Discover the Wonders of Winter in Sedona

As the year winds down and winter settles in, Sedona offers an enchanting destination for visitors, with comfortable temperatures, sunny days, and an abundance of activities that make it a perfect getaway. Whether you're looking to hike the red rocks, soak in the magic of the holiday season, or explore the area's vibrant arts-and-culture scene, Sedona has something for everyone—including pets!

Here are some of the best ways to enjoy Sedona during the winter months:

Explore the Great Outdoors

Winter in Sedona means cooler days and fewer crowds than during the autumn and spring, making it an ideal time to explore the area's profound natural beauty. The daytime temperatures usually range from the 50s to the 60s, and there's even a chance of catching the magical sight of the red rock formations dusted in snow. As you head outdoors, be sure to add the following activities to your itinerary:

  • Hiking and Biking: Sedona is renowned for its vast network of trails, and the winter months offer a particularly serene hiking experience. Popular trails like Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and West Fork Trail showcase Sedona's unique geology and vibrant colors. If you're up for a bit more of a challenge, the iconic Cathedral Rock is a must-see. Several trails are pet-friendly, offering a fun bonding opportunity with your four-legged companion! When visiting the hiking trails, the Sedona Shuttle provides a convenient transportation option, with free rides to popular trailheads all year-round, every Thursday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Jeep Tours: For those who prefer a more laid-back adventure, Sedona's jeep tours offer guided explorations of rugged landscapes, hidden canyons, and breathtaking vistas that are often inaccessible by passenger vehicles.
  • Stargazing: Sedona is a designated International Dark Sky Community, and the crisp winter nights make for exceptional stargazing. Bundle up and marvel at the beauty of the Milky Way, free from the glare of city lights.

Indulge in Arts, Culture, and Local Shopping

With numerous art galleries and cultural events throughout the year, Sedona's creative spirit shines at any time. Here are some popular ways to immerse yourself in the city's bustling arts-and-culture scene:

  • Visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village: This enchanting plaza, located steps from El Portal, is home to art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants nestled amidst vine-covered walls and cobblestone pathways. During the holiday season, Tlaquepaque is particularly magical, adorned with festive lights and seasonal décor.
  • Explore Local Art Galleries: From traditional Native American art to breathtaking landscape paintings of Southwestern scenery to contemporary creations, Sedona's galleries feature a vast array of unique works, with many created by local artists. Whether you're seeking a holiday gift for someone special, a showcase piece of art for your home, or anything in between, you're sure to find an impressive selection in Sedona. If you're planning to visit during the first weekend of any month, don't miss First Friday in the Galleries, when several art galleries around the city open their doors to the public for exhibitions, receptions, live music and more!
  • Concerts: Another key player in Sedona's arts and culture scene is Chamber Music Sedona, which has been bringing world-class chamber music to the greater Verde Valley since 1983. During the 2024-25 season, Chamber Music Sedona will present a concert each month from December until April, with highlights including the Miró Quartet accompanied by venerated clarinetist David Shifrin (Jan. 12), the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (March 23), and legendary violinist Pinchas Zukerman with the Zukerman Trio (April 13).
  • Sedona International Film Festival. From February 22-March 2, 2025, the Sedona International Film Festival will celebrate the best in independent film from around the world, from features to shorts, documentaries to animation and foreign films to student films.
  • Wine Tasting: For oenophiles, wine is a form of art in itself. Fortunately, the Verde Valley surrounding Sedona is now a federally recognized American Viticultural Area (AVA), with several locally owned wineries offering varietals to suit any palate. Explore the Verde Valley Wine Trail to sample award-winning wines amidst beautiful settings, or take a wine-centered adventure by traversing the Verde River with a world-famous "Water to Wine" tour from Sedona Adventure Tours.

Relax and Recharge at El Portal Sedona Hotel

After a day of exploring, return to El Portal for a warm and welcoming retreat. As an award-winning, MICHELIN Key boutique hotel, we offer luxurious accommodations amidst our 12 uniquely appointed suites, personalized concierge services, and pet-friendly amenities to ensure that every guest feels at home.

If you're looking for the perfect gift this holiday season (or at any other time of year), consider a gift certificate for El Portal! By treating that special someone to relaxation and adventure in stunning Sedona, you'll be gifting an unforgettable experience. Call us today at 800-313-0017 to purchase gift certificates or book your stay!