10 Things to Do in Sedona in April

Sedona is known for its natural and rocky beauty. This Arizona destination shines especially bright in April thanks to its spring-like weather, which creates an ideal setting for enjoying natural and cultural wonders.

Ana Vilar

Ana Vilar

8 min read

10 Things to Do in Sedona in April

Red Rock Balloon Adventures |©Peter Roos

Located in the Arizona desert in the southwestern United States, Sedona is a colourful and energetic region. In the month of April, the days get warmer and the clear skies reveal its incredible scenery, so some of the best things to do in Sedona are concentrated around this time.

Sedona is famous for its impressive rock formations and energetic vortexes and can be a unique experience during this season. Whether you're looking to get outdoors, connect with nature or explore the local art scene, there are plenty of things to see and do in Sedona in April.

1. Access Red Rock's more inaccessible corners by quad bike or jeep

jeep in Sedona|©Bill Court
jeep in Sedona|©Bill Court

As well as being able to explore Sedona's rocky corridors on a hiking trail, you can also venture out on a thrilling quad bike tour through the red rocks in the Arizona desert. This activity allows you to access places that would otherwise be completely inaccessible. Local guides will take you over rugged terrain, past streams and through breathtaking scenery.

This is an ideal activity at any time of the day or year, but doing it in April and at sunset will make it even more enjoyable thanks to the ideal temperatures and colour palette. You'll be able to see Sedona' s geological formations and spectacular colours at golden hour, which change as the sun sets.

Be ready to capture the moment and save the best views for your camera roll and your retina.

Book an ATV tour in Sedona

2. Tour the town by bus and visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

Bus with visitors in Sedona|©Mircea Goia
Bus with visitors in Sedona|©Mircea Goia

April is the perfect month to tour the town by open top bus. With this tour, you can explore all of Sedona's sites in the open air, enjoying the mild weather and accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.

This half-day open top bus tour will take you to one of Sedona's most important sites: the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

This hillside chapel is a Sedona landmark. It offers breathtaking views of the landscape and is a place of reflection and peace. April provides a serene setting for a visit to this unusual and spiritual place.

Book a Sedona Bus Tour

3. Experience Red Rock from above with a hot air balloon ride

Red rock flying|©GPA Photo Archive
Red rock flying|©GPA Photo Archive

Can you imagine enjoying Red Rock from a totally unique perspective? In addition to hiking, biking, rock climbing, jeep and ATV tours of Sedona's main attraction, you can also see it from above.

Booking a hot air balloon ride in Red Rock in April will give you a panoramic view of the incredible scenery, canyons and rocks. This can be a quiet and unique way to see Sedona's scenery, without the crowds and high temperatures, as these rides usually take place at sunrise.

It can also be a good idea if you're making a short visit. If you're thinking about what to do in Sedona in 2 days, this tour will take you around Sedona's main attraction in the most original way.

4. Explore the scenery of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

Antelope Canyon|©Troy Parke
Antelope Canyon|©Troy Parke

Sedona is located on the Colorado Plateau and is famous for its unique rock formations including Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, with natural architecture and a unique colour palette that changes with the light of day.

April is the perfect time to explore the many trails that wind through these Red Rocks in the mild climate. One of the most iconic is the Cathedral Rock Trail, which offers panoramic views of the mountains and canyon.

There are many ways to hike these trails. Whether you're into hiking, biking or climbing, you can explore the sandstone spires of the Arizonan desert any way you like, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Also, you don't have to worry if you are not an expert in any of these sports, because you will find tours for all levels of experience and you won't have to worry about how to get to Antelope Canyon from Sedona.

Also, you should know that the Grand Canyon in Arizona is only a couple of hours drive away, so you can also plan tours to the Grand Canyon from Sedona.

5. Kayak the Verde River

Verde River paddle|©wortenoggle
Verde River paddle|©wortenoggle

Take advantage of the cool April weather to kayak or raft down the Verde River, one of the must-do activities if you're looking for things to do in Sedona in 3 days.

With this tour you can take in the canyons and enjoy the beautiful surroundings from a different and refreshing point of view.

This adventure starts in Cottonwood, where you'll be prepared with all the best kayaking gear, and will take you along the Verde River in the most refreshing and fun way possible. Your guide will prepare you for a totally safe experience and you'll also have the option of renting accessories to save your belongings from the water, as well as being able to use the changing rooms and lockers before embarking on your trip.

And the best part? This activity is ideal for families and children. The rapids are class I (very easy) and II (easy), so running the Verde River rapids in April is a fun, exciting experience suitable for everyone.

6. Get charged up on the vortexes

Sedona Vortex|©Annemarie Golz
Sedona Vortex|©Annemarie Golz

Sedona is known for its energy vortexes, places where natural forces are believed to be exceptionally concentrated. Many visitors say these places are inspiring and revitalizing, as well as a source of learning about their historical and cultural significance in Sedona lore.

The tour will take you to several sites known for their vortexes, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Boynton Canyon. Accompanied by local guides who are knowledgeable about the geology and history of the region, you 'll explore these sites in a relaxed and nurturing environment. With every step, you' ll connect with the earth and the energy that emanates from these unique rock formations.

7. Soak up art and culture at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Tlaquepaque Chapel|©John Linton
Tlaquepaque Chapel|©John Linton

Sedona is a destination with a rich and vibrant arts scene not to be missed. Complement your wilderness experiences with the destination's art galleries, where you'll see not only local but also international works.

In April in Sedona you can visit the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, an area where you can relax and enjoy the art galleries and shops.

8. Marvel at the stars

Starry night|©Andrew Langdal
Starry night|©Andrew Langdal

Sedona is one of the best places to stargaze due to its low light pollution and altitude. In April, the nights are usually clear, so you can enjoy some of the best things to do at night in Sedona, including admiring the starry sky in all its glory.

This activity at Cultural Park Place will allow you to enjoy the starry sky like never before. Accompanied only by state-of-the-art night vision goggles, you'll be able to observe the sky dome in all its fullness: you'll learn to distinguish the stars and their constellations and even see unexplained natural phenomena, such as beams of light that change in size. It's the perfect way to reconnect with nature and discover the secrets of the sky like never before.

Book a stargazing tour

9. Watch the spring bird migration

Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival|©Beth Escobar
Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival|©Beth Escobar

April is an international celebration of Earth Month. In Sedona, you can enjoy the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival, a festival organised by the Friends of the Verde River. This event coincides with the peak of Verde Valley bird migration and is held in April to celebrate International Earth Day on April 22nd.

At this festival you will have the opportunity to observe the birds during the height of their spring migration. In addition, you can see other animals typical of the arid high desert areas of Arizona. You can also take part in workshops and expand your knowledge of Sedona's birds and habitat.

10. Wine tasting with picnic in Verde Valley

Picnic|©Deval Parikh
Picnic|©Deval Parikh

Because spring is synonymous with picnics, you can't miss this activity in Sedona. On this tour you'll visit Arizona's best vineyards in the Verde Valley, including award-winning wineries of international fame and prestige. Savour the nuances of these wines with this wine tasting and enjoy a picnic lunch with the best food.

This last activity is the perfect end to your trip to Sedona in April, a chance to enjoy the springtime tasting the flavours of Sedona, soaking up the culture and history of Arizona's vineyards. The perfect relaxing afternoon to end your trip!

Visiting Sedona in April: Pros and Cons

View of the Rocky Mountains|©mark crone
View of the Rocky Mountains|©mark crone

April is one of the best months to visit Sedona, mainly because of the mild weather this time of year. Some of the main attractions in this Arizona town are outdoors, so the temperature is something to consider if you plan to visit Sedona. Hiking, biking or rock climbing is perfectly feasible if you visit Sedona during this time.

This spring month is so perfect that the main drawback of visiting Sedona in April is that you won't be the only one. Spring is the time of choice for most visitors to this southwestern US town.

But don't worry: if you plan your trip in advance and choose the early hours of the day for your outdoor tours, you 'll be able to enjoy Sedona at your leisure and without the crowds.

What is the weather like in Sedona in April?

Sedona mountain view|©Victoria
Sedona mountain view|©Victoria

The temperature in Sedona in April varies depending on the specific week and weather conditions at the time. However, Sedona experiences pleasant, mild weather in April, with average daytime temperatures typically ranging from 15°C (60°F) to 24°C (75°F). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to a range of 4°C (40°F) to 10°C (50°F).

What to wear to Sedona in April?

Clothing on the ground|©Arnel Hasanovic
Clothing on the ground|©Arnel Hasanovic

If you plan to visit Sedona in April, you should be aware that the weather is pleasant, but also variable as it is a desert area. We recommend that you bring clothing that will allow you to adjust to the temperature changes between day and night. Here are some suggestions for what to wear to Sedona in April:

  • Lightweight, breathable T-shirts: During the day, temperatures can be warm, so wear short-sleeved T-shirts or lightweight tops. Opt for breathable and comfortable fabrics.
  • Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cooler, so it's helpful to wear layers that you can add or remove depending on the temperature. Bring a light jacket, sweatshirt or jumper to wear over your T-shirt.
  • Shorts and light trousers: Shorts are ideal for warm weather during the day, but it's also good to wear light trousers or long trousers for cool mornings and evenings.
  • Comfortable footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Arizona's desert wilderness, such as sneakers or hiking shoes.
  • Hat or cap: A wide-brimmed hat or cap will protect you from the sun during your outdoor activities.
  • Swimwear: If you plan to enjoy water activities such as kayaking, take your swimwear with you.
  • Evening wear: For cooler evenings, bring a warmer jacket or even a scarf.