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.
A comprehensive day hiking checklist that includes everything needed for short adventures, including basic gear, clothing, sun protection, safety and more. Free PDF included!
*This guide is meant for short treks not too far from town, if you’re looking for a checklist for long day hikes far in the backcountry, where you’ll need to be more self-sufficient, I’ll be making one for that soon!*
This hiking checklist airs on the over-prepared side, but if you’re just getting started, I recommend starting out bringing everything you think you will need, and then slowly eliminating as you gain experience and figure out what works best for you!
Let’s get into it!
Hiking Gear
Daypack (I use an 18L pack, but anything from a 13L to a 22L is perfect for day hikes)
Trail snacks (I always keep a few snacks in my pack, I don’t often need more than one on a short hike but I like to keep a few in case I get lost or stuck on the trail longer than planned!)
Optional:
Trekking Poles (Especially great if you have any knee issues, I don’t use poles but I have a few friends who use and love these
Map/route description – if your hike takes you along multiple paths, it might be good to take a map (or a screenshot of the trail routes ahead of time) so you don’t get lost
My go-to hiking pack and filtered water bottle
Clothing – These are all mix and match based on the weather and where you live
Birdie Personal Alarm or an emergency whistle (some daypacks have these built into the strap buckle)
Optional:
Bear Spray (for those who hike in bear country. However, it could also certainly come in handy if you run into stranger danger on the trails)
Personal Items & Extras
Credit card/cash & ID
Cell phone – fully charged
Optional:
Camera
Binoculars
Sketchpad or journal (I love bringing one of these up into the mountains and finding a sunny spot to sit, meditate and draw)
Health / Sun Protection
Sunscreen – Tallow & Zinc Oxide Sunscreen in a reusable jar- (code: BEYONDTHESHIRE11 for 10% off!)
Sunglasses
Optional:
Sun hat (I use a baseball cap)
Chapstick with SPF
Insect Repellent (depends on the time of year and where you live of course!)
A few of my hiking essentials for sunny days
Remember that this hiking checklist is a comprehensive starting point, and you may find that you don’t need everything on this for the type/length of hike you’re going on.
I hope this hiking checklist helps you feel empowered to embrace the outdoors and start hiking more often! What are some of your favorite, go-to day hikes?
This guide will go through 15+ tips and tricks for how to travel on a budget, from start to finish (planning, packing, accommodation & more) without limiting the adventure!
I hear it all the time, “I’d love to travel, but it’s just too expensive!” and I’m here to tell you that it’s STILL possible to travel on a budget & have the adventure of a lifetime!
But for any of these tips to really sink in, you’ve got to have the right mindset first.
If you see travel as this impossibly expensive thing, but you’re out buying $7 coffees every day, going out to eat multiple times a week, or find yourself surfing amazon a little too often buying things you don’t really need, than yeah, you’re not going to have the funds to go on a trip.
If traveling is something you want to do, then you have to make it a priority. I love going out and getting a warm coffee on a cold day more than anyone. However, I’m very careful to not spend any extra money and to live ‘beneath my means’ so that I can afford going on trips.
There are so many ways to make travel more budget-friendly, and these are all tried and true methods that I use all the time. In fact I just put all these tips to use on my most recent trip to Puerto Rico!
Travel on a budget – Planning
#1 Set a budget
Before you start picking your destination and activities, decide how much money you are willing to spend on a vacation. International flights will typically cost more, but other countries besides the US tend to have more hostels & public transportation options that can make it cheaper than a lot of domestic places.
#2 Seek out an affordable destination
Sometimes these are the most underrated places and you can find real gems there. Look for places with low costs of living or places where foods and other goods are easily accessible. Ex: an island may have a low cost of living, but if they can’t grow what they need or make it on the island, then it has to be imported which can significantly raise the prices.
#3 Be flexible with your timing
If you’re able to choose when you travel, try not to go to a destination during its peak travel season when prices skyrocket. That means you may need to plan for off-season weather, but the flights, accommodations and activities are often so much more affordable. And as a bonus, you don’t have to deal with crowds!
#4 Purchase travel insurance
You should purchase this for any trip, as emergencies, illnesses, and theft of your valuables can happen any time of the year. However, you should especially purchase this if you plan on traveling in the off or shoulder season, when weather can be more unpredictable. It’s incredibly worth the peace of mind. I use Travel Guard for trip insurance and Lemonade renters insurance just to cover my camera (it’s like 15$ a month & you can cancel after the trip).
Travel on a budget – Packing
#1 Thrift for any new travel clothes or gear
Look for secondhand, consignment and thrift stores in your area. You’d be surprised what you can find out there. I’ve found some of my favorite cute fits thrifting! You can totally get outdoor specific clothing and gear too. If you live in a very outdoorsy place you may even have second hand stores specifically for that kind of stuff.
#2 Pack carry-on only
All US airlines now charge extra for checked bags, so you can save a considerable amount by packing less. Plus, you don’t have to stress about lost baggage, which happens all too often nowadays. This is still a challenge for me too, but I’m slowly learning new tips and getting better at it! If you need help packing light here are some of thetips I use to pack light for Colorado trips. You can also check out the Community Tips & Tricks page to see if anyone has added their fav tip for packing light!
Travel on a budget – Flights / Getting to your destination
Our first time renting a car! And in Hawaii no less!
#1 Book in advance
The sweet spot for domestic flights is 1- 4 months ahead of time, and at least 5 months out for international flights to get better prices. Spontaneity is super fun when traveling, but it’s often a lot more expensive. Luckily it’s not the only way to have an amazing vacation. Save your spontaneity for fun day to day things on your trip, rather than big purchases like flights/ accommodation/ rental cars.
#2 Let cheap flights lead the way
It’s no secret that airfare, like gas prices, have seen a rise in recent years, so instead of saying, ‘I have to go to X place this summer,’ let the flights be your guide. Plan the trip backwards and let the airfare determine where you go. Not only will you save money, but you will open up your world to travel experiences you may have never anticipated!
#3 Travel for free with points
Try to fly only one or two airlines and make an account to earn points. It takes time to build up but it’s worth it. Booking.com lets you earn points on accommodation and rental cars too!
Travel on a budget – Accommodation and Food
#1 Stay in hostels
Hostels are an excellent way to travel on a budget. And while I myself am a college-age student, trust me when I say that hostels are NOT just for college-age folks. Growing up, when my parents took us traveling, we always stayed in hostels. Nowadays, I come across plenty of families and older solo travelers using hostels as their choice in accommodation too. Most hostels are good about keeping quiet hours & enforcing cleanliness, so there’s no need to worry about that with younger-crowds either. Make sure to check reviews first, and always bring a lock for the lockers to store your bags and your birdie personal alarm just in case!
Occasionally it will be cheaper to do a shared space Airbnb. This is where you stay in your own private room within someone’s home, and share common spaces with your host. Again make sure you check reviews and still bring a lock for your stuff just in case.
Make sure you feel comfortable with the host before booking. It’s better to spend a little more on a nice hostel or hotel than to put yourself in an uncomfortable, potentially unsafe situation. Generally though, Europe and Asia have excellent hostels almost everywhere that are likely to be cheaper than a shared airbnb.
#2 Use sites like World-packer and WOOF
These sites allow travelers to trade volunteer work for a place to stay (and occasionally for meals as well). Once again, read all the reviews, make sure you feel comfortable with your hosts, and know exactly what will be expected of you before you commit.
If you stay with a host that has a large stay/takes in lots of volunteers at a time, this can be a great way to meet other people. These options are especially good for those new to traveling solo, as you have a home-base to explore from and guidance from your hosts on places to go or even help getting there.
#3 Call hotels/motels to book directly.
Often you can call a hotel or motel to ask about the price for a room, and they will offer a lower price than you see available online. This is more likely to be true at the last minute, as they want to fill up empty rooms. (This won’t always be the case, but hey, it’s worth the effort to try right?)
#4 Cook your own food
If you’re staying at a place with a kitchen, try to cook your own meals as often as you can. When you do eat out, eat like the locals, opt for street food, food halls or local markets. There are some exceptions in certain countries where most restaurants are really cheap, or where grocery stores are really pricey, but most places will be cheaper to cook your own meals.
*Important – Triple check that your hostels and airbnbs have an actual full kitchen. They are allowed to call it a kitchen even if there’s just a microwave and some dishes! This doesn’t happen often, especially in hostels, but I did learn the hard way recently when I came across it for the first time in Puerto Rico*
Travel on a budget – Transportation
Our first time renting a car! And in Hawaii no less!
#1 Driving vs Flying
If your destination is close enough to drive to, price out driving vs flying to see which option is actually cheaper. Don’t just think about gas money and tolls, but also how you’ll get around once you get to your destination. If you’re driving to a place that doesn’t have good public transport, the price of renting a car may make driving cheaper than flying. Especially if you are under 25 or going alone, which makes renting a car really expensive.
#2 Use public transport
Most places outside the US have great public transport available that can get you almost anywhere for a fraction of the price. If you’ve got a specific place/hike in mind that public transport doesn’t reach, just rent a car for the day. Or socialize at the hostel and mooch off someone else’s rental car. Speaking as a solo traveler whose given rides to others, most solo travelers won’t mind & may even love the company!
*Using public transport is also a great way to travel more responsibly and sustainably. If public transport is available where you’re heading, definitely opt for this option!
#3 Get Triple A
If you book a car through triple A (and have a membership) you don’t get charged the underaged driver fee! This is huge! A triple A membership costs about $70 a year. Some rental car young driver fees can be up to $50 dollars a day!Two days of renting a car and you’ve already made that membership worth it! Plus Triple A offers lots of other benefits too. Additionally, you can call triple A on your trip if get a flat or get locked out of your vehicle!
Travel on a budget – Activities
#1 Figure out your must dos or must sees first
Once you’ve landed on your final destination, figure out what the can’t miss attraction, restaurant or town that you would pay a little extra to see is. Then work your budget around this (to an extent). Ex: If there’s a pricey restaurant you’re dying to go to, cook the rest of your meals yourself.
#2 Find all the free activities
Research all the free activities available in your destination. This often means embracing the outdoors and museums. It’s a great way to engage with the local history, culture and natural environment. I spend the majority of my time traveling out in nature or exploring the history behind a location. This is one of those travel on a budget tips that applies literally anywhere. Even if you’re in a city, go walk around and enjoy the sites of the city for free!
I’d love to hear what places or adventures are on your bucket list, and if you decide to put these tips to use to make that dream a reality! It is entirely possible to travel on a budget, friends!
