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Destination: Sedona, Arizona

Sedona welcomes travelers with accessibility needs to experience one of America's most breathtaking natural wonders. This stunning high-desert town, surrounded by towering red rock formations, offers surprisingly accessible trails, viewpoints, and attractions. At 4,500 feet elevation in the heart of Arizona's Verde Valley, Sedona combines dramatic scenery with healing energy, spiritual vortex sites, world-class art galleries, and exceptional Southwestern cuisine.

Many of Sedona's most iconic viewpoints are accessible by car or short paved paths, including Airport Mesa, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Cathedral Rock Vista. The compact Uptown area features accessible galleries, restaurants, and shops, while numerous resorts offer roll-in showers and accessible rooms with red rock views. From accessible Jeep tours through rugged canyons to wheelchair-friendly winery visits in nearby Verde Valley, Sedona provides unforgettable experiences for all travelers.

Highlights include:

  • Accessible red rock viewpoints (no hiking required!)
  • Wheelchair-accessible Jeep and trolley tours
  • Paved trails with spectacular scenery
  • Accessible art galleries and shopping in Uptown and Tlaquepaque
  • Adapted outdoor activities (kayaking, hot air ballooning with advance planning)
  • Verde Valley wine country tours
  • Spiritual vortex sites (some accessible)
  • Year-round perfect weather (300+ days of sunshine)

Photo  of a waterfall in a green setting

Travel Arrangements

Travel Arrangements

Travel Arrangements

Primary Airport/Gateway: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) - Arizona's largest airport, 115 miles south of Sedona (2-2.5 hour drive). Alternative: Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) - 30 miles north of Sedona (45-minute drive), limited commercial flights but much closer if available.

Flight Routing from Atlanta: Direct flights to Phoenix (PHX) available on Delta, Southwest, and Spirit Airlines (3.5-4 hours). Phoenix Sky Harbor is one of America's most accessible airports with complimentary wheelchair service, accessible restrooms throughout, accessible trams between terminals, and dedicated assistance centers. Book flights on Expedia for best prices and flexible cancellation options.

Flagstaff Airport (FLG) offers limited service from Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix on American Eagle. Closer to Sedona but higher cost and fewer flight options. Search Flagstaff flights on Expedia.

Airport to Sedona Transportation:

From Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX):

  • Groome Transportation shuttle: Scheduled shared shuttle service, $65-80 one-way per person, runs multiple times daily, wheelchair-accessible vans available with 24-hour advance reservation (call 928-350-8466 and specify accessibility needs)
  • Private accessible van transfer: Companies like Arizona Shuttle and Sedona Shuttle Service offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles, $250-350 one-way for vehicle (seats 6-8 including wheelchair user), door-to-door service, most convenient option
  • Rental car: Drive yourself via I-17 North to Highway 179 (scenic route) or I-17 to Highway 260 West (faster). Major rental companies at PHX offer hand-control vehicles with advance reservation. Freedom to explore at your own pace. Book accessible rental cars through Expedia Car Rentals with filters for adaptive equipment.

From Flagstaff Airport (FLG):

  • Rental car: Only 30 miles to Sedona via Highway 89A (spectacular Oak Creek Canyon drive). Rental car essential from Flagstaff—no shuttle service.
  • Private transfer: Local taxi/shuttle companies available, must request wheelchair accessibility in advance

Book all Sedona ground transportation on Expedia including shuttles and car services, or through Triptogo's AI-powered platform (Affiliate ID: 98699) which can bundle transportation with accommodations for additional savings.

Public Transportation Overview: Sedona has NO public transportation system. Personal vehicle or accessible tour services required. Uptown Sedona walkable/rollable for those staying centrally, but car necessary for viewpoints, trails, restaurants, and attractions spread across town.

Private Transportation Options: Several companies offer wheelchair-accessible van services for Sedona touring: Red Rock Western Jeep Tours (adapted vehicles), Sedona Trolley (accessible with advance notice), and private driver services through local companies. Essential for visiting multiple viewpoints and attractions.

Luxury Transportation Options: Private luxury SUV with dedicated driver-guide for entire stay. Includes airport transfers, daily red rock tours, winery visits, and shopping excursions. Driver handles all accessibility logistics. Book through Triptogo's concierge service for customized accessible luxury experiences.

Important Sedona Driving Notes:

  • Highway 179 and Highway 89A are main routes—well-maintained, accessible
  • Parking at viewpoints FREE with handicapped placard—designated accessible spaces at all major sites
  • Some dirt parking lots at trailheads (bumpy but manageable)
  • Gas stations: fill up in Sedona or Cottonwood (limited options)
  • Uptown Sedona parking challenging (crowded)—accessible spaces available but fill quickly

Hotel Options

Travel Arrangements

Travel Arrangements

Mid-Range Hotel Recommendation #1 - Name: Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock

Mid-Range Hotel #1 - Price Per Night: As low as $180-280/night

Mid-Range Hotel #1 - Special Features: Prime location directly across from Bell Rock formation with unobstructed red rock views from most rooms. Several ground-floor accessible rooms with roll-in showers, wide doorways (36+ inches), and turning space for wheelchairs. Elevator access to all floors. Accessible pool with ramp entry and pool lift. Full-service resort with on-site restaurant (Spencer's), spa, fitness center, and golf course. Large property—request accessible room closest to lobby. Excellent base for exploring Highway 179 viewpoints and trails. Complimentary parking. Staff very accommodating to accessibility needs. Many wheelchair travelers rate this their top Sedona choice.

Book Hilton Sedona Resort on Expedia for member pricing and rewards points, or compare rates on Mytrip (Affiliate ID: 112832) to ensure best price.

Mid-Range Hotel Recommendation #2 - Name: Arabella Hotel Sedona

Mid-Range Hotel #2 - Price Per Night: As low as $150-230/night

Mid-Range Hotel #2 - Special Features: Boutique hotel in West Sedona with excellent accessibility. Multiple ADA-compliant rooms on ground floor with roll-in showers, grab bars, lowered vanities, and accessible closets. Beautiful courtyard pool with accessible entry. Free hot breakfast included (huge value!). Free evening wine and cheese reception. Pet-friendly. Quieter location than Uptown but still central. Accessible outdoor fire pits for evening relaxation. Extremely helpful staff. Great value for accessibility features offered. Walking/rolling distance to several restaurants.

Book Arabella Hotel on Expedia with package deals available when bundled with rental car.

Budget Option - Name: Days Inn by Wyndham Sedona

Budget Option - Price Per Night: As low as $90-140/night

Budget Option - Special Features: Most affordable option in Sedona with accessibility. Located in Village of Oak Creek (7 miles south of Uptown Sedona—quieter, less expensive area). Accessible rooms on ground floor with wide doorways and roll-in showers. Basic but clean and functional. Outdoor pool. Free continental breakfast. Pet-friendly. Excellent value for budget-conscious travelers. Close to Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte trails. Free parking. Good base if you have rental car.

Search budget Sedona hotels on Expedia with accessibility filters enabled.

Luxury Hotel Option - Name: Enchantment Resort

Luxury Hotel - Price Per Night: As low as $500-900+/night

Luxury Hotel - Special Features: Sedona's most exclusive resort, tucked in pristine Boynton Canyon. Several accessible casitas (ground-floor suites) with roll-in showers, private patios with red rock views, fireplaces, and luxury amenities. World-class spa (Mii amo) with adapted treatments available. Multiple restaurants including award-winning Che Ah Chi. Accessible pool complex with multiple pools and hot tubs. Guided accessible hikes and activities available. Tennis, yoga, cultural programs. Unparalleled natural setting completely surrounded by red rocks. Worth the splurge for special occasions. Most romantic and serene Sedona experience.

Book luxury Sedona resorts on Expedia or use Triptogo's AI recommendations to find perfect luxury match based on your preferences.

Vacation Rental Option - Accessible Airbnb/VRBO: Many accessible homes and condos available in Sedona with full wheelchair accessibility, roll-in showers, wide doorways, ramps, and accessible kitchens. Great for families or longer stays. Search "wheelchair accessible" on major platforms. Village of Oak Creek area offers best value. Browse vacation rentals on Expedia.

14-Night Stay Estimated Total: Around $2,100-3,920 for mid-range hotels (Sedona offers better value than many US tourist destinations)

Browse all Sedona accommodations: Expedia Sedona Hotels with detailed accessibility information and real guest reviews from travelers with mobility needs.

Activities

Travel Arrangements

Accessibility and Accommodations

Activity #1: Red Rock Scenic Drives and Viewpoints - Sedona's greatest accessibility feature: you can experience 80% of the beauty WITHOUT leaving your vehicle! Bring high-quality camera for once-in-lifetime shots.

Book guided scenic tours on Expedia or explore independently with VoiceMap's self-guided GPS audio tours (Affiliate ID: 99601) that provide fascinating narration about geology, vortexes, and history as you drive.

Activity #2: Accessible Jeep Tours - Experience Sedona's rugged backcountry in specially adapted 4x4 Jeeps! Multiple companies offer wheelchair-accessible Jeep tours through canyon roads, creek crossings, and remote areas inaccessible by regular vehicles. 

Book Sedona Jeep tours on Expedia with guaranteed lowest price or refund. Bring wide-brimmed sun hat and polarized sunglasses for comfort during open-air tours.

Activity #3: Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village - Gorgeous Spanish-style shopping and dining village in Uptown Sedona. Fully accessible with paved pathways, ramps throughout, and accessible restrooms. 40+ art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in stunning courtyard settings with fountains and sycamore trees. 

Book Sedona shopping tours on Expedia or explore independently. Bring comfortable seat cushion for wheelchair users—you'll be rolling on pavement for hours.

Activity #4: Verde Valley Wine Trail - Arizona's wine country! Cottonwood and Cornville (20-30 minutes from Sedona) host 20+ wineries in scenic Verde Valley. Many wineries feature wheelchair-accessible tasting rooms, outdoor patios, and accommodating staff. Most accessible wineries: Merkin Vineyards (Maynard James Keenan's winery—modern, fully accessible), Page Springs Cellars (beautiful creekside setting, accessible tasting room), Arizona Stronghold (historic building with accessibility), Oak Creek Vineyards (family-owned, very welcoming), and Alcantara Vineyards (largest, most accessible, live music weekends). Tastings $15-25 per person. Stunning views of red rocks and vineyards. Book accessible private wine tour van to visit 3-4 wineries comfortably (no drinking and driving!). Full-day activity.

Book Verde Valley wine tours on Expedia with guaranteed wheelchair-accessible transportation, or arrange custom tours through Triptogo based on your wine preferences.

Activity #5: Sedona Heritage Museum - Small but fascinating local history museum in Jordan Historical Park. Fully accessible with ramps. Displays on Sedona's settlement, apple farming heritage, early tourism, and Hollywood films shot in the area. Original 1930s farmhouse preserved on property. Beautiful park setting with accessible paths, picnic areas, and red rock views. Admission only $5 ($3 seniors). Plan 1 hour. Great rainy-day or hot-afternoon activity. Staff very welcoming and knowledgeable.

Activity #6: Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive - Highway 89A from Sedona to Flagstaff is one of America's most beautiful drives. Winding road descends 2,000 feet through stunning canyon with creek, ponderosa pines, and towering cliffs. 

Enhance your drive with VoiceMap's Oak Creek Canyon audio tour that explains geology and ecology as you travel. Pack refillable water bottle and trail mix snacks for scenic stops.

Activity #7: Accessible Trails - Yes, Sedona has wheelchair-accessible trails! 

Essential trail gear: All-terrain wheelchair rental from OAS Mobility (Affiliate ID: 122024) for serious trail exploring, hiking gloves for manual wheelchair users, wide-brimmed hiking hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and CamelBak hydration pack.

Activity #8: Hot Air Balloon Rides - Several companies offer accessible hot air balloon experiences with advance planning. Wheelchair users who can transfer may participate (baskets have seats). Not possible for those who cannot transfer and stand. 

Book Sedona hot air balloon rides on Expedia with flexible cancellation. 

Activity #9: Sedona Trolley Tours - Narrated 55-minute tours aboard open-air trolley through Uptown Sedona. Covers town history, geology, vortex sites, and local legends. 

Activity #10: Spa Experiences - Sedona is famous for healing energy and world-class spas. Many spas offer wheelchair-accessible treatment rooms and adapted services. Most accessible: Mii amo Spa at Enchantment Resort (luxury, fully accessible), L'Auberge de Sedona Spa (creekside, accessible), Sedona's New Day Spa (locally owned, very accommodating). 

Browse Sedona spa experiences on Expedia for package deals with accommodations.

Activity #11: Grand Canyon Day Trip - Grand Canyon South Rim only 2 hours north of Sedona—absolutely worth day trip! Fully accessible with paved Rim Trail 

Book Grand Canyon tours from Sedona on Expedia with guaranteed wheelchair accessibility. Pack insulated lunch cooler, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and portable phone charger for photos.

Browse all Sedona activities: Expedia Things to Do in Sedona 

Accessibility and Accommodations

Accessibility and Accommodations

Accessibility and Accommodations

Passenger on a train in a wheelchair.

Physical Accessibility:

Pros:

  • Many iconic viewpoints accessible by car or short paved paths
  • Designated handicapped parking at ALL major attractions (free with placard)
  • Several fully accessible hotels with roll-in showers
  • Paved downtown areas (Uptown, Tlaquepaque)
  • Wheelchair-accessible Jeep tours available
  • Some accessible trails (Bell Rock Pathway, Baldwin Trail)
  • Accessible restaurants throughout town
  • Flat terrain in central Sedona (West Sedona, Village of Oak Creek)
  • FREE National Parks Access Pass covers many area sites
  • Year-round mild weather (rarely too hot or cold for outdoor activities)

Challenges:

  • NO public transportation—rental car or tours essential
  • Many trails rugged and inaccessible
  • Some restaurants in historic buildings with steps
  • Dirt parking lots at some trailheads (bumpy)
  • Uptown Sedona has some sidewalk gaps
  • Limited accessible taxi/Uber options
  • High elevation (4,500 ft) may affect some visitors initially
  • Summer heat intense (100°F+) during midday

Overall: Sedona surprisingly accessible for natural destination! With planning, wheelchair users can experience 75-80% of what ambulatory visitors see.

Wheelchair and Mobility Equipment Rentals:

  • Scootaround Sedona: Mobility scooter and wheelchair rentals delivered to hotel. Electric wheelchairs, scooters, rollators. Daily/weekly rates. 928-204-2906
  • OAS Mobility: Premium electric wheelchair rentals perfect for Sedona's terrain. All-terrain wheels handle dirt paths and viewpoint parking lots. Delivered to your accommodation. Book at OAS Mobility (Affiliate ID: 122024) for reliable equipment and exceptional customer service.
  • Prescription Shoppe Sedona: Local medical equipment supplier with mobility aids for rent/purchase. 928-282-5777

Mobility Support:

  • Ground-floor accessible hotel rooms widely available
  • Roll-in showers standard in accessible rooms
  • Elevators in most multi-story properties
  • Accessible restrooms at all public attractions
  • Priority parking throughout town
  • Accessible tour operators (Jeep, trolley, wine tours)
  • Rental cars with hand controls available with advance booking
  • Most restaurants have ramps or ground-floor access

Dining Options

Accessibility and Accommodations

Dining Options

Restaurant #1: Elote Café - Sedona's most famous restaurant serving elevated Mexican cuisine with Southwestern twist. Accessible entrance and dining room. Reservations ESSENTIAL (book weeks in advance or arrive when they open at 5 PM for walk-in bar seating). Famous for Elote (fire-roasted corn with lime mayo, cotija cheese, chile), lamb adobo, and creative cocktails. Dinner only. $25-40/person. Worth the hype! Located in Arabella Hotel area. Browse Sedona dining on Expedia.

Restaurant #2: Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill - Upscale Latin restaurant with BEST VIEWS in Sedona (panoramic red rock vistas from every table). Accessible with elevator. Sunset reservations most coveted (book far ahead). Excellent steaks, seafood, tapas, extensive wine list. Sunday brunch spectacular. $30-50/person. Romantic and beautiful. Live flamenco guitar some evenings.

Restaurant #3: Pump House Station Urban Eatery & Market - Located in Tlaquepaque Arts Village. Fully accessible. Upscale comfort food in beautiful courtyard setting. Burgers, salads, sandwiches, flatbreads. Gluten-free and vegetarian options. Casual but quality. $15-25/person. Lunch and dinner. Great for accessible shopping-day meal.

Restaurant #4: Cowboy Club Grilling Co. - Western-themed restaurant in Uptown Sedona. Accessible. Famous for rattlesnake appetizer (tastes like chicken!), buffalo burgers, elk medallions, and cactus fries. Full bar with creative cocktails. Fun atmosphere with cowboy decor. $20-35/person. Dinner reservations recommended.

Restaurant #5: Hideaway House - Locals' favorite Italian restaurant tucked in Oak Creek Canyon (15 min north on 89A). Accessible with ramp. Spectacular creekside patio (heaters in winter). Homemade pasta, pizza, Italian specialties. Romantic setting surrounded by canyon walls and trees. $25-40/person. Reservations essential. Worth the scenic drive.

Restaurant #6: ChocolaTree Organic Eatery - Organic, largely vegan restaurant with accessible entrance. Raw food options, smoothies, conscious cuisine. Surprisingly delicious even for meat-eaters! Beautiful Tlaquepaque location. $12-20/person. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Gluten-free heaven.

Restaurant #7: Coffee Pot Restaurant - Sedona breakfast institution since 1956. Accessible. Famous for 101 types of omelets! Huge portions, friendly service, locals and tourists alike. Cash only. $10-15/person. Breakfast and lunch only. Classic American diner experience. Expect weekend wait.

Restaurant #8: Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano - Fine Italian dining in West Sedona. Accessible. Owned by local Italian family. Authentic regional Italian dishes. Extensive wine list. White tablecloth service. Reservations recommended. $30-45/person. Special occasion dining.

Sedona dining tip: Make reservations for dinner ALWAYS, especially March-May and September-November (peak seasons). Many popular restaurants book weeks ahead. Most restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions with notice.

Find more restaurants: Expedia Sedona Dining Guide with accessibility filters and verified reviews.

Daily Schedule

Accessibility and Accommodations

Dining Options

Morning (6:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Sedona sunrises magical—wake early for golden hour photography at viewpoints (Airport Mesa best). Coffee shops open 6-7 AM (ChocolaTree, Hideaway Coffee House, Local Juicery). Temperatures coolest for outdoor activities—perfect for accessible trail walks or scenic drives. Most Jeep tours depart 8-9 AM. Museums and galleries open 10 AM. Hot air balloon rides launch dawn (5:00 AM pickup). Morning light ideal for photography—red rocks glow orange.

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Lunch 12-2 PM at accessible restaurants. Avoid hiking/trails during hottest hours (12-4 PM in summer). Perfect time for indoor activities: art gallery browsing, museum visits, spa treatments, air-conditioned shopping. Wine tours typically run 12-5 PM. Some visitors return to hotel for pool time and afternoon rest. Monsoon thunderstorms possible July-September (dramatic but brief). Carry portable rain poncho.

Evening (5:00 PM - 10:00 PM): Prime dining hours 6-8 PM (make reservations!). Sunset viewpoints packed 30 minutes before sunset (arrive early for parking)—Airport Mesa sunset gatherings have spiritual drumming and community vibe. Evening temperatures drop 20-30°F from afternoon (bring lightweight jacket). Many visitors enjoy stargazing—Sedona has dark skies and clear air perfect for astronomy. Night photography opportunities excellent. Most businesses close 8-9 PM (Sedona is early-to-bed town).

Pacing Recommendations:

  • Plan 1-2 major activities per day MAXIMUM
  • Build in rest time—4,500 ft elevation affects some visitors
  • Hot midday hours perfect for hotel pool/spa time
  • Don't overschedule—Sedona best enjoyed slowly
  • Leave flexibility for weather changes
  • Schedule demanding activities (Jeep tours, long drives) on alternate days
  • Rest days perfectly acceptable—hotel views can be activity enough!
  • Hydration critical—drink 2x normal water intake

Seasonal Activity Timing:

  • Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom, perfect temperatures, busiest season
  • Summer (June-August): Very hot days (100°F+), afternoon monsoons, fewer crowds, hotel discounts
  • Fall (September-November): Ideal weather, fall colors in Oak Creek Canyon, busy season
  • Winter (December-February): Cool days (50-60°F), possible snow on high peaks (beautiful contrast!), least expensive, uncrowded

Travel Gear and Resources

Travel Gear and Resources

Travel Gear and Resources

Essential Items for Sedona:

Sun and Heat Protection:

  • Wide-brimmed sun hat - ESSENTIAL (Arizona sun intense)
  • SPF 50+ sunscreen - Reef-safe formula
  • SPF lip balm - Lips burn easily
  • UV-blocking sunglasses - Polarized recommended
  • Cooling towel - Activate with water for instant cooling
  • UV arm sleeves - Extra protection
  • Lightweight moisture-wicking clothing - Stay cool and dry

Hydration:

  • Large insulated water bottle 32oz+ - Fill constantly!
  • CamelBak hydration pack - Hands-free drinking
  • Electrolyte powder packets - Replace minerals
  • Collapsible water bowl for service animals

Comfort and Accessibility:

  • Wheelchair seat cushion - Essential for pavement
  • Wheelchair gloves - For manual chair users
  • Portable fan with misting - Personal cooling
  • Compression socks - Circulation support
  • Lumbar support pillow for car - Long drives
  • Seat belt extender if needed

Photography and Electronics:

  • Quality camera or smartphone - Once-in-lifetime photos
  • Portable phone charger 20000mAh - Critical!
  • Phone tripod - Sunset selfies
  • Polarizing camera filter - Reduce glare
  • Extra memory cards - You'll take thousands of photos
  • Waterproof phone case - Monsoon protection

Outdoor Essentials:

  • Binoculars - Spot wildlife, see distant formations
  • Day pack/backpack - Carry supplies
  • First aid kit - Basic supplies
  • Insect repellent - Minimal bugs but useful
  • Hand sanitizer - Limited facilities at viewpoints
  • Reusable shopping bags - Sedona is eco-conscious
  • Portable toilet seat covers - Trail restrooms basic

Weather Protection:

  • Lightweight rain jacket - Summer monsoons
  • Packable fleece or jacket - Mornings/evenings cool
  • Rain cover for wheelchair - Protect equipment
  • Emergency blanket - Temperature drops fast

Food and Snacks:

  • Small cooler for car - Keep drinks cold
  • Protein bars - Energy between meals
  • Trail mix - Quick snacks at viewpoints
  • Reusable utensils - Eco-friendly eating

Mobility Equipment Upgrades:

  • Rent all-terrain wheelchair from OAS Mobility for serious trail exploring
  • All-terrain wheelchair tires if bringing own chair
  • Wheelchair phone mount - Navigation access
  • Wheelchair cup holder - Hydration convenience
  • Wheelchair storage bag - Carry essentials

Recommended Apps:

  • AllTrails - Find accessible trails with difficulty ratings
  • VoiceMap - Self-guided GPS audio tours (Affiliate ID: 99601)
  • Google Maps - Navigation and parking
  • Weather Underground - Detailed Sedona weather (critical!)
  • Star Walk 2 - Stargazing identification
  • iOverlander - Find accessible facilities
  • GasBuddy - Locate cheapest gas (limited stations in Sedona)
  • OpenTable - Restaurant reservations
  • Yelp - Reviews with accessibility notes

Money and Practical:

  • Cash for small vendors (some cash-only)
  • Credit cards accepted everywhere major
  • ATMs in Uptown, West Sedona, VOC
  • Prices higher than Phoenix (tourist town)
  • Tipping standard (15-20% restaurants, $5-10 tour guides)
  • No sales tax on groceries
  • Hotel parking usually free

Cultural and Spiritual:

  • Sedona has large New Age/spiritual community
  • Vortex sites (energy centers) popular—skepticism fine but respect others' beliefs
  • Many psychics, healers, crystal shops—participate or ignore as you prefer
  • Native American culture significant—respect sacred sites
  • Art community thriving—gallery hopping encouraged
  • Outdoor recreation culture—hikers friendly and helpful
  • Small-town vibe—locals welcoming to respectful visitors

Safety Notes:

  • Sedona extremely safe—low crime
  • Wildlife present (javelina, coyotes, rattlesnakes)—don't feed, keep distance
  • Stay on marked trails—desert terrain dangerous
  • Flash floods possible in monsoon season—avoid dry washes during storms
  • Dehydration serious risk—drink constantly
  • Altitude (4,500 ft) can cause headaches initially—take it easy first day
  • Cell service reliable in town, spotty in backcountry
  • Emergency services: 911 (works everywhere)
  • Nearest hospital: Verde Valley Medical Center (Cottonwood, 20 min)

Local Medical Centers

Travel Gear and Resources

Travel Gear and Resources

Verde Valley Medical Center (Main Hospital)

  • Full-service hospital 20 minutes from Sedona in Cottonwood
  • Emergency department 24/7
  • Accessible facilities throughout
  • English-speaking staff (primary language)
  • Address: 269 S Candy Lane, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
  • Phone: 928-639-6000
  • Urgent care, imaging, laboratory services

Sedona Urgent Care

  • Walk-in clinic for non-emergency issues
  • Accessible
  • X-ray and lab services on-site
  • Address: 2530 W State Route 89A #1, Sedona, AZ 86336
  • Phone: 928-203-4813
  • Hours: 8 AM - 8 PM daily

Sedona Medical Center

  • Primary care and urgent care
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Address: 3700 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
  • Phone: 928-204-3000

Pharmacies:

  • CVS Pharmacy - West Sedona, 24-hour pharmacy
  • Safeway Pharmacy - Village of Oak Creek
  • Walgreens - Cottonwood (20 min away)

Oxygen and DME:

  • Prescription Shoppe - Medical equipment, oxygen, wheelchairs - 928-282-5777
  • Apria Healthcare - Home medical equipment - Cottonwood location

Emergency Services:

  • 911 for emergencies
  • Sedona Fire District - 928-282-6800
  • Air evacuation available (Guardian Air, Classic Air Medical)

Read More

Travel Gear and Resources

Read More

Weather and Best Times to Visit

Spring (March - May):

  • Temperature: 50-80°F (perfect!)
  • Wildflower season - Desert blooms spectacular
  • BUSIEST TIME - Spring break, Easter crowds
  • Pros: Ideal weather, green vegetation, wildflowers, comfortable for outdoor activities
  • Cons: Most expensive, crowded viewpoints/trails, book hotels months ahead
  • What to bring: Layers, sun protection, camera for flowers

Summer (June - August):

  • Temperature: 75-105°F (hot!)
  • Monsoon season - Afternoon thunderstorms, dramatic clouds
  • Moderate crowds - Families vacation, many avoid heat
  • Pros: Hotel discounts (20-40% off), dramatic storm photography, waterfalls after rains, pools perfect
  • Cons: Midday heat dangerous, some trail closures, humidity higher
  • What to bring: Cooling gear, extra water bottles, rain jacket

Fall (September - November):

  • Temperature: 55-85°F (gorgeous!)
  • Fall foliage - Oak Creek Canyon turns gold/red
  • Busy season - September through Thanksgiving
  • Pros: Perfect temperatures, fall colors, wine harvest season, comfortable hiking
  • Cons: Expensive, crowded, book early
  • What to bring: Light layers, binoculars for colors, hiking gear

Winter (December - February):

  • Temperature: 35-60°F (cool but pleasant)
  • Possible snow - Dusting on red rocks (stunning!), rare but magical
  • Least crowded - Except holidays (Christmas, New Year's)
  • Pros: Lowest prices, empty trails, snow-capped red rocks, clear air, stargazing excellent
  • Cons: Some attractions reduced hours, cold mornings/evenings, pools too cold
  • What to bring: Warm jacket, gloves, beanie

Best Overall: April-May and September-October (weather ideal, but expect crowds and higher prices)

Best Value: January-February and July-August (significant hotel savings, manageable weather with planning)

Avoid if possible: Spring break week in March (insanely crowded), major holidays

Year-Round Sunshine: Sedona averages 300+ sunny days annually—rain rarely disrupts plans!


Heat and Altitude Warnings

  • 4,500 ft elevation may cause initial fatigue or headaches—take it slow first day
  • Summer heat (100°F+) dangerous—stay hydrated, seek shade, limit midday exposure
  • Dehydration happens faster in dry desert air—drink 2-3x normal water intake
  • Sun exposure intense year-round—sunscreen and hats non-negotiable

Accessibility Variance

Sedona's accessibility has improved dramatically but challenges remain. What one person considers "accessible" may not work for everyone. Always verify specific details:

  • Doorway widths at hotels
  • Threshold heights
  • Bathroom grab bar placement
  • Shower seat availability
  • Path surfaces at viewpoints
  • Vehicle lift specifications for tours
  • Restaurant table heights

Important Disclaimer

Every Person is Different

These itineraries are suggestions, not rules

Adjust based on individual sensory profile

Customize freely based on personal preferences of activities

Permission to Modify/Skip

It's OK to skip major attractions 

It's OK to leave early if overstimulated

It's OK to stay at hotel instead of sightseeing

It's OK to see less and enjoy it more

It's OK to go home early if trip becomes too much

We are not responsible for any of the components of your itinerary:

Our role is to help you design a travel plan that will work for you

You will then need to connect to our affiliates to proceed with making your travel plans, purchasing flights, hotels, etc. through third parties over which we have no responsibility.

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