Hiking passes for Red Rock State Park in Sedona

Hi everyone! 🙂

A little request for help from those who’ve stayed in Sedona—we’ll have almost 3 full days there. I’ve done some research on different sites, but I’m still confused.

It seems that some spots require, in addition to the America the Beautiful Pass (which we’ll already have from the start of our road trip), the Red Rock Day Pass since they’re within Red Rock State Park. This would be for park and parking lot maintenance.

Here are the hikes we’re eyeing: Boynton Canyon, Devil’s Bridge, Birthday Cave, Airport Mesa, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Crescent Moon Ranch.

We won’t be able to do all of them—we’ll have to choose 🤔 and cut some 😢.

On top of that, there are the two scenic drives: Red Rock Scenic Byway and Oak Creek Scenic Drive.

Does the America the Beautiful Pass cover everything, or do we also need the Red Rock Day Pass? And if we do, which hikes require it?

Thanks for your answers, and have a great afternoon! marcalamar 🙂

Hi there,

That’s right—the hikes around Sedona aren’t covered by the America the Beautiful pass, but by the Red Rock Pass instead: https://visitsedona.com/trip-planning/red-rock-pass-program-qa/#:~:text=A%20pass%20is%20not%20required, Banjo%20Bill

As for your hike choices, you can probably skip Crescent Moon Ranch if there’s no water—its main draw is the reflection of Cathedral Rock. On the other hand, we *loved* West Fork Oak Creek!

I’m not sure where you’ll be staying, but some Airbnbs provide a pass during your stay. We were able to use the Grand Annual Pass, which was super handy since some sites (like Crescent Moon Ranch) don’t accept the Red Rock Pass because they’re run by private concessionaires. With the Grand Annual, you get access to everything!

You’re going to love it—Sedona is absolutely stunning. Can’t wait to go back! !

Good evening! 🙂 Thanks Brigitte for your post. We’ve booked 3 nights at Sugar Loaf Lodge. For Crescent Moon, I’m afraid there won’t be any water by late September. Just before reading your post, I came across some photos of West Fork Oak Creek. It looks amazing! Can you hike there in sneakers? Have a great evening! Martine 🙂

I don’t think a motel provides a pass for its guests, but why not... Otherwise, it’s not very expensive, even at worst by paying directly at the entrance of each site.

We were there in the third week of September, and there was very little water at Crescent Moon. Plus, the trail is very short—pretty disappointing. It’s mainly a picnic spot.

West Fork Oak Creek was truly my favorite—the contrast of the red rock, green foliage, and blue sky was fantastic! And there was water! You can walk there in sneakers, but don’t be afraid to get them wet since some sections go through the water ;)

Have a great evening... and happy planning!