3 Days in Sedona Itinerary for a Wellness-Focused Trip

Planning a 3 day Sedona itinerary? Keep reading for my curated itinerary for the perfect stay in Sedona. 

Sedona, Arizona is probably one of the most magical places to visit in the US. With its red rock scenery, energy vortexes, brilliant hiking, wellness and spa opportunities, and those stunning cotton candy, desert sunsets, a trip to Sedona is always a good idea. 

3 days in Sedona is a great amount of time to be able to explore the most popular hiking paths and the best that the area has to offer.

However, once you start to experience the magic that Sedona has to offer, it’s pretty difficult to leave, and I promise you’ll be planning your return trip soon. 

After spending more than 2 weeks in the area, this is my more wellness-focused 3 day Sedona itinerary. This curated guide is perfect for those wanting to experience nature and the outdoors but also complement that with the best spas, wellness facilities, and the best dining in Sedona.

It’s the perfect itinerary for anyone looking for wellness, connection to the magical landscapes of Sedona, but also some rest and relaxation. 

In this guide, you’ll find out about the best time to visit Sedona, the best things to do in Sedona, as well as my suggested Sedona 3 day itinerary, which you can mould to your own preferences. 

*This ‘3 day Sedona itinerary’ contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

How Many Days in Sedona

Sedona is one of those places, given its small size, that has so many things to do. Really, you could spend a month in Sedona and still not have the time to do all the hikes and see everything of interest. 

While the town is fairly small, it’s what’s around Sedona that’ll take up most of your time; all the amazing easy and more strenuous hikes, the overland tours, viewpoints, and of course spas. 

However, saying that spending 3 days in Sedona is a great amount of time to experience a little of everything. If it’s your first time visiting Sedona you’ll definitely be able to make the most of the area in your 3 days here. 

It’s also possible to do some of the most popular hikes and experience Sedona in a 2 day Sedona itinerary too. The more time you have, the better. 

How to Get to Sedona

The nearest airport to Sedona is Flagstaff Pullium Airport (FLG) however, this airport, unfortunately, doesn’t serve too many flights from around the country or international destinations. 

Most arrive at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, which is the closest international airport to Sedona. From here you can rent a car and drive to Sedona in just over 2 hours. 

Alternatively, you can also fly into Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport and drive along the classic Route 40. This route takes almost 4.5 hours to get to Sedona. This is what I did, following my trip through the Las Vegas area.

If you’re located nearby or you’re doing a road trip around Arizona, you’ll most probably drive into Sedona. It’s located about 30 miles south of Flagstaff along the very scenic 89A. 

You will need a car to get around Sedona and get to the trailheads, so make sure to rent one at your arrival airport. 

The Best Time to Visit Sedona

The best but also most popular times to visit Sedona are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these times temperatures are just right, not too hot and not too chilly.

Spring is especially popular as the wildflowers are in bloom and in fall you’ll be able to see the fall foliage. 

While temperatures are perfect during these times you’ll also need to take into account the crowds. Hiking trails are crowded, trailhead parking is almost impossible during popular hiking times and all tours and attractions are also full. 

If you don’t mind chilly nights, winter is a fantastic time to visit. Bring layers and you can enjoy empty trails and crowd-free resorts. During the day temperatures are perfect for hiking. I actually visited in January and it was wonderful. 

For those who don’t mind high temperatures and if you’re planning to make the most of your resort, don’t write off summer. Summer is a great, crowd-free time where you can enjoy Sedona’s spas during the day as well as shorter hikes for sunrise and sunset. 

Best Things to Do in Sedona on a 3 Day Sedona Itinerary

Do some Hiking

Probably the most popular activity in Sedona is hiking. It’s the best way to experience the red rock landscapes around you while also getting out into nature. 

You’ll be able to get up close to all the fantastic flora and fauna, hike through the box canyons and around or over red sandstone buttes. With 3 days in Sedona, you’ll definitely be able to do at least three spectacular hikes in the area. 

What I love about the hikes in Sedona is the variety. Many of the hikes go through Sedona’s Vortexes, some are extremely short, and others are longer and more strenuous.

Even if you just have a couple of hours, you’ll be able to find a great hiking trail to maximise the time you have. 

Here are some of the best hikes to do for 3 days in Sedona:

Cathedral Rock Trail – An amazing sunset hike, this one is short and sweet even though it does include a more technical rock scramble in the middle. At the Cathedral Rock summit, you’ll get to an amazing panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. 

Read more: Hiking Cathedral Rock Trail in Sedona, Arizona

Airport Mesa Loop Trail – This awesome 3.2-mile loop trail is an easy hike around Table Top Mountain through red boulders. It’s pet-friendly and the views are stunning. It also takes you into Airport Mesa vortex. 

Boynton Canyon Trail & Subway Cave – A 7-mile round trip, that will take you on a rather lovely, forested trail through Boynton Canyon. You can then take the unmarked side trail to Subway Cave. It’s a bit of a steep scramble to get inside the cave but well worth the effort. 

Bell Rock Loop Trail – A quick 1.8-mile loop which you can start from Bell Rock Trailhead or Bell Rock Vista Trailhead (better for the views). Great views, especially if you take the short loop off the main trail which partially climbs Bell Rock itself. 

The Birthing Cave– A more popular Sedona hike that starts from the Long Canyon trail parking lot. This one is just 2 miles round trip and includes beautiful views of the scenery framed by a large cave. 

Devil’s Bridge Trail – One of the most popular sunrise trails in Sedona. It’s a 4.2-mile round-trip hike that starts pretty flat before becoming more steep toward the summit. The hike features a unique stone ‘bridge’ at the end that’s a popular photo spot. 

Munds Wagon Trail – A stunning trail with beautiful vistas. This 6.4-mile round-trip hike is a moderate trail that follows a historical cattle route from the 1930s. Hiking this trail at sunset is stunning where you can hike up to Merry Go Round Rock for the best panoramic views of the valley below. 

Some other hiking trails include:

• Brins Mesa Trail
• Bear Mountain trail
• West Fork Trail
• Soldiers Pass Trail and Seven Sacred Pools
• Broken Arrow trail
• Red Rock Crossing Trail
• Doe Mountain trail
• Fay Canyon trail 

Read more: 13 Easy Hikes in Sedona with Stunning Views

Visit Sedona’s Vortexes

You may have encountered some of the earth’s vortexes before- places in the world, ancient sites for example, that radiate cosmic energy. 

It’s believed that Sedona has four different energy vortexes, ethereal intersections captivating energy and spiritual allure. These vortexes are believed to be potent centres of natural energy that can enhance meditation, contemplation, and personal transformation.

Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon vortexes are among the most renowned, each offering a unique ambience and energy. Many have encountered a feeling of magnetic pull towards these spots, while others don’t feel a thing. 

If you are more spiritually inclined, I highly suggest visiting the vortexes to see if you can benefit from their energy in any way.

Plus, all the vortexes are some of the most popular hiking trails so you’ll probably experience at least one during your 3 Day Sedona itinerary. 

Have a Spa Day (or afternoon)

There’s nothing better than spending the morning hiking out in nature and then relaxing in a spa for the rest of the afternoon. It’s a winning combo, and Sedona is one of the best places for it. 

The best spas in Sedona are actually located in some of the best luxury resorts so make sure to choose your accommodation wisely. By staying in a wellness-focused Sedona hotel with an excellent spa you’ll easily be able to make the most of the spa during the day without needing to travel far. 

Mii Amo Spa – The best luxury spa in Sedona, Arizona and possibly the United States. Don’t miss this Northern Arizona destination spa that’s beautifully placed among the red rocks. They have a focus on slow-wellbeing where you’ll be able to relax and experience all the treatments you desire in the most harmonious setting. 

Signature treatments include Chakra Balancing, a Connection Ceremony and Ancestral Stone Massage. 

L’Auberge du Sedona– L’Apothecary Spa at L’Auberge de Sedona is another winner. Check-in for the afternoon and enjoy stimulating body scrubs, massages and a wide range of spiritual treatments too. 

The Wilde Resort and Spa– Located right in West Sedona, The Wilde Spa is a beautiful place to relax and unwind. They have a comprehensive menu of Sedona-inspired massages, facials and wraps. 

Read more: 6 Rejuvenating Wellness Retreats in Sedona, AZ

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a small church or chapel perched dramatically within the red rock formations just outside central Sedona. It’s actually built right on top of two rocks and the structure’s elegant design seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of its surroundings. 

With glass doors and windows behind the altar and at the entrance, the views of the surrounding landscape are incredible from both inside and outside the chapel. 

It doesn’t take long to visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, so it’s well worth making a quick stop here at some point on your Sedona 3 day itinerary. 

Note that getting here involves a short uphill drive and there is limited parking right next to the chapel so consider coming at a less popular time like early in the morning. Otherwise, you can park lower down at the base of the butte. 

Experience Your Resort

Sedona isn’t cheap, especially when it comes to accommodation so you may as well splurge. Luckily, though, you’ll get your money’s worth because Sedona has some of the best wellness-focused resorts in the country. 

You might also want to assign some time out of your 3 days Sedona itinerary to fully explore and enjoy your accommodation. Most of the luxury resorts in Sedona are beautifully incorporated into the natural landscape around them and are very design-focused.

They encourage relaxation and connection to your surroundings. 

For our top picks for where to stay in Sedona, see the full list below. 

Visit Uptown Sedona

When exploring the Sedona area, a visit to Uptown Sedona is an absolute must. This charming district is a vibrant hub where you’ll be able to find many of Sedona’s best services. 

Stroll along the bustling streets lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and delectable dining options that offer a taste of local flavors. It’s a great place to just grab a coffee and take a stroll down the lively streets. 

You can also head to Uptown Sedona to organise guided tours, rent equipment for outdoor activities and even begin some hiking trails- the Munds Wagon and Marg’s Draw trailheads aren’t far from Uptown Sedona and Tlaquepaque. 

Shop at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village

Just a little south of Uptown is Tlaquepaque and at its heart the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. This small arts village is often referred to as ‘the art and soul of Sedona’, a space to wander, get inspired, and shop. 

Inspired by the Mexican pueblo magico, Tlaquepaque, just outside Guadalajara, the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village in Sedona feels just like it. You’ll find a little stone chapel here, beautifully decorated courtyards with fountains, boutiques to shop at as well as cafes and restaurants. 

It’s a lovely spot to spend a few hours during the day, especially when trying to escape the heat. 

Take an Adventure Jeep Tour

For an adrenaline-pumping escapade amidst Sedona’s rugged beauty, an adventure jeep tour is an absolute must. 

These off-road journeys offer an exhilarating way to explore the breathtaking landscapes and iconic red rock formations that define Sedona. 

Hop into a sturdy 4×4 vehicle, and let experienced guides take you through winding trails, rocky terrain, and steep inclines that lead to awe-inspiring viewpoints. The rush of adrenaline is perfectly complemented by the opportunity to learn about the area’s geology, history, and native flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides.

Pink Jeep Tours is another very popular Jeep Tour company in Sedona. 

Visit a Winery

Contrary to what you might expect, Arizona’s wine country, sits just beyond Sedona. Verde Valley is at the heart of Arizona wine country and it’s just 30 minutes from Sedona. 

Taking the afternoon to discover some of Sedona’s best vineyards, and tasting some local wines is one of the best alternative things to do in Sedona on a 3 day itinerary. 

Here are some of the best local wineries close to Sedona which you can visit during your trip.

Page Spring Cellars – One of the best local vineyards in the area that focuses on sustainably produced small batch wines. There’s a real focus on community here and high-quality wines.

You can visit and take a tour of the vineyard and wines as well as book a table in their tasting room & bistro to sample some of the best wines they have to offer. 

Burning Tree Cellars– Located out in Cottonwood this is a local boutique winery with a homey tasting room where you can try some of Arizona’s award-winning wines. 

Oak Creek Vineyards– a small, family-owned winery near Sedona. Schedule a visit and taste some of their best whites and red amid beautiful vineyards surrounded by red rock scenery. 

Winery 1912 – With a tasting room right in Uptown Sedona, Winery 1912 is a very convenient spot to try some great Arizona grown wine. Wine is produced from grapes grown on their vineyard in Willcox, Arizona. 

If you’d prefer to leave the planning to the experts then why not join the brilliant Original Sedona Winery Tour, which’ll take you to up to four Verde Valley wineries. Plus, when doing a tour you won’t need to worry about wine tasting and then driving.

Indulge in some Yoga and Meditation

Amidst the serene landscapes of Sedona, why not take a few minutes out of your Sedona 3 Day itinerary to sit with yourself, find your center and connect with the earth’s energy?

The Red Rock landscapes of Sedona are some of the most beautiful, and the Sedona energy vortexes are another reason to consider your practice here. Imagine practicing sun salutations with the rising sun casting warm hues across the canyons, or finding inner peace in the tranquil embrace of the desert’s stillness.

Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a beginner, Sedona offers a plethora of classes, retreats, and workshops to cater to all levels. If you’re staying in one of the more wellness-focused resorts they will most probably have morning yoga and meditation classes for you to join. 

Otherwise, there are many different spots in town you can pop into for a drop-in session. Check out Yoga in Sedona and Sedona Hot Yoga for more. 

Visit a State Park

If the hikes in and around Sedona aren’t enough, you’ll be pleased to know there are a number of wonderful State Parks in the Sedona area. Red Rock State Park and Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek Canyon are the two to visit when in Sedona. 

Here you’ll find more of Arizona’s spectacular red rock landscapes, where you can lace up your boots and hike down trails that wind through towering red rock formations, lush vegetation, and serene waterways.

If it’s not your first time in Sedona, and you’ve already explored the most popular trails, then heading into these two State Parks is a great alternative. 

Go Horseback Riding

Take to Sedona’s winding desert trails on horseback for a one-of-a-kind experience in Sedona. You’ll take off into the desert landscape with an experienced guide who’ll take you to Sedona’s best natural wonders. 

You’ll also be able to see historic sights, ride through vineyards and have an all-round fun experience. 

Check out this Guided Horseback Tour in Cottonwood, just 30 minutes from Sedona. It’s the perfect tour to combine both horseback riding and a visit to a vineyard. 

My Suggested 3 Day Sedona Itinerary

With all the incredible things to do in Sedona mentioned above, you’ll be able to piece together your own 3 day Sedona itinerary. 

If you find that you only have 2 days in Sedona or even 4 days, you’ll be able to pick and choose the activities you like the most to create your own custom itinerary. 

Below you’ll find my suggested itinerary. This is the final, tweaked version of my exact Sedona itinerary, which I’d recommend for anyone visiting Sedona for the first time. 

This 3 Day itinerary in Sedona really balances hiking with wellness and other cultural activities in the area. 

Sedona 3 Day Itinerary- Day One

Munds Wagon Trail Hike- Horseback Riding or Jeep Tour- Spa

Start your Sedona trip with one of the most splendid hikes in the area, the Munds Wagon Trail Hike a 6.4-mile round trip hike that’s a moderate trail. Make sure also to detour to Merry Go Round Rock for the most spectacular views. This hike is also great at sunset if you prefer to switch around your day a little. 

In the afternoon, head out on a Horseback Riding or Jeep Tour, which will allow you to rest your legs a little on the first day while still being able to see and experience the stunning Sedona landscapes. 

In the last afternoon, retreat to your resort spa for a perfect evening of relaxing treatments: I think a foot massage is definitely in order. 

Day Two

Devil’s Bridge Hike – Bell Rock Loop Trail/Birthing Cave – Winery visit 

Begin your day with an early start and a sunrise hike. The Devil’s Bridge hike is one of the best sunrise hikes in Sedona and the views are truly worth getting up for. It’s a 4.2-mile round trip hike and includes a little climb at the top to reach the unique rock ‘bridge’. 

After some rest and a good breakfast, set out again mid-morning for another short hike. I recommend either the Bell Rock Loop Trail or the Birthing Cave hike both of which are under 2 miles. 

Spend the rest of the day having a late, lazy lunch and heading out of town to Verde Valley to visit some great Sedona wineries. If you prefer everything organised for you, this vineyard tour is a hard one to beat. 

Day Three

Morning Yoga – Spa –  Shopping- Chapel of the Holy Cross –  Cathedral Rock sunset hike

Spend the morning enjoying your resort before checking out. Make the most of it with some yoga or meditation practice in the stunning Sedona scenery. Another spa treatment could be a good option too. 

Spend the last morning and early afternoon wandering around Uptown Sedona, and visit the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village for some great gifts and souvenirs. 

Before you head to your last trailhead, stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross on the way. Admire the incredible architecture of the chapel among the magical red rocks. 

Finish your Sedona trip with one final sunset hike. The Cathedral Rock sunset hike is short and sweet yet you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views in Sedona. It’s a delightful way to finish your 3 day Sedona itinerary.  

Where to Stay in Sedona

Enchantment Resort 

One of the best accommodations in Sedona, Enchantment Resort is a beautiful, luxury resort surrounded by red rock canyons. 

Rooms and suites are minimal, and soothing yet combine distinctly Native American elements in their decor.  The resort can also organise countless excursions and hikes into the surrounding area for you.

The spa here is also one to write home about with many rejuvenating treatments inspired by Native American traditions.

Mii Amo Spa

If you’re planning to fully take advantage of all of Sedona’s wellness and spa offerings why not stay at the spa? Mii Amo definitely doesn’t get as much recognition as it should for its private and secluded 16 guest rooms which are beyond swoon-worthy. 

With natural-accented decor that perfectly complements the landscape and lots of natural light, it’s the ideal place to stay and retreat. 

The Mii Amo Luxury Suite is the place to stay however, to go all out. It’s the perfect indoor-outdoor living space that’ll have you showering outside, living outside and in complete harmony with the Red Rock landscape. It’s a dream stay you won’t forget in a hurry.  

L’Auberge de Sedona

Another stunning place to stay in Sedona, L’Auberge de Sedona is all about wellness-focused stays and meaningful experiences. They’ll take care of all your culture, nature and self-care needs during your stay. 

Rooms, suites and cottages here are modern and contemporary and give you plenty of space to relax and breathe. Dining and service are also very good. 

Amara Resort & Spa

Located near Uptown Sedona, Amara Resort and Spa is a very central place to stay, yet it feels like a private retreat. There’s a modern and chic atmosphere and guest rooms and suites reflect that. 

The outdoor pool is the perfect place to relax during the warmer months and the spa is also one of the best in Sedona. Dining includes Saltrock Southwest Kitchen, which serves modern, southwestern cuisine and exquisite margaritas. 

Where to Eat & Drink in Sedona

Mariposa – Upscale restaurant and bar with South American-inspired cuisine. Think empanadas, ceviche and a lot of meat and seafood. One of many Lisa Dahl restaurants in Sedona. 

The Hudson– Modern, chic restaurant serving new American cuisine and great cocktails. 

The Art of Wine– An intimate wine store in Uptown Sedona that also does tastings and light bites. They carry many local Arizona wines so it’s a brilliant place to come and sample some of the finest one evening. 

Elote Cafe – Superb Mexican food in Uptown. Make sure not to miss the Baja Fish Tacos, the Green Corn Tamal, the Elote dip and of course the great margaritas. 

ChocolaTree Organic Eatery– One of the best healthy, vegetarian cafes perfect for a post-hike lunch in town. Superb raw wraps, salads, mains, lots of juices and tasty desserts. 

Local Juicery– The spot in town for all your healthy-go-tos. Organic juices, healthy foods, coffee and snacks. 

Coffee Pot Restaurant – The classic American breakfast spot in Sedona. Expect eggs any way you like them, pancakes, waffles, burritos. It definitely hits the spot after a sunrise hike. Located in West Sedona. 

Top Tips for Your Sedona Itinerary

↠ If you can, try to plan your visit for 3 days mid-week. The weekends in Sedona are much busier which means less parking at trailheads, longer wait times in restaurants, and crowds on the most popular hikes. 

↠ If you don’t mind the cold, visit in winter.

↠When hiking make sure to leave no trace and pack out all trash. 

↠ Purchase a Parking Pass! You’ll need an America The Beautiful Pass or a Red Rock Pass when parking at the trailheads. The pass costs $5 for one day, $15 for 7 days or $20 for a year. Make sure to leave the pass on your vehicle dashboard before heading out onto the trails. 

↠ For hiking, make sure to pack lots of lightweight, breathable hiking clothing, which includes layers, good hiking shoes, sunscreen, and ha,t and a headlamp for those sunrise and sunset hikes. 

↠ During the peak season, you most probably won’t be able to park at trailheads and you’ll need to take the Sedona Shuttle. The Sedona Shuttle runs Thursday through Sunday, year-round from various Park & Ride spots in Sedona. Check their website for shuttle schedules and routes.

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Ready for your Sedona itinerary 3 days in Arizona? Have any questions or comments about your trip? Let me know in the box below.

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