Summer Fun Amidst the Red Rocks of Sedona

At any time of the year, Sedona, Arizona is known for its incredible natural beauty, thriving arts and culture scene, and abundance of hiking trails and other opportunities for exploring the outdoors. While the summer months can be hot—with temperatures averaging 94 degrees in July—visitors will enjoy fewer crowds, some of the lowest hotel rates of the year, and refreshing nights thanks to the city’s high desert elevation.

If Sedona is on your radar for a summer vacation, here are a few of the most popular highlights at this time of year:

Slide Rock State Park 

One of the best ways to cool down on a warm summer day in Sedona is with a visit to Slide Rock State Park. Located in Oak Creek Canyon, this iconic park features a natural water slide with a smooth rock bottom that swimmers can glide along for an exciting burst of refreshment. The 43-acre Park also offers hiking trails around the tree-filled, red rock-lined canyon, as well as historic cabins and other relics from the Park’s past as an early twentieth-century apple orchard. However, when hiking during the summer, it’s particularly important to remember sunscreen and plenty of water, and avoid being outdoors during the hottest times of day.

Sedona Jeep Tours

If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to explore Sedona’s stunning natural environment, jeep tours offer a popular alternative to hiking. Several local companies provide jeep tours, which carry passengers down rocky off-road trails to areas that are inaccessible by most passenger vehicles. Many of these spots are at higher elevations and offer sweeping vistas of the breathtaking scenery. While en route, the tour guides keep passengers entertained with witty and informative commentary on the area’s history and geology.

Verde Canyon Railroad 

Another way to experience the area’s natural beauty without working up a sweat is to hop onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad, which departs from Clarkdale, Ariz., approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. This renovated vintage locomotive traverses the stunning wilderness of the Verde Canyon, with its towering red rock walls and impressive display of flora and fauna. The Railroad hosts special events during the summer months, including moonlight rides and wine tastings prior to departure.

Summer Lodging in Sedona

After a long day of exploring the Sedona area’s plethora of activities, relaxing at your hotel can help you recharge for more adventures. At El Portal, we strive to be your home away from home in the heart of Sedona. With an ambience of unpretentious luxury, our twelve uniquely appointed suites offer guests and their pets the comforts of home combined with the amenities of a four-star hotel. Whether you’re cooling down at the pool at our neighboring property or unwinding under the stars in our courtyard, El Portal offers an ideal base for experiencing all that the area has to offer. Book your room online or call us today at 800-313-0017!

Pet Friendly Walks and Hikes

For this month’s blog, we welcome guest blogger Andrea Christelle of Sedona Philosophy!

Sometimes you just have to take the dog with you. That’s the way I felt 15 years ago when my good friend was getting married at Sam A. Baker State Park in Missouri. It wasn’t that I had to take my dog to the wedding. I didn’t have a dog. I found a lost dog at the wedding, and he needed a home!

At the park, all of the cabins and campsites were filled up with friends new and old. It was a weekend of outdoor immersion, before the wedding party and a sizable entourage headed off to Burning Man. It was a wonderfully chaotic mix of people and parties, but eventually, it became clear that amidst the merry madness, there was a dog without an owner. 

A black lab mutt with the sweetest disposition kept sidling up to people looking for affection. And food. When I heard the rumor that this dog had been left behind, and that the park managers were planning to take it to the pound I was really upset. That could not happen. Not to this kind creature. I made a decision and a proclamation. I would take the dog back to New Orleans. 

I hadn’t had a pet since I was a kid, so I didn’t know that you can’t just put a dog on a plane like a suitcase. Animals need shots, and papers, and more than just carriers. But once I made it clear that the dog would have a home, others stepped up to the plate. 

The newlyweds decided to expand their family right away. They adopted this lovable dog, which remained a loyal companion for all of its days. They named him Sam A. Baker, to commemorate the place they found the pup and tied the knot. 

Like a lot of things in my life, making sure that the dog had a home didn’t turn out the way I thought it would, but it probably turned out for the best. In this case, the best thing was Sam staying with Kelly and Michael.   

We know that many of you are choosing El Portal Sedona Hotel not only for its charm and elegance but also because it is pet friendly. Now you can take a guided hike that is pet friendly too. As of January 2022, Sedona Philosophy can take you on a walking or hiking tour, and your furry friends are welcome to come along. One of our guides even volunteers for the Humane Society, so he is used to taking dogs of all types on the trails.

To the left is Kent Baldner, one of Sedona Philosophy guides who will be taking out El Portal Sedona Hotel guests and their dogs, and he volunteers at Humane Society of Sedona.

Sedona Philosophy hikes are enriching and rewarding outings where you learn a little about Sedona and a lot about yourself. Sedona is the perfect place to reflect on the wonder of the world and the meaning of life. On your next visit to beautiful El Portal, take a tour with Sedona Philosophy, and bring your pet along for every step of the adventure.

By Andrea Christelle, Sedona Philosophy

Here is a guide to help pet owners keep their pets safe this winter season!

El Portal Sedona Hotel is a pet friendly boutique hotel, located within walking distance of shops, restaurants, activities, and more. It is a AAA Four Diamond Hotel, with only 12 rooms, and no pet fees!

Walk to Town from El Portal Sedona Hotel!

The Sedona area is known for its many hiking trails, which allow on-foot exploration of the majestic red rock wonderland that makes the city famous. However, visitors do not need to venture into the wilderness to discover immersive walkable adventures. With the city’s intriguing past and diverse selection of restaurants, shops, and galleries, visitors will find plenty to explore in Sedona on foot.

From Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village to Hillside Sedona to Creekside to Uptown to Tlaq North, Sedona is a very walkable town; and all from a two-minute amble to less than twenty minutes’ stroll from El Portal.

Wander the streets, browse the shops, explore the galleries, and do not forget to follow Sedona’s “Walk through Time,” (also known as the Sedona History Walk). These charming places house a wide variety of coffee shops, ice cream parlors, fine dining, specialty boutiques, gear stores, art galleries, bars, and souvenir shops!

Leave the car behind and walk about wonderful Sedona!

Reserve your room today at El Portal Sedona Hotel! 1.800.313.0017 or online!

Trending Now – Sedona for Summer Vacation!

Sedona is trending now for your next vacation! It is perfectly located with Grand Canyon National Park – one of the Seven Wonders of the World –  an hour and a half away, numerous state parks, a national forest, two historical parks, six national monuments, a historical heritage site, unlimited outdoor adventures, shopping, dining, spa days, golfing, wine tours, swimming, fishing; there’s just so much to do, see, explore!

 

Your trip to Sedona begins and ends – here at pet-friendly El Portal Sedona Hotel. We offer exceptional concierge services for the Sedona area. Tell us what you want to do – or not do and we’ll help you plan the perfect trip!

Book your vacation today! Call 1.800.313.0017 or online!

 

Time is of the Essence – A Sedona Spring Getaway!

Do you have a favorite room here at El Portal Sedona Hotel? Is it the Grand Canyon Suite with stained glass accents, whirlpool tub, and fenced pet-friendly yard? Or maybe it’s our Greene & Greene suite with its lovely balcony and fabulous views? It could be our grandest suite – The Governor’s Suite with over 600 square feet and a king-sized bed enveloped in spectacular panoramic Red Rock views.  Or it could be the sweet and serene Garden Court Room? No matter what one is your favorite now is the time to book for a spring escape!
It is time to think ahead to March, April, and May! You don’t want to miss the wonderful weather – perfect for hiking, touring, or just kicking back and strolling around! Time is of the essence…

The soul of Sedona is calling, the serenity of the Southwest is summoning … At El Portal Sedona Hotel we invite you to relax and revive your spirit, refresh your inner self! We have the perfect room just for you…the choice is yours.

Call 1.800.313.0017 or book online!

El Portal Sedona Hotel is a pet friendly AAA Four Diamond Hotel, a boutique hotel that offers personalized concierge services for the Sedona area! 

Make El Portal Your Home for the Holidays

There is so much up in the air this holiday season travel – don’t travel, drive, fly, bring the dogs – don’t bring the dogs, visit family – don’t visit family, and of course the “you-know-what”. So, this year why not make El Portal your home for the holidays?
Here in Sedona, there are so many ways to create holiday memories. Experience Tlaquepaque’s festivities, many are outside or virtual! You might want to do the Sedona Walk through Time (also known as Sedona History Walk). It is a free, self-guided tour that highlights the people, places, and events that shaped the area’s vibrant history. For something a little more rigorous there’s always a good old fashion hike. Get into nature, breath the fresh air, and see the vibrant vistas. The area’s strikingly beautiful landscape is etched with trails of varying difficulty that allows you to experience the red rock vistas and magnetic sense of peace with your family and pets!
El Portal Sedona Hotel is family friendly and pet friendly, with no fees for pets. We are a small 12 room hotel, in the best location (close to shops, restaurants, and more), with a HUGE courtyard. El Portal has received the coveted AAA Four Diamond Hotel award, and AAA Inspectors Best of Housekeeping 2020 award and recognized as a 2020 Travelers’ Choice Award Winner from Tripadvisor.

Our Rooms
Call 1.800.313.0017 or book online

Fall – and the Weather is Perfect in Sedona

Fall Weather = The Best Weather

There’s nothing like a hike along the gorgeous trails in Sedona during autumn…The leaves are just beginning to change, there’s a hint of a chill in the morning and the warmth of the sun is perfect in the afternoon.
The golfing is fantastic too. Championship courses, par 3s, we have it all. The Sedona Golf Resort is considered one of the world’s most unforgettable golf experiences​, ​where each hole provides a unique adventure. Something to add to your bucket list – definitely!

Off-road adventures, jeep tours, and more take you out to the red rocks for excursions sure to turn up the thrill factor! Not your cup of tea? Take a wine tour, book a spa retreat (many of our spas have outdoor facilities), do a little retail therapy in our eclectic shops and galleries, the options are endless.

The unmistakable pull of Sedona means it’s time for relaxation in the fresh mountain air. Check-in at El Portal Sedona Hotel, it is so quiet and peaceful you’ll forget you’re in the middle of town. Stroll down the lane to Tlaquepaque and enjoy the quaint “village” feel, enjoy the restaurants and artisans, then return to El Portal for ​”happy hour” in our idyllic courtyard!

Sedona Weather + Sedona Discoveries + El Portal Sedona Hotel = Perfection 
1.800.313.0017 or Online Reservations

Vacation in Sedona!

The most frequent comment from our guests when they leave is “there is so much more to do and see in Sedona than we thought and a night or two just isn’t enough!” So when you take a trip to Sedona, book for at least two or more nights.

You ask what is there to do? Well, here are just a few of the things to do when you visit Sedona:

Grand Canyon National Park – The Grand Canyon is an easy day trip from Sedona, just over 90 minutes. If you leave around 8:00 or 9:00 in the morning you can see all the great views, doing some shopping for mementos, and still, be back in Sedona by 6:00 pm.

Hike Sedona – Hiking in Sedona is what it’s all about! With over 100 trails in the area; from easy to difficult, along (even through) water, with elevation change, canyon, and mountain trails, there is definitely a trail for you.  

West Fork Trail of Oak Creek Canyon – This trail is touted as one of the best trails in Arizona and one of the top 10 trails in the United States. It is only 6 miles round trip, rated easy-moderate, pet friendly, and has spectacular views.

Jeep Tours of Sedona – Taking a jeep tour of the Sedona countryside is exhilarating, fun and breath-taking! The area has a number of jeep tour companies, with tours from 1 hour to a full day.

Golfing in Sedona – There are a variety of gorgeous golf courses in and around the Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon area, each one unique, challenging, and fair – plus the views are amazing! With plenty of options to choose from, whether you are interested in a championship course or a relaxing par 3, it is all right here.  At elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet above sea level, Northern Arizona presents golfers with a completely different set of challenges, landscapes, and price points. And with our concierge services, we can book you a tee time or two!

Arizona State Parks  – There are a number of state parks to visit in the area; Fort Verde State Historic Park, Dead Horse Ranch, Slide Rock, Red Rock, Homolovi, Jerome, Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, and Verde River Greenway State Natural Area to name a few.   
Vortex/Spiritual Tours – Sedona is a place of profound peace and spiritual renewal. Spiritual gurus worldwide are drawn to the area’s mystical vortexes, which are sites of enhanced energy that facilitate meditation, prayer, reflection, and healing of the body and mind. The Sedona area is unique because it contains all of the different types of vortexes and tours aplenty. There are numerous spiritual retreats, healing experiences, and psychic readings to choose from for a life-changing experience, rejuvenation of the spirit.

Dining in Sedona – You will find excellent restaurants in Sedona and the Verde Valley. Coffee shops, fine and family dining, pet friendly and casual dining; Mexican, American, Italian, French, Latin, Asian, BBQ, bistros, pubs, and more! From breakfast to dessert, and everything in between!

The Sedona Spa Experience – There are a variety of day spas, spas with fitness centers, and alternative wellness and healing centers. In our magical Sedona desert setting, be transported to a space of pure tranquility and limitless well-being.

Other things to consider when planning your trip to Sedona are helicopter rides, hot air balloon excursions, rafting the Colorado River, shopping, kayaking, wine tours, Indian Ruins, museums, theatre events, and more!

El Portal Sedona Hotel – pet friendly, family friendly, romance, solo, groups … Book now 1.800.313.0017.

Giving Back to the Unsung Heroes in Our Community

As the coronavirus has devastated communities around the world, we have all marveled at the courage and selflessness of our first responders and healthcare workers. At El Portal Sedona Hotel, we are proud to join other members of the Sedona Lodging Council in celebrating less commonly acknowledged heroes who have braved the front lines to serve our community: our local retail store clerks and employees.

Throughout the crisis, these workers have risked their own health to ensure that residents of the Sedona area could obtain the supplies they needed. To express our gratitude El Portal Sedona Hotel and other upscale hotels belonging to the Sedona Lodging Council are donating complimentary room nights for up to 100 workers at our local Bashas’, Clark’s Market and Ace Hardware stores. This special offer allows retail store workers to enjoy a slice of Sedona luxury at no cost once we have safely reopened our doors to guests.

Giving back to our community is one of our core values, and we are excited to be able to offer some much-needed respite for our local heroes in the wake of this crisis.

 

Your Pets Need a Break Too!

If your dogs are barking bring them to El Portal Sedona Hotel! We are a pet-friendly hotel with no pet fees. We have a Welcome Basket for your furry friends, complete with a blanket, treats, and waste bags. We even have a dedicated page on our website with resources and pet-friendly things to do.

Your pets are feeling the effects of this quarantine just like you. They know there is something going on from being annoyed from all the disruptions of their days, all the belly rubs, playing fetch, the extra interactions; they’ve probably lost weight too – thanks to all the walks LOL! Maybe it’s time for a change of scenery – for both of you. Come to El Portal, a small boutique hotel (ample space for social distancing). Experience Sedona in a completely different way. There’s nothing wrong with sheltering in place with us! We have contact-free, curbside check-in!

Call for mid-week and long-stay specials 1.800.313.0017!