Discover Sedona Small-Group Tour — Red Rock Scenic Drive & Chapel of the Holy Cross
See Sedona’s signature red-rock overlooks, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and scenic pulls along Oak Creek Canyon on a 2.5-hour small-group tour with hotel pickup. Ideal as an orientation for first-time visitors who want photos, geology, and local context without a long hike.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a brimmed hat and sunscreen
Sun in Sedona is strong year-round; a hat and SPF protect you during roadside stops and brief walks.
Closed-toe shoes for short walks
Pull-offs and chapel viewpoints have uneven sandstone and gravel — sturdy shoes make short strolls safer and more comfortable.
If traveling with young children, bring a car seat
Arizona law requires children 8 and under to be in a car/booster seat; guests must supply their own.
Time your tour for light
Choose an early-morning or late-afternoon departure for richer colors and softer shadows on the red rocks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fay Canyon rock alcove and short rim walk — quieter views with a short trail
- •Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park — a contemplative spot with panoramic views, less crowded than the main overlooks
Wildlife
- •Mule deer
- •Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Trail erosion and off-trail walking threaten fragile soils and cryptobiotic crust; follow Leave No Trace principles and respect protected cultural sites.
Sedona’s red sandstone was laid down in the Permian period and later uplifted; the modern Chapel of the Holy Cross was completed in 1956 and built directly into the rock face.
Photographer's Notes
- • Airport Overlook for panoramic views
- • Chapel of the Holy Cross viewpoint framing modern architecture with red rock
- • Pull-offs along Red Rock Scenic Byway for layered buttes
What to Bring
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Protects against strong desert sun during stops and short walks.
Reusable water bottle (insulated)Essential
Staying hydrated is crucial; water is provided but a personal bottle is convenient.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Useful for uneven sandstone at viewpoints and short trail sections.
Light jacket or wind layer
Evenings and higher-elevation overlooks can be breezy, especially outside summer.
Common Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes — hotel pickup and drop-off in Sedona are included; if staying elsewhere you can arrange a meet-up point. Provide hotel information 72 hours before the tour.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Children are welcome; Arizona law requires children 8 years and younger to use a car/booster seat which guests must provide.
How long is the tour and what times does it depart?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours with departures typically at 8:00 AM, 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM daily.
Can we stop at Slide Rock or swim?
The tour passes Slide Rock but typically does not include a lengthy stop for swimming; guides will indicate locations and timing based on the itinerary.
Is the Chapel of the Holy Cross admission included?
Admission is not required to view the chapel from the public vantage points visited; short walk access may be included depending on the itinerary and time.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; there is no refund within 24 hours.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Sedona, Arizona
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity level; participants should be able to walk short unpaved sections and stand for 10–20 minutes at viewpoints.
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