Fall is on the Horizon—Now is the Time to Start Planning Your Trip to Sedona!

With idyllic weather, a vibrant tapestry of fall foliage throughout the Verde Valley, and a full calendar of festivals and events, autumn is one of the best times of year to visit Sedona. Since many visitors are drawn to the area during the fall, however, it’s important to start planning your trip well in advance. Here are some popular attractions to consider adding to your itinerary:

Hit the Trails

At any time of year, Sedona is a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts—but the moderate temperatures of autumn make it the perfect time to explore the area’s many trails. Options that are particularly popular during the fall months include the West Fork Trail along Oak Creek, the relatively flat and easy Huckaby Trail, and Casner Canyon Trail, which crosses Oak Creek (so be prepared to get your feet wet!). Check out our resources to start planning your expeditions, and as always, remember to hike with plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the breathtaking vistas.

Enjoy the Fall Foliage

One of the most enchanting features of the Verde Valley in the fall is the changing leaves, as the region comes alive with shades of gold, orange, and crimson. Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon is a must-visit spot for leaf peeping; take a scenic drive along State Route 89A, where you’ll be surrounded by vibrant foliage. Another wonderful option is the Fall Colors Tour from the Verde Canyon Railroad, which transports passengers along the Verde River and through the colorful canyon corridor from the comfort of a renovated vintage train.

The charming mountain town of Flagstaff, located approximately 45 minutes north of Sedona, is also a top leaf-peeping destination, with its forests of golden aspens and ruby red oaks. At https://www.flagstaffarizona.org/plan-your-trip/leafometer/, the city offers a LEAF-ometer with the latest status of the changing fall colors around Flagstaff, as well as suggested spots and activities where visitors can enjoy the full glory of the season.

Explore the Arts and Culture Scene

In addition to its natural beauty, Sedona has established itself as a world-class hub of arts and culture. Explore a diverse selection of galleries throughout Uptown Sedona and the enchanting Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, which is located just steps from El Portal. Fall is also a wonderful time for festivals, with the annual Sedona Arts Festival taking place over the weekend of October 12-13, 2024 and the Sedona Plein Air Festival October 18-26.

Wine Tasting in the Verde Valley

As a federally recognized American Viticultural Area (AVA), the Verde Valley is home to a burgeoning wine scene. Fall is a fantastic time to visit local vineyards and wineries, as the harvest season brings exciting events and activities. Explore the Verde Valley Wine Trail to sample award-winning wines amidst beautiful settings, traverse the Verde River with a world-famous “Water to Wine” tour from Sedona Adventure Tours, or spend a relaxing afternoon at the Sedona Winefest on September 28-29.

Admire the Night Skies

Recognized as an International Dark Sky Community, Sedona is an excellent destination for stargazing, particularly during the crisp, clear nights of fall. Consider taking a stargazing tour, or simply find a quiet spot away from the city lights to enjoy the celestial display. You might even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way!

Whether you’re seeking an activity-packed schedule or you just want to enjoy some rest and relaxation against the breathtaking backdrop of the red rocks, fall is a magical time to visit Sedona. At El Portal, we are eager to welcome you (and your pets!) to our luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Sedona. Through our personalized concierge services, we can help you create an itinerary for your visit tailored to your schedule and interests. Call us today at 800-313-0017 to book your stay and ask about our latest special offers!