Airport Mesa
Airport Mesa
4.5
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- Laurie CarterMatthews, North Carolina99 contributionsSunset, Sunset, Sunset!!!Sunset, Sunset, Sunset!! Definitely the place to be at day’s end! You and about 100 other onlookers so be aware to stake your place! $3 to park but worth it. Plan ahead and make reservations for dinner at the Mesa Grill further up the hill.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 November 2023
- Doug L8 contributionsA nice alternative in an overly touristy areaKudos to my spouse for insisting on trying to find a vortex! Not sure we did, but we had an amazing hike around Sedona airport. This is one of those hidden gems: a free trail, but made more exclusive by its limited parking. Fortunately, by the time we drove to the top, wandered around near the airport, and drove back down, a spot had opened up. The trail was allegedly just over 3 miles (5.07 km by my GPS) and took us just over 90 minutes. It was steep in some areas, but the trails were well-trodden, and I never felt uncertain. Not always well-marked, but the trail was easy to discern from constant use. The views of Sedona were pretty spectacular. A great way to get out of the car and experience nature.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 24 February 2024
- Curious G2 contributionsWorth a quick stop, especially for a quick trip!We had most of one day and an overnight in Sedona on our way from Page to Phoenix. It was beautiful driving south along the scenic routes. After stopping in town for lunch at Pumphouse Station Urban Eatery, we drove up to Airport Mesa. We opted just to do the overlook at the top, not the hike. It was easy to find the parking lot. Just follow the road all the way up and you can't miss it on the left. It cost $3 to park. VERY reasonable considering the prices at most parks, sites, and restaurants in AZ. We crossed the road (see pic) to the overlook which is a wide gravel area. There is not a fence at the edge, so beware. It's a good place to get a beautiful view of the whole Sedona landscape.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 26 February 2024
- budzy829Henderson, Nevada685 contributionsThe View of Sedona from the WestGlad we went here this time, the view of Sedona from the west is beautiful too! TIP: Make sure to arrive early to secure parking near the overlook. Otherwise, parking will be on the way up which requires a bit of a hike. We didn't expect the hike so we weren't prepared but enjoyed every bit of it.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 17 May 2024
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Jen
20 contributions
Aug 2021
We were told by our Pink Jeep Tour Guide, Lucien, that Airport Mesa was a great spot to see the sunset and also get the best full view of Sedona at the same time. It was no joke. It is absolutely breathtaking and there are a lot people who will join you at the top to watch/
Written 13 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robert Dalip
Atlanta, GA8 contributions
Oct 2020 • Friends
Sunset at the Airport Mesa was amazing about 3-4$ to park at the airport parking lot was worth it, the views were over 180 degrees of valley and red rocks. There are trails to get you away from the crowds, and there are lots of people at sunset!
I’m so in love with Nature despite it was very Hot but time spent There Was worth it ......It’s wonderful to go on the trail and enjoy the changing scenery.
I’m so in love with Nature despite it was very Hot but time spent There Was worth it ......It’s wonderful to go on the trail and enjoy the changing scenery.
Written 17 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ladyleo_9lives
51 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
A short easy hike from the parking located .6 miles away take the rock stairs to the top of the big red rocks. Known for it’s vortex many there had mixed comments on whether they felt it. I certainly felt a peaceful calm. Nonetheless, at the top you’ll get stunning views of most of the surrounding hot spots. Cathedral Rock and Bell rock amongst my faves.
Note: Due to construction and one way traffic coming in from Flagstaff prepare for an added wait!
Note: Due to construction and one way traffic coming in from Flagstaff prepare for an added wait!
Written 18 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mgustpt
22 contributions
Nov 2020 • Friends
Park halfway up at the little parking area and walk up the rock for some breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset. Keep in mind the sun rises in the east and behind some mountains/rocks so don’t expect to see the sun coming up from the horizon here. The beauty is later when the sun comes up over the rocks and “paints” the rocks around you with a beautiful pink glow!!
For sunset you can go to the same spot or go to the top and park for $3 and walk across the toad for some awesome views!! Here’s my sunset pics.
Also for people who like trails there are some trails that you can access from lower parking area that take you around the rock. We did this one morning and saw a nice sunrise.
For sunset you can go to the same spot or go to the top and park for $3 and walk across the toad for some awesome views!! Here’s my sunset pics.
Also for people who like trails there are some trails that you can access from lower parking area that take you around the rock. We did this one morning and saw a nice sunrise.
Written 16 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sherie D
67 contributions
Feb 2020
Lovely views of Sedona, though expect huge crowds for the road and the space if you head up around sunset. While there are two off-road parking nooks along the road, pay the $3 and park up at the top of the Mesa. You'll have a less-frustrating experience finding a park, navigating the people, and it's worth it to not arm-wrestle for parking spaces on the side of a mountainy road. Pack a picnic, and plan to hang out until at least some of the crowd thins.
Written 20 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
natster6
Peru, IL75 contributions
Mar 2022
We had read to take a drive on Airport Rd. for some great views... but were surprised to find a scenic viewing deck area with a parking lot. We paid $3 to park across the road and joined a bunch of people who had gathered to watch the sunset. The sunset was not great that evening, as there were clouds. But we really enjoyed looking back over towards West Sedona where we were staying. We were shocked to see how dinky the Sugarloaf Mtn looked in front of Thunder Mountain. We had hiked up to the peak of Sugarloaf the day before and really felt like we had climbed high... ha, ha... relatively, not so high after all!
Written 10 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bee80204
Denver, CO5,016 contributions
Feb 2022 • Couples
We drove up the road to the Sedona Airport. Halfway up there’s a small parking area with a trailhead. And at the top a paid parking area where the trail to the Airport Mesa Vortex is located. It’s a 3.3 mile loop with views of the rock formations - Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock included. The parking fee is $3 and there’s a booth with an associate collecting fees. When the booth is not manned, there’s a collection box. You are not allowed to park overnight in the lot. There’s also no sidewalk so walking from the top parking lot down to the other trailhead is not advised. Porta potties are available. And there’s a map and information signage.
On the other side of the road, there’s an overlook with a flagpole dedicated to Bedford L. Griggs, Jr., Sedona airport’s first airport ambassador. There are some telescopes available which need coins for payment. The view is breathtaking. The colors and majestic formations. It can get quite crowded so come early to avoid crowds. Be careful driving as not everyone stays in their lane on the road.
On the other side of the road, there’s an overlook with a flagpole dedicated to Bedford L. Griggs, Jr., Sedona airport’s first airport ambassador. There are some telescopes available which need coins for payment. The view is breathtaking. The colors and majestic formations. It can get quite crowded so come early to avoid crowds. Be careful driving as not everyone stays in their lane on the road.
Written 26 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
aclora
East Rutherford, NJ59 contributions
Mar 2020
Although we only went up to the lookout to catch the sunset, it was a perfect view. You can take in all of Sedona from up there. The view is truly magical.
Parking is $3.00 and is only about a 30 foot walk from the lookout. Definitely work checking out.
Parking is $3.00 and is only about a 30 foot walk from the lookout. Definitely work checking out.
Written 15 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sammy
Wellesley, MA38 contributions
Feb 2020
Get here early so you can park at first pull out going up road. There is another lot at the top for $3.00 parking... but it's 0.6 mile down to loop. It can be taxing to finish the loop and still have over half mile uphill climb back to car. (5 miles total) I recommend doing the loop clockwise and early in the day. It gets hot and little shade on the Sedona side. It goes all around the airport mesa. A fairly long but great hike with great views! Take Water and a snack. I wish they would add mile markers, just to keep track of where you are. We were stumped and kept thinking we were closer to turns than we were. Great trail... a few close dropping edges, but not concerning. Highly recommend.
Written 23 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeramie
Marion, IL1,405 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
Airport Mesa offers some tremendous views and beautiful sunsets. If you hike the trail, TAKE WATER! It becomes very crowded at dusk and free parking is minimal. Paid parking is only $3 so not a big deal.
Written 20 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
When you start the drive up to the airport Mesa you will find a small parking area on the left side about a1/4 way up the hill. That is the Airport Vortex. The climb is minimal, the few is fabulous. If the parking spots are filled, then I suggest waiting a few minutes as people change out of the limited spots frequently. If you are in good shape, then you can stop at the parking lot at the viewing platform on the top of the mesa and take a trail to the vortex through the forest. Not to challenging at all if you are ok.
Written 23 October 2017
Hi there, I am visiting Sedona later on this month and really want to visit the vortex site at Aiport Mesa. Do you know how I get to the vortex site without having to do a long hike? Many thanks, Emily
Written 13 October 2017
Great idea as it is not a long hike to the vortex and the view is stunning. There is a parking area just below the vortex with limited spots, if it is filled wait a few minutes as the cars do come out with regularity. The climb is easy to the top, about 3 minutes.
When we were up there there was a spiritual guy was playing a didgeridoo. He offered to play it over us while we lay on the vortex. He warned we would feel very emotional which was the case. After the vortex head up to the look out at the top of the mesa and then have a nice meal at the Airport resto, which is really good.
Also worth your time is going out to one of the wineries just outside of town. A trip up to Jerome is also a must and if you can do the drive from Jerome to Prescott then do so. Also drive the Oak Creek Canyon from Sedona to Flagstaff.
Lunch at Enchantment or at L'Auberge by the river are wonderful experiences in Sedona. I rented there for month in 16 so got to know the place pretty well.
Written 13 October 2017
How long does it take from the parking lot to the airpot Vortex or how far is it?
Written 5 April 2017
If you are lucky enough to get a parking spot at the small lot near the Vortex, then it is 5-10 minutes maximum. However, that lot only holds 10-12 cars. At peak periods you are going to have to park farther up the mountain, at the Airport Overlook parking lot. From there add another 20 minutes in each direction. The walk back to the larger lot is uphill.
My wife and I went to the Vortex for a sunrise experience and photo shoot. It is a great time to go and as you might expect, much less crowded! The Airport Vortex is so popular and crowded it is hard to have a good experience there.
Written 5 April 2017
ScrapperDiane
Central Point, Oregon
Can you drive a 30 foot motor home to the top? Don't think we could do the hike.
Written 6 March 2016
There is one corner about 1/2 way up which would be a little tight if the traffic is heavy . It is next to the trail head., Which tends to get crowded.
Written 7 March 2016
Hello everyone. I have some questions about the Sedona area, but let me preface them by saying, my wife and I are city slickers from NYC and the only time we've been across the Mississippi...was in New Orleans. So we know absolutely nothing about the area. This July we are packing the kids in the car and heading west. After pit stops in Memphis and Albuquerque, we are planning on spending a day and night in Sedona before heading out to the Grand Canyon. We know nothing about Sedona and just picked a name on the map. We are not hikers or honestly in decent physical shape and would really like any tips you have on where we can take a walk thru nature and if possible, see a nice desert sunset. If it helps, our kids are 16,8 and 5. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Written 17 February 2016
Hello,
Sedona has some awesome views. I suggest Red Rock Crossing which you can get to from Upper Red Rock Loop Road. This the the place where the typical photos are taken of Cathedral Rock, but it excellent for a family picnic, walk around the park, and splashing in Oak creek. Worth the $10 car entry fee. There a numerous photo opps as you drive down Upper RRLoop Road. Drive to the top of Airport Mesa for a fabulous view of Sedona and Coffee Pot rock. It's free, and if you get the vibe, you'll feel the vortex there. From uptown Sedona with all the shops you can see Snoopy Rock. Free parking is found on a parallel street behind all the shops. I like to send visitors to the Chapel of the Holy Cross to see the great architecture of the building and excellent views of Courthouse and Bell Rock. This is off 179, and also free. That's Sedona in a compact day. Sedona has pricey hotels. Cottonwood has cheaper options. Breakfast or lunch at Coffee Pot Restaurant in Sedona on 89A is a nice local thing to do. Good luck! Have fun.
Written 19 February 2016
Hi, I am heading into Sedona in late January, and will be staying close to the airport. I would like to find the airport mesa vortex. Alionssoul mentioned that it is a little ways down. Does anyone have clearer directions? Thanks!
Written 2 January 2015
Any one in town will be able to give you clear directions. The airport vortex we were told was the easiest to get to and that is why we went to that one. It is beautiful there. I did not "feel" anything though. Enjoy you trip!
Written 2 January 2015
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