16 Most Stunning Sedona Sunset Spots in Arizona 2026

Are you wondering where to watch the sunsets in Sedona, Arizona, USA? There are many places to see sunset views. The incredible red landscape of Sedona is at its best during the evenings. The rocky desert creates a perfectly picturesque backdrop for a desert sunset with steep canyons and unique rock formations.

Sedona is famous for its hiking trails. Several hiking enthusiasts flock to these nearby trails to be with nature and discover the raw desert beauty. The fantastic sunsets are the main reason behind the hype. The lasting rays of the sun shining on the red magnificence of Sedona are a sight you will never forget.

The twilight rays falling on these ancient red structures make them grander. Please note that most Sedona hiking trails require a Red Rock Pass.

Important notes:

1. Cathedral Rock, Sedona: The Red Rock Pass is required to access this point by car.
2. Red Rock Crossing Sunset: A red rock pass is needed to start on this trail.
3. Bell Rock: A red rock pass is required to explore Bell Rock.
4. Devil’s Bridge: A red rock pass is necessary to hike up this trail.
5. Doe Mountain: To access Doe Mountain, you must carry a valid Red Rock Pass.

Sedona sunsets and sunrise, Approx time in 2026

Month	Sunrise Time	Sunset Time
January	7:34 am	5:26 pm
February	7:25 am	5:56 pm
March	6:56 am	6:22 pm
April	6:13 am	6:48 pm
May	5:36 am	7:12 pm
June	5:14 am	7:35 pm
July	5:17 am	7:44 pm
August	5:36 am	7:29 pm
September	6:00 am	6:53 pm
October	6:21 am	18:10 pm
November	6:47 am	5:32 pm
December	7:16 am	5:15 pm

1. Cathedral Rock, Sedona, Arizona

The Cathedral Rock is a natural sandstone butte in Sedona. Pictures of this fantastic creation of nature can be seen featured in several movies, articles, and videos. The hike to the top of this rock is moderately challenging, but the view from the top is worthwhile.

It has a steep slope with rugged cliffs, and the summit is over 600 meters high. Bask in a golden sunset from the balcony-like flat viewpoint while the sun dips behind the mountains. Sunset at Cathedral Rock is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Address: Yavapai County, Arizona, US.

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2. Airport Mesa trail

The Airport Mesa Trail, or Airport Loop Trail, is the most famous in Sedona. It’s a 5.1 km trail that passes through important rocky formations such as Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Elephant Rock, and Courthouse Butte. The hike is moderate, with low, gradual elevation, but the rocky terrain can pose unexpected challenges.

Easy car access has made this place a popular spot to view Sedona’s sunrises and sunsets. Its panoramic view under the orange light of sunset is surreal. During weekends and holidays, it can be pretty crowded.

Address: 483 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States.

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3. Red Rock Crossing Sedona sunsets (state park, vortex, and byway)

Amid Sedona’s red deserts lies Oak Creek. It’s a natural water body with a calm and serene atmosphere. The Red Rock Crossing is the region’s name, where this creek runs next to Cathedral Rock.

The trailhead is located at the Red Rock State Park. The hike follows the creek, lined with rocks on both sides. The trail is 3.2 km long and of medium difficulty. The sunset here and the gorge’s backdrop are sights to see. Visit the hot springs near Sedona, too.

Address: Red Rock Crossing Rd, Arizona 86336, USA.

4. Lovers Knoll

As the name suggests, Lover’s Knoll is a romantic viewpoint ideal for an outdoor date. It’s easily accessible by car. The top provides a clear, extensive view of other famous landmarks in the region, such as Twin Buttes, Schnebly Hill, Lee Mountain, and Courthouse Butte.

Sunset here on a full moon night creates mesmerizing scenery. This location is also a well-known wedding spot. The way to the top is a dirt road on the side. Look for the starting point, as it’s easy to miss.

Address: 1891-1893 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States.

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5. Grand Canyon National Park

The world’s wonder, the Grand Canyon, is beside Sedona. This wonder of nature is a must-visit place in Sedona. The 2-hour drive from Sedona to the Grand Canyon has captivating views.

The Grand Canyon is a favorite sunset spot among Americans. The last hues of the sun reflecting on these orange and yellow rocks create a stunning scene. The place always gets very crowded at sunset. Visit during sunrise for some peace and calm.

Address: Sedona

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6. Vultee Arch

The Vultee Arch is a five-mile trail through the desert wilderness. The trail includes a 50-foot-high red rock bridge passing over a canyon. Reaching the top and enjoying the view is the main objective of this hike.

Desert willows, acacias, and other beautiful wildflowers make this trail green and unique. A late sunset through these trees, with rays reflecting off the limestone surface, is something you cannot miss.

Address: FR 152, Dry Creek Road, Arizona 86336, USA.

7. Bell Rock

The Bell Rock is a vortex located in Sedona’s desert. Many believe this place has healing powers. Unique rock structures and canyons form this butte. It’s a 3.6-mile-long trail of moderate difficulty.

Although it’s in a desert, it was a thriving marine ecosystem in the prehistoric era. Signs of this can be seen on the ancient rocks present here. It’s a popular family spot among locals.

You can go for a hike or soak in the spirituality of this place through meditation or yoga. Remember the incredible colors of the fading sunlight that shine on these magnificent rocks, creating an enchanting view.

Address: Sedona, Yavapai County, AZ 86351, United States.

8. Devil’s Bridge

The Devil’s Bridge is a naturally formed sandstone arch in the Coconino National Forest. Its highest elevation is over 4600 feet. Crossing the bridge was the most challenging part of the hike, as it lacked any handrails on either side. Even though the trail length is short from almost all starting points, it may take 2 to 3 hours to traverse the rough terrain.

Some parts of the way also have slippery surfaces, which might be dangerous. The sunset from the bridge, overlooking the vast eternity of Sedona deserts, is a favorite among photographers.

Address: Devil’s Bridge Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States.

9. Schnebly Hill Vista or Trail

Schnebly Hill is the perfect route to explore Arizona’s beauty. This trail takes you on a beautiful journey through the Sedona deserts, which surround intricate limestone structures and some desert vegetation.

The hiking route is quite challenging, and the total hike is over 6 hours, with little to no shade along the way. Guided jeep tours and off-road driving are better options for reaching the summit. The view from the hilltop encompasses the pine forest below. The sunset with this backdrop is worth the long journey.

Address: Schnebly Hill Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States.

10. Little Sugarloaf Mountain

The Little Sugarloaf Mountain is a hidden gem of Sedona. Travelers cannot easily find the trail to the top on any map. The remote location makes the exploration even more exciting. Because there are fewer people, this place is ideal for quiet time alone.

The trail itself is short but steep. Be aware of your steps, as the route isn’t well maintained. The summit is clear and flat, offering a broad sunset view.

Address: Sedona, AZ 86336, United States.

11. Doe Mountain – Sedona Sunsets

Doe Mountain is a short hike best suited for people with busy schedules. The trail is 1.7 miles long, and it takes over an hour to reach the summit. The majority of the trail is relatively easy. It gets steep at the end, but this hike can be pretty fulfilling. You can get a clear view of the Red Rocks from this trail.

Some desert bushes, cactus, and trees line the walking trail. Typical of the Sedona landscape, the path can get rocky at times. The top provides a gorgeous view of the desert.

The neighboring Bear Mountain also adds to the natural beauty of this place. Although the sunset view from Doe Mountain is ethereal, it’s also quite popular as a sunrise spot in Sedona.

Address: Doe Mountain, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States.

12. Oak Creek Vista – State Route 89A, Sedona

State Route 89A is a long road connecting Prescott and Flagstaff. The Oak Creek Vista is the nearest point on the road to Sedona. This is an unconventional spot to park your car and watch the breathtaking landscape and beautiful sunset.

The spot is comparatively new and uncommon, and it is foremost among the visitors. This helps those looking forward to enjoying a hassle-free sunset on the road. 

People love to hike to Oak Creek Vista for a bird’s-eye view of the famous Oak Creek Canyon. The colorful rock formations here add extra beauty to the sky. Visitors can check out the Native American art pieces and jewelry sold here by local artists.

Address: State, AZ-89A, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

13. Buddha Beach – Sedona Vortex

Buddha Beach is one of the most unconventional and magical Vortex spots near Sedona. The red rocks, shady trees, cool stream water, and calm environment are perfect for quiet family time, sunset viewing, meditation, and relaxation.

The beautiful rock cairns made by different tourists add to the beauty of this place. The place is within the Crescent Moon Picnic Site. However, people have to pay an entry fee to get there. 

Feel the relaxing effect of vortex energy while meditating and swimming here. The place is open from 08:00 a.m. to sunset throughout the year. People can bring hot dinners to enjoy there.

Visitors need to hike to the Red Rock Crossing from the entrance of Crescent Moon State Park. Then, they have to follow the upstream to reach Buddha Beach. This hidden gem in Sedona is perfect for a family day out. 

Address: Sedona, AZ 86336, United States

14. Amitabh Stupa and Peace Park – Sedona

Amitabh Stupa is a perfect destination for spiritual people in Sedona. It’s a beautiful religious outdoor spot situated at the base of Thunder Mountain. There is a large wooden statue of Lord Buddha here. It has been imported from Bali and donated to the Stupa by a local art gallery owner. The statue has been carved from a single piece of mahogany. 

This stupa is the private property of Kunzang Palyul Choling. It’s a Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhist temple. It’s open throughout the year. Entry is free here. Anyone can visit, pray, adorn the colorful flags, and watch the beautiful sunset from the stupa any day from here. Watching the Sunset from here is one of the best activities tourists can ask for. 

Address: 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States

15. Broken Arrow Trail – Sedona

Broken Arrow Trail is a famous trekking and biking trail among locals. Tourists enjoy beautiful views of various rock formations and sunsets. The entire route is unshaded and quite hot in summer. You need to be cautious and well prepared for hiking. It takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours to make a round-trip to cover all the points on the trail. 

This hiking trail covers some of the most beautiful sunset points near Sedona. Like the Devil’s Dining Room Sinkhole, red rock formations next to Twin Buttes, and Chicken Point. Interested tourists can check out the Submarine Rock along the trail. People can visit the place anytime throughout the year. Entry is free for all. 

Address: 799 Morgan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States

16. Cultural Park Trailhead – Sedona

Cultural Park trailhead is a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of sunset without driving far from the city or hiking a long distance. It’s the starting point of many popular hiking trails that tourists love to enjoy.

Travelers settle down and enjoy the scenic beauty. Some popular trails near the spot include Girdner Trail, Rupp Trail, Two Fence Trail, and Arizona Cypress Trail. All of these are interconnected. 

The place is quite large. The place is quite secluded, as most visitors prefer to trek from here. If you want to enjoy the sunset colors in Sedona without the crowd, then the Cultural Park Trailhead is perfect. 

Address: 77 Cultural Park Pl #73, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States

What is the Red Rock Pass Program?

The Red Rock Pass program is a tool designed to protect, develop, and maintain Sedona’s incredible landscape.

Proceeds from the PASS program make a difference by providing advanced visitor information, environmental protection, and a lifelong experience.

What is the cost of a Red Rock Pass?

An annual Red Rock Pass is $20, a weekly Red Rock pass is $15, and a day hike is $5. 

Where to buy a Red Rock Pass?

Visitors can buy a Red Rock Pass online or offline. Most tourists buy red rock passes using vending machines. The vending machines are placed at trailheads, and all accept credit cards. If you have an “America the Beautiful Interagency Pass,” the RED ROCK PASS is unnecessary.

Purchase a Pass from the Parking Lot

Another option is to purchase your Red Rock Pass from the parking lot. The Forest Service has a list of hikes that require a Red Rock Pass; check their website.