Recommended day trip: Sedona — logistics and what to see
Sedona is a feasible full-day drive from Kimpton Miralina Resort and Villas — plan roughly 2 hours each way (about 126 miles) by car, so expect a 4–6 hour round-trip driving window plus 4–6+ hours exploring. Leave early, pack water and sun protection, and prioritize 1–2 trailheads or scenic stops (Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, or Oak Creek Canyon) for a comfortable day trip.
In this guide
Getting there — drive, timing and practical logistics
Sedona is generally reached from the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley area by car. Typical published estimates put the drive from the Scottsdale area to Sedona at about 126 miles and roughly 2 hours each way, depending on traffic and exact start/end points.
Because the round trip involves approximately 4 hours of driving total, most guests leave early (before 8:00 AM) and return in the evening. The hotel does not operate an airport shuttle; a car is recommended for local travel and day trips.
- Typical driving time: ~2 hours one way (published estimate).
- Recommended departure: early morning to avoid mid-day traffic and crowds.
- Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for short hikes.
| From Kimpton Miralina | Approx. distance | Approx. drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Sedona (town / red rocks) | 126 miles | ~2 hours |
| Flagstaff (if combining visits) | — | About 2 hours (published estimates vary) |
| Grand Canyon (South Rim — long day trip) | — | Longer: published sources note ~3.5–4 hours one way |
Suggested one-day Sedona itinerary
Keep the plan simple: one main trail or viewpoint in the morning, a scenic drive and lunch in town, then a short afternoon hike or overlook before heading back. That balances driving time with time on the red rocks.
This sample schedule assumes an early departure from the resort and typical traffic conditions; adjust for seasonal daylight and personal pace.
- 6:30–7:30 AM — Depart Kimpton Miralina Resort and Villas
- 9:30–10:00 AM — Arrive in Sedona; head to Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock for a short hike or photo stop
- 12:00–1:30 PM — Lunch in Sedona town (downtown or along Highway 179)
- 2:00–4:00 PM — Scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon or a short afternoon trail (e.g., Little Horse, Fay Canyon)
- 4:30–5:00 PM — Begin drive back to Scottsdale
| Time block | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Hike Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock; viewpoint photos |
| Midday | Lunch and walk through Sedona’s shops/galleries |
| Afternoon | Scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon; one short trail |
What to see — pick 1–2 priorities
Sedona’s main draws are its red-rock formations and easy-access trailheads. For a single-day visit from Scottsdale, limit yourself to one or two iconic stops so you have time for driving and a relaxed lunch.
Trail difficulty varies; many popular viewpoints are short but can include steep or rocky sections. Choose according to fitness and the day’s heat.
- Cathedral Rock — short but steep scramble to dramatic viewpoints
- Bell Rock — easier walks and good photographic angles from the base
- Oak Creek Canyon — scenic drive with pullouts and picnic spots
- Chapel of the Holy Cross — architectural viewpoint with parking
- Downtown Sedona (Tlaquepaque and galleries) — shops and lunch options
| Spot | Why visit | Time to allow |
|---|---|---|
| Cathedral Rock | Iconic red-rock silhouette and close-up views | 1–2 hours |
| Oak Creek Canyon | Scenic drive and creekside pullouts | 1–2 hours (drive + stops) |
| Downtown / Tlaquepaque | Lunch, galleries, short walks | 1–2 hours |
Practical tips from the resort
Start from Kimpton Miralina Resort and Villas (7200 N. Scottsdale Road); the property recommends a car for local travel and day trips. The resort’s front desk is open 24 hours and can assist with directions or local recommendations.
Pack for desert conditions: water, sun protection, hats, and closed-toe shoes for rocky trails. Check vehicle fuel, and note that some trailheads have limited or paid parking.
- Hotel address: 7200 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85253.
- If you need assistance, BookResorts agents (24/7) can be reached at +1 (888) 605-1350 (independent travel agency).
- Pool and fitness access at the resort are available before/after your day trip if you return in the evening.
| Resort service | Hours / note |
|---|---|
| Front desk | 24 hours |
| Check-in / Check-out | Check-in 4:00 PM — Check-out 11:00 AM |
| Pools | Open 7:00 AM–10:00 PM (included with resort fee) |
What to eat — quick options before and after
If you want breakfast before you leave, Cafe Libre at Kimpton Miralina Resort and Villas opens early and serves coffee, pastries and morning staples. Hecho Libre serves breakfast later and accepts reservations via OpenTable.
For lunch in Sedona, downtown and the commercial stretch along SR 179 have a range of cafes, Mexican/Baja-style menus, and casual eateries suitable for returning to the resort afterward.
- Cafe Libre — opens early for coffee and pastries (hotel cafe).
- Hecho Libre — Baja-Sonoran breakfast, lunch and dinner at the resort (breakfast hours listed 7:00–11:00 AM).
- Pack snacks and water for trails — convenience can be limited at popular trailheads.
| On-site option | Typical hours |
|---|---|
| Cafe Libre | 6:00 AM–2:00 PM |
| Hecho Libre | Breakfast 7:00–11:00 AM; Lunch 11:00 AM–2:00 PM; Dinner 5:00–10:00 PM |
| CIMA Pool Bar | 11:00 AM–8:00 PM (poolside cocktails / small plates) |
Safety, accessibility and seasonal considerations
Desert weather can be hot in summer and mild in shoulder seasons; published guidance recommends shoulder seasons (October–November and March–April) for comfortable daytime hiking. Monsoon storms can occur mid-summer and produce brief, intense thunderstorms.
If you require accessible trail options or parking, check trailhead information in advance. The resort offers 13 accessible rooms and accessible parking; the front desk can help with local accessibility questions.
- Best general months to visit Scottsdale area: October–November and March–April (published summaries).
- Summer is very hot; monsoon thunderstorms begin around mid-July.
- If using Spa Miralina’s hydrotherapy circuit, note it’s reserved for guests 18 and older — separate from hiking logistics.
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Warmer; good hiking early in season |
| Summer (Jun–Sep) | Hot; afternoon monsoon storms possible |
| Fall/Winter (Oct–Feb) | Mild days; popular shoulder season |
