Sedona: Private Jeep Tour to Mogollon Rim & Red Rocks

Summary

Ride Sedona’s wild old roads in a 4x4 up to Mogollon Rim views

You’ll rumble up Sedona’s oldest 4x4 trails with a local guide who knows every story behind those famous red rocks. Expect bumpy climbs past Snoopy Rock and movie locations before stepping out at Mogollon Rim for views that stick with you long after dusting off your shoes.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the crunch of gravel under the tires as our jeep lurched onto that old stagecoach road outside Sedona. Our guide, Mark, grinned at us from the front seat — he’d done this route for years and you could tell by how he handled every bump like it was nothing. The air was dry but not too hot, just that dusty Arizona smell mixed with pine sap. We passed Snoopy Rock (I didn’t see it at first — Mark pointed out the nose and I finally got it) and Cow Pie Rock, which honestly looks exactly like what you’d think. There’s something about seeing those shapes up close that makes them stick in your mind more than any postcard.

As we climbed toward the Mogollon Rim, the light kept shifting — sometimes harsh on the red cliffs, sometimes soft and gold where the trees broke open. The jeep rattled so much my teeth almost clicked together, but I kind of loved it. At one point Mark stopped to show us Dripping Cave from “The Quick & The Dead.” He did his best Sam Elliott impression (not bad), then told us how these roads once connected Sedona to Flagstaff before highways took over. It’s weird thinking about people riding this way in wagons — I could barely keep my hat on in a jeep.

When we finally got out near Old Bear Wallow Canyon, there was this hush except for wind scraping through junipers. I leaned against a warm rock and just stared out over all those layers of red and green stretching forever. Someone else on our tour tried to take a selfie but dropped their phone in the dust — we all laughed, even Mark. And honestly, I still think about that view when things get noisy back home. It’s not easy to explain why standing there felt so big and quiet at once… but if you go, you’ll know.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sedona Jeep Tour and Scenic Views

• Check-in and sign waiver
• Meet the guide
• Drive Sedona's oldest road
• Ride open-air jeep on Mogollon Rim trail
• See red rock formations and movie sites
• Stop at Old Bear Wallow Canyon for photos

Top questions

How long is the private Sedona jeep tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is pickup included for this Sedona jeep tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the departure point for check-in.

What age can join the Sedona 4x4 climb?

The minimum age is 3 years old; no pregnant guests are allowed.

Are there any health restrictions for this jeep tour?

It’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or who are pregnant.

What will I see on the Mogollon Rim jeep tour?

You’ll see rock formations like Snoopy Rock and Cow Pie Rock, Dripping Cave from “The Quick & The Dead,” and panoramic canyon views.

Is this a private or group jeep tour in Sedona?

This is a private jeep tour experience for your group only.

Are service animals allowed on the Sedona jeep ride?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes a two-hour guided private jeep ride along historic Sedona roads up to Mogollon Rim, led by a local guide who shares stories along the way. Local taxes are covered too—you just need to show up ready for some bumps and big views.