Sedona, Arizona: Hiking, Wine & Red Rock Views
We’ve been to Sedona several times, but this trip gave us a fresh perspective. By staying in Cottonwood, we avoided Sedona’s traffic, kept lodging costs down, and had the flexibility to hike Sedona’s classic Devil’s Bridge trail and take in the wide-open views from the Birthing Cave. Add in a scenic train ride, a hilltop winery, and evenings catching up with family, and the whole trip struck the energizing balance we always look for — adventure by day, connection and relaxation at night.
Where We Stayed: SpringHill Suites Cottonwood
The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cottonwood was the perfect hub for this trip. Clean, comfortable, and with a free breakfast spread that made it easy to fuel up before long hikes, it gave us everything we needed without fuss. The location was another win — just minutes from Old Town Cottonwood and less than half an hour to Sedona’s trailheads.
💡 Travel Tip: If Sedona lodging feels too busy or expensive, base yourself in Cottonwood. It’s quieter, more affordable, and still close to the trails.
A Ride Through Verde Canyon
One of our traditions when visiting family nearby is riding the Verde Canyon Railroad. Every seat is indoors, but the real magic comes from stepping out onto the open-air cars, where the red canyon walls and winding Verde River surround you.
The four-hour ride moves at an easy pace, giving you plenty of time to take in the scenery. Along the way, guides point out cliff dwellings, remnants of old mining sites, and the wildlife that calls the canyon home.
Each ride includes snacks and drinks — the perfect pairing for hours of red rock views.
The Verde Canyon Railroad winding along the river — best seen from the open-air cars.
Even though we’ve done it before, we’re always surprised by how relaxing it feels. Between the slow rhythm of the train and the canyon views, it’s an experience that lets you see Arizona from a completely different perspective.
💡 Travel Tip: Don’t worry about booking an “outdoor” seat — every ticket gives you access to the open-air cars. The best photos are outside, but it’s nice to retreat indoors when the sun gets strong.
Hiking the Red Rocks
Birthing Cave
We started with the Birthing Cave, a short but steep trail that leads to one of Sedona’s most unique viewpoints. The cave’s wide opening frames the red rock cliffs beyond, creating a natural picture window that feels almost otherworldly.
To get the famous photo looking out from inside, you have to shimmy up a steep, slick wall with no real grooves for your feet or hands. Once at the top, there’s a little cave ledge where you can sit and soak in the view — but even if you don’t make the climb, the outlook from the cave floor is still spectacular.
💡 Travel Tip: This hike is under two miles roundtrip, but parking is limited. Go early or later in the day to snag a spot and enjoy some quiet inside the cave.
Devil’s Bridge
No trip to Sedona feels complete without the iconic Devil’s Bridge. The trail winds gradually upward, and the payoff is a sandstone arch that stretches out over the valley below. We started early to beat the crowds, which meant we had time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed. Standing on the bridge never loses its wow factor, no matter how many times you’ve been.
💡 Travel Tip: Parking fills up quickly, and there’s often a line for photos. Aim to arrive before 8am or consider the shuttle option to save time.
Classic Sedona — Devil’s Bridge never loses its wow factor.
Merkin Vineyards Hilltop
Perched above Cottonwood, Merkin Vineyards Hilltop is worth a stop for the views alone. The sweeping panoramas pair perfectly with a glass of wine, and the outdoor patio is where you really want to be if the weather cooperates.
We ordered a charcuterie board and pizza to share. Both were fresh and flavorful, though I’d say the views are what make the experience stand out most. Sitting outdoors with a glass of wine in hand, watching the sunset colors shift over the Verde Valley, felt like the true highlight.
Charcuterie at Merkin Vineyards Hilltop — fresh, flavorful, and best enjoyed outdoors.
For us, the best part wasn’t just the food or the views — it was sitting around the table with family. Merkin gave us the space to linger, catch up, and laugh together, which is exactly the kind of memory we like to take home from a trip.
💡 Travel Tip: If you can, time your visit for golden hour. The warm light over the valley makes the views even more stunning, and it’s the perfect backdrop for wine and food on the patio.
Sedona Beer Co.
For something more casual, we headed to Sedona Beer Co., where tacos and a couple of local brews hit the spot after a day of hiking. We’ve tried both their downtown location and their newer outpost near the trailheads, and both are worth a stop depending on your plans.
Casual, flavorful, and local — Sedona Beer Co. is our go-to for post-hike refueling.
💡 Travel Tip: If you want a quieter vibe, check out Sedona Beer Co.’s newer location outside the downtown bustle.
Final Thoughts
If I had to sum up this trip in one word, it would be energizing. Staying in Cottonwood gave us a calmer base, while still letting us enjoy Sedona’s big-name hikes and unique cave views. Between the train ride, a hilltop winery, and time with family, this getaway reminded us that Sedona doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — it can be simple, memorable, and exactly what you make it.
If You Go
Stay: SpringHill Suites Cottonwood (clean, comfortable, free breakfast, less traffic than Sedona)
Trails to Try: Birthing Cave (short but steep with unique views), Devil’s Bridge (iconic arch)
Don’t Miss: Verde Canyon Railroad (scenic + relaxing), Merkin Vineyards Hilltop (wine with a view), Sedona Beer Co. (casual tacos + local brews)
Best For: Couples who want a mix of adventurous hikes, classic Sedona views, and a relaxed base away from the crowds
