Sedona might just be the most visually stunning place you’ll ever visit with your dog. Towering red rock formations, spiritual vortexes, over 100 miles of trails, and a town that genuinely welcomes leashed pups on patios, in shops, and along scenic byways — it’s the kind of place that earns a permanent spot on your dog-friendly travel list.

Whether you’re road-tripping through the Southwest or making Sedona your sole destination, this guide covers everything you need: the best dog-friendly hikes, where to stay and eat, how to beat the heat and the crowds, and the day trips worth building an extra day around.

Already planning a bigger Southwest adventure? Check out our Dog-Friendly Road Trip Through Arizona & Utah or our guide to Kayaking Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon with Your Dog for ideas on extending the trip.

Dog-Friendly Hikes in Sedona

This is the main event. Sedona’s iconic red rock walls were formed over millions of years across nine distinct layers of stone — the rust-red color comes from iron oxide coating the individual rock grains. The result is a landscape unlike anywhere else in the U.S., and one of the best places in the country to hike with your dog. All trails require dogs to be on leash. Many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass for parking ($5/day or included with your America the Beautiful pass).

Devil’s Bridge

Distance: 4.2 miles out-and-back | Difficulty: Moderate | Dog notes: Doable for agile dogs; steep rocky section near the arch

Devil’s Bridge is one of Sedona’s most iconic hikes and leads to a spectacular natural sandstone arch you can walk out onto. The first half of the trail is wide and easy; the second half gets narrower and steeper as you approach the arch. There is virtually no shade until you reach the arch, so early morning starts are essential — we recommend hitting the trailhead by 7am, especially on weekends.

Parking is off Dry Creek Road and fills fast. Two options: the main 4×4 lot (get there early) or the Chuckwagon trailhead off Long Canyon Road for a slightly different, less-crowded 4-mile approach. If your dog isn’t confident on steep, narrow rock, a K9 Sport Sack makes the final ascent much safer — and easier on the way down too. Expect a wait of 20–30+ minutes at the bridge itself on busy days.

Bell Rock Pathway

Distance: Up to 3.6 miles one-way | Difficulty: Easy | Dog notes: Excellent for all fitness levels and sizes

The Bell Rock Pathway runs along Highway 179 near the Village of Oak Creek and is one of the most accessible, dog-friendly trails in Sedona. We recommend parking at the Courthouse Vista lot and doing the first 1.5 miles and back — it gives you the best views of Bell Rock without overcrowding. Great option after a more strenuous morning hike. No fee to access, though parking can require circling.

Cathedral Rock Trail

Distance: ~1 mile round-trip | Difficulty: Strenuous | Elevation gain: 550 feet | Dog notes: Steep scrambling — best for fit, confident dogs only

Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most photographed landmarks and home to one of its famous vortexes (located at the saddle). The trail involves serious rock scrambling and is genuinely steep — you’ll use hands and feet in sections, so small, older, or reactive dogs should skip this one. Trailhead is off Back O’ Beyond Road via Highway 179. Parking requires a $5 day pass at the trailhead kiosk.

West Fork Trail (Oak Creek Canyon)

Distance: 6.9 miles out-and-back | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Dog notes: One of the best dog-friendly trails in Sedona — shaded, creek-side, gorgeous

West Fork is a fan-favorite for dogs and humans alike. A shaded, creek-hugging trail with gentle terrain, shallow crossings, and stunning canyon views — especially beautiful in fall. It’s one of the few truly shaded hikes in Sedona, making it a smart summer choice if you go early. Dogs must be leashed. Check AllTrails for current conditions and seasonal closures.

Boynton Canyon Trail

Distance: 6.1 miles out-and-back | Difficulty: Moderate | Dog notes: Great for dogs comfortable with varied terrain; Red Rock Pass required

Boynton Canyon winds through sandstone towers and open desert, with some natural shade and diverse scenery. This trail is also home to one of the four main vortexes. A Red Rock Pass is required at the trailhead.

Little Horse Trail

Distance: 3.5 miles out-and-back | Difficulty: Easy | Dog notes: Perfect for beginners, seniors, and reactive dogs

Well-marked, wide, and relatively low-traffic compared to Sedona’s busier trails. Little Horse offers sweeping views of Cathedral Rock and a mix of terrain — a great option for a sunset stroll or if your dog isn’t up for anything too technical.

For more Southwest hiking inspiration, visit our Guide to Visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon with Your Dog or our full Guide to Dog-Friendly National Parks in the U.S.

Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Sedona (Beyond the Trails)

Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway

The 7.5-mile Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ-179) is ranked among the top things to do in Sedona and is one of the most scenic drives in the Southwest — a great low-effort way to take in the landscape with your dog in the car. Plan 2–5 hours to stop at viewpoints, do a short trail, and catch views of Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Two vortex sites are also accessible along the byway.

Find a Vortex

Sedona is famous for its four main energy vortexes at Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. All four are accessible with leashed dogs. Visit Sedona’s vortex guide has a helpful overview of each site’s energy type and what to expect.

Airport Mesa is the most visited vortex in Sedona — over 4 million visitors a year — and is just 5 minutes south of Uptown off Airport Road. The vortex is right at the Airport Loop trailhead, and the views are spectacular. Pro tip: visit Airport Mesa in late afternoon, then walk up the street to the Airport Scenic Lookout to catch the sunset. You can combine both into one golden-hour outing.

Catch a Sunset at Airport Scenic Lookout

The Airport Scenic Lookout consistently delivers one of the best sunsets in Sedona. There’s a large parking lot across the street ($3 fee) and viewing spots are first come, first served. Dogs on leash are welcome. Pair it with dinner at Mesa Grillright next door — just note that reservations fill up days in advance.

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a stunning Catholic chapel built between two red rock towers with panoramic views. Dogs are welcome on the grounds on leash (not inside). It’s a short detour off Highway 179 near Cathedral Rock and worth a stop, especially for the architecture and the views.

Explore Uptown Sedona & Tlaquepaque

Uptown Sedona is walkable and genuinely dog-friendly — leashed pups are welcome on the sidewalks, patios, and in many open-air shops. Don’t miss Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, a landmark since the 1970s with over 50 galleries and specialty shops modeled after a traditional Mexican village. Stop into BowWow Sedona to pick up a Sedona souvenir for your pup, and if you collect ornaments, the Christmas Ornament Shop is a hidden gem.

Go Off-Roading with Barlow Jeep Rentals

If you and your pup are up for it, Barlow Jeep Rentals offers dog-friendly 4×4 rentals (no extra pet fee) with their fleet available in both Sedona and Moab. They’ll provide maps of 4×4 trails and a cooler with ice for your adventure. Fair warning: this involves serious, continuous bouncing — if your dog doesn’t love car rides, this probably isn’t the move. But if they do, it’s a unique way to explore the backcountry trails.

Visit the Sedona Dog Park

After a morning on the trails, the Sedona Dog Park (950 Soldier Pass Rd) is a great reset. It has separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, water stations, shaded benches, and — because it’s Sedona — pretty solid red rock views from the fence line. Open daily.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Sedona

Sedona’s patio dining scene is exceptional, with views that make every meal feel like an event. Here are the top spots where your pup is genuinely welcome:

Mesa Grill Sedona — The most coveted patio in town, perched on Airport Mesa with panoramic red rock views and a doggie menu. Book reservations well in advance; walk-up waits can run 1–2 hours and online reservations fill fast for the entire weekend. Located right by the Airport Mesa vortex — plan all three (vortex, dinner, sunset) on the same afternoon.

Creekside American Bistro — New American cuisine with a spacious outdoor deck, dedicated dog menu, and red rock views. Dogs are welcomed with water and treats.

Hideaway House — Cozy treehouse-like setting with Italian-American comfort food, incredible red rock views, and a canine menu. One of the most charming dining experiences in Sedona.

The Secret Garden Café — Healthy café-style food in a peaceful garden patio setting. Dogs are welcome on the garden patio with a dedicated dog menu.

Sedona Beer Company — Locally brewed craft beers in a laid-back atmosphere with a dog-friendly patio and water bowls provided. A great post-hike stop.

Cowboy Club — Southwestern cuisine with a rustic vibe, famous for cactus fries and bison burgers. Dogs welcome on the patio; staff frequently bring out water and treats.

The Grille at ShadowRock — Spacious patio with fire pits, lawn games, and $5 happy hour specials. Leashed dogs welcome on the large outdoor area with a dog menu available.

SaltRock Southwest Kitchen — Panoramic red rock views from Amara Resort’s expansive patio. Southwestern cuisine with a modern twist; staff often provide water bowls.

Where to Stay with Your Dog in Sedona

Sedona boasts a variety of dog-friendly accommodations that cater to both you and your pet’s comfort. Here’s a curated list of top pet-friendly hotels, ranked by average nightly rate:

1. Arabella Hotel Sedona

• Address: 725 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: Nestled amidst Sedona’s red rocks, Arabella offers direct access to hiking trails and features two seasonal outdoor pools.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Welcomes up to two pets per room with a fee of $27 per night. A portion of this fee benefits the Sedona Humane Society. Service animals are exempt from this charge.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $200

Photo Provided by Expedia

2. Sky Ranch Lodge

• Address: 1105 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: Perched atop a mesa, this lodge offers panoramic views of Sedona’s landscapes and tranquil gardens.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Allows pets with a fee of $50 per stay.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $220

Photo Provided by Expedia

3. The Wilde Resort & Spa

• Address: 2250 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: This resort boasts a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant. Dogs receive a welcome amenity, including treats and waste bags.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Welcomes up to two dogs per room (each under 75 lbs) with a one-time fee of $75 plus tax.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $250

Photo Provided by Expedia

4. El Portal Sedona Hotel

• Address: 95 Portal Ln, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: A boutique hotel offering uniquely designed rooms and a courtyard. Recognized for its exceptional pet-friendly services.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Pets are welcomed without any additional fee.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $300

Photo Provided by Expedia

5. Amara Resort & Spa

• Address: 100 Amara Ln, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: Set along Oak Creek, this resort offers modern rooms, an infinity pool, and a spa.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Allows pets with a fee of $50 per stay.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $350

Photo Provided by Expedia

6. L’Auberge de Sedona

• Address: 301 L’Auberge Ln, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: Offers luxury cottages along Oak Creek, fine dining, and spa services. Recognized among the top pet-friendly hotels in the USA.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Welcomes pets with a fee of $35 per night.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $500

Photo Provided by Expedia

7. Ambiente

• Address: 900 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Unique Features: A luxury landscape hotel offering panoramic views of Sedona’s red rocks.
• Pet Policy & Fee: Allows pets with a fee of $100 per stay.
• Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $600

Photo Provided by Ambiente Sedona

All rates and pet policies are subject to change — always confirm directly with the hotel before booking. Also check our roundup of Pet-Friendly Hotels Where Pets Stay Free for no-fee chain options.

Day Trips from Sedona with Your Dog

Grand Canyon South Rim

About 2 hours north of Sedona, the South Rim Trail is 12.7 miles of paved, dog-friendly path running from South Kaibab trailhead to Hermit’s Rest. Dogs are permitted on the Rim Trail and in campgrounds but not below the rim. Start at Mather Point near the visitor center — park at the main visitor center lot and walk from there. Entrance is $35/vehicle or free with an America the Beautiful pass. Note: the paved trail heats up significantly in summer — early morning only.

Horseshoe Bend

About 3 hours northeast near Page, AZ, Horseshoe Bend allows leashed dogs on the trail and at the overlook. The path is wide, accessible, and delivers one of the most photographed views in Arizona — the Colorado River bending dramatically around a sandstone canyon wall. Go early morning or at golden hour for the best light and cooler temps. If you combine this with the Grand Canyon, consider overnighting near Page and adding Antelope Canyon via Lake Powellto the itinerary.

Moab, Utah

About 4.5 hours north, Moab is worth considering for a longer Southwest loop. We have a full Dog-Friendly Guide to Moab that covers the best trails, restaurants, and places to stay. Pair it with our Arizona & Utah Road Trip guide for a full itinerary.

Tips for Visiting Sedona with Your Dog

Best time to visit: October through May. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking temperatures and the most reliable water in Oak Creek. Summer is doable but requires very early starts (before 9am) and avoiding paved surfaces midday. The shoulder seasons also mean slightly fewer crowds at the most popular trailheads.

Heat safety: Sedona can exceed 100°F in summer. Red rock surfaces retain heat and can burn paw pads — bring booties or do the hand test (if you can’t hold your palm on the surface for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws). Our tips on keeping your dog cool in summer are worth a read before any warm-weather desert trip.

Red Rock Pass: Many trailheads require this for parking. You can purchase at trailhead kiosks, local visitor centers, or in advance at redrockcountry.org. Your America the Beautiful pass covers it.

Leash rules: All public trails, parks, and areas in Sedona require dogs to be on leash at all times. The only off-leash area is the Sedona Dog Park on Soldier Pass Road.

Packing: Water is the most critical thing. There are no water sources on most trails. Bring at least 1 liter per dog per hour of hiking in warmer months. Our full Dog-Friendly Travel Packing List has everything else you’ll need.

Getting there: Most visitors drive in. Sedona is about 2 hours from Phoenix Sky Harbor. If you’re flying in, our How to Fly with a Dog guide covers 2026 airline policies.

FAQ: Dog-Friendly Sedona

Are dogs allowed on hiking trails in Sedona? Yes — dogs are welcome on most Sedona trails on leash. The best dog-friendly options are Bell Rock Pathway, West Fork Trail, Boynton Canyon, and Little Horse Trail. Check AllTrails to filter by dog-friendly before you go.

Do I need a Red Rock Pass to hike with my dog? No permit is needed for your dog specifically, but many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass for parking ($5/day). Purchase at trailhead kiosks, visitor centers, or online. America the Beautiful passholders can use their pass.

Can dogs go to Cathedral Rock? Dogs are allowed on Cathedral Rock Trail, but it involves steep scrambling and isn’t suitable for small, older, or less agile dogs. Bell Rock Pathway or Little Horse Trail are better alternatives for most pups.

Where can my dog swim in Sedona? Oak Creek is your best bet — particularly shaded access points in Oak Creek Canyon. Dogs must be leashed, and access varies by water level and season. Note that Slide Rock State Park does notallow pets past the parking lot.

Is Sedona too hot for dogs in summer? It can be. Temperatures regularly top 100°F June through August. Stick to pre-9am hikes, choose shaded trails like West Fork, avoid hot pavement and rock surfaces, and always carry more water than you think you need.

Is Uptown Sedona dog-friendly? Yes — Uptown is very walkable and welcoming of leashed dogs. Plenty of patios, shops, and viewpoints to enjoy together.

What’s the best time of year to visit Sedona with a dog? October through May. Fall and spring offer the ideal combination of comfortable temperatures, accessible trails, and manageable crowds.

Have a Sedona tip to add? Drop it in the comments — we update this guide regularly. And if you’re planning a bigger Southwest road trip, our Arizona & Utah Dog-Friendly Road Trip maps out the full route.