The trail ends at Airport Road across from the starting point at the parking turnout. come here near sunset for the best colors. There is little to no shade so wear a hat and bring lots of water! #2 of 130 Restaurants in Sedona. The trail is narrow and a little tricky (steep and sloping) in some places, pay attention to footing and you will be fine. You can just about make out some cars parked in the left side of the photo above. The vortex site and the vista overlook offer separate parking areas along Airport Road. We weren't here for sunset, but I can see how it would be beautiful. The beginning of the hike does have some steep drop offs and could be anxiety causing for those with a fear of heights. Where Are Those Morgans LLC is a participant in the Amazon services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Because it is so close to town, the views of downtown Sedona and the surrounding area are unbeatable! Behind the road you will be treated to staggering views over Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte as pictured above. Is Devil's Bridge a hard hike? Hiking time: allow 2.5 hours for round trip. Its worth the side trip after your main hike as it does not take up much time and the views are fantastic. - See 2,852 traveler reviews, 1,084 candid photos, and great deals for Sedona, AZ, at Tripadvisor. The trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip, although most of the times the main parking lot will be full and you will need to park at the scenic overlook lot. Airport Mesa This loop trail gives you panoramic views of Sedona's best-known red rock landmarks (plus the occasional thrill of getting buzzed by vintage aircraft). Descend on the narrow rocky path, looking left at residential Sedona with a backdrop of towering red rocks. Here, Airport Mesa is believed to exhibit a masculine energy, an up-flow of energy from out of the earth. Were big advocates of being out early in Sedona! We parked in the paid lot so we could hike the trail, see the views from the vortex site, and then be back in time to shoot sunset and night shots of Sedona. Montezuma Castle Read our popular guide to the 50 best hikes in the USA next! Very short hike connecting two popular vistas, Vista is incredibly easy to access by car, Not close to being the most exciting hike in Sedona. Airport Mesa Sedona Hiking Distance: 3.5 miles Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate This loop trail at Airport Mesa gives you panoramic views of Sedona's best-known red rock landmarks, as an added bonus you can see some vintage aircraft if you are lucky. With so few spaces available at the vortex site parking lot, many hikers wishing to take on the full Airport Loop are forced to park in the paid parking lot and adding on Sedona View Trail. Expect to share a small viewing area with plenty of pro photographers and instagrammers! Short walk up the rock to the top. We visited Sedona in Winter and it was still extremely crowded at parking lots and on hiking trails. Just keep looking right and it will be over in no time! Start by crossing street from parking area at sign for Airport Loop Trail. there is a trail off of this vista point, airport loop, that is a little over 3 miles long. The 3.5-mile loop trail skirts along the edge of the Airport Mesa, offering breathtaking views of the Mogollon Rim cliffs, West Sedona, and the surrounding area. Sedona In Autumn Lets take a look at both parking options. Watching the sunset at Airport Mesa is definitely one of the best things to do in Sedona. If you want to get the best photos of Sedona from Airport Mesa, make sure you hike Sedona View Trail so you can shoot both ends. Check out Hotels.com to find the best hotel deals around Airport Mesa, from cheap to luxury & more! Las Vegas Heading to Vegas before or after Sedona? Look for Airport Road to your left. If youre short on time, this is the adventure hike for you. Here are our popular guides on exactly what to do in Las Vegas and the best Las Vegas day trips. Heres the exact Google Maps GPS location you need to use for parking at Airport Mesa vista. The views are beautiful though. Airport Mesa is a 1.25 mile long by half a mile wide flattop mesa that sits to the south of the town of Sedona rising 500 feet above it. Head over to our Arizona travel guides to explore the best of Grand Canyon, Sedona and beyond. Do you have to hike to Airport Mesa? You get a great workout, incredible views, and a visit to a vortex site all in one hike! One of the most underrated areas in Sedona is Munds Wilderness. The Airport Mesa in Sedona Of all of Sedona's great attractions, its many famous rust-hued formations of red rock are the ones that leave the most lasting impressions within the minds and hearts of visitors, inspiring them to take photos, create or buy artwork, and go on hikesall for the best views of this otherworldly landscape. The trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip, although most of the times the main parking lot will be full and you will need to park at the scenic overlook lot. I dont know how you could ever take a dog on this trail. Today, millions of tourists come from all over the world to explore these vortex sites, as well as enjoy spiritual healing and other natural treatments. Sedona View Trail is easy to follow and relatively flat. Sedona Picnic Areas About Sedona. Hot to find it: In Google Maps search "Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout" to obtain driving directions. I would not rate this EASY. | Airport Mesa | Bell Rock | Cathedral Rock | Chapel of the Holy Cross | Coffee Pot Rock | Courthouse Rock |, Sedona Arizona per group (up to 2) Explore Sedona! The rocks here can become very slippery after or during rainfall. So please hike Sedona, help others, and rate a trail today! With lavish amenities and convenient locations, our spacious homes and cozy condos will ensure that you want for nothing during your stay in Sedona, and that the most exciting activities and magnificent attractions are never more than a few minutes away. If you do hike in the summer, set off before sunrise. I would not recommend it. Despite the scary nature, the trail is very beautiful with unending gorgeous views for the entire first 2 miles. On your hike in, you have sweeping views of all of West Sedona including Cockscomb, Bear Mountain, Thunder Mountain, Coffeepot, Wilson Mountain and Shiprock. At a few points along the path, the trail is barely more than a foot wide. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Note: Mountain biking is not recommended on this trail due to the rocky terrain and narrow drop offs. Follow the main trail east toward the rock and you'll come to a sign and another trail in about 200 feet. Its worth the effort of hiking down Sedona View Trail so you can enjoy the best views on both sides. A great hike once past the area mentioned above. Credit: K.C. After 0.6 miles you will reach a fork in the path. AIRPORT MESA TRAIL | The Hike House Airport Mesa Trail The trail circles the upper slope of Airport Mesa (Table Top Mountain), described clockwise here. The Sedona Airport Lookout is located at:538 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336. Meditating here can also be a great way to start the morning, as the site supposedly holds an inflow vortex of rejuvenating energy. The mesa offers stunning views of the surrounding red rocks and is a great place to watch the sunset. You dont have to belief in the New Age movement to enjoy Airport Mesa, however. Directions: There are two ways to access this Sedona, Arizona airport trail. The trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip, although most of the times the main parking lot will be full and you will need to park at the scenic overlook lot. Parking here means you can hike downhill to the vortex site, before hiking back up Sedona View Trail to watch sunset over town. The view trail is out and back, simply connecting the vista to the vortex site, whereas the loop trail encircles the airport and it begins/ends at the vortex site parking lot. Do you have to hike to Airport Mesa? If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Sedona View Trail is an easy hike with spectacular views I was ready to be finished about a half mile before I finished the loop. The cumulative trail ratings for the Airport Mesa Trail submitted by fellow hikers is located above with the Trail Data. . Enjoy! This left turn will take you into a much larger parking lot suited to such a popular sunset location. Airport Mesa has unbeatable views overlooking Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, Chimney Rock, and Coffee Pot Rock. As long as you are not afraid of heights, the trail itself is not overly difficult, just a bit long (plan 2-3 hours total and a bit more if taking the Sedona View side trail from the lookout area). " Post Hike Lunch " 27/11/2022. Drive west on Hwy 89a to turn right onto Airport Drive, where the scenic route begins. Overall, Airport Mesa is one of the more scenic hiking options in Sedona. The vortex parking lot is on the left 0.5 miles up the hill. Sedonas regional airport is built on top of a mesa and so you have Sedona Airport Mesa. If the vortex site lot is full, or you just want to see the Sedona scenic vista, continue driving up Airport Road as it gains elevation at a fairly steep gradient. Not for young kids or those with a fear of heights. According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Airport Mesa: Scenic Sedona Tour (From C$102.15) Sedona Hi-Points Luxury Van Tour (From C$61.93) Old West Open-Air Jeep Tour of Sedona (From C$402.96) Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour (From C$389.32) Once parked, hit the trail and begin your hike to Airport Mesa Vortex. Officially called the Airport Loop Trail, this well-worn, marked, and easy to follow 3.3 mile loop makes for a good hike/walk/run. Winter is a fantastic time to avoid both.Where to stay in Accommodation is expensive in Sedona, but there are plenty of very high quality places to stay including Matterhorn Inn, Lantern Light Inn, Arabella Hotel, Whispering Creek B&B and The Suites at Sedona.Popular things to do Sedona is one of the best places to hike in the US, but it is also a wonderful place to get off-road in a jeep, shoot stunning photography, visit historic sites and drink wine. This mesa has a wide-open view of Sedona and its surrounding rock formations in all directions, and aircraft enthusiasts can watch small planes land and take off. Simply appreciate the magnificent views of Sedonas spectacular Red Rocks and watch the sunset from this remarkably accessible vantage point.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'dreamsedona_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',140,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dreamsedona_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Take Highway 179 West from Interstate 17. 254 N State Route 89a Orchards Inn of Sedona. Specialist shoes are not required but be prepared for navigating sections of large and sharp rocks. Your email address will not be published. Airport Loop Trail is expressive of this dichotomy. The good news is there are wonderful views over Sedona for the duration of the hike. Further to the right you can see AZ-179 cutting through the stunning Sedona landscape toward Village of Oak Creek. Be sure to walk all around the area to find the best place to frame and expose your photos. While Sedona offers many stunning locations to hike to and experience, people flock to Airport Mesa for many different reasons. Vortex sites are areas of enhanced natural energy where the energy supposedly swirls out from surface of the earth. If you want to avoid the crowds, why not hike Sedona View Trail at sunrise? With the noise and fencing around the area I didnt feel like I was out in the wilderness at all whereas plenty of other trails pull back so you dont feel like your in the city. The hiking trail around the mesa is one of the easiest to navigate in all of Sedona and visitors experience only a slight 200 foot elevation gain over undemanding 3.5 mile loop. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 21 min to complete. Airport Mesa is enormously popular during sunset for a reason. Heading north on Airport Road is Sedona View Trailanother path that will take you to the vortex! More Sedona Pictures Tuesday, April 26, 2011 by The Hike House 14 Comments. From the parking area, climb to the southeast about 100 yards to the top of the small saddle(Airport Saddle- GPS coordinates: N34 51 24.2274, W-111 46 45.912). A new day has arrivedwhile you still must hike a portion of Broken Arrow to get to Hogs, the trail departs from the [Read More], Hiking Preparedness + Energy Supply + Apparel & Gear, View the Airport Mesa Trail Slideshow and Commentary. Sedona is well-known for its believed vortex energy. The hike is exclusively downhill from the west side (scenic vista) to the east side (vortex site) with excellent views throughout. The trail circles the upper slope of Airport Mesa (Table Top Mountain), described clockwise here. . Quick drive up and down Airport Mesa in Sedona. Cathedral Rock, Arizona Tourist Vacation Planning Guide The Airport Mesa vista is busier and more popular at sunset because of its higher elevation and ease of access. 2,729 reviews. It is likely to be busy, but you can find a spot to stand and watch or set up your tripod. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you have plenty of time on your Sedona itinerary, we would recommend including the full Airport Loop to your agenda. Bootlegger Campground The Overlook Trail is a short path that leads to the top of a mini-mesa that is home to one of Sedona's infamous vortex sites. To get here from Sedona's "Y" junction (state routes 89A and 179), travel one mile west on 89A to Airport Mesa Road. Lots of gorgeous prickly pear cacti, my personal favorite desert plant, line the first section of the trail. Best Time To Visit, Sedona Annual Events The trail is mostly flat and offers some amazing views of Sedona and the surrounding red rocks. Parks near 200 Raintree Rd include Broken Arrow Trail, Rancho Sedona RV Park, and Airport Loop Trail. Parking on the mesa can be tough and there are a lot of hikers in the immediate area, but once you get past the overlook, you'll have the trail to youreself. Read more in our disclosure policy.*. This short but steep climb is easy enough for most hikers but may not be suitable for some. The trail was much rockier than expected and narrow. It is a mostly level trail for the first mile and then it begins a gradual and then moderate ascent over basalt boulders to the top of the south corner of the mesa at 1.4 miles. The map above shows what you can expect around the Sedona Airport Mesa area. The first half of the hike there was no where to put your feet. 11. Places. Directions From Prescott This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Bell Rock Hike the Bell Rock Courthouse Butte Loop Trail for stunning Sedona views, a fun slick rock climb and our hidden loop half way up the formation. Arizona State Map Book one of our cool Sedona holiday rentals now! The Hike House Sedona Trail Rating System provides actual hiker feedback and ratings of each of the Sedona hiking trails. Airport Mesa Road: Sedona Airport Vortex. This is a great hike. Park at the paid parking lot at the top of the hill around 1 hour 30 minutes before sunset. Biological Soil Crust: Holding the Place in Place. Courthouse Rock Less popular is the 3.3-mile trail that traverses the midsection of the mountain like a belt. This was not what I was imagining. Trees and a metal fence will both inevitably be prominent in your foreground from this vista as you look over Sedona. First, to get to Airport Mesa, start from Sedona by taking North State Route 89A south toward Forest Road. Take the second exit at the traffic circle, onto AZ-89A. Airport Mesa is popular place for visitors to drive up for views of the Sedona area from a high perch, especially at sunset and sunrise. Description: From the parking area on Airport Road, you'll see a tall rock formation in front of you. Sedona Airport View Trail is a short easy hike and suitable for all ages. You are enveloped in bright sunshine with the breath-taking vast view of the wildlife rich mesa and open field. Directions To Flagstaff with lots of stops. If you click on one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! The Airport Mesa is a hiking loop around Table Top Mountain through basalt boulders & red rocks to panoramic views from the Tabletop Plateau. Energy aside, gorgeous views in all directions make this east end of the Sedona View Trail an unmissable stop on your visit to this remarkable landscape. Airport Mesa is one of the 4 major Sedona vortexes, along with Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. Parking: 9 spaces plus 1 hadicap The Airport Mesa Trail is the place to go if you're looking for those iconic red rock views seen in many photos of Sedona. Our best Sedona photos were taken here. Its hard to imagine what it would be like during peak times! Along this trail you'll also come across the Airport Mesa Vortex, which is also visible on the map if you'd like to stop by. W/Sedona 1BR #1 - $399 avg/night - West Sedona - Amenities include: Swimming pool, Internet, TV, Washer & dryer, Parking Bedrooms: 1 Sleeps: 4 Minimum stay from 2 night(s) Bookable directly online - Book vacation rental 2932587 with Vrbo. To hike Sedona View Trail, public parking is $3 (paid in a kiosk or to an attendant) and sits right before the trailhead. This is by far my least favorite trail in Sedona so far. Fortunately, this trail was placed here as an alternative to walking a dangerous road. an AMAZING viewpoint. Red Rocks Of Sedona Sedona Campgrounds Airport Mesa 2,852 189 ftHiking Trails Sedona Airport Overlook 1,577 0.6 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks Sedona View Trail 2 0.3 miHiking Trails Contribute Write a review Upload a photo This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Head back onto Sedona View Trail once youve soaked up enough of the Airport Mesa vortex site view. Of all of Sedonas great attractions, its many famous rust-hued formations of red rock are the ones that leave the most lasting impressions within the minds and hearts of visitors, inspiring them to take photos, create or buy artwork, and go on hikesall for the best views of this otherworldly landscape. once we turned the corner it wasn't very interesting at all, being on the backside of the municipal airport in Sedona. It is a great place to watch sunset and it takes very little effort to get there. Because of this incredible display, Airport Mesa is a popular site for observing several famous red rock formations, as well as hiking. If you want to get to the hard to reach places, you should hire a jeep.When to visit Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit Sedona, but they come with a higher price tag and more crowds. One wrong move and down you and your dog go. Not only does this trail offer amazing views of many of Sedona's most stunning red rock formations along a steep, narrow course, but it also happens to be one of 4 vortex hikes. Both points of interest are worth seeing, which means Sedona View Trail is worth hiking. These are worth the extra effort on cooler days when you have the extra time, although I wouldnt recommend extending your hike more than necessary during the hot season. From the top of Airport Mesa, you get an awesome 360-degree view of Sedona. You have almost 180 degrees of Sedona views to soak up from the scenic overlook vista. This was my favorite hike I did while I was there! Details for the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout at Sunrise. Pass through The Village of Oak Creek to Sedona until you reach the "Y" intersection with Highway 89A. Spectacular 360-degree views await you on this hike From Airport Mesa Loop you can see: Courthouse Rock Bell Rock Remember, you will be gaining 250 ft elevation continuously on the way back up to the vista. A short drive from anywhere in town takes you to the top, where you'll find a large, flat parking area and an overlook where you can watch the sunset with visitors from all over the world. Required fields are marked *, Hogs Trail Difficulty is based on: length without shade, narrow trail, sharp drop-offs (in sections). Sedona means many things to many peoplebrilliant red buttes, rugged wilderness, mystic hotspotsand that conjunction of nature and mysticism results in crowds. If you only do one on your way through, this is the one. This energy is said to bring feelings of reflection, joy and stress reduction. Private and Luxury. Directions To Sedona Sedona Weather From here, you will enjoy more amazing views of the stunning red rock formations. Cathedral Rock Sedona is filled with amazing hikes but Cathedral Rock Trail is one of the most iconic. Trail length: None. " 89Agave " 04/12/2022. Looking for hiking inspiration? You can do the 1st mile and turn around and go back. Sedona continues to be recognized as a place of healing and spiritual renewal. Sedona Airport Overlook - 35 tips from 2600 visitors See all 394 photos Sedona Airport Overlook Scenic Lookout, Airport, and Mountain Sedona Save Share Tips 35 Photos 394 8.8/ 10 205 ratings Ranked #1 for scenic views in Sedona "Get the best sunrise and sunset views here!" (5 Tips) "For the best views in West Sedona, come here, you can see it all." Boynton Canyon Exactly how to find the famous Subway Cave on Boynton Canyon Trail, the most photographed cave in Sedona. Directions To Phoenix Several different trails lead up to the top of the mesa, and the hike can be tailored to any fitness level. Are you planning to head to Southern Arizona? There are loads of small depressions on the flat top at the vortex site and you can create interesting images with reflections if you get low enough. Want more Arizona content? I just dont get how its rated easy. Along with its panoramic views along the loop, hikers are drawn to the vortex at the trailhead. From here, you will take the 0.6 mile Sedona view trail to get to the Airport Mesa trail. Boasting free parking, a spa centre and an outdoor swimming pool, Sky Ranch Lodge Sedona is located a 10-minute ride from Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. Boynton Canyon Trail Keep on trail by checking signs as a few trails intersect this one. But the photo ops are incredible. Eat breakfast before your hike and refuel afterwards. Cathedral Rock The whole trail is packed dirt and small to large stones. Once you summit and reach the flat topped red rock, you are in for a scenic treat. Airport Mesa at sunset was crowded since it's so popular. After half a mile you will reach a pedestrian crossing with a sign guiding you into a left turn. It ends at at point with great panoramic views taking in the Red Rock Loop Road area to the west and many of the areas most noted formations all around. A Woman Hikes the Airport Loop Trail, Sedona, AZ, USA A View Looking East from the Airport Loop, Sedona, AZ, USA View from Airport Vortex in Sedona, Arizona with red rocks Be sure to check the very small Airport Mesa parking lot just to be sure there isnt a spot open. Considered an inflow vortex by spiritual believers, visitors report feeling rejuvenated by the rush of energy being drawn inward. Grand Canyon Just 2 hours from Sedona is the incredible Grand Canyon South Rim, create your wishlist from the best hikes at Grand Canyon South Rim. Airport Mesa is known to strengthen your masculine side, which means that you might feel moreenergized, active, and determined after your hike. This route is. Sedona In Winter Drive up Airport Road until you reach the dirt parking lot on your left. Plus it is very accessible. This means you will be hiking about 4.5 miles in total which really is not fun during the heat of summer! (also not ideal for families with younger children) The trail itself is easy to follow, some rocky terrain but mostly just easy walking. Follow a roped trail until it bends right and climbs up uneven rocks to a flat summit. Explore this 3.2-mile loop trail near Sedona, Arizona. You can see the famous Sedona Jeep trail Broken Arrow with submarine rock a standout formation. There are two places you can park when visiting Sedona Airport Mesa. 109 reviews of Airport Mesa "WOW. Stay in the loop and travel with us! Park here and you can walk over to the viewing spot. Golden Goose American Grill. I love trails like bear mountain, wilson mountain and ab young but i have to say that the airport loop is by far my fav trail in sedona i hike it every day and just love love love love love it. Just be sure to pick up after your pooch, none of us want to have a surprise on the trail! The trail was a good start for two novice hikers in Average shape had some small climbs with some outstanding views. * * * The Sedona Airport Loop Trail is a moderate 3.2mi hike that circles Table Mountain, also known as Airport Mesa. 50 Things To Do In Sedona The views are still spectacular. You will pass by the free parking lot and a path leading further left which marks the other side of the Airport Loop. The hike is super short and is more rewarding than driving to the top since you clearly get your exercise in AND there's less of a crowd at the trail. Why Airport Mesa at Sunset is One of the Best Hikes in Sedona Adventure Landscapes North America United States Airport Mesa & VortexMy Favorite Sedona Sunset Hike June 20, 2021 For most of my time in Sedona, I ended up going the "dinner with a sunset view" route, but I knew that I needed to do at least one amazing sunset hike. A 3.5-mile loop that ends at a vortex. Many people in the past would take on this area because the predominant trail for this area, Broken Arrow, is adjacent to a heavily traveled jeep road. Plan on hiking this trail in the cooler fall or spring season (during the summer afternoons temps often reach the high 90s). Yes Sedona View Trail is a dog friendly hike in Sedona. You will see many more people on this detour than on the actual hike. You would then hike up Sedona View Trail to reach the scenic vista point, before returning downhill to reach your car. The views were 360 amazing! Airport Mesa is one of Sedona, Arizona's most popular hiking destinations. This is not an easy trail and not for young kids due to steep dropoffs and uneasy footing on 1st mile of hike. Just past the 2 mile mark, the trail intersects the top of the Bandit Trail on the left which leads down into West Sedona. Hike for costal couch-potatos, but Walk for seasoned hikers. Glad we did the hike, which wasn't that difficult at all, but next time would likely only hike . Sedona Hiking Trails, Directions From Flagstaff However, if you choose to go at dawn, there wont be nearly as many people. Miles From Sedona The trail gets a bit rocky, so a hiking stick and good shoes comes in handy for this portion of the trail. Top ways to experience Airport Mesa See all Recommended Tours & Sightseeing Outdoor Activities Small Group Sedona Red Rock and Native American Ruins Day Tour 198 Recommended Bus Tours from $169.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Sedona Chakra Vortex Tour 62 Recommended Walking Tours from $175.00 per adult Scenic Sedona Tour 133 Recommended Bus Tours The Airport Mesa is one of those unique locations with intensely good energy, even though the entire city is a vortex. Zion National Park Zion is an adventure playground for adults, find the very best hikes in Zion and choose between 5 ways you can spend a one day in Zion itinerary. We enjoyed discovering all the heart rocks tucked here and there by previous hikers. A unique red rock view from the trail. To reach the large upper lot (near the start of the Sedona View Trail) continue driving up Airport Mesa Road to the end. Check out our weekend in Tucson itinerary! It took me about 4 hrs. Airport Mesa Sedona, AZ Airport Mesa is known as "the" sunset spot in Sedona. Beaver Creek Campground Youll benefit from similar stunning soft light photography opportunities but you wont have to deal with the crowds. With that said, you could just park at both parking lots and cut out the hike entirely if you really dont want to walk it. 18,209.07. The first mile and a half takes you alonga very narrow trail with several steep drop offs. Airport Mesa is one of the 4 major Sedona vortexes, along with Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. The trail levels out, turns north and follows the airport perimeter fence for a time. We did not bring enough water so we decided to cut the hike short only went out for 30 minutes and turned back. Airport Mesa has unbeatable views overlooking Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, Chimney Rock, and Coffee Pot Rock. As you continue ahead, the trail descends some more and levels out after a switchback. Sedona Map The trail was had a lot of loose rock on a precipice and circumvented the airport. Airport Mesa. from. Copyright 2012-22 top-ten-travel-list.com. It is easy to access and it is a beautiful vista as you can see in the photo above. | About Us | Site Map | Contact |, View of Coffee Pot Rock From Airport Mesa. Sedona Hiking Trails Map You can get a better version of that view later when youre back at the scenic vista. We've been to Airport Mesa a few times, all at different times of the day. A tripod will help with keeping your ISO down during low light shots as the sun sets. As you walk the trail, you'll be able to feel the "masculine energy" that the Airport Mesa vortex emits. No room for wandering. After passing the saddle, turn right to enter the trail and follow it around to the left, tracking the southeast slope of Airport Mesa. The views here are over West Sedona and of Capitol Butte and Wilson Mountain. Right would lead you onto Airport Loop Trail but you want to stay left leading to a small mound. Shuttles & Transportation The best places to see these well-known rock formations occur in two spots: one that has a short hike, and one that is easily accessible by car. The Sedona Airport Mesa Loop is one of the areas scariest & most scenic hiking trails. Your trail feedback and ratings are an important resource for fellow hikers and provide a personal account of your trail experience from which others may learn. Manzanita Campgrounds What Trails Can I Take At Airport Mesa? Sedona Airport Mesa Hike, Arizona One of the best treks is the Airport Mesa Vortex hike, a loop trail that also provides panoramic views of the top red rock landmarks along with the opportunity to soak up that mystical energy and enjoy quiet contemplation. Airport Mesa is often mentioned as a hike to be avoided, but we thought it was definitely one of the best easy hikes in Sedona because it encompasses everything Sedona is famous for - views, red rocks, and the energy vortex! You must pay $3 to park in this lot. This 1.2-mile round trip is a bit steep in places but there are plenty of . Clockwise . This trail climbs the face of Airport Mesa and then ventures out onto a connecting knoll, offering views of the red rocks and planes taking off all at the same time. The main airport loop is a 3.5 mile relentless tech fest with huge exposure and constantly threatening cactus. Many visitors to Airport Mesa come to experience the energy vortex believed to exist there. Turn right to pick up the trail which immediately bends to the left to follow the southeast slope of the mesa. Once you loop around (near the 2 mile mark), the views become a little less exciting, however, there are more trees and a little bit of shade, providing a much needed break from the intense heat. This trail is downhill at the start and uphill on the way back, which is really tiring after completing a 4 mile hike! Pin It For Your Hike! Sedona is world famous for its incredible natural beauty and a wide array of outdoor activities. Airport Mesa Road has one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona just minutes away from the airport runway. This mesa has a wide-open view of Sedona and its surrounding rock formations in all directions, and aircraft enthusiasts can watch small planes land and take off. I would rate the trail as moderate due to the intense heat, distance, and numerous slight inclines along the way. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Airport Mesa also holds a special significance in that it is one of 4 Vortex sites in Sedona. 4 groceries, 74 restaurants, 10 parks. Sedona's airport has been constructed on top of this mesa. You wont be able to see the sun setting from the vortex site. Go 0.5 miles and park in the turnout on the left. Good luck everyone. Cuisines: Steakhouse, Seafood, American, Bar, Grill. Order Online. It was more of a walk, than a hike. It was great scenery especially at the top with planes flying above you. What is Airport Mesa in Sedona and why is it so popular? Area Indian Ruins Drive up Airport Road until you reach the dirt parking lot on your left. Depending on the amount of energy you have and the type of experience you want, you can visit either spot. Airport Loop Trail is a separate hike to Sedona View Trail. Aside from the gorgeous sunrises & sunsets, this vortex . I recommend going counterclockwise for those with young kids, fear of heights, not in the best of shape, or not having 3 or more hrs to hike. Kids will be fine if they are used to staying undercontrol and ON trail. Your email address will not be published. 2545 W State Route 89A. Soon, the trail begins a moderate descent and turns to the northeast. How to Hike Airport Loop Trail Starting from the parking area, head southeast for approximately 300 feet, to the crest of a small saddle. It is popular because of its elevated vantage point and central location providing spectacular vistas over the red rock landscape. From here, you will take the 0.6 mile Sedona view trail to get to the Airport Mesa trail. The best places to see these well-known rock formations occur in two spots: one that has a short hike, and one that is easily accessible by car. Directions: Head to Sedona's airport and turn left on airport road. From his Instagram stories and others : 30 March 2021. The energy radiating vantage point offers stunning views over much of Sedona, including a south facing vista over both Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. This is the most popular site for people to look out at the formations at dusk, so be prepared for a crowd at sunset. Recommended. Sedona In Winter Oak Creek Loop Our first visit here, we did the Airport Loop Trail, which was about 4 miles roundtrip.For this hike, we recommend either just going to the viewpoint and back or doing the backwards way up the loop. It drops down to cross a small wash and climbs out to the west where it intersects the Table Top Trail at 1.7 miles. Summer sees a slight decrease in visitors due to the Arizona heat, but Winter sees a more significant drop in tourist numbers. Airport Mesa At a Glance General Information Directions: From the junction of Routes 89A and 179, take 89A west 1.0 miles to Airport Road on the left. Cool. How to get around Sedona is small but youll need a car to access the best hikes to the north and south of town. It is hard to believe you were on the same mountain after experiencing both. Lets hike and photograph Airport Mesa in Sedona Arizona! Choosing this lot means you can walk down Sedona View Trail and return in time to watch sunset over the town. Lets take a look at some of the most asked questions about hiking Sedona View Trail in Sedona. You can hike the loop to get exercise and for stunning views of one of the most scenic trails in the area. Along the way you can connect to 2 short side trails, Tabletop and Bandit, for more stunning views of the rock formations. Incredible views from the vortex lookout. Where does Airport Mesa Scenic Drive begin and end? Even if the vortex has no effect on you whatsoever, the gorgeous views sure are relaxing and awe-inspiring! Our newsletter is sent out quarterly to provide things to do for each season! History Of Sedona Sedona, Arizona is known as Red Rocks country. Take kids up Sedona's Airport Summit Trail to experience the vortex's positive cosmic energy. The four best known Sedona vortexes are found at Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyoneach radiating its own particular energy. Went counter clockwise. Areas where find a twisted juniper tree are believed to be the most concentrated sources of energy. A mesa is essentially a flat topped ridge or hill with steep drops to each side. Soldier Pass Hike to Devils Kitchen and Seven Sacred Pools before climbing into Soldier Pass Cave on the family friendly Solider Pass Trail in Sedona. Sedona Air Tours Cave Spring Campground Heres the exact Google Maps GPS location you need to use for parking at the Airport Mesa vortex site. Oak Creek Loop " Casual & Delicious " 03/12/2022. Drive 0.5 miles south on Airport Mesa Road and look for the small parking lot next to the overlook trailhead. A very easy trail but long views are spectacular, 360 degrees as you travel the circuit. To get to the top it does involve some vertical hiking and it is not for everyone, but the views from the top are stupendous in all directions. Here are some of the best places to watch the Arizona sun dip over the popular city of Sedona: 1. Hiking Distance: Less than 1/4 mile round trip Trailhead Location: The trailhead is located on Airport Road. Sedonas Airport Mesa vortex site sits atop a flat table-top red rock formation. Sedona View Trail runs almost exactly east to west, with the vortex site on the east end and the scenic sunset vista on the west end. Route Description for Sedona Airport Loop Trail The Sedona Airport Loop Trail is a moderate 3.2 mi hike that circles Table Mountain, also known as Airport Mesa. After one mile, continue straight on the traffic circle to stay on the AZ-89A. There are two trails: the Airport Mesa Overlook Trail and the Airport Loop Trail. And Airport Mesa is one of its famous vortex sites. Cuisines: Mexican, Southwestern, Bar. Walk over the pedestrian crossing next to the parking lot and you will enter a small graveled viewing area. Airport Summit Trail. Coffee Pot Rock This accommodation is located near Sedona Airport Overlook, 4 km from the centre of . Is hiking in Sedona safe? Hiking. There are a couple of short, steep sections, with grades of 7-10%. Need a great West Sedona hotel or accommodation near Airport Mesa? Overall this is the one hike you dont want to miss, but be prepared with good shoes, plenty of water and enough time not to lose sunlight. Visitors to Airport Mesa can reach the top of the knoll in just a few minutes and it makes the perfect spot for spending a quiet afternoon or enjoying an early evening picnic. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Red Rocks Of Sedona GPS ( Map ): 3451'19.7"N 11146'50.5"W Well Im not an advanced hiker though I am in pretty good shape. You can also find one of the 4 main Sedona vortex sites and more fantastic views at Airport Mesa, but it is located on a small mound 250 ft lower and 0.7 of a mile to the east. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi! Look for tiny puddles remaining from recent rainfall. As you enter the lot you will be funneled to a kiosk and pay for a parking permit. |, Brew with a view: 10 Coffeeshops with Amazing Scenery. While there are no particular rock formations at the Mesa itself, Airport takes off with stunning views of other nearby monuments, including spectacular vistas to the northeast of Coffee Pot Rock and Chimney Rock, and Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and Cathedral Rock to the south. If youre wondering what all the fuss is about surrounding the view from Airport Mesa, take a look at the pano we stitched together in the photo above. Directions To Airport Mesa Take Highway 179 West from Interstate 17. You will find theres a lot more room on the vortex site summit than expected. If you have fear of heights, this is not for you. Turn left (west) at the Y onto Highway 89A. Follow the signs and head out of the parking lot toward Sedona View Trail. And, its an excellent place to take photos, especially aroundsunset. Airport Mesa at sunset is one thing you shouldnt miss from your Sedona itinerary. If you wish to go on a hike up the small knoll or stop along the way, this is the place to park. Camp Fees & Reservations Wear good hiking shoes and carry a stick for extra traction. You will pass through a fence and must remember to close the gate to prevent deer from running onto the airport runway. The graveled area at Sedona Airport Mesa vista point is small and fills right before sunset. Check sunset times in Sedona here. You'll see prickly pear cactus and juniper trees along the trail. Hiking Oak Creek Trail Few places are better for catching a glimpse of this gorgeous natural panorama than Airport Mesa in Sedona, where the low light reflects brilliantly off of the shimmering minerals and striations of multi-colored rocks and creates an unforgettable spectacle for viewers to behold. The views here are over West Sedona and of Capitol Butte and Wilson Mountain. But the elevation changes are not rough. The two sides of the mountain are completely different in both terrain, plant life and geological formations. 0.6 km from Sedona Healing Massage. 89Agave Cantina. Hike, climb, and bike the 400+ miles of trails the area has to offer. It was harder than expected as it was very narrow I would reccomend it for other new hikers. We consider View Trail to be one of the best easy hikes in Sedona because it is short and leads to two fantastic photography locations. The main trail we abut is the Airport Mesa Loop Trail, a 4-mile moderate hike that passes by the airport mesa vortex and offers incredible views of Sedona the entire way. The area's strikingly beautiful landscape is etched with trails of varying difficulty that allow hikers to experience the red rock vistas and magnetic sense of peace for which Sedona is internationally known. The views are great as you traverse around the mountain. Oak Creek Brewery & Grill, The Art of Wine, and Butterfly Burger. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'dreamsedona_com-box-3','ezslot_1',146,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dreamsedona_com-box-3-0');No trip to Sedona would be complete without a visit to Airport Mesa. Its a little difficult at times with steep dropoffs in many parts. Vortexes are known to be masculine or feminine in nature, or as in the case of Boynton Canyon, a balance of the 2 energies. After a life changing and far reaching 18 month honeymoon, we put our careers on hold to do what we love most - help you to travel, hike and photograph your bucket list destinations around the world. Grasshopper Point Airport Mesa is a short and easy drive that leads to 360 degree views of Sedona. An easy trail to the left of the parking lot will take to you to the vortex site. Chimney Rock Little Sugarloaf Loop Trail: Stunning Sedona Sunrise Hike, Complete Guide To Montezuma Castle National Monument (+ Well). Sedona Pictures Tips: Drink lots of water along the way and hydrate afterwards. Chapel Of The Holy Cross From the Visitor Center, 331 Forest Road, turn right on 89A for 1.0 miles; turn left on Airport Rd for 0.5 miles to free Airport Saddle parking; continue 0.5 miles to Airport Vista parking lot ($3 parking fee). It could be rated as easy by some hikers but to others it will be rated as moderate. That includes the entire inhabited area of downtown, plus some of the regions most impressive red rock formations in the background. Dogs must be kept on a short leash at all times but they are permitted to explore all areas around Airport Mesa, including the vortex site and scenic vista. Sedona View Trail is less a traditional hike and more of a connecting path between two popular scenic vista points. Our premium, luxury vacation properties are available for rent in the Sedona area. Im an out of shape 50+ and hiked the Airport Loop and the Tabletop Mesa Spur in 80-90 degree weather in June. Even better, there are maps showing what you are looking at in each direction. This particular vortexis very popular as it locatedthe closest to the center of town. Contact our reservation specialists to find out more about what Sedona holds in-store for you when you book one of our elite vacation homes today! Be careful around the narrow edges -take your time! From here, you will take the 0.6 mile Sedona View trail to get to the Airport Mesa trail. Hiking time: allow 2.5 hours for round trip USGS Maps: Sedona Notes: No horse trailer parking. Parking here would mean you can access the vortex site with its amazing views easily. Airport Mesa Vortex is perfect for small weddings since parking is very limited and the access path can be daunting to wedding guests. Was This Post Helpful? This geological wonderland is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. *Please note this post may contain affiliate links. One of the most popular hikes in Sedona (for a good reason) is Cathedral Rock Trail. Staying after sunset for night views over Sedona is highly recommended. Airport Loop is a very rocky 3.5 mile loop trail with spectacular views throughout. Sit, absorb, enjoy! Just note that the parking area for the trail itself is very limited, with only a handful of spots for cars. Both ends of the hike offer stunning views, especially at sunset when Airport Mesa becomes the most in-demand sunset photography spot in Sedona. For Prince Jackson and the team of friends is time for a day trekking workout in Airport Mesa (Sedona) For the full video watch on YouTube Channel Jackson'sNews and subscribe Thanks a lot An amazing place and panoramic without no words. Hi, Im a local that hikes every day. 3190 West State Route 89A, Suite 550, Sedona, AZ 86336. Sedona Hiking and Outdoor Exploration With its diverse selection of hiking trails, Sedona, Arizona is a mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. There is also a short detour to a mini-mesa that's a popular vortex spot. We're Mark and Kristen Morgan, two adventure seeking scientists raised on opposite sides of the Atlantic. Take plenty of water, as theres not much shade. The length was longer than I thought and the Tabletop trail was the highlight of the hike. Free cancellations on selected hotels. For now, we suggest you spend your time here at the Airport Mesa vortex site looking instead to the southeast. 50 Area Things To Do Birthing Cave The easiest cave to reach in Sedona is Birthing Cave on Long Canyon Trail, ending with amazing views and a crowd free climax. The sunset views from the Mesa are absolutely breathtaking, with vibrant bursts of orange, red and crimson across the sky. Airport Loop Trail. . Please let us know if you have any questions about hiking Airport Mesa Sedona View Trail or your visit to Sedona in the comments below. Never hike alone. Sedona Picnic Areas Other vortex hikes include Boynton Canyon (a balance of the 2), Cathedral Rock (feminine), and Bell Rock (masculine) . Sedona Airport Mesa vortex site parking is free of charge but spaces are limited to around 10. 4.2 km from Brin's Mesa Trail. It is not a strenuous hike at all, but will take at least 3-4 hrs if moving at a moderate pace taking in the spectacular views. Bell Rock Glad I did it just shaking in my boots the whole time. I wish you could see the pictures my husband got of me freaking out. 3) Templeton Trail Even advanced technical riders will hike a good chunk of it. The summit of the rock at the trail head was icing on the cake! If youre not feeling up to a hike, continue straight up the road, all the way to the top (but before you reach the airport). However, the gradient isnt too steep and the trail is short enough for almost all visitors to handle. 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