United States, North America
Sedona in September
The heat breaks and the monsoon fades as the month goes on. The second half is the start of prime season.
The straight answer
September is a good month to visit Sedona. The heat breaks and the monsoon fades as the month goes on. The second half is the start of prime season.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 88F (31C), storms fading
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What September is like in Sedona
September is a month of two halves. Early on, it is still hot, with highs near 88F (31C) and a few monsoon storms. As the month goes on, the heat breaks and the storms fade, and by the second half, prime hiking season has begun. Crowds are moderate, and prices start climbing toward fall levels.
September suits hikers and couples who can come in the second half of the month and want good weather before October's crowds. Families on Labor Day weekend should plan early hikes and water time. If you want the most reliable weather, October is better, but it costs more.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Sedona this month.
The heat breaks
Late September mornings finally feel cool, and longer hikes like Boynton Canyon become comfortable again.
Fading monsoon skies
Early in the month, a few storms still build big clouds that make sunsets glow.
Quieter than October
You get much of fall's good weather with fewer people on the popular trails.
What to pack for September
- Sun protection for warm afternoons
- A light rain shell for early-month storms
- Layers for cooler late-month mornings
- Plenty of water
Our timing tip
Book the last two weeks of September for the best mix of cooler weather, fading storms and lighter crowds.
Book Sedona for September.
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- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in SedonaOpens a hotel search for Sedona in September, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in SedonaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in SedonaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Sedona for September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
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
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.
Devil's Bridge
Sedona's largest natural arch and most popular hike. Expect a line for the photo; weekday dawn is best.
Slide Rock State Park
A natural water slide in Oak Creek, best in summer and extremely busy on warm weekends. Arrive early.
Red Rock State Park
Easy trails along Oak Creek with views of Cathedral Rock and ranger-led walks.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
A chapel built into the red rocks in 1956, with views across the valley. Parking is limited.
Airport Mesa sunset
The classic sunset spot over West Sedona. Parking fills early; walk the loop trail instead of fighting for the overlook.
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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Sedona?
September is a good month to visit Sedona. The heat breaks and the monsoon fades as the month goes on. The second half is the start of prime season.
What is the weather like in Sedona in September?
Warm, highs near 88F (31C), storms fading.
Is Sedona crowded in September?
Crowds in Sedona are moderate in September; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Sedona in September?
Monsoon season (roughly july to mid september).
Keep planning Sedona.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
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