Best Places to See Fall Color Foliage in Sedona

Looking for the best place in Sedona to see the leaves change color this fall? You can start keeping a lookout for this magical time starting late September through mid-October. This has typically been the best time to visit Sedona to see the fall leaves change color, though that may change from year to year based on the seasonal temperatures. You'll find that it starts earlier up north near Flagstaff and then works its way down south towards Sedona later in the season. If you want to plan a leaf-peeping trip to Sedona, take a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A north towards Flagstaff. Start your fall colors trip with a drive up the canyon up the switchbacks, perfect for viewing and photographing the canyon walls and plateau of the Coconino National Forest in all their autumnal glory.


Best Fall Scenic Drives in Sedona AZ for Autumn Colors

1. Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive on Highway 89A

If you're searching for the most scenic fall drive near Sedona, look no further than Oak Creek Canyon. This stretch of Highway 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff is famous for its dramatic red rock cliffs and brilliant autumn leaf colors.
  • Distance: 28 miles from Sedona to Oak Creek Vista
  • Time: About 40 minutes one way
  • Top Stop: Oak Creek Vista overlook (perfect for fall foliage photography)
  • Loop Option: Return via I-17 S and Highway 179 for a longer but scenic drive

2. Dry Creek Road to Boynton Canyon

Explore West Sedona fall color drives by taking Dry Creek Road to Boynton Canyon. The red rock formations paired with scattered autumn hues make this one of the best fall scenic drives in Sedona for photographers and hikers.

3. Red Rock Loop Road in Sedona

This short but sweet drive offers easy access to fall photography spots in Sedona, with golden trees set against iconic views of Cathedral Rock.


Best Easy Fall Hikes in Sedona

West Fork Trail

Voted the best hiking trail for fall colors in Sedona, West Fork Oak Creek trail is truly is the best trail to enjoy the gold and crimson leaves of fall along Oak Creek. You'll be walking between the gently flowing Oak Creek stream and the steep walls of the canyon, while surrounded by the fall colored leaves chattering in the wind. This is a beautiful and magical place, so please take extra care to not litter.

  • Trail Rating: Easy
  • Hiking Time: 2–3 hours round trip
  • Location: 9.5 miles north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
  • Tip: Arrive early—parking fills up fast in fall!

2. Oak Creek Path – Paved & Family-Friendly

If you're looking for an easy paved trail in Sedona to enjoy fall leaves, try the Oak Creek Path. It's wheelchair-accessible and great for strollers or casual walks.

  • Picnic areas with BBQ grills
  • Amazing views of Cathedral Rock framed by fall trees

3. Bear Sign Trail – Quiet Autumn Hike in Sedona

Tucked in the Secret Canyon Wilderness, Bear Sign Trail offers a shaded fall hike with fewer crowds, leading through forested paths to views of red and white sandstone cliffs.

  • Rating: Moderate
  • Scenery: Fern fields, oak groves, canyon walls

4. Huckaby Trail – Sedona Red Rock Views with Fall Foliage

This easy Sedona fall trail is close to town and winds along Oak Creek, offering a mix of autumn leaves and stunning views of Uptown Sedona and red rock formations.

  • Location: Near Schnebly Hill Road
  • Trail Type: Out-and-back with red rock views

5. Casner Canyon Trail – Hidden Gem for Fall Leaf Peeping

One of the most underrated Sedona fall hikes, Casner Canyon Trail crosses Oak Creek (expect to get your feet wet!) before climbing to jaw-dropping views from the rim.

  • Rating: Moderate to strenuous
  • Trailhead: Schnebly Hill Road area
  • Scenery: Rock formations, oak groves, fall color contrasts

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GREAT THINGS TO EXPLORE IN THE FALL

Best Grand Canyon Day Tours

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our profess

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.


Pink Jeep Adventures

Hang on tight for a fun-filled adventure that leads you on and over the red rocks in a cutting edge Jeep Wrangler, while the magnificent canyon walls surround you. You'll be awestruck by the natural splendor and thrilled as your guide expertly navigates you down iconic red rock trails. Cho
Hang on tight for a fun-filled adventure that leads you on and over the red rocks in a cutting edge Jeep Wrangler, while the magnificent canyon walls surround you. You'll be awestruck by the natural splendor and thrilled as your guide expertly navigates you down iconic red rock trails. Choose from over 15 adventure tours or go with Sedona's most popular tour for nearly 60 years, The Broken Arrow Tour, exclusively offered by Pink Jeep Tours.

Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where y

Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where you can peer off the edge at the mighty Colorado River! Tours leaves from Flagstaff.


Junipine Resort

Junipine Resort is the perfect location for small business meetings or a family vacation. Our secluded creekside setting is the perfect retreat from the hectic pace of our everyday world. Enjoy coffee on your private Sedona, Arizona hotel room patio watching the sunrise over the Red Rocks.
Junipine Resort is the perfect location for small business meetings or a family vacation. Our secluded creekside setting is the perfect retreat from the hectic pace of our everyday world. Enjoy coffee on your private Sedona, Arizona hotel room patio watching the sunrise over the Red Rocks. Slide Rock State Park is adjacent to our resort, and Sedona is just 8 miles away.
8.6
505 reviews

Wildland Trekking

Go on an epic journey in Sedona or to the Grand Canyon! Services include 1 to 8 day hiking adventures, tasty backcountry cuisine, and quality gear served up by America's most experienced and knowledgeable Grand Canyon guides. 25+ years experience in adventure travel.

Maverick Helicopter Tours

Maverick Helicopters offers tours of the Grand Canyon West Rim and South Rim. Maverick brings VIP service to the canyon with climate-controlled helicopters and unobstructed views perfect for sightseeing. They give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon
Maverick Helicopters offers tours of the Grand Canyon West Rim and South Rim. Maverick brings VIP service to the canyon with climate-controlled helicopters and unobstructed views perfect for sightseeing. They give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon.

Briar Patch Inn

Briar Patch Inn is the #1 Ranked B&B in AZ since 2011 and has received Trip Advisor's Certificate of Excellence
The Briar Patch Inn features 19 cabins situated on 9 lush acres in Oak Creek Canyon, just 3 miles north of Sedona. Each individual cabin is dressed in

Briar Patch Inn is the #1 Ranked B&B in AZ since 2011 and has received Trip Advisor's Certificate of Excellence
The Briar Patch Inn features 19 cabins situated on 9 lush acres in Oak Creek Canyon, just 3 miles north of Sedona. Each individual cabin is dressed in distinctly different southwestern decor. The lush grounds - home to wildlife, birds and two resident sheep - showcase rambling walking paths, canyon oaks, giant pines and sycamores, all providing the perfect setting to nurture your relationship with nature. Healthy, bountiful, homemade breakfasts are offered by the creek in spring and summer and by the lodge fireplaces in fall and winter. An attentive, longtime staff strives to provide a quality of fine service that is the hallmark of this "magical" sanctuary. A Fodor's Choice and a Frommer's favorite.


Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours

Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will
Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will discuss with you your experience and skill level in order to decide which hiking trails would be the best fit for you. Is there a specific trail you have been dying to hike? Great! Our professional guides are here to make sure you have the best experience possible. Because our hiking tours are completely private, your hiking experience is personalized and can be as long or as short as you want. On our Grand Canyon hiking tours, you can opt for a full day of hiking, or we can split the day between hiking and sightseeing. You’ll experience the canyon like never before. When you walk down the canyon, you are walking through geologic time. See the rock layers, and learn about the canyon’s millions of years of geologic history. Enjoy picture-perfect viewpoints along the trail and capture every breathtaking moment.

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring th

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring the entire family! There are 5 adult courses and 1 junior course with obstacles ranging from tarzan ropes, to wobbly bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets, ziplines, and even an aerial surf board!

Come Play in the Trees and explore the outdoors like you never have before!

To see our availability or book a reservation, check out www.flagstaffextreme.com or give us a call at 888-259-0125!

(See our website for age and height restrictions)


Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company! Daily multilingual tours of Grand Canyon departing from Sedona, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon West and Las Vegas. Choose from a variety of Air Tours, River Rafting, Weddings venus, IMAX attractions, or e
World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company! Daily multilingual tours of Grand Canyon departing from Sedona, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon West and Las Vegas. Choose from a variety of Air Tours, River Rafting, Weddings venus, IMAX attractions, or even fly the Vegas strip by night.

Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Tap into the energy of the Earth in beautiful Sedona! Locals call this a cathedral without walls, and it only takes one look to understand why. Surrounded by towering buttes and spires of bold red rock and bisected by a canyon that’s green all year-’round, Sedona is like nowhere else on th
Tap into the energy of the Earth in beautiful Sedona! Locals call this a cathedral without walls, and it only takes one look to understand why. Surrounded by towering buttes and spires of bold red rock and bisected by a canyon that’s green all year-’round, Sedona is like nowhere else on the planet. Explore Sedona at your own pace with over 53 stories laid out on a 15-mile route.
  • Fully Guided Personal Tours
  • Professionally Narrated Stories
  • Works Offline
  • Fun Facts
  • Tour At Your Own Pace
  • Location Aware, Plays Automatically
  • Don’t Miss Any Sightseeing Points
  • No Groups. No Tips

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour

    Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, and awe-inspiring that you simply must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This value-for-money self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails. Ex
    Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, and awe-inspiring that you simply must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This value-for-money self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails. Explore Grand Canyon at your own pace with over 60 stories laid out on a 45-mile route.
  • Fully Guided Personal Tours
  • Professionally Narrated Stories
  • Works Offline
  • Fun Facts
  • Tour At Your Own Pace
  • Location Aware, Plays Automatically
  • Don’t Miss Any Sightseeing Points
  • No Groups. No Tips

  • Sedona UFO Tour Guided By Contacted Scientist

    At sundown, all participants caravan 3 miles to a parking area with a dark sky. 3rd gen night vision goggles are distributed to see what can't be seen with the naked eye. Satellites, airplanes and UFOs are seen every night.

    Personal UFO Tour: With 3 or more in a

    At sundown, all participants caravan 3 miles to a parking area with a dark sky. 3rd gen night vision goggles are distributed to see what can't be seen with the naked eye. Satellites, airplanes and UFOs are seen every night.

    Personal UFO Tour: With 3 or more in a party, the Sedona UFO Tour Guide comes to you with the gear and the information that has made Michael THE guide to hire for a UFO Tour.

    Conversations with a Contactee: Michael will buy lunch and spend an hour sharing his ET contact story, and answering the attendees' questions.


    Grand Canyon Railway

    Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation
    Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon National Park.

    A Day In The West

    Sedona's oldest continually owned family tour business (since 1949) offers a wide variety of tours, including: Jeep tours, horseback rides with BBQ cookouts, winery/jeep combination tours, and much more. In Sedona we are known as the fun and friendly tour company, and we've got a reputatio
    Sedona's oldest continually owned family tour business (since 1949) offers a wide variety of tours, including: Jeep tours, horseback rides with BBQ cookouts, winery/jeep combination tours, and much more. In Sedona we are known as the fun and friendly tour company, and we've got a reputation to back that up. Let our Cowboy and Indian guides show you what's special about Sedona's high desert. Check out our website for savings on online bookings.

    Arizona Private Tours

    Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and
    Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.

    Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

    Your unforgettable Sedona experience must include spending time at internationally renowned Tlaquepaque (pronounced Tla-keh-pah-keh), Sedona Arizona's Arts & Crafts Village. Tlaquapaque treats visitors to an exceptional collection of Sedona art galleries and shops bordered by four outstand
    Your unforgettable Sedona experience must include spending time at internationally renowned Tlaquepaque (pronounced Tla-keh-pah-keh), Sedona Arizona's Arts & Crafts Village. Tlaquapaque treats visitors to an exceptional collection of Sedona art galleries and shops bordered by four outstanding restaurants including a micro-brewery. You'll want to return to this epicenter of Sedona shopping and activities again and again - to look and wander, to sample and buy, to eat, drink and refresh body and soul. We also serve as an intimate and beautiful wedding venue.

    Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale

    Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument

    Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Visit Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Chapel of the Holy Cross. Options available for shopping, galleries, restaurants in Uptown or T'laquapaque and off-road Jeep tours or guided hike add-ons.


    Oak Creek Terrace Resort

    Escape to Oak Creek Canyon among the red rocks and tranquility of Oak Creek. We are the perfect couple's getaway with in-room fireplaces and jetted Jacuzzis. Made to order for honeymoons and anniversaries, this Sedona, Arizona resort also offers great family fun by the creek in double hamm
    Escape to Oak Creek Canyon among the red rocks and tranquility of Oak Creek. We are the perfect couple's getaway with in-room fireplaces and jetted Jacuzzis. Made to order for honeymoons and anniversaries, this Sedona, Arizona resort also offers great family fun by the creek in double hammocks, swings, barbecues, and picnic areas. Cabins, bungalows, and family units available. Come stay with us!
    7.9
    590 reviews

    One Tribe Tours

    Experience Sedona's healing power by tapping into her potent vortex energy. Let us take you deeper into the present moment where you can safely release, heal, and recharge your batteries. Our tours and retreats are private, personalized and customizable to meet your spiritual and physical
    Experience Sedona's healing power by tapping into her potent vortex energy. Let us take you deeper into the present moment where you can safely release, heal, and recharge your batteries. Our tours and retreats are private, personalized and customizable to meet your spiritual and physical needs. Your tour can include a smudging ceremony, rose petal ceremony, guided meditation, hiking, yoga in a vortex site, a healing session, and spectacular views. We will show you how to connect to Mother Earth in a sacred way. Plus enjoy our delicious organic homemade cookies, chocolates, and tea!

    The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show

    Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner, and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with

    Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner, and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.

    After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!


    Sedona Springs Resort, a VRI Resort

    Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Sedona, Arizona, and only a short distance away from numerous area attractions and historical sites, this property offers guests all the comforts of home while traveling.

    Sedona Springs Resort is ideally situated close to a variety of re

    Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Sedona, Arizona, and only a short distance away from numerous area attractions and historical sites, this property offers guests all the comforts of home while traveling.

    Sedona Springs Resort is ideally situated close to a variety of recreational activities and popular points of interest. Take a tour of the Grand Canyon, go hiking at Red Rock State Park, or view ancient Native American ruins, all located nearby.


    MORE THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE IN SEDONA