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Sedona red rock panorama at golden hour
3 Nights · 3 Trip Styles

3-Night Sedona Itinerary

Three perfect nights in Red Rock Country — hikes, vortexes, world-class dining, and sunsets you will never forget.

4–6
Hikes
6–9
Restaurants
2–3
Vortex Sites
~45 min
Drive Time (max)
3 Nights4 Nights5 Nights6 Nights

Choose Your Trip Style

Every itinerary is tailored to your group. Pick your vibe and we'll handle the planning.

An action-packed trip built around epic hikes, off-road adventures, craft beer, steakhouses, and nights of cards and live music.

Red rock trail in Sedona at sunrise
Day 1

Trailblaze & Brews

Morning

Soldier Pass Trail

Soldier Pass Trailhead, Sedona

Hit one of Sedona's best trails early. The 4.2-mile loop takes you past the Devil's Kitchen sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools, and a hidden cave with panoramic views. Moderately challenging with some scrambling.

Red Rock CafeAmerican Breakfast · $$

The huevos rancheros are legendary. Get there by 8:30 to skip the wait.

Afternoon

Pink Jeep Tours — Broken Arrow

204 N Hwy 89A, Sedona

The iconic Broken Arrow tour takes you through the most rugged terrain in Sedona. You'll climb near-vertical slickrock in a custom Jeep — an adrenaline rush with stunning scenery. 2 hours.

Cowboy ClubSouthwestern Grill · $$$

Try the cactus fries and the elk burger. Sit on the patio for Uptown views.

Evening

Oak Creek Brewing Co Taproom

2050 Yavapai Dr, Sedona

Sedona's original craft brewery since 1995. Flight of 6 beers to sample the range, then settle on a favorite. Casual vibe, great for a crew. Grab a growler for the rental.

Mariposa Latin Inspired GrillLatin-American Fine Dining · $$$$

Sunset views from the patio are unmatched. The Argentine steak and ceviche are must-orders. Reservations essential.

Pro Tip: Head back to the rental for poker night on the deck under the stars.

Sedona red rock formations panorama
Day 2

Peaks, Pints & Live Music

Morning

Cathedral Rock Hike

Back O'Beyond Trailhead

The signature Sedona scramble. It's only 1.2 miles but gains 740 ft — the final push is hand-over-foot climbing on slickrock. The saddle viewpoint at the top is breathtaking. Start before 7 AM.

Creekside CoffeeCoffee & Pastries · $
Afternoon

Sedona Beer Company + Verde Brewing

Sedona & Camp Verde

Start with a flight at Sedona Beer Company in the Village of Oak Creek, then drive 20 minutes south to Verde Brewing Company in Camp Verde for a different vibe — sprawling outdoor space with food trucks.

The HudsonModern American · $$$

Great cocktails and a creative menu. The smoked prime rib is excellent.

Evening

Jazz Upstairs at Sound Bites Grill

101 N Hwy 89A, Suite B, Sedona

Live jazz performances Thursday through Sunday. Intimate second-floor venue with a full bar. Check their schedule for the current lineup — quality acts from across the Southwest.

Pro Tip: Thursday and Friday nights are the best jazz nights. Arrive by 7 PM for good seats.

Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive through red rocks
Day 3

Canyon Drive & Farewell Feast

Morning

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive

Highway 89A North to Slide Rock

Drive the stunning 14-mile stretch through Oak Creek Canyon — Arizona's "little Grand Canyon." Stop at Slide Rock State Park for a quick dip in the natural waterslide if the season allows.

Indian Gardens CafeCafe & Bakery · $$

Charming spot in Oak Creek Canyon. The smoked salmon bagel and fresh pastries are worth the stop.

Afternoon

Devil's Bridge Hike

Mescal Trailhead / Dry Creek Road

Sedona's largest natural sandstone arch — 54 feet across a dramatic canyon. Walk across the bridge for the iconic photo. 3.9-mile round trip from Mescal Trailhead.

Olde Sedona Bar & GrillBurgers & BBQ · $$

No-frills spot with cold beer, giant burgers, and pool tables. A solid guys' lunch.

Evening

Sunset at Airport Mesa + Farewell Dinner

Airport Mesa Scenic Lookout

End the trip with the most accessible sunset viewpoint in Sedona. 360-degree views of the red rocks as the light shifts from gold to crimson.

Etch Kitchen & BarNew American · $$$

Creative dishes with local ingredients. The duck and the short rib are standouts. Great wine list.

Packing Tips for Gents' Getaway

  • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
  • Quick-dry shirts and shorts
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+ and a wide-brim hat
  • Hydration pack or 2L water bottles
  • Deck of cards and a good bottle of whiskey
  • Light jacket for cool desert evenings

Sedona Pro Tips

#1

Start hikes before 7 AM to beat the heat and the crowds — parking lots fill fast.

#2

Bring at least 1 liter of water per hour of hiking. The desert is deceptively dry.

#3

Many top restaurants (Elote Cafe, Mariposa) don't take reservations or fill up fast — plan accordingly.

#4

A Red Rock Pass ($5/day or $15/week) is required for most trailhead parking.

#5

Sunsets are best viewed from Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, or your rental deck with a drink in hand.

#6

Cell service is spotty on trails — download offline maps before heading out.

Dive Deeper into Sedona

Hiking TrailsRestaurantsVortexesDay Trips

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