Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour

Traveling to Sedona offers stunning scenery by day, but one of the most captivating ways to see this desert landscape is after sunset. The Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour, offered by Arizona Red Rock Adventures LLC, promises an evening filled with adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of science — all far from the crowds and bright city lights. From glowing scorpions to constellations overhead, this experience combines the thrill of a guided hike with the serenity of the desert night.

What we love about this tour are two main aspects: first, the skill and warmth of the guides, who make the unfamiliar seem safe and fun, and second, the chance to witness Sedona’s stunning night sky in an environment free from light pollution. One consideration might be that it’s a four-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with an evening outdoors and some moderate walking. If you’re seeking an authentic, peaceful, and scientifically engaging night adventure, this tour is a great choice—especially for those interested in wildlife, astronomy, or simply escaping the daytime crowds to connect with nature after dark.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders, ensuring safety and expert knowledge.
• Uncrowded Trails: You’ll hike on quiet desert trails, away from busy tourist spots.
• Stunning Views: Sunset over red rocks and a clear night sky make for unforgettable scenery.
• Unique Wildlife Encounters: UV lights reveal glowing scorpions, a rare desert sight.
• Astronomy Highlights: Constellations, planets, and stories shared with laser-guided explanations.
• Small Group Experience: Intimate tours that allow for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sedona is known for its striking red rock formations and spiritual energy during the day, but its desert charm doesn’t fade when the sun sets. The Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour offers a chance to see the landscape in a new light — or, rather, in the total darkness with a splash of starlight. This tour is a symphony of sensory delights, blending the visual wonders of the sunset and night sky with the tactile excitement of UV-scorpion spotting.

The experience begins just before sunset, a magical time when the sky shifts from bright blue to warm amber and crimson. You’ll hike to a scenic vista, where the red rocks glow in the fading light — a perfect photo op or just a moment to soak in the natural beauty. The guides are committed to making the walk accessible and safe, with their deep knowledge of the terrain and the desert’s ecology.

As darkness settles in, the trails become more remote, and the true magic begins. You’ll pause to gaze at the stars, learning about constellations and planets as your guide uses a laser pointer to illuminate the sky. Meanwhile, your guide’s insights into local wildlife and desert ecology deepen your understanding of this fragile environment. The highlight for many is the UV scorpion scouting: under ultraviolet light, these creatures glow with an eerie blue-green hue, revealing themselves in cracks, under rocks, or along the trail. It’s a safe, captivating way to see a creature crucial to desert ecology but rarely noticed.

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The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s timing is carefully planned to maximize the experience. It begins with pickup and transportation by van to the trailhead, meeting in the southwest corner of the designated parking lot. The group size is kept small, which enhances the personal touch and makes the hike feel more relaxed. The hike itself lasts roughly four hours, a duration that allows enough time to enjoy the sunset, the stargazing, and the scorpion spotting without feeling rushed.

The hike is led by guides who are not only knowledgeable but also friendly. We loved the way guides like Ty make guests feel safe and comfortable, regardless of experience level. One reviewer emphasized Ty’s kindness, patience, and humor, which help ease any nerves, especially when hiking in the dark or encountering wildlife like rattlesnakes or scorpions. You’ll ascend Doe Mountain, which offers panoramic views of Sedona’s iconic red rocks, then descend into the darker desert trails as night falls.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the night sky — with minimal light pollution, Sedona’s heavens reveal a dazzling array of stars, planets, and constellations. The guide’s laser pointer makes identifying these celestial features accessible, even for beginners. This part of the tour turns into an open-air astronomy lesson, filled with stories and facts about the cosmos.

The UV-scorpion scouting is an added surprise. Under ultraviolet light, these desert creatures fluoresce with an otherworldly glow. It’s a safe activity, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the desert’s hidden nocturnal world. Several reviewers found this part especially memorable, with one describing it as an “unforgettable glimpse into the deserts hidden world.”

Snacks are included, providing a chance to rest and enjoy the environment in comfort. The guides’ professionalism and enthusiasm are evident throughout, making the experience not only educational but genuinely fun.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $445 per group, this experience might seem steep, but when you consider it includes transportation, a guided hike, stargazing, UV scorpion spotting, and snacks, it’s actually quite good value, especially for a private, small-group tour. The personal attention and expert guidance add to the overall worth, making it more than just a walk in the desert.

One of the greatest values here is the opportunity to witness Sedona’s night sky in an unobstructed setting — a rarity in many populated areas. Plus, the safety and skill of the guides mean you can relax and truly enjoy the experience without worry. The tour is suitable for most people over 1 year old, provided you’re comfortable walking and standing outdoors for about four hours.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for nature lovers, astronomy enthusiasts, and those curious about desert wildlife. It’s especially well-suited for guests looking for a peaceful, authentic experience away from crowds. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy gentle outdoor activities with an educational twist, this will resonate.

However, it might not be best for those with mobility issues or anyone uncomfortable with heights or darkness. The tour’s emphasis on safety and expert guidance makes it accessible to many, but it’s wise to consider your comfort level with night hikes.

Final Thoughts

This Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour offers a captivating way to see one of Arizona’s most beautiful landscapes in a whole new light. You’ll love the stunning sunset views, the clear night sky, and the fascinating UV glow of desert scorpions. The guides’ warmth and expertise turn an outdoor activity into a memorable journey of discovery.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone simply eager for a peaceful night under the stars, this tour combines adventure, science, and natural beauty in a way that’s both accessible and awe-inspiring. It’s a genuine chance to connect deeply with Sedona’s landscape after dark — a special, quiet moment away from the crowds and into the desert’s secret world.

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FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, and water. Dressing in weather-appropriate clothing is also smart, especially as desert temperatures can drop at night.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about four hours, starting in the evening. It’s a manageable length that allows ample time for sunset, stargazing, and wildlife spotting.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by van is part of the package, with pickup and drop-off at a designated location.

What’s the group size?
The experience is designed for small groups, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders and are skilled in orienteering, wildlife, and astronomy.

Is this experience safe?
Yes, the guides prioritize safety, walking you through each step and managing the terrain carefully. They’re experienced and reassuring, making night hiking surprisingly safe.

Can children participate?
While the tour is suitable for most ages over one year, children should be comfortable walking and standing outdoors in the dark. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re seeking a quiet, educational, and beautiful way to experience Sedona after sunset, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for nature and science enthusiasts, couples, families, or anyone eager to see Sedona’s stars and desert creatures in a relaxed, guided environment. For travelers wanting a memorable, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines natural beauty with a touch of mystery, this experience is hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby