Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each season in Sedona, and which one is the best for you to visit this spiritual, desert oasis!
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s stunning red rock country, Sedona is a destination that captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual vortexes. But to truly make the most of your Sedona experience, timing your visit is key. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to explore this enchanting desert town.
At the end I’ll discuss what time of year I think is the best time to visit Sedona, but first we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of each season.
Sedona in Spring: The Season of Bloom
March to May is arguably the best time to visit Sedona. As winter recedes, the desert comes alive with blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the numerous trails that weave through Sedona’s iconic red rock formations. Check out my post on where to see the most wildflowers in Sedona!
Pros:
Comfortable temperatures
Wildflowers in bloom
Clear skies, perfect for stargazing
Cons:
Higher accommodation prices
Larger crowds
Sedona in Summer: Embrace the Heat
Cathedral Rock
June to August is the hottest period in Sedona, with temperatures often soaring above 90°F (32°C). Despite the heat, summer can still be a good time to visit if you plan your activities wisely. Early mornings and late evenings are cooler, ideal for hiking and outdoor pursuits. Plus, this season offers a unique chance to experience the dramatic monsoon storms that roll in, creating spectacular lightning shows against the red rocks. Oak creek also flows through Sedona and can be a wonderful way to cool down in the afternoon heat. If you go at this time of year, make sure to go on the West Fork hike, for which you can hike in the creek almost the entire way up!
Pros:
Fewer tourists
Lower hotel rates
Exciting monsoon season
Cons:
High daytime temperatures
Limited midday outdoor activities (due to excessive heat, prepare to find a way to stay cool, like a dip in the creek, or find some indoor experiences)
Sedona in Fall: A Golden Retreat
Credit: Sedona Monthly
September to November brings a second wave of ideal weather to Sedona. Temperatures drop to a more comfortable range, between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The fall foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape, with the changing leaves creating a stunning contrast against the red rocks. This season also offers various festivals and events, providing a rich cultural experience. This is the second best season to visit Sedona, after spring. It doesn’t boast the beautiful wildflowers like Spring does, but that also means it comes with slightly less crowds!
Pros:
Mild temperatures
Beautiful fall foliage – The best place to view this will be a drive along Oak Creek Canyon!
Numerous cultural events
Apple Orchards are bursting with fruit and The Verde Valley Wine Region is in its bountiful season (making for great tastings and great views)!
Cons:
Popular with tourists, especially in October
Higher accommodation costs
Sedona in Winter: A Serene Escape
Credit: Sedona Monthly
December to February is the quietest time in Sedona, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. While the temperatures are cooler, ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C), the winter months offer a peaceful ambiance and the possibility of snow-dusted red rocks, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy Sedona’s luxury spas and cozy up in charming lodges.
If you think you can’t go hiking in winter in Sedona, think again. With the right gear and some extra layers, you can enjoy just as much hiking in the winter as you can in the summer. Some particularly good hikes to go on in winter include: TeaCup trail, Little Horse trail, Yavapai trail, Margs Draw trail.
Pros:
Fewer tourists
Lower prices on accommodations
Unique winter landscapes
Cons:
Cooler temperatures, less ideal for outdoor activities
Shorter daylight hours
My Pick:
Overall, my pick for the best time to visit Sedona is Spring, particularly late April through May. While the pleasant weather does attract more tourists, planning ahead by booking accommodations in advance and hitting the trails early in the morning can help you avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the natural beauty of Sedona during this magical season. Check out some of my other posts for planning an epic trip to Sedona! If you’re only going to be in Sedona for a day or two, this is the itinerary for you! And if you’ve taken my advice and have decided to head out there in Spring, here’s a guide to the best spots to see wildflowers!
Conclusion
Each season in Sedona has its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant bloom of spring, the tranquility of winter, the dynamic energy of summer storms, or the golden hues of fall, there’s no bad time to visit this magical desert town. Consider your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels when planning your trip to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience in Sedona, Arizona.
Let’s talk about the best time to visit Sedona in Spring for wildflowers, and which trails to hike to see the most!
Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its striking red rock formations and mystical energy, is also a hidden gem for wildflower enthusiasts. As spring unfolds, this desert landscape bursts into a vibrant tapestry of colors, completely transforming the rugged terrain. Amidst the arid surroundings, wildflowers offer a stunning contrast to the earthy tones of the rocks and soil. From delicate pinks and purples to bold reds and yellows, these resilient blooms add a touch of ephemeral beauty to the enduring desert.
The sight of these colorful blossoms against the backdrop of Sedona’s iconic scenery creates a visual symphony that enchants visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, Sedona’s wildflower season is a must-see!
Certain times of spring will be better for wildflower viewings, which I’ll go over in this post. But there are also certain trails that will boast far more blooms than others (and they’re not all the trails you’d expect) so let’s dive into the best hikes in Sedona* to see the most wildflowers!
*in no particular order*
Little Horse Trail
Length: Approx. 3.5 miles roundtrip
Little Horse trail is a relatively easy hike, mostly flat, with a few stretches of more challenging terrain. There are flowers all along the trail. I found most of them to be more towards the beginning and ends of the trail. In between you can find an incredible and somewhat secret view of the Chapel of the Holy Cross!
I took this trail as a less crowded route to get to Chicken Point. This lookout has some amazing views of Sedona and the sprawling red rocks. If you’re feeling brave, you can hike up the steep slab of rock to get to the white line bike “trail”. It’s more of a daredevil experience than an actual trail. But walking along it was thrilling and the view (and distance it gave me from the pink jeep tours down below) was well worth it!
Afterwards, head to the nearby Crescent Moon Picnic site to eat lunch and soak in the beautiful scenery. This site boasts a refreshing creek lined with trees, and one of the best views of Cathedral Rock in Sedona!
Mescal Trail
Length: Approx. 5.9 miles out and back
Mescal trail is located in NW Sedona, on Long Canyon Road off of Dry Creek Rd. It’s considered a moderately challenging route, but I found it to be more on the beginners side. It was pretty flat for most of the trail, though some of the terrain can be a bit rocky!
Aside from a couple bikers and a small group of friends, I was the only one out on this trail. I did start around 8am, but some Sedona hikes would’ve already been incredibly crowded even that early in the morning! Why it’s not as popular eludes me, as I found the trail to be quite beautiful, and thanks to all the wildflowers, one of my top favorites in Sedona!
This was one of those hikes where I found myself stopping every five seconds to take photos of wildflowers. I swear every five feet there was a new and beautiful flower that was just calling out to me for a photoshoot!
Margs Draw Trail
Length: Approx. 4 miles (only roughly 100 ft of elevation gain) and can be extended by taking Huckaby trail.
This hike is another one of the lesser known gems in Sedona. It doesn’t get nearly as much traffic as other nearby routes despite its impressive, panoramic view of many of Sedona’s most recognizable mountains and rock formations and close proximity to the town. It’s a very easy hike and great for the whole family.
There are a couple trailheads from which to start this hike, including Margs Draw TH, Broken Arrow TH, Sombart Lane Trailhead, or from Schnebly Hill. However, you’ll probably encounter the most parking availability at Margs Draw TH or Schnebly Hill.
This hike had a wonderful array of flowers lining the trail, you’ll see the most about .5 miles in (from the Margs Draw TH). As you come to a fork in the road, turn right (towards Broken Arrow TH) to see the most flowers!
When to Visit Sedona For Wildflowers
When it comes to the desert, the window of time to see wildflowers in their full glory is pretty narrow. Luckily, wildflower season also falls on the best time of the year to visit Sedona weather-wise.
The peak season for wildflower viewing in this desert oasis typically spans from late April through May. During this period, the weather is just right—not too hot and not too cold—providing ideal conditions for both the flowers and the visitors eager to see them.
The earlier spring rains and the warming sun create a perfect environment for a diverse range of wildflowers to flourish. Planning your visit during these months ensures that you’ll witness Sedona at its most picturesque. Wildflowers paint the desert in hues of purple, yellow, red, and orange, a haven for nature lovers!
Some of the flowers you can expect to see include:
Claret cup cactus
Indian paintbrush
Prickly pear
Beavertail
Mexican Poppies
Black-footed daisies
Fleabane
Evening primrose
Purple owl’s clover
and cream cups!
If you’re heading to Sedona in the springtime, make sure to check out these hikes to see some wildflowers! Looking for some other tips on what to do in Sedona? Check out my recent post on how to spend one day in Sedona for some ideas!
This post will give you a full one-day itinerary plus other bonus ideas for how to spend one epic day in Sedona, Arizona, for hikers and non-hikers!
Sedona is one of those enchanting destinations that, if it’s not already, definitely needs to be added to your US bucket list! With its breathtaking red rock scenery, rich culture, alluring spirituality, and an endless supply of outdoor activities, it’s a no-brainer for the perfect mini-getaway or road trip destination!
However, if you find yourself with only one day in Sedona, you can still make the trip an epic one!
Of course, ‘one day’ can mean different things, from ‘just passing through’ to spending the night and having sunrise to sunset to spend in Sedona. This post will cover what you can do for either of those options!
In this post, I provide you with a full one-day itinerary, so if you don’t have time to plan, feel free to follow that guide as is! I also provide a broader list of some other options that you can spend your time doing, including some non-hiking options if that’s not your cup of tea!
Sedona Suggested Itinerary
Sunrise at Bell Rock via Cathedral Rock TH
If you’re able to spend sunrise in Sedona then you’ll be in for a real treat! The rising sun will make the red rocks glow a bright hue as you watch the whole town wake up.
My recommendation is to watch the Sunrise from Bell Rock, starting at Courthouse Butte. It’s the easiest path to navigate in the dark, especially if you’ve never been there before, and offers wonderful views of the surrounding famous buttes and vistas. You can walk up to the base ( 5-10 minute walk) or scramble your way to the top of Bell Rock for a stunning view (about 20 minutes from TH). Alternatively, you can also sit at the picnic table in the Courthouse Butte parking lot if hiking isn’t your thing!
Bell Rock
Hike Templeton Trail
I thought long and hard about what the perfect hike in Sedona would be if you could only squeeze in one, and I landed on Templeton trail! This hike has a little bit of everything… you’ll get views of all the main red rocks in Sedona plus a visit to one of the biggest vortex sites without having to worry about crowded trails or filled-up parking lots!
The full length of the trail is 7.5 miles (out & back), is considered a moderately route, and generally takes an average of 3 hours. However, there are multiple ways to do this trail and tailor it to your preferences. The official start is at the Bell Rock Pathway towards the northern side of Bell Rock. It then passes through a tunnel under Route 179 to meet up with the H.T. trail before heading northwest toward Cathedral Rock. The trail officially ends at the Baldwin trail intersection. From here you can either continue on this trail or turn back around.
For a better chance at a parking spot and to make your hike a little shorter, do this instead: Park at the Yavapai Vista trailhead. Start your hike on the Yavapai trail, and connect with the Slim Shady trail heading northwest (take a right when you get to the fork), which then connects you to the Templeton trail. From here hike the remaining 1.5-ish miles to Cathedral Rock.
You can stop at Cathredal Rock for a snack and continue on the Templeton trail, or you can scramble up the first portion of Cathredal Rock to get a good view of Sedona and then head back around the way you came. This is a great way to see Cathedral Rock without having to deal with the crowds, parking, and shuttles.
Alt. Hike Option: Brins Mesa
If you’re looking for something a little longer or were hoping to see some of the classic Sedona sites like Seven Sacred Pools or Soldiers Cave, then I would instead recommend hiking the Brins Mesa trail! This was another favorite of mine, probably in my top 3 hikes in Sedona. It’s got beautiful views the entire length of the trip. You’ll see the Seven Sacred Pools & can go on a detour to see Soldiers Cave before heading back on the Brins Mesa Loop.
The article linked above was what convinced me to do this hike, and I can’t re-iterate what they said any better than they did, so go read the post for all the tips and tricks for doing the Brins Mesa loop!
This trail is a bit more difficult than Templeton Trail, with some steep grades and very little shade. But the views are well worth the trip!
A red rocks pass is required to park at both trailheads mentioned and can be purchased at the trailheads.
What to bring on your hike:
Bring plenty of sun protection for your hike, as these trails don’t have a lot of shade. A good sun hat and some sunscreen are a must! As always, pack plenty of water and some snacks! For a detailed guide on what to pack for a day hike, check out this post!
Cathedral Rock
Head to Local Juicery
Head to Local Juicery for a wide array of wonderful smoothies, juices, and healthy (but delicious) breakfasts & snacks. They’ve got GF chocolate waffles, GF avocado toast, paleo banana muffins & so much more. Local Juicery provides options that are vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, grain-free & more. Local Juicery’s mantra is all about providing wellness for the mind, body, and soul!
I seriously stopped by this place more times than I can count, it was my favorite place to go after a long, hot hike or for some morning fuel to get me through my day!
Explore Tlaquepaque
Explore the traditional Mexican village of Tlaquepaque, Sedona’s arts & crafts village located on the bank of the Oak River, nestled under the Sycamore trees. It’s an absolute must when visiting Sedona! It’s got lots of cute shops, bookstores, art shops, drinks & restaurants. While the village has only been around since the 1970s, its vine-covered stucco walls, cobblestone paths, ornate & colorful decorations, and statues that line the walkways will make you feel like you’re taking a trip back through history!
It can get a bit pricier here but it’s worth the visit to just walk around & explore! Keep in mind the village doesn’t open till 10 am, which makes it the perfect post-hike stop.
Side entrance to Tlaquepaque
Dinner
The Hudson – This eatery is right near Tlaquepaque and boasts beautiful views of the red rocks all around you! Consider making a reservation for the outdoor terrace, as this is a popular spot!
Picazzos Healthy Italian Kitchen – This Italian eatery boasts a mostly gluten-free menu and takes on an Asian, Mediterranean, and Mexican fusion!
Elote Cafe – Elote’s Chef has created an award-winning menu that is inspired by his Arizonian roots and his decades of travel across Mexico. This cafe offers vibrant and bold flavors in its menu, filled with locally sourced ingredients!
Sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain
If you’re able to stay for the sunset in Sedona, it’s just as magical (if not more so IMO) as sunrise, with glowing red rocks and light catching on the cactuses as the sun sinks below the horizon, leaving streaks of color in the sky behind it. My recommendation for sunset in Sedona is to head to Sugarloaf Mountain and hike to the top. It’s a quick 20-minute walk for a 360-degree view of the sunset. This spot is far less crowded than most sunset locations in Sedona, and is my personal favorite!
Sugarloaf Mt.
Other day activities to do
These are some other ideas for fun ways to spend your time in Sedona. These are especially good if you don’t want to do any hiking, as there are options for sunrise/sunset viewing, and seeing all the major natural sites in Sedona without having to hike to them.
Pink Jeep Tours
The Pink Jeep Tours are well-known in Sedona, and you’ll probably spot a few as soon as you enter the town. Pink Jeep Tours are an excellent option for families or for those not wanting or unable to do lots of hiking. They’re a great way to pack a lot into a small amount of time. With your personal tour guide, you’ll spend a few hours off-roading in a custom-built pink jeep, exploring Sedona’s stunning red rocks and learning about Sedona’s history, Native American culture, and geology.
If you’re visiting Sedona in the springtime, mainly late April through May, then you’ll be coming during peak wildflower season! This was honestly the main reason I chose to visit Sedona when I did. I spent the majority of my time hunting down the best spots to see wildflowers. Check out my article on where to see wildflowers in Sedona for the best tips and tricks!
Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
This is a pretty iconic spot in Sedona and one of the most photographed locations in Arizona! While it can be spotted from the highway and far off from several hikes, if you have the time, it’s definitely worth a visit up close.
Scenic Drives
Head out on the Red Rock Loop Road for beautiful views of Cathedral Rock, Lover’s Knoll, and more! Stop at Crescent Moon Picnic Site along the way to enjoy the views of Cathedral Rock & take a splash in the river! (entrance costs $12).
Or drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway for a different, and just as beautiful, view of Cathedral Rock, as well as Bell Rock, the Twin Buttes, and more.
Drive to Airport Mesa Overlook
If you’re looking for a good place to view the sunrise/sunset without having to hike, then head to Airport Mesa Overlook! It offers some amazing views of the red rocks and the setting sun over the valley. Parking costs $3 and can fill up quickly. It gets pretty crowded here, which is why I didn’t love it. It felt hard to truly enjoy the sunset and was just a little too touristy for me. However, there was live music playing, and I met a gal from New York who brought a bottle of wine and some paper cups to share with her, so I can’t complain too much!
This is also a good place to drive up to in the middle of the day (when you’ll have it all to yourself) to get some good mid-day views of Sedona without having to hike.
View from Airport Mesa
Immerse yourself in the spirituality
To get a feel for the spirituality in Sedona, spend some time visiting all the vortex sites, take a yoga & meditation class, and stroll through the many crystal shops located around town.
The four major Sedona vortex sites are Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Airport Mesa. Here’s a link to a map of the Vortexes. Most require at least a short hike to get close to them. But all of them can be viewed from various scenic drives from afar.
There are various yoga & meditation classes at studios around Sedona. Some popular ones are Aumbase Sedona, 7 Centers Yoga Arts, and the Sedona Meditation Center.
I hope this one-day guide has been helpful! There’s so much to do in Sedona that trying to figure out what to do with just one day can certainly feel overwhelming. Just know that you can’t go wrong no matter what you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful & beautiful time no matter what!
Let me know below what you’re most looking forward to seeing/doing in Sedona, or if you have other questions for me!
This post will provide you with everything you need to know when visiting Monument Valley. When to go, what to visit, how to get there, tours to take, & more!
Mitten Buttes From Visitors Center overlook – Photo by Riley Eloise
What is Monument Valley?
Located on the Utah-Arizona border in the Navajo Nation Reservation, Monument Valley is part of the Colorado Plateau. It’s made up of sandstone buttes, colossal mesas, and panoramic vistas. Due to its location on the reservation, it’s not an official National Park.
It’s been featured in a large array of popular films and TV shows, including Forrest Gump, National Lampoons Vacation, Mission: Impossible II, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and the HBO series Westworld!
How to get to Monument Valley
Monument Valley isn’t exactly close to anything, but it’s on the way to lots of destinations, making it the perfect pit stop on road trips!
I personally drove from Durango to Monument Valley, about a 3-hour drive.
Distances and Driving times to nearby cities & parks:
Arizona:
Flagstaff – 3 hours, 170 miles
Page – 2 hours, 121 miles
Pheonix – 5 hours, 315 miles
Utah:
Salt Lake City – 6 hours, 380 miles
Moab – 2 ½ hours, 150 miles
Colorado:
Durango – 3 hours, 165 miles
Grand Junction – 4 hours, 260 miles
New Mexico
Albuquerque – 5 hours, 317 miles
Nevada:
Las Vegas – 6 hours, 390 miles
National Parks:
Grand Canyon (south rim) – 1 ½ hours, 105 miles
Four Corners – 3 hours, 180 miles
The entrance to Monument Valley is located off of US-163, just north of the Utah-Arizona border. The entrance fee is $8 per person. Once you pay this fee, you can come and go as often as you like.
✨Pro Tip✨ Get there as early as you can to avoid a long wait to get in, and to avoid large crowds inside. Before noon is ideal, but the earlier the better. If you can stay somewhere nearby that will help, plus it will allow you to stay for sunset or sunrise, which is absolutely magical at Monument Valley!
Screenshot
Things to do
Monument Valley Overlook:
Before you dive into all of your Monument Valley activities, you’ve got to stop at The View Hotel/Visitors Center and walk over to the viewpoint. It’s a great introduction to the valley, and you’ll feel like you’re walking up to Mars!
Valley Drive / Tribal Park Loop:
This scenic drive is a 17-mile loop that begins and ends at the Monument Valley Visitors Center. It’s a very bumpy dirt & gravel road that stops by many of the most popular sites in Monument Valley. A 4×4 is not necessary, but if you don’t have it, you will want to drive nice & slow! There are places for cars to pull off and park so you can get out and take photos along the way.
If you don’t have much time to stop at Monument Valley, this is what I’d recommend doing to get the most out of your visit!
*Note – this is the only part of Monument Valley you can go to without a tour. To access other parts of the tribal park, you’ll need to book in advance with a tour group.
Here’s a glance into what you’ll see on the drive:
Screenshot
✨Pro Tip✨ For the best photos go in the morning, midday, or evening (for sunset)… if you go in the afternoon/early evening, you’ll be facing the sun and it will make for some bad-quality photos.
Hike the Wildcat Trail:
This is the only self-guided trail available in Monument Valley. It’s a 3.2-mile loop that circles Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. You’ll get a few different angles of the monuments than you would on Valley Drive, and it’s a great way to get some exercise in while enjoying the views!
Forrest Gump Point:
Located on US-163, 20 minutes past the visitors center, is the iconic film location from the movie Forrest Gump, GPS coordinates 37.101393, -109.990973. Apart from being well known for its film location, it’s a gorgeous viewpoint!
Please keep in mind that this viewpoint is on a highway. Per the Utah Tourism Website:
“Please be aware this iconic photo-op is located along a highly trafficked road. Due to the road’s traffic leading to past injuries and fatalities, we urge you to take your safety seriously and refrain from taking photos from the middle of the road. Visitors are welcome to pull off safely on the side of the road and take photos from the shoulder only.”
Tours to take
The Valley Drive Tour
If you don’t feel comfortable making the bumpy dirt road drive yourself or just want to sit back and relax and enjoy the view, then you can sign up for a Valley Drive tour with a Navajo guide! It stops at all the same spots as you can with your vehicle.
Lower Monument Valley
There is another loop that goes off of Valley Drive, which is only accessible by tour. You’ll go up close to the Totem Pole and a few other rock formations not scene from Valley Drive. They have sunrise lower Monument Valley tours, which are a great way to watch the sunrise in the valley at a lower tour price.
Prices average around $80 per person, depending on the tour company, and last approx. 3 hours. If you go on one of the photography-specific lower monument tours (typically offered at sunrise/sunset), it’s about $125 per person.
Teardrop Arch
This tour is not as popular as others, which means you have a good chance of getting this view all to yourself! You’ll do some light hiking, explore some caves, and stop at Teardrop Arch for a unique view of Monument Valley!
Prices average around $80 per person and lasts 2-3 hours.
Backcountry Access Tour of Monument Valley
This tour goes along the Tribal Loop road as well as some backcountry sights that can only be visited with a Navajo guide, including a Navajo Hogan (traditional Navajo home) and a musical performance. This tour is a good combination of scenery and culture!
Prices average $80 per person and lasts about 3-4 hours.
Mystery Valley
This is a pretty popular tour that takes visitors to see the petroglyphs and Anasazi sites, for a total of three hours. This tour is more cultural than it is scenic.
Prices average around $90 per person and last 3-4 hours.
Hunts Mesa
The Hunts Mesa tour is a full-day trip (with an optional overnight stay) and is the most comprehensive and ultimate excursion available! You’ll spend a few hours driving through some of the best views of Monument Valley. You’ll end at Hunts Mesa, where you’ll get a steak dinner cooked over a campfire while you watch the sunset over the monuments! If you want the best Monument Valley has to offer, it’s this tour!
The price is a little steeper on this one, at around $300 per person, and lasts about 7 hours (unless you do the overnight).
Where to stay in Monument Valley
The View Hotel
The View Hotel is located just inside Monument Valley next to the visitor center. It boasts incredible views of the monuments (and it looks really cool when looked at from out in the valley!). The higher up a room you get, the better the view, but also the pricer the cost!.
The Premium Cabins
These cabins overlook the Mittens and come with a deck to watch the sunrise and sunset! The cabins are small, but clean, warm, and cozy and offer everything you need for a night in the desert!
Goulding’s Lodge
This spot is located just outside of Monument Valley and offers both rooms and a campground.
Firetree B&B Hogan
If you stay at Firetree B&B, you’ll be sleeping in a traditional Navajo Hogan!
Camping
This is going to be the cheapest option available at Monument Valley. The campground is located between The View Hotel and the Premium Cabins, with a beautiful view of the Mittens. RV’s welcome!
How much time do you need in Monument Valley
Since it takes so long to get to Monument Valley from any nearby towns, you’d definitely get the most out of your trip if you could stay overnight, but if you’re planning to just check it out along your road trip, a couple of hours is just fine!
If you only have a short amount of time, then the Valley Drive and Forrest Gump Point are your go-to’s!
When to visit Monument Valley
The best time to visit Monument Valley, similar to the rest of the southwest, is going to be spring and fall when the temperatures are far milder but still nice and warm! Summer months can get incredibly hot & crowded, and the winter can sometimes bring snow (which could still be a really cool photo-op!)
What to Pack for Monument Valley & Photo Gear
Personal gear:
Water Bottle – I love my Grayl filter bottle so I never have to worry about drinking unsafe water
Polarizer Filter – exceptionally important to make sure you can expose the bright red rocks correctly without losing the exposure of the blue sky behind them.
I go through #50 items that all make perfect hiking gifts for her or for the hiker in your life. This list includes budget gift items, luxury items, gifts for those with dogs, and more!
Do you have a woman hiker in your life who you want to celebrate? Maybe they’ve got a birthday coming up or maybe you just want to show them a little love….either way, this guide is sure to have the perfect hiking gifts for her.
This gift guide is tailored more towards female hikers, but there’s certainly something for everyone in this guide. And most outdoor products can be enjoyed by all!
I’ve broken these lists up to make them easier to navigate. But keep in mind that there will be gifts in most price ranges within each category, so keep scrolling to find the perfect fit!
Best Budget Hiking Gifts Under $25
Join us on a hike
There’s nothing us hikers love more than spending quality time outdoors. So if you’re on a tight budget for gifts, just know that offering to join us on a hike is an excellent option! Bonus points for letting us pick our favorite one or offering to drive! You’ll create lasting memories on top of it being free 🙂
Outdoorsy Stickers & Patches
You can’t go wrong with a couple cute hiking themed stickers or patches. They’re so fun to put on water bottles, backpacks, laptops and more! If you know what national parks they’ve visited, you can get them a sticker to celebrate each one! Etsy has loads of fun stickers, and as a bonus, you get to support a small business.
You can never have too many hiking socks! Especially if you’re like me and you’ve got a sock-eating kitty roaming your home! These ‘Darn Tough’ merino wool socks are temperature regulating, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus they have antimicrobial & odor resistant properties!
It’s very important to keep your eyes protected from the sun while exploring the trails. Even in the winter, the snow can reflect more sunshine into your eyes, so a good pair of sunglasses are a must. GoodR’s have an incredible reputation in the outdoorsy world, plus, they’re cute and affordable!
What better way to create lasting memories than with a film camera? Disposable film cameras are a great way to dip your toes into the world of film photography and they are so fun to use! I’ve got a whole shelf in my room with my photo books packed with film photos from all my adventures. I love flipping through them whenever I miss my friends, my adventures, or just want to show others. Gift your hiking buddy a disposable camera so you can share in the joy of film photos!
If you’re looking for a good hiking gift for her under $25, you certainly can’t beat this black diamond headlamp! A reliable headlamp is an essential item for the hikers in your life that love a good sunrise/sunset hike! This one is both comfortable and lightweight, and it’s got multiple lighting modes that will provide you with hours of reliable light on the trails.
This portable charger can give you up to four full charges. Plus, it’s as compact as a credit card, making it the perfect gift for outdoor explorers who like to pack light but need to make sure they have a charged phone for emergencies, google maps or taking photos on the trail (hint… that’s pretty much all outdoor explorers!)
This is one of those things that you don’t really need, until you need it! This tick kit clips right on to your keys, pet’s collar & backpack and works for humans and pets. It removes the entire tick (whereas tweezers will sometimes leave the mouth behind). I know it’s not the cutest gift… but it’s a super helpful one!
This Gregory Nano 18L is the perfect daypack for exploring the nature trails or the urban trails around the world! It’s got a zippered pocket for a hydration reservoir (or tablet), tuck-away hip belt, quick access front pockets and more. I love the sleep and comfortable design of this bag! Plus all of Gregory’s products are sustainably and responsibly made!
These hiking poles are an excellent option for those looking for a little extra stability on the trails. Steep or rocky hikes can be brutal on the knees. Hiking poles are a great way to protect your joints so you can last longer on the trails!
A good water bottle can make all the difference on the trails. A filtered water bottle can make all the difference in one’s health! The grayl water bottle is built specifically for backpackers, campers, hikers, fishers & travelers to be able to get water from any source without worrying about bad bacteria, viruses, heavy metals and more.
This Lifewater filtered water bottle is a great option for trail runners or those who want to pack light but don’t want to sacrifice bag space!
Help your hiker stay hydrated with LMNT (element) electrolyte packs! It’s well known that the Earth’s soil no longer has enough minerals and electrolytes for us. Hence needing to supplement them. LMNT is one of the few electrolyte companies out there that doesn’t put any sugar, fillers or dodgy ingredients into their products. They truly give you everything you need (and nothing you don’t) to support energy levels, endurance and recovery.
My favorite flavor is grapefruit, but you can gift your hiker this variety pack so they can choose for themself!
Keep your hiker warm and cozy with this affordable and lightweight puffer jacket! A good puffy jacket is an essential outerwear piece and will help provide your hiker with motivation to get outside even on the chillier days!
Embark on your hiking adventures with Toup, a brand renowned for its sustainable approach and commitment to real, natural ingredients. As a devoted fan of sustainable products, Toup has become a staple in my daily routine. Whether it’s their eco-conscious sunscreen, nourishing tallow moisturizer, or natural deodorant, Toup ensures I stay protected & pampered while exploring the great outdoors!
Use code BEYONDTHESHIRE11 for 10% off your order (now thats a gift for you AND your hiker!)
With a Birdie personal safety alarm on her keychain, she’s sure to feel a whole lot safer, both on and off the trails. The Birdie alarm features a 130dB siren (130dB is LOUD) and a very bright strobe light. All she has to do is pull the top pin to activate the alarm, and it will create a diversion to help deter an attack, plus draw the attention of anyone in the vicinity that help is needed. Even better, the Birdie is TSA- approved (unlike pepper-spray) so she can bring it with her on hikes around the world!
This little bracelet includes a fire starter, loud whistle, compass & 12 ft of military grade paracord all in one! The all-in-one paracord bracelet is the perfect hiking gift for the wilderness explorer in your life and will help ensure they stay safe no matter what happens, without adding any weight to their bags!
Bear spray and a bear horn are essential hiking safety tools, and not just for the trails! They can be carried around while exploring the city as well for bonus protection on top of the Birdie!
The titanium emergency whistle, compact yet powerful, is a vital tool for hikers, providing a reliable means to signal for help in critical situations. Its durability and affordability make it an indispensable addition to any hiker’s pack & an excellent choice for an affordable and practical gift.
As an EMT who frequently works a lot of outdoor events, I rely on these blankets to address potential hypothermia cases. Rest assured, the PrimaCare blankets offer exceptional quality and reliability in critical situations like these! Compact and affordable, it’s a must-have for every hiker’s pack and makes a thoughtful and practical gift for outdoor enthusiasts.
A mini first aid kit can really come in handy on the trails, whether you need a small band-aid or essential life-saving supplies during outdoor adventures. It’s a thoughtful gift for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring safety and preparedness in every excursion.
My favorite thing about this emergency knife is the glass breaker! Should you ever find yourself in a car crash that lands your car underwater, you won’t be able to roll your windows down & the glass on cars doesn’t break easily, you need something specific like this tool. I know that’s a pretty specific situation to worry about…but hey…sometimes anxiety makes the rules. This tool also has a folding knife, seat belt cutter, LED light, magnesium fire starter, and bottle opener. It’s a great tool for camping, hiking, hunting and to just keep one handy in the car for emergencies.
Water filtration tablets are the ultimate solution for clean drinking water on the trail, effectively purifying water from any source. This is an excellent item for your hiker to keep in their bag for extreme emergencies.
She’ll love spending a night with good food, good company, and a beautiful puzzle of her favorite places in nature! The colors in this national parks puzzle are as vivid and beautiful as the scenery they represent in real life and will make the perfect wall art once completed!
Hikes to waterfalls and swimming holes are some of my favorite types of adventures to go on! While it can be nice on super hot days to dip in with your regular clothes, most of the time you want a good swimsuit on. I love that Carve offers super cute rash guards, swim tops, and swim shorts, so she can wear just her swimsuit ‘outfit’ for the whole hike or choose to layer underneath her hiking clothes! Even better, she’ll know that her swimsuit came from a company that cares about the environment. All Carve swimsuits are made from recycled plastic bottles!
Another great themed hiking gift for her, a paint by numbers is a wonderful and relaxing gift that doubles as wall art once finished. Another great opportunity to support a small business on Etsy, search for a pain by numbers of her favorite state, national park or town!
A hammock offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, providing a comfortable oasis in the heart of nature. Lightweight and portable, it’s an ideal gift for hikers and outdoor lovers, allowing them to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the wilderness. This hammock is quick and easy to put up and built to withstand the elements!
I love taking some watercolors or drawing pencils and a sketchpad up to the mountains, finding a sunny spot with a view, and doing some art. Being up in nature is so inspirational for me and I even find it meditative. Consider gifting some portable watercolors to the hiker you know to encourage them to explore their artsy/creative side!
The America The Beautiful pass unlocks a world of natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes, granting unlimited access to the beauty and serenity of America’s most cherished outdoor spaces. It’s the ultimate gift for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, offering a year of exploration and unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors. This pass is good for a year of visits, covering entrance and day-use fees at federal recreation sites across the country, including all the national parks.
Elevate her outdoor adventures with the superior optics of the OutlandX Binoculars. Designed for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and admiring panoramic views, these binoculars deliver exceptional clarity and a comfortable grip. Whether she’s exploring dense forests or wide-open landscapes, these will enhance her hikes with thrilling discoveries and unforgettable sights.
I love taking a rite in the rain notebook with me wherever I go because you never know when inspiration is going to strike! This is a great gift for the adventurers in your life who are always jotting down quotes, notes, ideas, and random thoughts. I often have some of my biggest realizations when I’m surrounded by the peace & quiet of nature. It’s an added bonus that I know everything I write inside will be protected from the elements or even an accidental water bottle spill inside my bag!
This little camera has been taking the internet by storm recently. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury gift for the outdoor enthusiast, extreme adventurer, or solo travel content creator in your life, look no further than an Insta 360. This powerhouse of a camera captures 360 degrees all at once, from which you can choose which angle you prefer in editing. When used with the invisible selfie stick, you can take magic third-person/drone view footage all by yourself. This is seriously the camera of the future and is without a doubt the coolest luxury gift you can get for all types of explorers.
Rumpl blankets are incredibly cozy, come in tons of cute prints, and are some of the highest-quality outdoor blankets I’ve ever felt. I fell in love with my Rumpl from day one and I never go anywhere without one now! It’s perfect for camping, hiking, traveling, picnics, beach days, and more, and it repels water, dirt, sand, spills, and pet hair. Rumpl blankets are made by adventurers for adventurers! What could be better?
Every hiker needs a pair of quality hiking boots, and there’s truly none better than Xero shoes. The Ridgeway is not just stylish and comfortable; it’s also waterproof, lightweight, and utilizes cutting-edge barefoot-friendly technology. I used to have terrible leg and foot pain after long hikes, but after wearing my ridgeways, that pain is a thing of the past!
For the hiker who loves a good water hike, the same can be said for a pair of sturdy outdoor sandals. These barefoot xero sandals are the perfect combination of protection, comfort, light weight, natural flexibility, durability, versatility and affordability. I’ve gotten so many compliments on my sandals, and had many friends wonder why I was the only one not slipping and sliding all over the wet trails!
Give your hiker the gift of their dreams with a jetboil flash system. There’s nothing better than waking up early for a sunrise hike and making a fresh cup of coffee at the summit while you enjoy the view, and this jetboil java kit lets you do that and so much more! When it comes to portable cooking systems, Jetboil has totally raised the bar. Perfect for hikers, backpackers, campers & car campers, music festival goers, and more, the options are endless!
Quality, efficiency, and reliability are worth every penny when you’re out in the wilderness, and that’s why the Garmin Inreach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is an invaluable tool for any explorer. The Garmin Inreach enables two-way satellite messaging, allowing your loved one to stay in touch with others and call for emergency help from deep in the backcountry, where cellular service may not be available.
Plus, it’s got GPS tracking, back tracking technology (to help you find your back to the trail if you get lost), weather updates, an SOS function and bluetooth to sync routes, trip plans and more with your phone. Give her the gift of peace of mind, so she can focus more on enjoying her adventures!
Buying gifts for the hiker in your life doesn’t need to be expensive! Buy Secondhand with GearTrade! You can find some awesome products from some of the top outdoor brands at great discounted rates! At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spent but that you put time and thought into the gift. Plus, your hiker will appreciate that you chose to make a sustainable choice and not contribute to the over consumption that is damaging to the environment!
I know it sounds a little suspicious and odd…but a pee cloth is an excellent gift for the sustainable outdoorswoman in your life! Toilet paper can be quite wasteful and a reusable pee cloth will eliminate the need to bring any onto the trails and lower the amount often being left in nature. Even “biodegradable wipes” take years to degrade and release microplastics. Plus, the witty woman in your life will surely appreciate the brand name of this pee cloth!
Trail snacks are an absolute essential for me, and I always pack mine in one of my stasher reusable bags! Not only are these bags dishwasher safe and reusable, but they’re made out of silicone, which is a much safer alternative to plastic.
Cotopaxi is a certified B corp, and they use only sustainable materials for all their products. This 20L pack is the perfect day hiking bag for the sustainable adventurer in your life.
Seed balls are small balls made of clay, soil, and seeds which are used to help replant areas where natural flora has been destroyed. This is such a fun & eco-friendly gift, and they can even be made by hand for an extra special touch! Gardening Know How has a wonderful post to check out on how to make seed balls from scratch that are native to your hiker’s area. She’ll appreciate the extra effort you put into making them yourself and will find joy in getting to give back to nature in such a special way!
Gifts For Hikers With Dogs
Dog Water Bottle
This water bottle for dogs is a GAME CHANGER for hikers with dogs. I used to carry around those foldable bowls, but my dog wouldn’t always drink all the water in the bowl and even after emptying it I’d still find the inside of my bag would get wet. They were a waste of water and space. This bottle lets you pour out enough water for your pup to drink, and anything they don’t finish can be returned to the container with the press of a button. It’s easy to use, lightweight, leak-proof, sustainable, and dog-approved!
This adjustable two-in-one leash and hitching system is great for the hikers and campers in your life, but especially the trail runners as it offers a hands-free system! This ruffwear leash can be hand-held, worn around the waist, or easily hitched around a post/tree. They thought of everything when they designed this leash, and any hiker, camper, or runner with a pup would certainly be thrilled to receive this gift!
This dog pack is an excellent everyday pack for medium and large-sized dogs! Doggy day packs are a great way to make the most of limited pack space since you can throw all your pup’s essentials into their own little backpack to carry! They’ve got three versions, one for the bare essentials, one for longer or overnight hikes, and one for multi-day adventures. If you’re looking for THE gift to give someone who brings their dogs with them everywhere they go, I cannot recommend this highly enough!
For the backpackers and campers who always bring their dogs along with them, this Happy Trails sleeping bag and pad is the perfect gift! Happy Trails is made here in the U.S. in the Pacific Northwest, and specifically designs lightweight outdoor products for dogs.
No one wants to think about losing their precious fur baby, and thanks to this air tag holder, now you don’t have to! This holder protects air tags from all the elements and keeps them secured to your pup’s collar or harness. This makes an excellent gift for the hikers, campers, and adventurers in your life who’ve got a dog who likes to roam around leash-free!
Consider gifting your adventurer this dog first aid kit so they can be prepared for anything with their pup. I love that this kit includes a pet first aid handbook because, let’s face it, as much as we like to consider our pets our “children” they will need a different approach to first aid than humans!
This iPhone tripod device offers the versatility of a selfie stick with the durability of a tripod and will help your hiker or content creator capture beautiful photos and videos on every adventure. The TONEOF is lightweight and folds up small, making it an excellent choice for carry-on packing travelers, and as a bonus, it comes with a wireless remote.
Peak Design capture clip If you know a hiker who loves to bring their camera on every hike and is always stopping to take it out for photos, this capture clip is going to make their lives SO much easier! This has been, by far, the best investment I made for my camera gear this year (and in the scheme of photography gear, it’s a pretty cheap ‘investment’). The heaviest lens I put on my capture clip is my EF 24-70 2.8, which is about 1.7 pounds. It can take heavier lenses, but you may start to feel it in your shoulder.
Elevate her hiking and photography game with the Zomei carbon fiber travel tripod. Lightweight and compact, it’s the perfect companion for all her adventures, easily fitting into any pack. Despite its featherweight design, it offers impressive stability and will reliably support even her heaviest lens. While it may not be a Peak Design carbon tripod, it’s a fantastic and budget-friendly alternative that will ensure she captures every breathtaking moment along the trail.
I hope this list has given you some inspiration for finding the perfect hiking gifts for her! What are you planning to give to the woman hiker in your life? I’d love to hear any other ideas you think of!
