There are many things to see and do on a visit to Sedona, Arizona; however, just as some believe that it is best to visit Paris in spring, there are considerable advantages and disadvantages for visiting Sedona at different times of the years too. Sedona is located in the northern part of the state of Arizona and consequently weather can play a significant role in the choice of time to visit. However, Sedona is not only a destination for outdoor activities, it is host to many art festivals and events throughout the year.
Sedona in the Spring
Spring in Sedona is usually short. Although spring temperatures can start as early as late February or early March, consistent spring temperatures are not necessarily guaranteed. Technically, spring runs from March to May in Sedona, with average temperatures in the 60's to 70's (degrees Fahrenheit) but be aware that icy, winter blasts may still hit Sedona in April and even May.
If the weather is truly spring-like, spring in Sedona is the ideal time to mountain bike, hike, ride the many trails or discover spring flowers around Sedona. Jeep tours, hot air ballooning and off-roading are also other popular outdoor activities. Other events held in the spring in Sedona include the Sedona Psychic Fair, Native American arts and crafts fairs and several retreats.
Sedona in the Summer
When summer arrives in Sedona, the temperature soars. Temperatures can range between the 80's and 90's (degrees Fahrenheit) during the months of June through September, but can sometimes peak over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer is also monsoon season (approximately July/August) so daily, heavy rains, combined with humidity, may prevent outdoor activities.
However, there are still several festivals and events throughout the summer months including local arts and crafts fairs. It is also a good time to visit Slide Rock State Park or camp in the slightly cooler climate of Oak Creek Canyon, just a few minutes drive outside of Sedona. However, be aware that summer months also attract summer crowds.
Sedona in the Fall
Fall is probably the best season in Sedona, when the scorching summer temperatures drop and cooler mornings (and nights) prevail. Fall in Sedona runs from late September through November with temperatures ranging between the 60's and the 70's (degrees Fahrenheit), although summer may stay late and winter may start early.
Fall is a good time for outdoor activities or to view the changing color of the leaves in Oak Creek Canyon. Fall is also the time that several major events and festivals are held in Sedona, including Sedona Jazz on the Rocks and the Sedona Plein Air (Arts) Festival.
Sedona in the Winter
Winter in Sedona (December through February) can be mild or cold, depending on the year. Situated at 4,500 feet, Sedona usually escapes the worst of the heavy snow falls that hit Flagstaff to the north. However, winter storms can be sometimes bad, so snow covered red rock views are usually best enjoyed from a hotel room and a blazing fireplace. Temperatures may be as high as the 60's (degrees Fahrenheit) but are more likely to range in the 50's and 40's to sometimes below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit).
Winter crowds in Sedona are few, although many outdoor activities, such as jeep tours and hiking, are curtailed because roads and trails are closed by snow and bad weather. However, art galleries and stores are still open and both Christmas events and the Sedona marathon (in February) attract winter visitors.
When to Visit Sedona, Arizona
Although many people think of Sedona as a summer vacation retreat, both fall and spring are probably the best seasons to visit Sedona in terms of weather and events. However, winter, especially Christmas, has its attractions too and lucky visitors may have spring-like weather in January. Be prepared, plan accordingly and enjoy Sedona, whatever season you visit!
References:
- Sedona Net web site, accessed 10 September, 2010
Sharon Falsetto - Sharon Falsetto is a business owner, certified clinical aromatherapist & professional writer with a life-long interest in plants.
