Stillness & Wonder Among the Red Rocks of Sedona

Sedona glows at every hour of the day. Sandstone shifts in hues of red and orange as the sun arcs across the canyon. It’s a place that stops you in your tracks, where your eyes are drawn upward at all times. Just a two-hour drive from Phoenix, Arizona, or 50 minutes from Flagstaff, Sedona is world-famous for its red rock formations, hiking trails, and energy that invites reflection, creativity, and wellness. The land is sacred to the Yavapai-Apache and other indigenous tribes, and it deserves reverence and care from every visitor.

For a solo expedition, family milestone, couples retreat, or a wellness reset, Enchantment Resort is an exceptional base. Nestled between Boynton Canyon’s red rocks and 15 minutes from downtown Sedona, the resort offers privacy, sweeping canyon views, and access to starlit skies without the need to camp. Its on-site Mii Amo Spa adds a luxurious wellness element if you’re seeking restorative treatments alongside your outdoor adventures. They also provide plenty of activities like tennis, games, and live music, along with many classes, from workouts to meditations to art and lectures.

Luxurious conversation pit in Mii Amo Spa

Epic view surrounding Enchantment Resort's tennis courts

From Enchantment, several hikes begin right on the property. Highlights include the Subway Cave off Boynton Canyon Trail and the Boynton Canyon Vortex, both iconic Sedona experiences. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical here—plan your hikes or walks around these times for unforgettable views. Trails range from beginner-friendly strolls to more challenging treks, making Sedona accessible to all ages and energy levels. Even if you’re not hiking, the resort’s grounds feature grassy patches perfect for sunset picnics, star-gazing, or spotting local wildlife like deer and javelinas.

Subway Cave in Boynton Canyon

Devil's Bridge

Spotted a rainbow on the Devil's Bridge Trail

Red rock beauty always holds me in awe, a reminder of nature’s grandeur and the layers of history embedded in this land. Sedona is more than a destination—it’s a gift to yourself, a chance to reconnect, reflect, and simply be.

Full moon viewing at Enchantment Resort

• Travel tips: Whether you’re coming from Phoenix or Flagstaff, a rental car is essential. Public transportation is limited, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore the scenery at your own pace.

• Hiking: Download the AllTrails app to save hikes and track your route, especially if service is spotty. Many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass ($5 per day) for parking—pay stations are available on site. Arrive early to secure parking, enjoy quieter trails, and beat the heat.

• Local highlights: Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a charming spot for food, drinks, and local shopping if you want a taste of town.

• When to visit: Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) offer the best temperatures for outdoor adventures. When I last visited in early September, just after Labor Day, there were crisp mornings perfect for sunrise hikes and beautiful temperatures for an evening stroll. Summer (July–August) can be very hot with occasional monsoons, so keep that in mind if you are looking to hike a lot, but accommodations are often cheaper. Winter (December–February) brings cooler nights and festive holiday events.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sedona page.