Red Rock Loop Road
A scenic drive through Sedona's iconic red rock country, offering breathtaking vistas, photography opportunities, and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Red Rock Loop Road
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic drive through Sedona's iconic red rock country, offering breathtaking vistas, photography opportunities, and picnic spots.
"The light during sunrise and sunset is reediculous!"
🚗 SUV Recommended
While cars can manage, an SUV or 4WD is best for rougher sections and exploring offshoots.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Upper Red Rock Loop Road has great sunset views, perfect for a picnic. Grab some local fried chicken!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cathedral Rock Vista
Upper Red Rock Loop Road
Iconic views of Cathedral Rock and Courthouse Butte, especially stunning at sunset. Easy access for picnics.
Lover's Knoll
Off Red Rock Loop Road
Offers high, unobstructed views of Cathedral Rock and the night sky, perfect for stargazing and time-lapses.
Scenic Drive Experience
Entire Loop Road
A breathtaking journey through Sedona's red rock country, showcasing diverse landscapes and photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Vehicle & Road Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 SUV Recommended
While cars can manage, an SUV or 4WD is best for rougher sections and exploring offshoots.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Upper Red Rock Loop Road has great sunset views, perfect for a picnic. Grab some local fried chicken!
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The light during sunrise and sunset is incredible for photos of Cathedral Rock.
✨ Stargazing Gem
Lover's Knoll offers amazing night sky views, ideal for astrophotography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 SUV Recommended
While cars can manage, an SUV or 4WD is best for rougher sections and exploring offshoots.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Upper Red Rock Loop Road has great sunset views, perfect for a picnic. Grab some local fried chicken!
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The light during sunrise and sunset is incredible for photos of Cathedral Rock.
✨ Stargazing Gem
Lover's Knoll offers amazing night sky views, ideal for astrophotography.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Views
Many viewpoints are just steps from the road, making it accessible for everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and magical light on Red Rock Loop Road, especially during sunrise and sunset. The drive offers stunning views of iconic formations like Cathedral Rock and is perfect for photography and picnics. Some note that parts of the road can be rough, recommending an SUV for the best experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Red Rock Loop Road is located in West Sedona. Access is typically from Dry Creek Road or Boynton Pass Road. It's a scenic drive that winds through the red rock formations.
Parts of the road are paved, but many sections are unpaved and can be rough. An SUV or 4WD is recommended for the best experience, especially if you plan to explore side roads.
Yes, the loop is drivable, but conditions can vary. It's best to check recent road conditions if possible. The drive offers stunning vistas throughout.
Due to unpaved and potentially rough sections, larger RVs may find it challenging. Smaller vehicles are generally better suited for the entire loop.
The main access points are typically from Dry Creek Road, leading to the Upper Red Rock Loop Road, and also from Boynton Pass Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A Red Rock Pass is generally required for parking at trailheads and some viewpoints along the Red Rock Loop Road and surrounding areas managed by the Forest Service.
Red Rock Loop Road itself does not have set hours, as it's a public road. However, access to specific trailheads or areas might be restricted by daylight or park hours.
There is no direct fee to drive the road itself. However, you will need a Red Rock Pass if you plan to park at designated trailheads or popular viewpoints.
Red Rock Passes can be purchased at the Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center, online, or at various local businesses in Sedona.
While the road is free to drive, parking at popular spots like the Cathedral Rock trailhead (which is near the loop) requires a Red Rock Pass.
📸 📸 Photography
Highlights include the vista of Cathedral Rock and Courthouse Butte from Upper Red Rock Loop Road, especially at sunset. Lover's Knoll is excellent for night sky photography. 
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for the red rocks. Early mornings also offer fewer crowds.
Drone usage is restricted in many areas managed by the Forest Service, including within designated wilderness areas. Always check current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific rock formations. A tripod is essential for low-light and sunset shots.
Don't miss the panoramic views of Cathedral Rock and Courthouse Butte. The unique colors of the rocks change throughout the day.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is the scenic drive itself, with numerous pull-offs for photos. You can also find trailheads for hiking and enjoy picnics at designated spots.
Yes, several trailheads are accessible from the loop, offering opportunities for moderate hikes with stunning red rock views.
Absolutely! Upper Red Rock Loop Road offers fantastic picnic spots with incredible sunset views, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The drive itself can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how often you stop for photos, short walks, or to enjoy the views.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. A camera is a must for the incredible scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many viewpoints are just a short walk from where you can park, making it manageable for younger children. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks; it's a great way to let kids stretch their legs and enjoy the views without a strenuous hike. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as desert conditions can be intense. The drive itself is engaging, and the visual spectacle of the red rocks is captivating for all ages.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
Lover's Knoll is another prime location, renowned for its unobstructed views of Cathedral Rock and the night sky, making it perfect for astrophotography. Plan your visit around the golden hours to capture the most dramatic light. The road's varied terrain and numerous pull-offs provide diverse compositions. Remember to bring your wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a tripod for those magical low-light moments. The changing colors of the rocks throughout the day offer endless photographic possibilities.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the various pull-offs and viewpoints. It's the perfect route for a leisurely afternoon drive, allowing you to stop, take photos, and truly appreciate the stunning geological formations. Pack some snacks and drinks, as there are excellent picnic spots with incredible views, especially along the Upper Red Rock Loop Road.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive Experience
+1Many travelers recommend dedicating ample time to this drive, as the true magic lies in the numerous pull-offs and viewpoints. These spots are perfect for capturing stunning photographs, enjoying a leisurely picnic, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the desert. The changing light throughout the day dramatically alters the colors of the rocks, making early mornings and late afternoons particularly rewarding for photographers and sightseers alike.
+1For those seeking a more adventurous experience, several trailheads branch off the main loop, leading to further exploration of the surrounding wilderness. Whether you're driving the entire loop or stopping at key viewpoints, Red Rock Loop Road promises a memorable and visually spectacular journey through the heart of Sedona's natural splendor.
Capturing Sedona's Light
Lover's Knoll, accessible from the loop, is a particularly celebrated spot for photographers, especially those interested in astrophotography. Its high, unobstructed vantage point offers clear views of the night sky, making it ideal for capturing the Milky Way or star trails against the silhouette of the red rocks.
Early morning visits are also highly recommended, not only for the soft, beautiful light but also to avoid the peak crowds that can gather at more popular viewpoints later in the day. When planning your photography expedition, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the scenery and a tripod for stable shots during low-light conditions. The ever-changing colors and dramatic formations ensure that every visit offers a fresh perspective and a chance to capture truly iconic images of Sedona.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit