Great Summer Tours in Sedona: Unforgettable Adventures in the Red Rocks
Sedona in the summer is a feast for the senses. Vibrant red rocks shimmer under the desert sun, trails beckon for exploration, and the air is alive with energy—from local festivals to the whispers of ancient landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, Sedona’s summer tours offer a perfect mix of adventure, beauty, and unforgettable moments.
From scenic helicopter rides to canyon hikes, art walks to wine tastings, here’s your guide to the best summer tours in Sedona. Make the most of the season and experience the magic of the high desert like never before.
Take to the Skies: Apex Air Helicopter Tours
If you only have time for one tour while visiting Sedona this summer, make it a helicopter ride. Soaring above the red rocks provides an unmatched perspective of Sedona’s natural beauty. Apex Air’s helicopter tours allow you to take in panoramic views of iconic landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Secret Canyon, and the expansive Verde Valley—all without the crowds.
The experience is not only breathtaking but also comfortable and easy to fit into any itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a short scenic flight or a longer, immersive tour with historical narration, there’s a package to suit your pace. And during the summer months, morning and evening flights offer cooler temperatures and glowing light for incredible photos.
Perfect for: Couples, families, photographers, and anyone who wants to see it all.
Jeep Tours: Off-Road Adventure Through the Desert
Back on the ground, Jeep tours remain one of Sedona’s most popular activities—and for good reason. These rugged vehicles can access remote trails and rock formations you might miss on your own, while knowledgeable guides share fascinating details about the area’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history.
Summer Jeep tours are especially exciting in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler and the light is golden. Some tours take you to ancient ruins and petroglyphs, while others lead you to panoramic overlooks where you can take in the sunset with your feet on red rock.
Popular options:
- Broken Arrow Trail
- Diamondback Gulch
- Schnebly Hill Vista
Wine Tours in the Verde Valley
Looking for a more laid-back way to spend a summer afternoon? Consider booking a wine tasting tour through the Verde Valley, just a short drive from Sedona. This region is home to a growing number of award-winning wineries, and summer is a beautiful time to tour the vineyards.
Many companies offer guided wine tours that include transportation, tastings, and snacks—so you can sit back, relax, and sample bold reds and crisp whites while soaking in the scenery. Some tours include stops in the charming towns of Cottonwood or Jerome, both filled with character and unique shops.
Pro Tip: Try a wine and helicopter combo tour. Start with a flightseeing experience over the Verde Valley, then enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard. It’s the best of both worlds.
Hiking Tours for All Levels
Sedona is a hiking paradise, and guided hiking tours are a great way to explore the terrain while learning more about the local ecosystem and culture. Summer brings early sunrises, so tours often start in the morning to beat the heat. Sunset hikes are also popular and offer stunning views of the rocks lit up in deep oranges and pinks.
Guides tailor the hike to your ability and interests—whether you’re looking for a spiritual vortex experience, a geology lesson, or just a quiet trail with scenic views.
Top summer trails:
- West Fork Trail (shaded and near water)
- Boynton Canyon Trail
- Fay Canyon Trail
Be sure to bring water, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes. Guided hikes often include extra insights and safety measures that can turn a good hike into a memorable one.
Stargazing Tours
Sedona is a designated International Dark Sky Community, making it one of the best places in the U.S. to enjoy stargazing. Summer skies are clear and full of celestial wonders, from constellations and planets to the Milky Way stretching across the desert sky.
Local astronomy guides offer nightly stargazing tours with high-powered telescopes and laser pointers to help you spot the stars. Some tours are held at scenic pullouts, while others offer private desert experiences away from any light pollution.
What you’ll see: Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, distant galaxies, shooting stars, and much more.
Art and Culture Walking Tours
Sedona is more than just red rocks. Its downtown area is filled with galleries, studios, and sculptures that reflect the region’s creative energy. Take a guided art walk or cultural tour through places like the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village, Uptown Sedona, or the Sedona Heritage Museum to dive into the town’s artistic roots.
These tours are ideal in the mornings or evenings when the sidewalks are cooler and the lighting is perfect for browsing or taking photos. Along the way, you’ll meet local artists, explore regional traditions, and maybe even take home a one-of-a-kind piece of the Southwest.
Water Adventures on the Verde River
Yes, Sedona has water—and it’s one of the most refreshing ways to cool off in the summer. Verde River tours offer everything from gentle kayaking and paddleboarding to tubing and wading in cool creeks.
While not in the heart of Sedona, the Verde River is just a short drive away and makes a great half-day tour option. Guided kayaking tours often include wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and a unique view of the surrounding cliffs and canyons.
Tip: Pair a river tour with a winery stop nearby for a full day of adventure and relaxation.
Combine Tours for the Ultimate Sedona Summer
To make the most of your time in Sedona, consider combining multiple tours into one unforgettable day. A popular itinerary might look like this:
- Morning: Helicopter tour with Apex Air over Sedona’s landmarks
- Midday: Wine tasting and lunch in the Verde Valley
- Afternoon: Guided hike through shaded canyons or historic ruins
- Evening: Stargazing or a sunset Jeep tour for a dramatic finish
By planning your adventures around the coolest parts of the day, you can stay comfortable while still experiencing everything Sedona has to offer.
Book Your Summer Tour with Apex Air
No matter how you choose to explore Sedona, there’s no better way to begin or end your experience than with a scenic flight. Apex Air’s helicopter tours are the perfect way to take it all in, offering breathtaking views, expert pilots, and unforgettable moments.
Summer slots fill quickly, especially for sunrise and sunset flights, so be sure to book in advance. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, seeing Sedona from the sky is a memory you’ll carry with you forever.