Sedona: Ancient Ruins Jeep Tour & Diamondback Gulch Adventure

Summary

Red rocks, cliff dwellings and wild jeep trails near Sedona

You’ll rattle through Sedona’s backcountry by Jeep with a local guide, tracing ancient stories at Honanki Heritage Site and plunging into Diamondback Gulch’s wild canyons. Expect red rock views, real history in your hands (well, almost), and moments that stick with you long after you brush off the dust.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell so sharp out here — like sun-baked stone and something almost sweet, maybe juniper? Our guide, Mike, grinned when he saw me squinting at the red cliffs outside Sedona. “Wait till you see Honanki,” he said. The Jeep rattled over rocks that looked impossible, honestly, and I just held on and tried not to laugh too loud every time we bounced. There’s something about seeing those ancient walls up close — the 700-year-old ruins at Honanki — that made me feel small in a good way. Mike pointed out faded handprints and animal shapes in the rock art. He told us how the Sinagua people lived here, building homes right into the canyon walls. I tried tracing one of the symbols in the air with my finger (no touching allowed), and for a second it felt like time folded in on itself.

After that, we took this wild turn down Diamondback Gulch — if you’re even a little nervous about heights or bumpy rides, just…hold tight. The drop into the arroyo was steeper than any rollercoaster I’ve been on. My teeth actually clicked together once (not my proudest moment). We snaked along Sidewinder trail past these huge formations — Capitol Butte looked almost purple under the clouds, and Chimney Rock stood out against this weirdly blue sky. There was a moment where everyone just went quiet except for the sound of gravel under tires and some distant bird calls. Kind of peaceful, actually.

I’m still thinking about those handprints at Honanki. It’s strange how a day trip from Sedona can make you feel connected to people who lived centuries ago — or maybe it’s just Mike’s stories getting under my skin. Either way, if you want something more than just pretty views (though there are plenty), this ancient ruins tour is worth getting a little dusty for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore ancient ruins and canyons

• Travel through spectacular canyons
• Enjoy views of red rock formations
• Stand amid ancient canyon walls
• Learn about rock art at Honanki ruins
• Descend into Diamondback Gulch
• See Capitol Butte, Chimney Rock, and more
• Snake along Sidewinder trail
• Emerging from Diamondback Gulch

Top questions

How long does the Sedona ancient ruins tour last?

The standard tour lasts about 3 hours; with the Diamondback Gulch upgrade it’s extended by an additional hour.

Is there a lot of walking on this ancient ruins tour?

No, only a small amount of walking is involved at the Honanki Heritage Site.

Are there any health restrictions for this Jeep tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or anyone with back or neck injuries.

What sites are included on this day trip from Sedona?

You’ll visit Honanki Heritage Site’s ancient cliff dwellings and can upgrade to include Diamondback Gulch with stops at Capitol Butte, Chimney Rock, Lizard Head and Doe Mesa.

Is pickup included for this Sedona Jeep adventure?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at a designated departure point in Sedona.

Do I need special gear for this ancient ruins tour?

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes or boots, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

What’s included

Your day includes travel by Jeep through Sedona’s canyons with a professional guide sharing stories along the way; all local taxes are covered so you can focus on exploring without extra hassle.