Escape to a Red Rock Paradise in Sedona This Summer

While much of Arizona sizzles with triple-digit temperatures during the summer months, Sedona beckons with pleasantly warm, sunny days and refreshingly cool nights under star-filled skies. Located just two hours north of Phoenix, summer visitors to Sedona will enjoy fewer crowds, some of the lowest hotel rates of the year, and the striking red rock landscapes that make the city an enchanting destination in any season.

If you’re considering a trip to Sedona this summer, here are a few of the most popular highlights at this time of year:

Refreshing Adventures at Slide Rock State Park and Grasshopper Point

Embrace the spirit of summer with a visit to Slide Rock State Park, where the cool waters of Oak Creek Canyon carve a natural water slide amidst tree-lined, red rock cliffs. Visitors of all ages will savor the thrill of sliding down smooth rock formations into crystal-clear pools—a refreshing respite from the desert heat.

For a more secluded escape, venture a few miles from Slide Rock to Grasshopper Point, a picturesque, 50-foot-wide swimming hole framed by terraced cliffs and shaded by lush vegetation. Grasshopper Point offers a serene setting for swimming, picnicking, and hiking, with three popular trails (Allen’s Bend, Casner Canyon Trail, and Huckaby Trail) accessible from the parking lot. If you choose to hike during the summer months, consider starting out early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler, and be sure to pack plenty of water!

Indulge Your Adventurous Side with Thrilling Sightseeing Options

While hiking and mountain biking are among the most popular ways to experience Sedona’s magnificent landscapes, other options include jeep tours, helicopter/airplane tours, and treks on the Verde Canyon Railroad.

With several local companies that provide jeep tours, these exhilarating off-road adventures transport passengers to Sedona’s hidden gems and panoramic viewpoints that are inaccessible by most passenger vehicles. As you traverse the rugged trails, knowledgeable guides will share captivating tales of Sedona’s rich history and geology, providing a deeper appreciation for this majestic area.

For an even more thrilling experience, consider a helicopter or airplane tour to experience red rock country from a birds-eye view. Most local tour providers offer options that not only fly over Sedona, but incredible destinations like Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon as well.

A more relaxing way to experience the beauty of Sedona and the greater Verde Valley is with a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad, which departs from Clarkdale, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. This renovated vintage locomotive traverses the Verde Canyon, which features towering red rock walls and an impressive display of flora and fauna. The Railroad hosts special events during the summer months, including wine tastings and moonlight rides.

Daytrip to Flagstaff for a Cool Mountain Escape

Located just 45 minutes north of Sedona, the charming mountain town of Flagstaff boasts some of the coolest temperatures in Arizona and a plethora of activities, from exploring the historic downtown to hiking amidst the scenic ponderosa pine and aspen tree forests. Flagstaff is also home to attractions such as Lowell Observatory (an astronomical observatory open to the public for a variety of tours and experiences), Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and Wupatki National Monument.

Unwind at El Portal Sedona Hotel—And Take Advantage of Our June Special!

After a long day of exploration, El Portal—located in the heart of Sedona—provides a tranquil haven for guests and their pets. Our lush courtyard is the perfect spot for enjoying the idyllic temperatures of a summer night, while our next-door neighbors at Los Abrigados Resort & Spa offer El Portal guests full use of their pool. We are also located just steps away from the famous Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, an enchanting plaza where visitors can stroll along shaded cobblestone pathways and browse a wide variety of shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

In addition to our 12-room boutique hotel, we are pleased to offer three vacation rental properties: Connie’s Place, Sarah’s Place, and Terrapin Station. Just like El Portal, these properties are pet-friendly, and Terrapin Station is the only handicap-accessible, ADA-compliant short-term rental in Sedona.

If you’re considering a visit to Sedona this summer, now is the time to take advantage of our June special: save 50% on your third night when you stay three nights in select rooms! Call us today at 800-313-0017 or visit https://elportalsedona.com/contact-us/ to start planning your summer getaway to stunning Sedona!