Mesa 2 Peak: Private Scenic Flight Over Sedona’s Red Rocks and San Francisco Peaks

Short on time but craving sweeping views of Sedona and the San Francisco Peaks? Mesa 2 Peak is a 100% private, 40-minute scenic flight from Sedona Airport that delivers dramatic aerial perspectives and tailored photo stops with local pilot-guides.

Sedona, Arizona•

40 minutes

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

Mesa 2 Peak is a private scenic flight launching from Sedona Airport Terminal in Sedona, Arizona. In a crisp 40-minute loop above northern Arizona, Bluebird Air Tours offers a close-up view of the San Francisco Peaks, the Ponderosa pine forests and the rim of the canyon country that frames Sedona’s red-rock cliffs. The experience unfolds in a high-wing Cessna 172 called 'Blue', flown by three local aviators who keep every flight private for up to two passengers. You climb out over a patchwork of orange sandstone spires and scrub, then head north toward Flagstaff’s mountains. The San Francisco Peaks rise like a volcanic island - Arizona’s highest range - and on clear days you can spot the slopes where Arizona’s most-loved ski resort sits. Beneath the wing, expansive Ponderosa forests create a dark-green contrast to the bright, sedimentary walls of the canyon system; the flight pauses along the rim so you can take in sweeping, accessible views without the approach hikes that otherwise demand time and trail planning. What makes Mesa 2 Peak special is the combination of intimate cockpit storytelling and the immediacy of aerial perspective: pilots point out geological edges, drainage patterns and the way lava and erosion have shaped the valleys. Because every tour is 100% private, you’ll choose paced photography stops and tailor the path toward the peaks or the Canyon Cruise highlights. The short duration makes this a great addition to a day of hiking or a replacement for long drives to higher viewpoints. Practical details matter: check-in is at Sedona Airport Terminal, group size is restricted to two people, and flights run year-round subject to weather. There’s no technical skill required - this is a sightseeing flight - so it’s ideal for families, couples and photographers who want a low-effort, high-reward way to see the region. Bluebird Air Tours emphasizes local knowledge; the company’s pilots double as interpreters for the landscape, translating rock layers and forest patterns into a readable terrain. Why book? If you’re short on time but want the sweep of northern Arizona - volcanic peaks, Ponderosa sea, canyon rims and the distinct red-rock geometry - this private flight delivers a concentrated sample of the region’s best vistas. It’s also a low-impact way to experience sensitive landscapes without adding foot traffic to fragile trails. Reserve a morning or late-afternoon slot to catch the light on the cliffs, and plan to add handheld camera gear and a light jacket - the air above the rim is cooler than the valley below. Flights are weather dependent; winter afternoons can be glassy with long shadows, while summer monsoon clouds add dramatic textures to photos. To book, use the Sedona Airport Terminal meeting point and confirm private availability with Bluebird Air Tours; small-group slots fill quickly during shoulder seasons often.

Before You Go

Book shoulder-season mornings

Reserve early-morning slots in spring or fall for stable air, clearer views, and softer light for photography.

Layer up

Bring a light jacket—the air above the rim is often cooler than the valley, especially at altitude and in winter.

Keep camera gear ready

Use a fast shutter and stabilize with your body against the seat for crisp handheld shots through the window.

Confirm weather and weight limits

Flights are weather-dependent and seats are limited to two passengers; verify availability and any weight or mobility restrictions when booking.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Sedona Airport Overlook for pre- or post-flight panoramas
•Scenic pullouts along Oak Creek Canyon for ground-level contrasts to aerial views

Wildlife

•Mule deer
•Red-tailed hawk

Conservation Note

Private scenic flights reduce trail foot traffic but can create noise; choose operators who follow low-impact routing and respect seasonal wildlife closures.

The San Francisco Peaks are a volcanic range and are home to Arizona’s well-known ski area; the peaks are a dominant geological feature of northern Arizona.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (morning), Late afternoon, Clear midday for maximum visibility

Key viewpoints:

• Over the canyon rim for sweeping panoramas
• Northward approach toward the San Francisco Peaks
• Sedona Airport overlook for before-and-after ground shots

Subjects to capture:Red-rock cliffs and sandstone formations, Ponderosa forest mosaics and mountain ridgelines, Aerial patterns of drainages and erosion

What to Bring

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SunglassesEssential

Cuts glare through the aircraft window and improves visibility for photography.

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Light jacketEssential

Keeps you comfortable in cooler air above the rim, especially in mornings and winter.

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Mirrorless or DSLR camera with fast lensEssential

Captures high-quality landscape images in changing light and through aircraft windows.

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Extra memory cards and batteries

Ensure you don't miss key aerial moments; swaps are easier than running out mid-flight.

Common Questions

Where do I check in?

Check-in is at Sedona Airport Terminal; the operator meets guests at the terminal per the listing.

How long is the flight?

The tour runs about 40 minutes and is a private flight for up to two passengers.

Is this suitable for children or seniors?

Yes; there are no technical requirements, but confirm any age or mobility restrictions with the operator before booking.

What happens in bad weather?

Flights are weather-dependent—operators will reschedule or refund according to their policy if conditions make flying unsafe.

Can I request specific photo stops?

Yes; because tours are private, pilots can tailor brief circling or slow passes for photography within safety limits.

Is there a weight limit or seating restriction?

Small aircraft have weight and balance rules; disclose passenger weights when booking so the operator can confirm safe seating.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

40 minutes

Location

Sedona, Arizona

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

No particular fitness required; suitable for travelers who can sit comfortably for the duration.

Free cancellation available

Topics

Air Activities Sightseeing Tour Attraction Private Airplane

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