A realistic day trip from The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa: Sedona
Yes — Sedona is a realistic full-day outing from The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa. Expect about a 2‑hour drive each way (roughly 113–126 miles depending on route); leave early, focus on a few red‑rock viewpoints or a short hike, have lunch in town, and return to the resort in the evening for pools or dinner.
In this guide
Overview: is a Sedona day trip practical?
Sedona is commonly recommended as a full-day trip from the Scottsdale/Kierland area. Published routing and travel guides list the drive at roughly 113–126 miles and about two hours each way, making it a long but doable day if you plan a focused itinerary.
Because travel time is significant, a realistic day trip limits activities to one or two short hikes or key viewpoints, a downtown stroll and a sit-down lunch. If you want several hikes, scenic drives, or visits to galleries, consider an overnight stay instead.
- Drive time: roughly 2 hours each way (range reported as ~113–126 miles)
- Best for: scenic drives, short hikes, viewpoint stops, lunch in Sedona
- Not ideal if you need multiple long hikes or a relaxed multi-stop itinerary
| When to start | Why |
|---|---|
| 6:30–7:30 AM | Avoid heavier traffic leaving Phoenix/Scottsdale and maximize daylight in Sedona |
| 10:00–11:00 AM | Arrive with time for a short hike or viewpoints before lunch |
| 3:00–4:00 PM | Head back to avoid late-evening fatigue and arrive at the resort by dinner |
Getting there: route and driving tips
The most direct driving options take you north from Scottsdale into the high country toward Sedona. Published trip planners and tourism guides list the Scottsdale–Sedona drive at about two hours, varying by exact start point, route and traffic conditions.
Renting a car or using a rideshare/car service is the most efficient way to make this trip from The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa. The resort is adjacent to major arterial roads that connect to the state highways northbound; public rail service does not reach Scottsdale, so a car is the usual choice.
- Drive time listed as roughly 2 hours each way
- Routes can vary — check current traffic before you leave
- Rent a car or use rideshare/car service for the most flexible schedule
| Transport | Notes |
|---|---|
| Rental car | Most efficient and commonly recommended for day trips |
| Rideshare/taxi | Possible but can be costly for a long round trip |
| Guided tour | Option if you prefer no driving; availability varies |
Morning in Sedona: viewpoints and easy hikes
For a single-day visit pick one or two highlights rather than trying to see everything. Popular short options that fit a day trip include brief walks at Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock viewpoints and a scenic stop at Airport Mesa for panoramic views.
Trail choices should match your group's energy and time. Cathedral Rock has steep sections and is better for a short but active climb; Bell Rock offers easier, flatter walking. Allow 60–90 minutes for a short hike plus time for parking and photos.
- Bell Rock — accessible viewpoint and easy walks
- Cathedral Rock — shorter but steeper scramble/short hike
- Airport Mesa — quick stop for panoramic photos
| Stop | Suggested time |
|---|---|
| Bell Rock | 30–60 minutes |
| Cathedral Rock (view or short climb) | 45–90 minutes |
| Airport Mesa | 20–30 minutes |
Lunch and downtown Sedona
Sedona’s downtown (U.S. 89A/Forest Road areas) has multiple casual and sit‑down restaurants, cafés and galleries. Plan for a midday meal after your morning viewpoint or hike; table service is common and timing will depend on season and day of week.
If you prefer to skip downtown, bring a picnic and eat at a scenic turnout or one of the municipal viewpoint areas. Note that specific restaurant names, hours and availability can change — check current listings before you go.
- Sit-down restaurants and cafés in Uptown Sedona and along 89A
- Picnic option: bring water and snacks if you want more flexibility
- Allow 45–75 minutes for lunch depending on seating and season
| Option | Pros |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Local food, sit-down comfort |
| Café | Faster service, grab-and-go choices |
| Picnic | Flexible schedule, scenic spots |
Practical tips for a smooth day
Parking at popular trailheads and viewpoints can fill early; arrive early or be prepared to park at a nearby lot and walk to the trailhead. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty at some overlooks — download maps or directions beforehand if you rely on them.
Sedona sits at higher elevation than Scottsdale; temperatures will often be cooler, especially in shoulder seasons and mornings. Bring water, sun protection, comfortable footwear for uneven terrain, and layers for changing conditions.
- Arrive early for parking at popular trailheads
- Bring water and sun protection; wear sturdy shoes for short hikes
- Check weather and pack a light layer — Sedona can be cooler than Scottsdale
| Pack | Why |
|---|---|
| Water bottle | Hydration on hikes |
| Sun hat & sunscreen | High desert sun exposure |
| Comfortable shoes | Trails are rocky and uneven |
Return afternoon and evening options at the resort
After a long day in Sedona you can return to The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa for pool time, spa treatments, or dinner at one of the on-site venues. The resort lists multiple dining options including Faro & Brag, Indigo Poolside Bar & Grill, Brittlebush Bar & Grill, Ritual Market & Coffee, Luma Lounge & Bar and Antidote.
If you want a quiet evening, consider a spa appointment at Agave, The Arizona Spa (the spa lists daily hours on resort pages) or time at the adults-only Aguamiel Pool. Room types at the resort range from Traditional Room to Suite, 1 Bedroom, Luxury Suite, 1 Bedroom and Presidential Suite, offering different sizes and views to suit your group.
- Dining on-site: Faro & Brag (breakfast/lunch/dinner schedules listed on resort pages)
- Spa: Agave, The Arizona Spa — check opening hours and book ahead
- Pools: Adventure Water Park for families; Aguamiel adults-only pool for guests 18+
| On-site option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Adventure Water Park | Families and active swimmers |
| Aguamiel Pool | Adults 18+ seeking lap lanes and cabanas |
| Agave Spa | Massage and recovery after a long day |
Sample timeline for a realistic day trip
This sample plan assumes a roughly 2‑hour drive each way and focuses on one hike or two viewpoints plus lunch in Sedona. Adjust times to match your group’s pace and local traffic.
Keep in mind resort check-in/check-out times if you’re arriving/leaving on the same day: standard check-in is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM at The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa.
- Start early from the resort to reduce time spent in traffic
- Allow buffer time for parking, viewpoint crowds and breaks
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6:30–7:30 AM | Depart The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa | Aim for an early start to avoid heavier traffic |
| 9:30–10:00 AM | Arrive in Sedona; stop at Airport Mesa or Bell Rock | Short walk and photos |
| 11:30–12:30 PM | Short hike (Cathedral Rock view or Bell Rock) | 60–90 minutes depending on chosen trail |
| 1:00–2:00 PM | Lunch in Uptown Sedona | Allow time for seating |
| 3:00–5:00 PM | Optional gallery stop or scenic drive (Oak Creek Canyon) | Head back mid/late afternoon |
| 6:00–7:00 PM | Back at resort — dinner or spa | Evening options on-site |
