Red Rock State ParkLandmarks
Cities/Sedona/Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park

4.7(2.0K)google
4.4(182)yelp
Adult $10·Youth(7-13y) $5·Child(under 6) FreeUSD(This is an Arizona State Park; federal America the Beautiful passes and local Red Rock Passes are not valid for entry.)
Bird WatchingCity LandmarkHikingOutdoorSecluded & Uncrowded

Overview

Red Rock State Park is a stunning 286-acre nature preserve nestled in Sedona, famous for its iconic, towering red sandstone formations and the vibrant riparian ecosystem along Oak Creek. The park acts as an outdoor educational classroom, offering a magnificent network of interconnected hiking trails, such as the Eagle's Nest Loop, which reward hikers with stunning 360-degree vistas of Cathedral Rock. Visitors can enjoy peaceful bird-watching, join daily guided nature walks to learn about the regional geology and indigenous plants, or relax at the visitor center's interactive theaters. The contrast of the vivid green cottonwood trees against the fiery brilliant orange cliffs creates a dramatic, picture-perfect landscape that embodies the spiritual charm of the Arizona desert southwest.

Practical Info

Suggested Duration2-4 hours
Best TimeSpring and autumn are recommended for the most comfortable hiking temperatures. The late afternoon leading up to sunset is the prime time for photography, as the iconic red rock formations glow with an intense, fiery crimson hue under the low sun. Early mornings are excellent for park-guided bird walks.
Getting ThereLocated about a 20-minute drive southwest of downtown Sedona. Drive on Highway 89A (US-89A), turn onto Red Rock Loop Road, and follow the signage directly to the park's main entrance. A dedicated parking lot is available at the visitor center, providing immediate access to the trailheads.

Travel Tips

  • Enforces strict eco-preservation rules; domestic pets are completely banned from all trails, even if leashed, subject to heavy citations by state park rangers.
  • While the property remains open until 5:00 PM, the primary entrance gates lock mechanically at 4:30 PM, and stranded vehicles will be towed at the owner's heavy expense.
  • To protect fragile red rock strata, wandering off designated trails is prohibited; the park is an absolute no-fly zone barring all recreational drone hardware.

Reviews

Positive
  • The iconic red rock mountains paired with Oak Creek are picturesque, perfectly preserving Sedona's natural peace without commercial clutter.
  • The trails are moderately easy and spotlessly clean, lined with detailed flora and fauna educational signs, offering a great experience for hikers.
  • The visitor center is modern, with educational films loops; the staff are incredibly warm and recommend the best trail routing based on fitness.
  • The entry fee per person is very affordable; compared to crowded Sedona town spots, this regulated park offers easy parking and great value.
Heads up
  • To protect the ecosystem, pets are strictly banned inside the park (even on a leash), which deeply disappoints many travelers with dogs.
  • Unlike nearby national forest trails, this park enforces strict operating hours and closes at 5 PM, meaning you cannot catch the full sunset inside.
  • Rest benches and shade shelters are scarce deep on trails; hiking on exposed red soil in summer gets hot, and restrooms are only at the gate.
  • There are no snack stalls or vending machines inside the park; if you get hungry or thirsty, you must drive back to town, as facilities are basic.