United States, North America

Sedona in August

The monsoon brings dramatic skies and green hillsides, but afternoons are for staying off exposed ridges.

TradeoffsHot and humid, highs near 93F (34C), afternoon storms

Sedona red rocks, United States — SedonaPhoto: Ernst Krenger, CC BY 3.0

The straight answer

August is a month of real tradeoffs in Sedona. The monsoon brings dramatic skies and green hillsides, but afternoons are for staying off exposed ridges.

Weather: Hot and humid, highs near 93F (34C), afternoon storms
Crowds: 3 of 5
Prices: 3 of 5

What August is like in Sedona

August is hot and more humid than usual for the desert, with highs near 93F (34C) and regular afternoon thunderstorms. The monsoon turns hillsides green and paints big, dramatic skies over the red rocks. Crowds and prices are moderate. Mornings are for hiking, and afternoons are for staying off exposed ridges.

August suits families on summer break who plan early starts and water time, plus photographers who love storm light. It is a poor fit for long hikes. If you have flexibility, the second half of September is cooler, and October is among the best months of the year.

Make the most of August

What is especially good about Sedona this month.

Green hills and storm light

Monsoon rain brings rare green to the desert, and clouds catch amazing color at sunset.

Cool-off time in Oak Creek

Slide Rock and the creek are still a good way to beat the heat. Check for closures after big storms.

Jeep tours on back roads

Kids love a Jeep tour on the rough roads, and morning tours avoid the afternoon storms.

What to pack for August

A packable rain jacket
Water shoes for the creek
Plenty of water and electrolytes
Quick-dry clothing for humid days

Our timing tip

Plan outdoor time before noon, and check trail and parking closures after heavy rain before heading out.

Book Sedona for August.

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Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Sedona
Opens a hotel search for Sedona in August, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
Hotels for August
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Sedona
Whole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
Rentals on Vrbo
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Sedona
Timed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Sedona for August. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Tours and tickets

What's on in August

Monsoon season

Roughly July to mid September

Afternoon thunderstorms, lightning, and flash floods in washes. Hike early and get off ridges by noon.

Things to do in Sedona

Full guide

Cathedral Rock

A short, steep scramble to a saddle with huge views. Go at sunrise and use the free Sedona Shuttle where it serves the trailhead.

Tickets and tours →

Devil's Bridge

Sedona's largest natural arch and most popular hike. Expect a line for the photo; weekday dawn is best.

Tickets and tours →

Slide Rock State Park

A natural water slide in Oak Creek, best in summer and extremely busy on warm weekends. Arrive early.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Red Rock State Park

Easy trails along Oak Creek with views of Cathedral Rock and ranger-led walks.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Chapel of the Holy Cross

A chapel built into the red rocks in 1956, with views across the valley. Parking is limited.

Tickets and tours →

Airport Mesa sunset

The classic sunset spot over West Sedona. Parking fills early; walk the loop trail instead of fighting for the overlook.

Tickets and tours →

Beat the crowds

Start hikes at sunrise. Popular trailheads like Cathedral Rock, Soldier Pass, and Devil's Bridge fill early on busy days.
Use the free Sedona Shuttle to reach the busiest trailheads instead of circling for parking.
Visit midweek in October or November for the best weather with far fewer people than spring.
Head to quieter trails like Boynton Canyon's side trails, Fay Canyon, or the Brins Mesa area to escape the busiest routes.

Know before you go

Many trailheads on national forest land require a Red Rock Pass or a federal interagency pass to park.
Some trails and parking areas close temporarily after heavy rain, during fire restrictions, or when lots are full.
Slide Rock State Park is open year-round but gets extremely busy in summer; it can close when capacity is reached or when water quality issues arise.
Summer fire restrictions in the Coconino National Forest can limit campfires and some activities, typically in late spring before the monsoon.

Sedona in August, quick answers

Is August a good time to visit Sedona?

August is a month of real tradeoffs in Sedona. The monsoon brings dramatic skies and green hillsides, but afternoons are for staying off exposed ridges.

What is the weather like in Sedona in August?

Hot and humid, highs near 93F (34C), afternoon storms.

Is Sedona crowded in August?

Crowds in Sedona are moderate in August; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.

What is happening in Sedona in August?

Monsoon season (roughly july to mid september).