Sedona, Arizona is a beautiful desert town surrounded by lush forests, red rock buttes, and canyons as far as the eye can see. Often referred to as a “New Age town,” Sedona is a very relaxing and welcoming place offering plenty of activities for families with children. From family hikes through the canyons, desert camping, exciting Segway tours, or simply relaxing at your vacation rental as you watch the sun set, this desert oasis features plenty of unforgettable points of interest. Book a stay at a Sedona vacation rental today. Get started on your holiday itinerary with this list of family-friendly things to do in Sedona.
1. Camp at Crescent Moon Ranch
Give your kids a taste of the great outdoors with a camping outing at Crescent Moon Ranch. Located in the Coconino National Forest, the ranch sits surrounded by red rocks and a flowing stream, making it an ideal spot for outdoor camping. Pack up a few tents and some overnight gear and relax under the clear, starry sky, or rent a cabin for the night and enjoy a family slumber party with snacks and a few ghost stories. After a night of roughing it, you can return to the comfort of your vacation rental.
2. Take a Sedona Segway Tour
For a personalized tour of the Sedona canyons and neighborhoods, sign the family up for a Segway excursion with Sedona Segway Tours. Follow your skilled guide through various trails and area streets while you learn about the history of the desert town. If you’re new to Segway travel, it’s no problem, as the guides provide a helpful training session for all guests prior to your ride.
3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For an exhilarating outdoor experience that lets you view all of Sedona’s beauty from a higher perspective, schedule a hot air balloon ride with Northern Light Balloon Expeditions. In business since 1973, Northern Lights has an excellent safety record, so your family will be in good hands when you’re up in the air. Most of the balloons fit up to seven people, and each trip concludes with a complimentary picnic lunch once you’re back on land.
4. Visit the Natural Arch in Fay Canyon
For a little recreation and amazing views of one of Sedona’s most popular natural landmarks, take a short hike along the Fay Canyon Trail. The trail sits surrounded by red sandstone, and this route is perfect for families with children due to its lower elevation and short distance. About a half mile up the trail, you’ll come across a breathtaking natural arch, followed by lovely sandstone cliffs at the end of your journey.
5. Have a Picnic at Encinoso Picnic Site
For some relaxed outdoor fun, pack a picnic basket and head over to Oak Creek Canyon in the Coconino National Forest and set up lunch at the Encinoso Picnic Site. Surrounded by a bubbling brook, gorgeous greenery, and red rock cliffs, this area makes the perfect backdrop for a mellow family day.
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6. Take a Ride on Red Rock Magic Trolley
With so much to see in Sedona, there’s no better way to pack as much as you can into one day than with a ride on the Red Rock Magic Trolley. Daily tours take passengers through town and into the canyons, and all you need to do is look out the window and take in all the beauty. Knowledgeable guides are along for the ride, providing helpful information about the landmarks and attractions in the area.
7. Go Swimming at Slide Rock State Park
was once an apple farm, and now, it draws in visitors year round who want to swim and splash around in the natural water slide that formed out of Oak Rock Creek’s slippery bed. Put on your swimsuits and don’t forget the sunscreen, then head to the park for a fun day on the water. After you’ve worked up an appetite from swimming all day, stop into the Slide Rock Market for some snacks and cool drinks.
8. Take a Day in the West Horseback Riding Tour
Enjoy some quality time with the family by signing up for a group horseback riding tour. Day in the West Horseback Riding Tours offer guided excursions through the canyons, with horses that are trained for all skill levels. Saddle up and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery then takes a stroll around the ranch.
9. Go on a Pink Jeep Tour
For some four-wheel action, sign the family up for a Pink Jeep Tour. All tours take place off-road along the Broken Arrow Trail in the Coconino Forest, and all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride with your family. The Broken Arrow Trail extends along two miles of rocky terrain and sandstone, and all guides are specially trained to navigate the nooks and crannies of the area with ease.
10. Check Out the Night Stars on a Sedona Star Gazing Tour
For a fun night of starlight and astronomy, book a Sedona Star Gazing Tour. During the tour, guests are provided with laser pointers and learn about the constellations with the help of professional astronomy guides. Tours take place on “dark sky sites” with great evening visibility, and each tour lasts about 90 minutes. All guests are provided with chairs and blankets for a comfortable stargazing experience.
11. Hike the West Fork Trail
The most famous hiking spot in Sedona is the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon, as it leads hikers through a beautiful forest complete with a flowing stream, then out into the desert that sits surrounded by red rock and sandstone. Referred to as a “hiker’s paradise,” West Fork Trail is approximately five miles long, making it a great option for active families. Pack plenty of water and sunscreen to ensure you stay hydrated and comfortable during your hike. If you want to make a family day of it, put together a picnic that fits in a backpack and enjoys lunch by Oak Creek.
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