Sedona Area Attractions, Ancient Sites, Railroad, Parks

This area of the Southwest is rich in ancient Native American sites, incredible scenery and Western lore. Most attractions are only a short drive from Sedona. For an easy day trip we suggest Montezuma Well, Montezuma Castle and Fort Verde State Historic Park. These sites can be reached from Uptown Sedona by going south on Hwy179 (left at the Y junction) and proceeding 14 miles to Interstate17 and going south. (This stretch of Hwy179 is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the entire southwest and will have you grabbing for your camera.)

Take Exit 293 for Montezuma Well and go 4miles east (part way on a good dirt road). Montezuma Well is a huge sink hole filled with water from underground springs that have been flowing since the time of the Sinagua culture over 500 years ago. A self-guided tour takes you from a desert environment down a path to a cool and shady area with remnants of ancient irrigation channels. No entrance fee is charged. We like this site because it remains quiet and secluded perhaps little changed from its earliest habitation.

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Next stop: Montezuma Castle. Return to I-17 south, take Exit 289 and follow the signs. There is an entrance fee. This National Monument provides the modern amenities of gift shop and restrooms but is still able to stimulate the imagination and take the visitor back to another time in history. Keep an eye on the Castle cliffs and imagine a guard watching for danger, ready to shout a warning to others working in the fields. Or picture women weaving baskets under the cottonwood trees along the river.

Move forward a few centuries and you come upon Fort Verde State Historic Park. The fort was a base for General George Crook’s soldiers and scouts during the Indian Wars in the latter half of the 1800’s. Fort Verde is known for its well-preserved and historically accurate exhibits. The Park is open daily from 8am to 5pm and closed on Christmas Day. There is an entrance fee. To reach the Park continue south on I-17 and go east on Hwy 260 (* as of September 2003 this exit is undergoing major reconstruction- pay close attention to signs). The Camp Verde Historical Society and museum are located next to the Park.

You can picnic at Fort Verde or take our favorite side trip and enjoy a break at Beaver Creek Campground. This lovely, quiet spot is reached by returning north on I-17 to the Sedona turnoff (Exit 298). Instead of going under I-17 and returning to Sedona go right and take FR618 south for 3 miles to the campground. There is a parking lot on the right for day visitors (no charge). A short walk from the parking area takes you to the creek and a pond for swimming. Splash in the creek, explore up or downstream…kids and adults love it. If you cross the nearby bridge over Beaver Creek you will come to the V Bar V petroglyph site with a parking area a short distance down the entrance road. These well-preserved petroglyphs form the largest collection in the Verde Valley. There is a small fee charged and children are free.

For a different experience go right at the Y from Uptown Sedona taking 89A west for 9 miles to FR525 (Forest Road) to FR795. I f you don’t mind 7.5 miles on a dirt road you will be rewarded at the end by the remarkable rock art of Palatki, a Sinagua ruin set in red rock cliffs. Palatki has a visitor center and requires a Red Rock Pass.

The Verde Canyon Railroad rolls through remote and scenic Verde Canyon on a four hour excursion that will delight all ages. You might catch sight of a bald eagle as the vintage engine proceeds along the Verde River past red rock cliffs and Indian ruins. The depot is located 25 minutes west of Sedona in Clarkdale.

For those with a desire to venture even further there is the Grand Canyon, 110 miles from Sedona. This incredible natural wonder is a major attraction that lures visitors from all over the world. If you get an early start the Canyon can be enjoyed in one long day.

Insider Tips: **Maps and other info from the Visitor Center can help plan your trip. Most of these sites can be reached from several directions depending on your interests so it pays to plan ahead.

For any of these outdoor adventures remember you are in a desert climate. Your comfort and safety depend on plenty of water, sunscreen, sturdy footwear, hats and non-perishable snacks.