Posted on 10/13/2026

Sedona in November: What to Expect (2026)

Sedona, Arizona, in November might be the best-kept secret on the calendar.

It's one of the few times of the year to catch the desert when it’s cool. The mild weather allows you to enjoy the local outdoor activities and red rock canyon views even more. Plus, the trails are often quiet enough that they feel like they belong to you.

A trip this special deserves a home base that matches the scenery. Book your stay at one of Sedona Premier's vacation rentals and wake up to red rock views, a private hot tub for those cool evenings, and space for the whole group.

Now let's look at what to expect on a visit to Sedona this November, from the weather to the season's best events.

Sedona Weather in November

Sunset over Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona

Photo Credit: Creation Temple

November weather in Sedona settles into a cool, dry rhythm across the high-desert landscape. Daytime temperatures average a comfortable 67°F, dropping to about 41°F once the sun goes down. This is a real change from October's warmer 79°F highs.

Skies stay mostly clear this time of year, with only a slight chance of rain and rare early snow at higher elevations. Mornings and evenings turn genuinely cold, so pack layers for the mountain air, and take advantage of clear November nights for stargazing from your rental's patio or hot tub.

Compared to the crowded high season of spring and summer, November's quieter trails make it one of the more comfortable months to explore the canyon on foot. By March, spring crowds start building again, and by December the nights turn properly cold, so this stretch is something of a sweet spot.


Best Things to Do in Sedona in November

Cooler temperatures make November an ideal month for outdoor adventure in Sedona, with smaller crowds and lower tour prices than you'll find later in other months. Here are a few ideas to keep busy during your Sedona stay.

Hike the Red Rock Trails

Panoramic views of breathtaking red rock canyon scenery and famous rock formations make hiking in Sedona incredibly rewarding. Our guests love hiking in November, when cool air makes even a long, guided hike comfortable from morning to afternoon.

The Airport Mesa Trail is one of the top routes for an overview of the landscape and landmark locations. You can also hike the trails to Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Devil's Bridge for an up-close view of these unmistakable rocks.

November is still one of the best times to visit Sedona in the fall to see the colorful foliage decorating the trees. Autumnal leaf-peeping is particularly good on the West Fork Trail.

For more options, check our full list of favorite Sedona hikes.

Take a Jeep Tour Through the Backcountry

Pink Jeep climbing red rock on a Sedona backcountry tour

Photo Credit: Frame Craft 8

It's going to be a bumpy ride the moment your Jeep tour begins, especially once you veer off-road and begin exploring places other vehicles wouldn't dare. You'll rock side-to-side through narrow canyons and ascend to summits with scenic views.

Pink Adventure Tours is one of the top local providers. Its scenic rides through the canyon's rougher terrain feature entertaining guides pointing out the area's geological features.

Intimate Wine Tasting and Tours in the Verde Valley

November delivers a much more relaxed wine tasting experience in Arizona's premier wine region. Just west of Sedona, the Verde Valley's wine country makes for an easy afternoon trip.

The busy harvest season ends in October, so it's easier to reserve a tour and tasting at the popular vineyards. We've rounded up our favorite Sedona-area wineries if you want a full list before you go.

Play a Round of Golf

November's mild temperatures mean you can take your time on the golf course. Opt for the 18-hole round and take in the red rock views that you can only experience here in Sedona.

Oakcreek Country Club welcomes public tee times year-round. If you want to squeeze in as much golf as possible, book a stay at the Seven Canyons Golf Club.

Browse Galleries and Shops at Tlaquepaque

The charming Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village shows off even more beauty during November. It's one of the most decorative times, with ofrendas and holiday decor dedicated to the Día de los Muertos celebration. Plus, the sycamore trees that keep the village shaded show off their vibrant autumn colors.

Tlaquepaque is Sedona's unique arts and shopping village, home to galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to pick out souvenirs for your trip.


Sedona Events in November (2026)

Entrance to Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village in Sedona

Photo Credit: Frame Craft 8

November brings a handful of local events worth building your trip around, from art festivals to a Thanksgiving-morning race. Here's what's on the calendar for 2026.

Día de los Muertos at Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque opens the month with a colorful Día de los Muertos celebration, filling the village's courtyards with altars, art installations, and live music honoring Mexican tradition.

Sedona Mountain Bike Festival

Mountain bikers descend on Posse Grounds Park for a weekend of demo rides and guided group rides on Sedona's famous singletrack. The festival features food trucks, a beer garden, and live music keeping things festive between rides.

Veterans Day Tribute

The Sedona Heritage Museum and the City of Sedona host a free flag ceremony and community tribute honoring local veterans, followed by music and refreshments.

Verde Valley Pottery Festival

A short drive from Sedona, D.A. Ranch hosts a weekend of pottery, sculpture, wine tasting, and live demonstrations from Verde Valley artists. The first event of the weekend on the Friday evening is ticketed, but admission is free on Saturday and Sunday.

Sedona Turkey Trot 5K

Start Thanksgiving morning with a 5K through the red rocks at Posse Grounds Park before the holiday meal. It makes a fun activity as a spectator even if you don’t feel like taking part yourself.


Packing for Your November Trip to Sedona

November's swing between sunny afternoons and cold nights means packing smart. A few essentials will keep you comfortable no matter what the day brings:

  • Light clothing for warm afternoons
  • A warm jacket or fleece for cold evenings
  • Sturdy hiking shoes with good tread
  • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Light gloves for early morning hikes


Book Your Sedona Getaway This November

November might be Sedona's most underrated month. It's cool enough for long hikes, clear enough for unforgettable sunsets, and quiet enough to actually enjoy the red rocks without the crowds of spring and summer.

Between the Turkey Trot, the pottery festival, and a calendar full of golf and wine, there's plenty to fill a long weekend or a full week.

Ready to plan your trip to this red rock destination? Browse Sedona Premier's vacation rentals and find a home base close to the trailheads, with the views and amenities to match your Sedona getaway.

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