Sedona: Red Rocks, Cathedral Rock & Stupa Open-Air Tour

Summary

Red rocks, sacred sites and open-air views in Sedona

You’ll ride through Sedona’s famous red rock landscapes in an open-air vehicle with live narration from a local guide. Walk quietly around Amitabha Stupa and catch those shifting colors at Cathedral Rock and Thunder Mountain. Expect plenty of photo stops and small moments—like incense drifting past or laughter over rock shapes—that stay with you.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound of gravel under our shoes when we hopped off the open-air bus near the airport overlook. The air felt dry but not harsh, and there was this faint smell—juniper maybe? Our guide, Rick (he’s lived here forever), pointed out Thunder Mountain right away. He said locals call it Capitol Butte, but honestly, Thunder Mountain just fits better. I tried to get a photo but kept getting distracted by how the light changed every few seconds—reds to golds to something almost purple. Didn’t expect that.

We rolled along to Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park next. There was a hush there, even with a couple of kids running around. Rick explained how people from all over come to walk around the stupa for luck or healing. I’m not really spiritual, but I did the walk anyway—felt kind of peaceful, actually. The wind picked up and carried this incense smell from somewhere nearby. A woman in a wide hat smiled at me as she spun a prayer wheel; I probably looked awkward trying to do it right.

Soldier’s Pass was quick but worth it—the rocks look like they’re stacked on purpose by someone with a sense of humor. And then Cathedral Rock showed up in the distance, bigger than I expected. We stopped so everyone could get photos (I took too many). Rick told us about vortexes again—I still don’t totally get it, but maybe you have to feel it yourself? Coffee Pot Rock made me laugh because yeah, it does look like an old percolator if you squint. By then my hair was full of dust and I didn’t care; being outside like that just felt good.

I keep thinking about those colors—how they shift with every cloud or shadow—and how for two hours you forget your phone except for pictures. If you’re looking for a day trip in Sedona that’s not just sitting on a bus, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sedona red rocks and spiritual sites

• Stop at scenic overlook near Airport
• View Thunder Mountain
• Visit Amitabha Stupa for 30 minutes
• Pass by Soldier's Pass
• Photo stop at Cathedral Rock
• See Coffee Pot Rock
• View Sedona's beautiful sights

Top questions

How long is the Sedona sightseeing tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Does the tour include stops at Cathedral Rock?

Yes, there is a stop for photos with Cathedral Rock included.

Is transportation provided during the tour?

Yes, you'll travel in an open-air vehicle during the tour.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join using prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available.

Is live narration included on this Sedona highlights tour?

Yes, expert guides provide live narration throughout the tour.

What are some key sights visited on this Sedona day trip?

The tour visits Airport Overlook, Thunder Mountain, Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, Soldier's Pass, Cathedral Rock, and Coffee Pot Rock.

Are service animals permitted on this sightseeing tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is public transportation available nearby the departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes travel in an open-air vehicle with shade and live narration from an expert local guide; you’ll stop at scenic spots like Airport Overlook, Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, Soldier’s Pass, Cathedral Rock for photos, plus see Thunder Mountain and Coffee Pot Rock along the way—all suitable for families with infants or service animals too.