Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour

If you’re looking for a way to connect with Sedona’s stunning landscape after the sun sets, this Night Hike and Stargazing Tour from Arizona Red Rock Adventures offers an adventure that’s both peaceful and fascinating. Designed for those who appreciate natural beauty, wildlife, and a little bit of science, this tour promises a memorable night out in one of Arizona’s most iconic landscapes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guides are not only knowledgeable about the land and night sky but also make you feel comfortable and safe—something that’s especially important on a nighttime trek. Second, the combination of sunset views, star stories, and UV-scorpion spotting delivers a multi-layered experience that appeals to both casual travelers and curious nature enthusiasts.

That said, the tour might not be suitable for everyone—if you’re uneasy about heights or traveling with very young children, you’ll want to consider those factors. This trip is best suited for travelers eager for an evening of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and a touch of astronomy, all in an intimate small-group setting.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders, ensuring safety and professionalism.
• Secluded Trails: The tour takes you away from crowds, focusing on peaceful desert scenes.
• Sky and Wildlife Focus: Enjoy stargazing, constellation identification, and nocturnal wildlife spotting, including UV-scorpion detection.
• Beautiful Sunset and Night Views: The hike begins at sunset, with the red rocks glowing in fading light, culminating in a star-filled sky.
• Flexible and Personalized: The guide tailors the route based on season, moon phase, and current conditions for the most tranquil experience.
• Value for Money: For $445, you get a 4-hour guided adventure, transportation, snacks, and a truly authentic desert night.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sedona’s Nighttime Wilderness

This tour is designed to reveal the desert’s beauty when most visitors are gone. Starting just before sunset, you’ll hop into a comfortable van for pickup at a designated spot, heading toward quieter trails that are often free of daytime crowds. The guide will lead you up Doe Mountain, a moderately challenging hike that offers stunning views as the sun dips behind the red rock formations. It’s a perfect moment to see the landscape bathed in warm, golden light, creating a striking contrast with the deepening sky.

As you approach the summit, the sky gradually shifts from pale blues and pinks to a deep navy. The guides will point out constellations with laser pointers, sharing stories that transform the night sky into a celestial storybook. This part of the tour speaks to the magic of Sedona’s minimal light pollution—the stars seem close enough to touch.

Once at the top, you’ll have time to soak in the views and take photos. The guides are well-versed in astronomy and will help identify planets or notable constellations, making it an educational as well as awe-inspiring experience.

Transition into Night: Wildlife and Scorpion Spotting

After the star gazing, the tour continues into darker, more remote spots where the desert’s nocturnal creatures begin to stir. Here, the guides employ UV flashlights to reveal glowing scorpions—an unforgettable highlight. According to reviews, this genuinely fascinates guests, with one saying, “Under ultraviolet light, these elusive creatures glow a vivid blue-green,” giving a rare glimpse into the desert’s hidden world without disturbing their natural behavior.

You might also hear owls hooting or see bats fluttering overhead. The guide’s insights enrich this segment, making wildlife encounters more meaningful. The emphasis on safety and ecological awareness ensures you can enjoy these sights without worry.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What Not

This tour offers a lot of value for its $445 price tag, especially considering the personalized experience with a small group. Included are the expert local guide, transportation via van, snacks, stargazing, and scorpion scouting. The guide’s knowledge makes the difference—being able to identify stars, share stories, and point out wildlife enhances the experience.

However, it’s worth noting that tips are optional but appreciated, and you’ll need to bring your own essentials: comfortable shoes, water, a hat, and a camera. Since the tour starts in the evening and lasts about four hours, dressing in weather-appropriate clothing is advisable, especially in cooler seasons when desert nights can be chilly.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The entire journey is tailored to maximize the tranquility and beauty of Sedona at night. The small group nature ensures personal attention, which is often reflected in reviews praising guides like Ty, who is described as “knowledgeable, kind, and humorous.” Guests appreciate the reassurance and patience shown, especially when walking at night or when encountering wildlife.

The route is carefully chosen based on season, moon phase, and current conditions. This flexibility means you’re likely to get the clearest views and the most secluded spots, away from light pollution and crowds.

The hike itself isn’t overly strenuous—mainly walking on desert trails—yet it offers enough elevation and scenic vistas to make it worthwhile. The culminating star show is totally worth the slight effort, especially knowing you’re in capable hands with guides who know the land intimately.

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Authentic Experiences: What Travelers Say

One guest from the US shared, “Ty made me feel safe and comfortable, even though it was my first night hike. He pointed out constellations and the Milky Way, making it both educational and magical.” Another reviewer from Canada appreciated the personal touch: “Ty’s kind, humorous approach made the hike memorable. We felt we were exploring with a friend, not just a guide.”

These comments highlight not only the safety and professionalism but also the warmth and genuine enthusiasm guides bring to this tour. The fact that guests can learn a lot about the night sky and desert ecology makes the experience feel more connected and meaningful.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

This experience offers a rare chance to see Sedona in its peaceful, nocturnal state. You’ll leave with beautiful photos, a deeper appreciation for desert wildlife, and stories about the stars you can share for years. It’s a genuinely immersive way to connect with nature after dark, especially if you’re tired of daytime crowds or want a more serene adventure.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, small-group intimacy, and learning about the night sky, this tour delivers on all fronts. Its focus on safety, ecological respect, and natural beauty makes it suitable for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable walking on trails and are not afraid of heights.

Who Should Avoid This Tour?

If you’re uneasy about heights, this may not be ideal—the hike involves elevation changes and scenic overlooks. It’s also less suitable for very young children (under 1 year) or those with mobility concerns. The minimum age isn’t specified, but given the nature of the walk and wildlife encounters, some discretion is advised. Plus, the tour might be less enjoyable for travelers who prefer daytime sightseeing or those seeking a more adrenaline-filled adventure.

The Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to experience the desert after sunset. With a knowledgeable guide, stunning vistas, and opportunities to see wildlife and stars in a peaceful setting, it’s a valuable addition to any Sedona itinerary. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and the focus on safety and ecological awareness makes it accessible and responsible.

If you’re someone who loves natural beauty, astrophotography, or simply wants to enjoy Sedona’s landscapes away from crowds, this tour will delight and inspire. Its combination of scenic hiking, star stories, and wildlife spotting creates a rich tapestry of desert life that’s as educational as it is beautiful.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic, and memorable evening under the desert sky, this tour hits the mark—just remember to dress warmly and bring your camera.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about four hours, usually in the evening, allowing plenty of time for sunset, stargazing, and wildlife spotting.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers an expert local guide, transportation by van, snacks, guided hike up Doe Mountain, stargazing, and UV scorpion scouting.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for those who are comfortable walking on trails at night. Very young children or those with mobility issues might find it less suitable.

Do I need special gear?
Comfortable shoes, water, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, especially for cooler desert nights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How safe is the hike?
Guides are certified Wilderness First Responders, and routes are carefully chosen to ensure safety on dark trails.

Can I see planets or specific constellations?
Guides use lasers to point out stars, planets, and constellations, making it both educational and visually engaging.

What is the maximum group size?
Since this is a small-group experience, it’s likely limited to a handful of participants, enhancing the personal touch.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, spots fill quickly, especially in peak seasons, so booking ahead is strongly recommended to secure your place.

You can check availability for your dates here: