10 Things to Do in Sedona in January

Dare to brave the winter in Sedona this January, when the white blanket of snow and the whimsical crimson rocks paint the landscape. From the thrill of winter sports, to the spectacle of Dark Sky in one of the best spots in the world, to the serenity of a scenic flight in a hot air balloon or helicopter with the stamp of the desert, there's plenty to see and do here.

Practice yoga, meditate and recharge your batteries; spot bald eagles and much more. Discover the best things to do in Sedona in the first month of the year - get ready for sensory experiences connected to natural mysticism!

It's clear that starting the year refreshed is perfect for our wellbeing and what better way to achieve this than by visiting the Sedona Vortexes? What are they all about? Located at a special magnetic point on the earth, this part of the desert radiates a powerful energy charge, which is why thousands of people practice yoga, meditation and self-reflection exercises in the area.

Belief in the mystical energy of this red earth is ancient, finding its origins among local indigenous people such as the Navajo and Hopi as well as, of course, the Sinagua culture. Recharge your energy in January by exploring the spiritual side of Sedona.

Although the entire Sedona Desert is presumed to be magnetically charged, there are four highlights. You can access them on your own or even with a bus tour, they are:

• Mesa Airport.
• The Cathedral Rock.
• Boynton Canyon.
• The Roca Bell.

Whether you choose to take an ATV tour of the Sedona Canyon or tour it in a rugged 4x4, discover the magic of the winter-white blanket of desert. On an ATV you can explore the reddish rocks and rugged terrain, ascending to the top of Skeleton Bone Mountain without losing sight of the scenery.

Marvel at the towering crimson cliffs, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories in your photos. Don't miss the Mogollon Rim, an 8,000-foot-high backdrop where Old West movies come together.

Traverse centuries-old roads around the Colorado Plateau, revealing breathtaking desert landscapes. Visit Bear Wallow Canyon and travel through West Sedona Canyon. See the majesty of the Chapel of the Holy Cross, gorges and overlooks such as Devil's Bridge. The multicoloured contrast makes this resort town a winter must-see for northern Arizona off-roading.

Get caught up in the winter thrill of skiing the Flagstaff Peaks, just an hour's drive from the heart of Sedona. When does Flagstaff get snow? January is the month when the snowfall intensifies, blanketing the peaks in white, so it's no surprise that winter sports take over the city.

Where can you ski in Flagstaff? You can ski or snowboard at Arizona Snowbowl. Its outdoor slopes take you through several trails of varying degrees of difficulty, guaranteeing a thrilling experience for extreme travellers.

In the same area, north of Flagstaff, you'll also find Arizona Nordic Village where the range of activities for the whole family expands, offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in addition to the above activities.

If you're looking to explore south of Flagstaff, you might want to check out Flagstaff Snow Park at Fort Tuthill County Park, the place to add to your winter Sedona to-do list, especially on weekend nights, as it has extended hours. With eight trails - including snow tubing - you'll have plenty of time to explore this winter park.

Located about 3 hours from downtown, you can make the most of your visit to Antelope Canyon during the off-season in the first month of the year.

Visiting this slot canyon allows you to witness its convoluted silhouetted walls where rays of light filter through to create picture-perfect curtains of light. It is well worth a guided tour of its labyrinths. Getting to Antelope Canyon from Sedona offers one of the most beautiful routes. Plus, you'll find the best prices and great views this month, away from the high season and Arizona's monsoon season, when visiting is a lottery.

Although this fascinating Navajo Indian treasure is open year-round, it's one of the busiest tourist sites in the country, so enjoying its surroundings is often a challenge against the clock. If you want to experience it at your leisure, away from the crowds (as I do), January is the perfect month to make a note of your visit.

Sedona was recognised by Dark Sky International, the International Dark Sky Association as one of the best locations in the world to view the stars and the Milky Way. In January, especially the last weeks of the month, with the longer nights and clear skies, the opportunity to see distant constellations intensifies.

The low light pollution invites you to contemplate the vastness of the universe and reconnect with it. This community has sparked a phenomenon that is becoming a travel trend noted among the best things to do in Sedona at night.

With a telescope you can clearly see places about 35 million light years away like the Whirlpool galaxy, according to a National Geographic report. This galaxy, also known as Messier 51, is the reason why Sedona' s UFO and stargazing tours draw thousands of visitors annually.

Whether joining a guided tour or on your own, you can appreciate the beauty of the cosmos from a privileged corner of the planet, Sedona.

Embark on a unique eagle watching experience in January aboard the Green Canyon Railway as part of its annual eagle and hawk watching season.

In full migration, bald eagles will amaze you during this unforgettable 4-hour journey along a 32km route. And the fun doesn't start on the tracks, but at the John Bell Museum, located at the train station, which is why this sighting is usually included among the best day trips in Sedona to make the most of your visit.

Travel aboard classic, air-conditioned and meticulously refurbished rail cars that will transport you through more than 100 years of history. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views and expert narration as you connect with the desert landscape. Prefer a different atmosphere? Stay in the covered carriages, sample snacks ranging from sweets to fresh fruit, and drinks from the full bar. This is a rail adventure that fuses history, nature and fun!

Interesting details

• Address: 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale. A 30-minute drive from downtown Sedona.
• Price: From €100.
• Schedule: The train usually has 3 departures: at 11:00 am, 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm. However, I encourage you to check the timetable on their website and book your tickets in advance.

Soar over the Sedona landscape in a hot air balloon. The coolness of the sunrise provides a unique backdrop for this experience. The cool temperatures make this month the ideal time to view the land from above. The tranquillity and beauty of the sunrise will leave you speechless thanks to the contrast between the white snow and the reddish terrain.

Take the opportunity to witness the sunrise behind the desert from the air. The sunrise balloon ride stands out as a special adventure. Don't fancy hot air balloons, but want to take to the skies over Sedona? Helicopter rides are also available.

Either way, you'll be able to appreciate the famous crimson rock formations that tourists and locals alike love.

Another haven from the cold that's worth a visit in January is the Sedona Heritage Museum. With seasonal exhibits and special activities, this sanctuary stands as the "keeper of Sedona's history."

Follow historical movements, early settlers and cultural milestones as you unravel the heritage of the Native Americans, the Sinagua. Here you'll see records of early cinema, this museum chronicles Sedona' s cinematic evolution beginning in the 1940s, including the golden age of the Old West.

More than a repository of knowledge, this 19-hectare space is a community epicentre symbolising the area's cultural heritage. Experience the authenticity of Sedona through the captivating stories the museum has to offer in the comfort of its facility.

Details of interest

• Address: 735 Jordan Rd, Sedona.
• Price: From €7.
• Hours: Monday to Sunday 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Immerse yourself in the local cultural scene by participating in events at the Sedona Performing Arts Center in January.

This multi-faceted arts centre offers live concerts, exhibitions, talks and educational workshops, providing an inclusive space for reflection and artistic inspiration for the whole family. After welcoming in the New Year, the centre presents its first events, from vibrant rock concerts, indie music, new bands, to classical performances, offering something for everyone.

Enjoy the intimacy of this intimate setting and find refuge from the cold with themed exhibitions, seminars and more. Check out the details of their seasonal events on their website.

Details of interest

• Address: 15 Art Barn Road, Sedona, Arizona.
• Price: Usually free, however, it will depend on the event.

Join the great Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration in Sedona. Every year since January 15, the birthday of the leader of the American civil rights movement, the country honours Dr King, and Sedona is no exception.

Enjoy a massive event where people from all walks of life remember King's spirit of altruism. Walk the main streets of Sedona. Attend choir performances, plays and community gatherings that promote equality, justice and freedom.

Celebrate diversity and strengthen the sense of community at this unique event that captures the essence of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream".

Embark on a family adventure exploring the Sedona Desert on horseback in January. The privileged setting makes this area of Arizona one of the best family-friendly towns to visit in the USA, and in the first month of the year, the cool temperatures add to the ideal conditions for horseback riding.

Sedona offers a wide range of beginner, moderate and advanced routes for your convenience. It's also common for tour organisers to allow you to customise your ride, making your Sedona adventure an unforgettable experience.

From the elevated perspective of your equine companion, immerse yourself in the majesty of the canyons and towering red rocks of the desert. If you're feeling the call of the Wild West cowboy in you, the winter season in Sedona will be the perfect time to explore scenic trails and more challenging roads to test your riding skills in good weather.

Sedona welcomes you with cool and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring its natural wonders without the oppressive summer heat. With average daily temperatures ranging from 10°C to -3°C, you'll experience a quiet winter in January.

As the day progresses, highs rise from 12°C to 14°C, and rarely drop below 6°C, giving you a cool environment with gentle breezes and light snowfall. However, remember that the weather is variable, especially in recent years, so keep an eye on the official weather report.

In January, Sedona presents itself as a quiet haven away from the hustle and bustle of summer. The city embraces an off-season, giving you a more relaxed and serene experience. Enjoy restaurants, shops and attractions without the crowds, allowing you to explore at your leisure.

During this time, the city takes on a more leisurely pace, away from the heat of the desert. Discover Sedona's authentic charm while enjoying a possibly magical snowstorm. In addition, vacation rentals offer cheaper rates compared to the summer months, giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sedona's beauty without worrying about your wallet.