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Few can resist the lure of the open road once summer rolls around
Red Rock Scenic Byway
While the city of Sedona’s growth may have resulted in a bit of a commercial sprawl, its captivating rock formations still stand guard right outside town on the Red Rock Scenic Byway, a 7.5-mile little slip of road. Also known as Route 179, it starts in Sedona and runs south, ending at Interstate 17 near Rimrock. Clearly marked trailheads and off-road bike paths are scattered along the way, so bring hiking boots or a mountain bike. Spend at least half a day exploring the red rock formations (many named after objects they resemble, like Bell, Cathedral, and Snoopy), which seem to change shape and color with every shift of light. Most of the drive cuts through the diverse Coconino National Forest, full of hills and washes covered in yucca, juniper, cacti, and piñon pines. Hawks and eagles swoop overhead and elk, deer, coyotes, and quail roam the terrain. Look familiar? In the 1940s and ’50s studios shot many westerns here, including Broken Arrow with Jimmy Stewart.
Smart Splurge Hotel: Sedona is stocked with all manner of hotels, many of them overpriced. With Adobe Grand Villas you can see what you’re paying for: Each of the 15 plush villas is 850 square feet or more and stocked with drinks and snacks, including freshly baked bread. www.adobegrandvillas.com
Great Value Hotel: For tranquility, try Canyon Wren Cabins in the small village of Oak Park. The four cedar chalets have wood-burning fireplaces and gas grills on the patios. www.canyonwrencabins.com
Find even more editorially-selected hotel recommendations in our Sedona Travel Guide.
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