Arizona Trip Itineraries

Sedona's hidden gems

Destination(s): Sedona

You've hiked the trails, you've eaten well, and you're out of ideas. This list is for you. This eclectic list reflects activities many tourists go home knowing nothing about. For example, the Way of the Ancients Tour offers an unparalleled historical and cultural exploration of Sedona. The tour provides a sense of relevance to the amazing petroglyphs at Honanki and Palatki. The lists suggests, also, that you may have missed some artistic hot spots. And who ever heard of mountain biking at night? Under the light of a full moon, this is an experience you'll never forget. read more about Sedona's hidden gems

Way of the Ancients Tours

2370 West Highway 89A
(Suite 11)
tel:928 204 9243
Visit website
Sedona, 86336

Palatki

250 Brewer Road
Sedona Ranger District
tel:520 282 4119 (Ranger Station)
Visit website
Sedona, 86336

Palatki, which is Hopi for "red house," is known as one of the most preserved pictograph sites in the area. In addition to this two story cliff dwelling, there is an easy, well-marked trail that will lead visitors to a series of rock alcoves where pictographs were drawn 3,000 to 6,000 years ago. From Sedona, it takes roughly 15 minutes to get to the site and takes about an hour or two to see. From 89A go north on Red Canyon Rd. It will turn into Forest Road 525 (remember this spot if you want to continue down the road to see the Honanki Ruins). Veer right onto Forest Road 595, and then follow the signs to the parking lot. Visitors will need a Red Rocks Pass in order to park, which is available for purchase at the site. Keep in mind that reservations are required (just call ahead) and the site closes every day at 3PM. read more about Palatki

Honanki

250 Brewer Road
(Address is the Sedona Ranger District; take Red Rock Canyon Road off highway 89A)
tel:928 282 4119
Visit website
Sedona, 86336

Succumb to the natural curiosity brought on by the mystery of ancient rock writings and pictographs. Similar to Palatki in terms of style, and history, the ruins at Honanki are larger. While the rock writings and pictographs are inspiring, they are less accessible than those at Palatki. A good pair of binoculars, therefore, would serve visitors well. To get to Honanki, drive beyond the Palatki Ruins, continuing on Forest Road 525 for another 10 miles. Like at Palatki, visitors will need a Red Rocks Pass to park and should call ahead. The site closes daily at 6PM. read more about Honanki