The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Arizona
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 04, 2023
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
I know I’m not the only one who thinks the Sedona area reigns supreme when it comes to outdoor adventures & activities in Arizona. With its stunning red rocks, unparalleled hiking trails, breathtaking scenic drives, and refreshing swimming holes, this magical city captures the heart of every nature lover who visits it. If you want to experience the beauty of Sedona but don’t have time for a full-blown vacation, we have just the trip for you.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
Featuring just over an hour of drive time, this 2-day excursion is perfect for a quick weekend getaway, and it leads to some of the most beautiful places not only in the Sedona area, but in all of Arizona, as well. Visit Google Maps for the customizable trip itinerary.
Featuring the largest natural sandstone arch in the area, this moderately-difficult, 3.9-mile out-and-back hike is widely considered to be the most popular trail in the entire state of Arizona (and for good reason!).
A homestead apple farm once upon a time, this incredible place is home to one of America's best swimming holes. Visitors get to soar down a natural waterslide (made possible thanks to slick algae on the bottom of the rocks). It's 80 feet long, and you'll be laughing and having a great time all the way down.
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Take a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon
After a morning filled with lots of high-energy fun, a scenic drive sounds pretty nice, don't you think?
Oak Creek Canyon, a river gorge between Flagstaff and Sedona, is often compared to the Grand Canyon because of its similarly striking beauty. The approximately 15-mile (each way) scenic drive begins just south of Flagstaff on Arizona State Route 89A and descends roughly 3,000 feet into Sedona.
Many people choose to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Oak Creek Canyon without leaving the comfort of their vehicle, but if you still have some fire left to burn, there are numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, swimming holes (including Slide Rock!), and overlooks along the way. Pictured here is the lovely West Fork of Oak Creek No. 108 Trail.
Your appetite is probably raging after a full day of exploring Sedona's Great Outdoors - I know mine was when I last spent time in the city! That's why our next stop is dinner at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, an award-winning restaurant where the views are almost as good as the food.
The menu features all sorts of incredible, Latin-inspired eats that are absolutely to die for. From handmade empanadas to fine steak and seafood dishes to innovative sides, you can't go wrong no matter what you order. There are also plenty of vegan and vegetarian options!
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, 700 W Arizona 89a, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
All of the dining rooms at Mariposa are simply stunning, but I highly recommend snagging a spot on the patio if you can. It offers the dining experience of a lifetime, with the area's iconic red rocks reaching for the sky all around you.
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Stay at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
With hearts full of appreciation for the beautiful state we call home and bellies full of delicious food, it's time to call it a night at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock.
Tucked away in the shadow of the red rocks, this remarkable resort boasts luxury accommodations and amenities that you will simply fall in love with. We can't imagine a better place to call home for the evening!
Would you take this road trip to the best outdoor adventures & activities in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more weekend trips in Arizona that will light up your soul.
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