass lots are closed to cars while it’s running.
You may be wondering if visiting Sedona in winter is a good idea. Well, do you like fewer crowds and perfect weather? How about snow-capped 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 coming from somewhere like the Northeast, 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…
I first wrote this guide in 2022, and a lot has changed in Sedona since then (hello, shuttle!). I’ve checked and updated everything below for winter 2026–27.
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Sedona Winter Weather
Average Winter Temperatures
Average winter temps in Sedona range from daytime highs in the high 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit to nighttime lows in the low-to-mid 30s. Cold snaps do happen, though, and most winters have a few nights that dip into the teens. 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.
Sedona Weather By Month: December, January & February
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Nights At or Below Freezing | Approx. Sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December | 58°F | 33°F | 17 | 5:20–5:30 pm |
| January | 58°F | 34°F | 15 | 5:30–5:55 pm |
| February | 61°F | 36°F | 9 | 5:55–6:20 pm |
Arizona doesn’t observe daylight saving time, so sunset times don’t shift.
- Sedona in December: The coldest nights of the year, plus holiday lights at Tlaquepaque. Christmas through New Year’s is the busiest stretch of the winter, so book lodging early if you’re coming then.
- Sedona in January: Once the holidays wrap up, this is the quietest month of the year. Expect crisp, sunny days and your best shot at seeing snow on the red rocks.
- Sedona in February: A little warmer, and technically one of the wetter months, though most days are still sunny. Spring break crowds start rolling in toward the end of the month.
Does Sedona Get Snow?
Yes! Snowfall is possible during December, January, and February in Sedona, but heavy snowfall is uncommon. Most winters bring a few light snowfalls, and the snow usually melts off the red rocks by afternoon, so you don’t need to worry about it affecting your visit. (Annual snow totals vary widely depending on who you ask, from a few inches to almost 11, so don’t plan your trip around a single number.)
8 Reasons To Visit Sedona In Winter
1. Perfect Weather
Now, if you love 80-degree weather, it may not be 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 support 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 matter of perception. There are 4 main vortexes including Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Airport Mesa.
Vortex Hiking Suggestions:
Bell Rock
Distance: .8 miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 203 ft
Requires a Red Rock Pass – $5 for a day (or an America the Beautiful pass)
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, 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.
Winter tip: Bell Rock is not on the Sedona Shuttle. Park at the Bell Rock Vista or Courthouse Vista lot off SR 179, and get there early. Both fill up fast on sunny weekends.
Cathedral Rock
Distance: 1.1 miles round trip
Rating: Difficult
Elevation Gain: 669 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. It’s short but steep, and most people take about an hour. To reach the top, you will have to scramble up a variety of rocks, so wear sturdy hiking boots.
Getting there this winter: The Cathedral Rock trailhead lot is closed to cars whenever the Sedona Shuttle is running, which is Thursday through Sunday all year, plus extra holiday dates. On those days, park for free at the North SR 179 Park & Ride and hop on Route 15. Monday through Wednesday, you can drive to the trailhead, but the lot is tiny, so don’t count on a spot.
After a freeze, the shady slickrock can be icy. If it’s slick, skip the upper scramble. Nobody needs that kind of adventure. This one’s also not a great fit for most dogs.
Other Hiking Suggestions:
Devil’s Bridge Trail
Distance: 4.0 miles round trip from the Mescal Trailhead, or 5.8 miles round trip from Dry Creek Vista
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: about 371 ft on the Devil’s Bridge Trail itself.9 miles
Devil’s Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, and yes, that’s the famous photo spot. The last stretch up to it is a natural rock staircase that can hold ice in the shade. Shuttle Route 11 runs from the West SR 89A Park & Ride to both the Mescal and Dry Creek Vista trailheads, and since both lots are small, the shuttle is honestly the easier option.
Soldiers Pass Trail
Distance: 4.5 miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 839 ft
This trail takes you past the Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools. The Soldier Pass lot is closed to cars whenever the shuttle runs, and it’s always closed from 6 pm to 8 am. Take Route 14 from the Posse Grounds Park & Ride instead.
More Winter Hikes In Sedona
- Boynton Canyon (vortex): A roughly 6-mile out-and-back through a gorgeous side canyon. The back of the canyon stays shady and chilly, so start mid-morning once things warm up.
- Fay Canyon: A short, mostly flat canyon walk. A great pick for a cold morning when you want views without a big climb.
- Airport Mesa: The Airport Loop is about 3.3 miles with huge views. I wrote a whole post about sunset up here: The Best Sunset Spot In Sedona.
- West Fork of Oak Creek: Normally a classic shady, snowy winter hike, but it’s been closed after the 2026 Pocket Fire, with the current order running through October 31, 2026. Check whether it’s reopened before you go. The Call of the Canyon trailhead also charges its own fee, which a Red Rock Pass doesn’t cover.
Winter Trail Conditions & 2026 Closures
- Ice: North-facing slopes and canyon bottoms can stay icy for days after a storm. Traction cleats (they’re in the packing list below) are worth the space in your bag.
- Daylight: You’ve got roughly 10 hours of usable light. Start around 9 or 10 am, once the frost burns off, and carry a headlamp if you’re hiking for sunset.
- Pocket Fire: The Pocket Fire burned about 27,000 acres north of Sedona in summer 2026. Most trails have reopened, including Devil’s Bridge, Soldier Pass, Boynton Canyon, and Fay Canyon, but burned areas can flash flood during winter storms. Check the Coconino National Forest alerts page before you head out.
Find out more about how to spend One Day In Sedona.
3. Sedona’s Slow Season
Because tourists are 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. Exceptions include Thanksgiving week, Christmas through New Year’s, and Presidents’ Day weekend, so book early if you’re coming then.
Great Accommodation 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. Each room features a Southwest theme, 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-round 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.
A Sunset Chateau
665 Sunset Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
$$$
If you’re looking for a little romance and luxury, then A Sunset Chateau is the place for you! This family-run bed and breakfast in West Sedona has an outdoor pool, a saltwater hot tub, and public tennis courts right across the street. It also offers a full breakfast and free WiFi. The location is great, with Red Rock Crossing just 5.5 miles away. You’ll be a 7-minute drive from Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and only a 15-minute drive from the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Traveling by RV? Sedona’s Park & Ride lots don’t allow RVs, campers, or overnight parking. Plan to set up camp, unhitch, and take your tow vehicle (or toad) to the trailheads.
4. Snow Against Red Rocks
The contrast of snow against Sedona’s red rocks is pretty spectacular. 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 winter trip to Sedona. The one exception is driving north. SR 89A through Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff can close for snow and ice, so check road conditions first. I cover that more in my Phoenix To Grand Canyon Winter Road Trip Guide.
5. Cozy Nights
While days are a perfect 60 degrees, winter nights in Sedona usually dip into the 30s (and sometimes the 20s, or even the teens). These temperatures are perfect for relaxing by a cozy fire and sipping hot cocoa with a good book. It’s the best of both worlds, really! Hike during the day and relax on chilly evenings.
6. Get Warm With Some Vino
Sedona is home to several award-winning wineries, and winter is a great time to visit them! Several wine tours are 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 grown in Arizona’s Willcox region, and you can taste them at its Uptown Sedona tasting room with red rock views. It’s open Monday–Thursday noon–6 pm and Friday–Sunday noon–7 pm, with live music most weekends. Find out more here.
Javelina Leap Winery
1565 N Page Springs RD, Cornville, AZ 86325
This vineyard is known for its award-winning legacy Zinfandel, and you can build your own 5-wine tasting flight. It’s open daily 11 am–6 pm (last pour at 5:30) and closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Find out more here.
Check out these awesome 14 Fun Things To Do In Sedona
7. Epic Winter Sunsets
During January, the sun sets in Sedona around 5:30 pm early in the month and closer to 6 pm by the end, 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
- Devil’s Bridge
- Red Rock Crossing (Crescent Moon Ranch charges its own day-use fee, which a Red Rock Pass doesn’t cover)
8. Spectacular Stargazing
Stargazing is pretty spectacular in Sedona year-round, but there is something special about stargazing in winter. Bundle up and stay out to see the Milky Way with your naked eye. Sedona has been an International Dark Sky Community since 2014, and with those long winter nights, you can be stargazing by 7 pm and still be in bed at a respectable hour.
Know Before You Go: Red Rock Pass, Sedona Shuttle & Parking
This is the part that trips people up, so let’s get it sorted before you go.
Do You Need A Red Rock Pass?
Yes, to park at most Forest Service trailheads around Sedona. Here’s the quick version:
- Cost: $5 a day, $15 a week, or $20 a year.
- Where to buy: trailhead kiosks, the Sedona Chamber visitor center in Uptown, the Red Rock Ranger District, or online through Recreation.gov.
- Already have an America the Beautiful pass? It works in place of a Red Rock Pass. Just hang it in your car.
- Not covered: the state parks (Slide Rock and Red Rock) and a few concession-run sites, including Crescent Moon Ranch, Call of the Canyon/West Fork, and Grasshopper Point.
Does The Sedona Shuttle Run In Winter?
Yes! The free Sedona Shuttle runs Thursday through Sunday, year-round, about 7 am–5:30 pm. No reservation is needed, parking at the Park & Ride lots is free, and you don’t need a Red Rock Pass to ride it.
| Route | Park & Ride Lot | Trailheads |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | North SR 179 (1294 SR 179) | Cathedral Rock, Little Horse |
| 14 | Posse Grounds (20 Carruth Dr) | Soldier Pass |
| 11 | West SR 89A (905 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd) | Dry Creek Vista (Devil’s Bridge), Mescal |
While the shuttle runs, the Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass lots are closed to cars, and you can’t use Little Horse as overflow parking for Cathedral Rock. Bell Rock and Brins Mesa aren’t on the shuttle.
Extra winter service: the shuttle adds days around Thanksgiving, the week before Christmas, and New Year’s, then runs daily for spring break starting in late February. It doesn’t run on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day. Check sedonashuttle.com for the exact dates before your trip.
Sedona Christmas & Holiday Events (2026)
- Tlaquepaque Tree Lighting & Santa: Friday, December 4, 2026, 5–6:30 pm at Tlaquepaque North.
- Festival of Lights at Tlaquepaque: One evening in mid-December, about 6,000 luminarias light up the village at 5 pm sharp, right as the bells toll. It’s free, it’s magical, and it’s cold, so wear the beanie. The 2026 date hadn’t been posted when I updated this, so check tlaq.com.
- Red Rock Fantasy: This used to be Sedona’s big holiday light show, but it hasn’t been confirmed for 2026, so don’t plan your trip around it.
Parking around Tlaquepaque fills up fast on event nights, so get there early.
Sedona Tours Worth Booking In Winter
If you’d rather let someone else do the driving, or you want to get into the backcountry without a high-clearance vehicle, these well-reviewed tours run in winter:
- Sedona: Scenic Rim Pink Jeep Tour. I absolutely LOVED this Pink Jeep Tour in Sedona (more in my Girls Trip Guide). This 2.5 hours of red rock views and a bit of bouncing around. A classic for a reason.
- Sedona: Red Rock Range Pink Jeep Tour. I really want to do this version the next time I visit Sedona (maybe this winter?) This is a 2 hour, and the mildest ride of the bunch if you’re not into the bumpy stuff.
- Sedona: Vortex Tour with a Spiritual Guide, on this private 2-hour tour you’ll have a guide to walk you through the vortex side of Sedona.
- Sedona: Private Stargazing Tour with a Local Guide, if you’re interested in stargazing, but don’t know where to start this 2 hours tour gets you under those dark winter skies. Dress warmer than you think you need to.
- From Sedona or Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Full-Day Tour: about 10 hours, and a nice way to skip the snowy drive north.
- Clarkdale: Verde Canyon Railroad is a 4-hour scenic train ride through the canyon. Check winter departure dates when you book.
Visiting Sedona With Dogs In Winter
Winter is honestly one of the best times to bring the pups, since the trails are cool enough for them to actually enjoy. A few rules to know:
- Trails: Leashed dogs are welcome on most Red Rock Ranger District trails. Bring water even when it’s cold, and skip the scrambles like Cathedral Rock.
- Red Rock State Park: No pets allowed, only service animals.
- Slide Rock State Park: From October through April, leashed pets are allowed away from the creek, but never in the creek area.
- Patios and wineries: Check out my Top 10 Dog Friendly Destinations for Sedona patio ideas. Dogs generally aren’t allowed inside tasting rooms, so ask about the patio, and call ahead in winter since some patios close or cut back their hours.
Day Trips From Sedona In Winter
- Grand Canyon South Rim: Open all year and about 2 to 2.5 hours away. Read The Ultimate Winter Guide to the Grand Canyon and 5 Things Not To Miss On Your First Visit To The Grand Canyon before you go.
- Verde Canyon Railroad (Clarkdale): A 4-hour scenic train ride. Winter departures vary, so check the schedule.
- Jerome, Cottonwood & Page Springs: Jerome is a quirky hillside ghost town, Cottonwood has a walkable Old Town, and Page Springs is on the Verde Valley wine trail (that’s where Javelina Leap is).
- Slide Rock State Park: Gorgeous in winter, just no swimming, obviously. It’s $20 per vehicle from October through April, winter hours are shorter (roughly 9 am–5 pm), and it’s closed Christmas Day.
- Flagstaff & Snowbowl: Want real snow? Head up the hill. Check road conditions first, since SR 89A through Oak Creek Canyon can close in winter weather. I-17 is the more reliable route.
Packing Guide For Sedona In Winter
During your winter visit to Sedona, dress in layers because temperatures vary. 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
Need A Free Sedona Winter Packing Checklist?
Sedona In Winter FAQ
Is Sedona worth visiting in winter?
Yes. Highs average around 58–61°F, crowds are lighter outside the holidays, lodging is often cheaper, and the hiking weather is about as good as it gets.
Does it snow in Sedona?
Yes, but lightly. Most winters bring a few snowfalls between December and February, and the snow usually melts off the red rocks by afternoon.
What is the coldest month in Sedona?
December has the coldest nights, with an average low around 33°F. December and January both average highs around 58°F.
Can you hike in Sedona in winter?
Absolutely, and it’s one of the best times to do it. Start mid-morning after the frost burns off, carry traction cleats for icy, shady sections, and be off exposed rock before dark.
Do I need a Red Rock Pass in winter?
Yes. You need one year-round to park at most Forest Service trailheads ($5 a day, $15 a week, or $20 a year), or you can use an America the Beautiful pass. If you ride the Sedona Shuttle, you don’t need one.
Does the Sedona Shuttle run in winter?
Yes. It runs Thursday through Sunday year-round, about 7 am–5:30 pm, with extra days around the holidays. It doesn’t run on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day.
What should I wear in Sedona in winter?
Layers: a base layer, a fleece, a warm jacket, a beanie, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots. Mornings and evenings are often near freezing, but afternoons in the sun can feel like 60°F.
Is Sedona dog-friendly in winter?
Mostly, yes. Leashed dogs are allowed on most national forest trails, and from October through April they’re allowed at Slide Rock State Park away from the creek. They’re not allowed at Red Rock State Park.
Is Sedona In Winter Worth It?
If you ask me, Sedona in winter is one of the Southwest’s best-kept secrets. You get crisp 60-degree hiking days, red rocks that glow even brighter against a blue winter sky, and (if you’re lucky) a little dusting of snow to make it extra magical. Just pack your layers, grab your Red Rock Pass, and plan around the shuttle days. Then go chase that sunset. Your summer self will be jealous.
More Sedona Guides
- One Day In Sedona
- 14 Fun Things To Do In Sedona
- The Best Sunset Spot In Sedona
- Phoenix To Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Winter Road Trip Guide
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