4 Best Spots in Sedona to See the Sunrise (Without Hiking)

This post is about the best spots in Sedona to see the sunrise without hiking.

Let’s be honest.

Not EVERYONE is an avid hiker.

Some just want the thrill of watching a beautiful sunrise without the hassle or exhaustion of a long hike beforehand.

Or, if you’re like me, you may be a taaaaad afraid of hiking in the dark in order to make it for sunrise.

Well, you are not alone!

That’s why I’ve compiled this list: to make it easier for those who are not crazy about hiking, can’t do long walks, or those who simply just don’t have the time for the trek but still want to see a spectacular view in Sedona.

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Tips for Catching Sunrise

• Plan ahead. Research the area you’re planning to visit before, well, visiting. Check the weather, amount of cloud coverage, time of sunrise, and most importantly where the sun is going to be rising. I absolutely love using the app PhotoPills for this, but it is paid. While I highly recommend it if you’re a photographer, I understand not everyone wants to buy an app. A simple google search should help you pin point the sunrise in any location you wish!
• Pack (and dress) accordingly. Before the sun breaks, depending on the time of year, it can be quite chilly in the desert! However, once the sun comes up, the heat comes in. I prefer to dress in layers for this exact reason.
• Get an early start. Most of these places are popular and for a good reason. Make sure you get a parking spot and secure a good view before the crowds start piling in. But remember to always be courteous of others, too!

Important!

The sun rises in different directions throughout the year. Be sure to research the direction the sun rises when you plan on visiting each location.

Here are four of your best options to catch the sunrise and avoid a strenuous hike.

1. Airport Mesa Overlook

While this is an absolutely breathtaking spot, it is also VERY popular. Be sure to get there early and expect a crowd.

That being said, its busy for a reason! This is also a great place to see sunset.

The site offers panoramic views of Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, Chimney Rock, and Coffee Pot Rock; all very famous mesas in Arizona. The golden light brings out the gorgeous oranges and reds in the rocks, making them pop beautifully.

This is one, if not THE most recommended spot to see the sunrise.

The first parking lot you see is for a trailhead. Albeit a small hike, this post is for the anti hikers!

Continue up the road until you reach another lot on the left. Park there, walk across the street and there is your perfect photo op. The lot here is $3 for the whole day, but totally worth the 360 degree views.

Accessibility

Easily reachable by car with a short drive from downtown Sedona.

Views

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations.

Facilities

Limited facilities available, including parking and a viewing platform.

Important Note

Arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.

2. Red Rock Crossing

Red Rock Crossing is a famous mesa in Arizona you’ve most likely seen photos of.

While breathtaking, the rock can be a bit confusing to access.

A great way to see this formation is driving along Highway 179, one of Sedona’s scenic byways. You can get to Red Rock Crossing via Red Rock Loop Road.

The fastest way to access is parking at Crescent Moon Park then walking over. However, parking here is $12 which is a bit high if you only plan on photographing the rock and then leaving. You can also go swimming, do some picnicking or walk the trails; so there is plenty to do if you want to make your money worthwhile.

Getting the infamous shot of the rocks requires a small stroll along the Oak Creek, but this is nothing but a leisurely park walk and I wouldn’t consider it a hike. This is a beautiful spot for sunset as well.

If you don’t want to stop to get an up close shot of the rocks, just exploring the scenic byway during sunrise is an absolutely gorgeous experience! Be sure to utilize all of the scenic viewpoints as to not miss a great photo op.

Be sure to check where the sun rises at the time of your visit!

There is a hotel in this area, L’Auberge de Sedona. This is a beautiful spot right along Oak Creek. Awarded a Traveler’s Choice award by Tripadvisor, this hotel boasts luxury spa experiences, fine dining and balcony/patio views to gaze at the beautiful red rock scenery surrounding the hotel.

You can experience an incredible sunrise right from the comfort of your room!

Accessibility

Accessible by car with a short drive followed by a brief walk to the viewpoint.

Views

Provides stunning vistas of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek.

Facilities

Parking available, as well as picnic tables and restrooms nearby.

Important Note

Check the sunrise time and plan to arrive well before to find parking and set up for the sunrise.

3. Chapel of the Holy Cross

If you like architecure, you are guaranteed to enjoy Chapel of the Holy Cross!

This unique building is nestled in between two buttes offering a lovely view of the valley below.

Even if you don’t practice religion this is still a gorgeous location to check out, especially for sunrise.

The Chapel doesn’t open until 9 am but you can see fantastic views just from the parking lot!

There is a gift shop here that opens at 9:30, but if you don’t want to stay that long you can shop online at this link. There are some neat items here with some pieces crafted by local artists!

Accessibility

Accessible by car with parking available near the chapel.

Views

Offers a unique perspective with the chapel’s architecture against the backdrop of the sunrise-lit red rocks.

Facilities

Limited facilities available at the chapel.

Important Note

Respect any religious services or ceremonies that may be taking place and maintain a quiet demeanor.

4. Bell Rock Vista

If you are entering Sedona via Highway 179, Bell Rock is one of the first buttes you see coming in.

Located off of Hwy 179 is a pull off perfect for watching the sunrise over Bell Rock, a rock named after its shape.

You do not need a pass if you only plan to stop for less than 15 minutes, but if you plan on hiking or staying longer, it is required you purchase a Red Rock pass, which is $5 for the day. There are several vendors in Sedona that sell the pass, along with a self serve machine located at the Bell Rock Pathway Trailhead. If you have the National Park pass, then it is free! Be sure to display it on your vehicle.

While hiking is available at this viewpoint it is certainly not required to see the beautiful sunrise!

This is a popular stop so be sure to arrive early to ensure a parking spot.

When navigating to the destination, opt for the northern parking area rather than the southern.

Accessibility

Bell Rock Vista is located along Highway 179, approximately 3.5 miles south of the junction with Highway 89A in Sedona, Arizona.

Views

Panoramic views of Bell Rock as well as Courthouse Butte and the surrounding landscape.

Facilities

Limited facilities available, including parking but no bathrooms.

Important Note

While the vista point itself is easily accessible, visitors should exercise caution when exploring the area, especially near the edges of the viewpoint. Keep a safe distance from cliff edges and supervise children closely.

Conclusion

There are plenty of ways to see the beauty of Sedona without having to endure strenous hikes.

The beauty of the city is accessible to all!

While there is a plethora of beautiful hikes to experience in the city of Sedona, sometimes we just don’t have the time, the willpower, or the ability to endure such adventures. But that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on a wonderful experience!

What is your favorite sunrise location in Sedona?

Happy explorin’!