Private Sedona Hiking Tour from Phoenix Scottsdale

Exploring the Private Sedona Hiking Tour from Phoenix: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of a day among Sedona’s iconic red rocks but want a personalized experience from Phoenix or Scottsdale, this private tour could catch your eye. We haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, but based on available details and reviews, we can paint a clear picture of what it offers—and what to keep in mind.

What stands out? First, the chance for a tailored hike that matches your ability level. Second, the inclusion of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide makes the day more comfortable and insightful. However, a potential downside is the high price point of $720 per person, which is quite steep for a single day trip—especially considering the mixed review about the vehicle quality.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who value customized experiences and are willing to pay a premium for convenience and personal attention. If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic day with a flexible itinerary and don’t mind the cost, it might be worth considering.

Key Points

• Personalized hikes tailored to your ability level make this a flexible experience.
• Private transportation ensures more comfort and flexibility, though vehicle quality could be improved.
• The scenic red rock views are a highlight and perfect for photography and relaxing in nature.
• Additional stops like the Chapel of the Holy Cross or Uptown Sedona can be added if time permits.
• The tour includes water, hiking poles, and backpacks, so you don’t need to pack much.
• Cost is high relative to the length and scope of the trip, so weigh whether the personal service justifies the price.

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

Pickup and Transportation

Your day starts early, with a 7:00 am pickup from the Hampton Inn & Suites in Phoenix North/Happy Valley. The main perk here is that the transportation is private, so you won’t be crammed into a large bus with strangers. Instead, you’ll travel comfortably in a dedicated vehicle, and the guide will handle the driving, giving you one less thing to think about.

That said, a reviewer pointed out that the van was quite rough and bumpy, and the driver was sick and coughing. While this isn’t typical of all tours, it’s a reminder that vehicle comfort can vary, and upgrading to a better van might be a good idea if offered.

The Scenic Hike

The core of the tour is the guided hike among Sedona’s famous red rocks. Your guide will select a trail based on your ability, which is great for ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience without feeling pushed too hard or bored. Expect a trail that highlights Sedona’s stunning natural beauty—think sweeping vistas, dramatic formations, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Since the hike is private and personalized, your guide can focus solely on your group’s interests, whether that’s taking photos, learning about local geology, or just soaking in the views. The tour provides hiking poles, a backpack, and bottled water, making it more comfortable—especially if you’re hiking in warm weather.

Additional Sedona Stops

Depending on your hiking pace and interests, your guide might include stops at popular points like the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Airport Mesa, or Uptown Sedona for shopping or sightseeing. This flexibility is a plus if you want more than just hiking, as it can turn the day into a broader exploration.

Duration and Flexibility

The walk itself lasts around 7 hours, which is a good length for an immersive experience without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you time to relax or explore more on your own afterward.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour offers private transportation, bottled water, hiking poles, and a knowledgeable guide, which adds value to the price. Since meals are not included, you’ll want to bring or buy lunch, especially if you plan a longer hike or want to enjoy a picnic amidst the red rocks.

On the flip side, breakfast and dinner are on you, so plan accordingly. The tour is also costly at $720 per person, but that includes the convenience of private travel and a customized hike.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited to travelers who:

• Want a personalized and flexible day in Sedona.
• Prioritize comfort and convenience over budget.
• Are comfortable with a full-day adventure and walking.
• Value the insights of an experienced guide who can adapt the itinerary.
• Are okay with the potential vehicle discomfort, especially if they want the privacy and exclusivity.

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer large group tours, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a tailored experience with scenic views and a private guide, it could be a worthwhile splurge.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those who want a bespoke, scenic, and relaxed day in Sedona, this tour offers plenty of appeal. The chance to choose a hike suited to your ability and explore red rock formations with a private guide makes it stand out from more generic trips. The inclusion of high-quality gear and private transport adds to the sense of a personalized adventure.

However, the high price point means it’s best for travelers who see value in that exclusivity and service. The mixed review about transportation comfort is something to consider—if you’re sensitive to rough rides, you might want to ask about vehicle upgrades.

This tour suits adventurers with a moderate budget who prioritize customization and are comfortable with a full day on the trail. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic escape with a bit of flexibility, it could be a rewarding way to experience Sedona.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, since the hike is tailored based on your abilities, it’s adaptable whether you’re a casual walker or more experienced.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers private transportation, bottled water, hiking poles, and a guide. You’ll need to bring your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Can I visit other Sedona attractions during this tour?
Yes, depending on your hiking pace and interests, stops like the Chapel of the Holy Cross or Uptown for shopping can be included.

What about transportation comfort?
The tour provides private transport, but at least one reviewer mentioned the van was quite rough and bumpy. Upgrading the vehicle might be worth asking about.

How long is the hike?
The hike lasts about 7 hours, giving ample time to explore and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the customizable nature makes it suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking.

How early do I need to wake up?
The tour starts at 7:00 am, so expect an early start, but it allows for a full and relaxed day in Sedona.

If you’re after a low-key, customizable day among Sedona’s stunning red rocks and don’t mind the cost, this private tour could be just the ticket. Just weigh the price against what’s included and consider the vehicle comfort if that’s a concern.