Think Sedona is all about hiking? From Verde River kayaking and wildlife encounters to scenic drives and hidden local gems, discover outdoor adventures that show a completely different side of Arizona’s most popular destination.
More than 5 million people visit Sedona each year, drawn by its iconic red rock formations, hiking trails, and desert scenery. Yet many travellers make the same mistake: they spend their entire trip within Sedona's city limits and miss some of Northern Arizona's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Think of Sedona as the headline act and the Verde Valley as the hidden encore. While the famous red rocks deserve their reputation, the surrounding area offers rivers, wildlife habitats, historic towns, scenic cycling routes, and outdoor adventures that provide a completely different perspective on Arizona's natural beauty.
For visitors looking for things to do near Sedona, expanding beyond the most popular attractions can transform a good holiday into a memorable one. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures to consider during your next trip.
When people imagine Arizona, rivers are not usually the first thing that comes to mind. That's exactly what makes Verde River kayaking such a surprising experience.
The Verde River is one of the last remaining free-flowing rivers in Arizona and supports a thriving riparian ecosystem filled with native birds, fish, and wildlife. Flowing through the Verde Valley near Clarkdale and Cottonwood, it offers a refreshing contrast to the region's desert landscapes.
Unlike whitewater destinations that require advanced skills, many sections of the Verde River are suitable for beginners. Calm waters, gentle currents, and scenic surroundings make it an approachable activity for first-time paddlers and families.
As visitors float downstream, they often encounter towering cottonwood trees, dramatic canyon walls, and wildlife ranging from great blue herons to river otters. The experience feels remarkably different from the dusty hiking trails many associate with Arizona.
According to outdoor recreation professionals, kayaking also offers a slower pace than many adventure activities. Rather than racing to a destination, paddlers have time to appreciate the landscape, observe wildlife, and enjoy the journey itself.
Companies such as Clarkdale Kayak Co. have helped introduce visitors to beginner-friendly Verde River kayaking experiences, making the activity accessible even for those who have never stepped into a kayak before.
No list of things to do near Sedona would be complete without hiking.
The region offers hundreds of miles of trails suitable for every experience level. Whether visitors want a short scenic walk or a challenging climb, there is no shortage of options.
Cathedral Rock remains one of the area's most photographed destinations. The relatively short hike rewards visitors with sweeping views of Sedona's famous red rock landscape. Bell Rock is another popular choice, offering a variety of routes for different fitness levels.
For those seeking a longer adventure, Devil's Bridge provides one of the most iconic photo opportunities in Arizona. The natural sandstone arch attracts visitors from around the world and has become one of Sedona's signature attractions.
Early morning hikes are particularly rewarding during warmer months, allowing visitors to enjoy cooler temperatures while avoiding peak crowds.
Sedona has earned a reputation as one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the United States.
The area's extensive trail network attracts everyone from recreational riders to elite cyclists. Red dirt trails weave through canyons, mesas, and rock formations, creating a riding experience unlike anywhere else in the country.
Beginner riders often enjoy trails such as Bell Rock Pathway, while more experienced cyclists may tackle technical routes featuring steep climbs, rock gardens, and challenging descents.
One reason mountain biking near Sedona continues to grow in popularity is the diversity of terrain. Riders can customise their experience based on skill level, fitness, and available time.
Many local outfitters offer bike rentals and guided excursions, making the sport accessible to visitors who don't travel with their own equipment.
Located in nearby Cottonwood, Dead Horse Ranch State Park is one of the region's most underrated outdoor destinations.
The park offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, birdwatching, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can explore wetlands, lagoons, and riverside habitats while enjoying a quieter atmosphere than some of Sedona's busier attractions.
Bird enthusiasts are particularly drawn to the area. Hundreds of species have been recorded within the park, making it a popular destination for wildlife photography and observation.
For families, the park provides an easy way to spend a day outdoors without committing to a strenuous hike or high-adrenaline adventure.
Many visitors are surprised by the diversity of wildlife found near Sedona.
The Verde River corridor serves as an important habitat for numerous species, creating excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Depending on the season, visitors may encounter bald eagles, hawks, herons, deer, beavers, turtles, and a variety of migratory birds. Early morning and evening outings often provide the best viewing opportunities.
Wildlife observation can be combined with hiking, kayaking, photography, or scenic drives, making it an accessible activity for travellers of all ages.
Unlike some outdoor adventures that require specialised equipment, wildlife viewing simply requires patience, awareness, and a willingness to slow down.
Outdoor recreation is only part of the area's appeal.
Historic Clarkdale offers a fascinating glimpse into Arizona's mining history. Established in the early twentieth century as a company town, Clarkdale retains much of its original character and architecture.
Visitors can stroll through historic streets, explore local museums, and learn about the region's copper mining heritage. The town's proximity to the Verde River also makes it a convenient base for outdoor activities.
Nearby Cottonwood adds another layer to the experience with local restaurants, shops, and entertainment options that complement a day spent outdoors.
Combining outdoor recreation with local history helps create a more balanced and memorable travel experience.
Not every outdoor adventure requires hiking boots or paddles.
The scenic roads surrounding Sedona rank among the most beautiful drives in the Southwest. Visitors can enjoy dramatic views, stop at overlooks, and photograph some of Arizona's most recognisable landscapes.
State Route 89A between Sedona and Cottonwood offers particularly impressive scenery, winding through red rock formations and Verde Valley vistas.
These drives are especially popular during sunrise and sunset, when changing light conditions create stunning colours across the landscape.
For travellers with limited mobility or tight schedules, scenic drives provide an excellent way to experience the region's natural beauty.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting the Sedona area is the variety of outdoor activities available within a relatively small geographic area.
A visitor could begin the morning with a hike among the red rocks, spend the afternoon enjoying Verde River kayaking, and finish the day exploring a historic town or scenic overlook. Few destinations offer such a diverse combination of landscapes and experiences within a short driving distance.
This flexibility makes the region appealing to families, couples, solo travellers, and outdoor enthusiasts with different interests.
When searching for things to do near Sedona, it's easy to focus exclusively on the area's famous hiking trails and red rock viewpoints. While those attractions deserve their popularity, some of the most rewarding experiences lie just beyond the city itself.
Verde River kayaking, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, state parks, scenic drives, and historic communities all provide opportunities to experience a different side of Northern Arizona. Together, they create a richer, more varied adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist itinerary.
For travellers willing to venture a little farther into the Verde Valley, the reward is a deeper appreciation of the landscapes, waterways, wildlife, and communities that make this part of Arizona truly unique.
