Sedona in Fall 2026: Fall Colors, Hikes and Events

Last Updated August 27, 2026

October brings cooler hiking weather and a packed calendar of events. And late October to early November is the best window if fall colors are calling. The upper reaches of Oak Creek Canyon typically change first, followed by lower areas of the canyon and Sedona itself in early November.

That gives two good ways to approach a fall trip in 2026: visit earlier in October for festivals and red-rock hiking, or come toward the end of the month for a better chance of catching the maples, oaks and sycamores changing along Oak Creek.

Here are our recommendations for a fall trip to Sedona.

See the Fall Colors in Oak Creek Canyon

If you’re coming for the leaves, Oak Creek Canyon is the place to start.

Take State Route 89A north from Sedona and you’ll quickly leave the open red-rock landscape for a much more wooded canyon. In fall, maples can turn deep red and orange while sycamores, oaks and cottonwoods add yellow and gold.

There is one important 2026 update to know before you go. The Pocket Fire north of Sedona was fully contained in July, but several trails and recreation areas in Oak Creek Canyon remain temporarily closed because of post-fire flooding and debris risks. West Fork Trail and the Call of the Canyon recreation area are currently among these closures. The existing closure orders are scheduled through September 30, so check the latest status before planning a hike there. State Route 89A remains open through Oak Creek Canyon.

If West Fork remains unavailable, Visit Sedona recommends Cookstove Trail in Oak Creek Canyon and Baldwin Trail near the village of Oak Creek for fall color.

Enjoy Sedona’s Red Rock Trails in Cooler Weather

Not every great fall hike needs fall foliage.

Trails around Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock are worth doing for a different reason. The weather in October and November makes these much more comfortable than the height of summer.

Whether it’s colorful trees or classic red-rock Sedona, fall allows for the best of both.

Plan Around Sedona’s 2026 Fall Events

Sedona has several major events in October. The Sedona Yoga Festival runs October 1-4, 2026, with more than 150 sessions covering everything from Ayurveda to meditation.

The Sedona Arts Festival returns for its 35th year October 10-11, bringing artists from around the country for an incredible art weekend with the stunning red rock backdrop.

The Sedona Plein Air Festival runs October 16-24. Artists paint throughout Sedona and the Verde Valley, with public paint-outs, demonstrations and events through the week.

Staying at Pop Art Villa Verde

Whether you’re spending your days hiking the red rocks, exploring Oak Creek Canyon or attending one of Sedona’s fall festivals, Pop Art Villa Verde makes an easy base for your trip.

Enjoy the private saltwater pool, outdoor spaces and views of the surrounding landscape, all from the comfort and privacy of your own residence.

Every Pop Art Villa stay includes complimentary personal concierge service. If you’d like help choosing hikes, planning a day trip or making restaurant reservations, we’re happy to help make your Sedona stay one to remember.