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Be it for spirituality, heritage sites, or hiking with incredible views, Sedona has carved its name in every sphere. This oasis in Arizona with red rock mountains and canyons has a plethora of cafes and restaurants, spas, resorts, and fine art galleries too, as well as a couple of interesting activities such as hot air balloons, electric bike tours, wine tasting, and so on. With roughly 4 million people visiting Sedona each year, this guide helps you to plan the trip more efficiently. Be it by stating the perks of visiting Sedona during October, the scenic trails as well as backpacking trips.
But Before That, About Sedona
Around 3 million years ago, Sedona was formed by a unique layer of red rocks known as the Schnebly Hill Formation. One of the popular hubs for pulsating psychic energy, the spot garnered attention due to its healing capacity. Apart from the spiritual vortexes, Sedona has incredible hiking trails. It is a top spot for fall foliage as well as the perfect destination for solitude or adventurous activities. Apart from that, it has the only natural water slides in the world as well as rich in Native American Culture. Be it the Arts & Crafts Village, Palatki Indian Ruins, or Kachina House, Sedona is home to art galleries, crafted handicrafts, handmade jewelry, and other creative stuff. Moreover, it has an array of local food outlets.
Weather Of Sedona In October
As the city of Sedona is located in the desert town in the northern Verde Valley region of Arizona, it has a dramatic landscape. With its absolute stunning beauty in fall, the temperature gets cooler, and the lush vegetation changes to vibrant tones of reds and oranges. Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain or rock climbing, sometimes, the place is crowded unfortunately too.
The weather in October is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, or rock climbing. The opportunities for exploring outside are among the top reasons people visit Sedona.
The magnificent display of fall can be witnessed via a drive through Oak Creek Canyon and a halt at Oak Creek Vista, i.e., the canyon’s northern end, for a resplendent view. Also, Sedona Stupa is another place to enjoy fall in serenity as it's a spiritual retreat. Also, the leaf-peeping rails are another way to experience the vivid colors of fall via a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad. A 4-hour ride journey departing from Clarkdale, 25 miles distant from Sedona, passes through the canyon along the Verde River.
Best Hikes In Sedona During Fall
Cathedral Rock
A relatively short hike but technical in nature, it has awe-inspiring views, especially in the fall. The 1.5 miles trail, the best point, is Crescent Moon Picnic Area on Oak Creek at Red Rock is the prime viewpoint of fall foliage and panoramic views. The difficulty level is moderate, with a total ascent of 700 feet, and it takes 2 hours to complete the same. This hike is for experienced hikers more than amateur ones.
Bell Rock Climb
Sedona's most recognizable landmark, Bell Rock Climb, is a popular hike in the fall. The distance is 1 mile with 400 feet ascent, and the level of difficulty is moderate. It is a relatively easier hike for beginners. The wide open plateau paves the way to incredible places like Gibraltar Mountain, Baby Bell, Courthouse Butte, Cathedral Rock, and so on.
Devil’s Bridge
A relatively easy hike in Sedona, this is extremely popular due to its Instagram-worthy views. The Devil’s Bridge Trail runs for over four miles with a total ascent of 500 feet and takes 3 hours to complete. Rising 50 feet into the air, the Devil’s Bridge arch is the highlight of this trail. Also, to reach the Devil Bridge, one must purchase a Red Rock Pass, costing around $5 per day to $15 per week.
The Soldiers Pass Trail
Deemed as one of the best hikes in Sedona due to its relatively short distance and also easy level of accessibility, it is bestowed with plenty of other attractions. Hiking to the Soldiers Pass Cave is a major attraction, as well as visiting Seven Sacred Pools, hiking past a sinkhole called Devil’s Kitchen, and the fall climate throughout.
Boynton Canyon Trail
Hiking this trail includes Boynton Canyon, Boynton Vista Trail, and the Subway Cave, and is estimated to be 7.5 miles in total. Despite the distance, it's a relatively easier trek and a flat trail with an ascent of almost 1300 feet. The Subway Cave has become very popular due to its hidden nature.
Apart From Hiking, Events At Sedona In October
Even though the backpacking trips are a lure to visit Sedona, there are plenty of events held during October if hiking is not your thing.
Sedona Arts Festival
Amidst the red rock vistas, Sedona Arts Festival is held from October 8th to October 9th and attracts artists from all over the world. Be it fine arts, live music, food, and libations; there can be participation for everyone at this event. There is a display of all kinds of artistic creations such as fiber art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, painting, and so on.
Timings : 9 am - 5 Pm (Saturday) & 10 am -4 pm (Sunday)
Trick Or Treat In Uptown Sedona
The event called Trick or Treat has ghosts and ghouls celebrating the spirit of Halloween. There are dance performances, food stalls, various events of Halloween as well as there is a “Haunted Halloween Express,” which comes along with goodies and ghost stories.
Date: Trick or Treat (31st October, 5 pm - 8 pm)
Haunted Halloween Express (31st October)
Rock Out
If colorful crystals, gems, and jewelry entice you, the Rock, Gem & Jewelry Show” having more than 40 vendors, should be your go-to spot. The event has all kinds of gemstones, minerals, fossils, beads, and rare stuff. Also, there is a silent auction as well. The admission fee costs around $4.
Date: October 17th (10 am to 4 pm)
Red Rocks Oktoberfest
A fun-filled event that raises funds to support youth while the Rotary Club of Sedona Red rocks sponsors the event. Be it Arizona craft beer, food trucks, live music, or creative arts; there are plenty of things to keep the vibe upbeat. Although, no animals are permitted for the event. The admission fee is around $25 or $30 per person.
Date: October 15th (3 pm to 8 pm)
Arts & Crafts Show
One can have the opportunity to meet many artists and view handmade arts and crafts held at Sedona Heritage Museum. There is a lot of exclusiveness always witnessed at this event. The cherry on the cake is that the admission fee is free.
Date: October 23rd.