Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour

Imagine wandering through the quiet desert after sunset, the red rocks glowing softly in the fading light, then turning your gaze upward to a sky bursting with stars. That’s exactly what you get on the Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour, a 4-hour journey offered by Arizona Red Rock Adventures. For $445 per group, you’ll enjoy a mix of gentle hiking, scientific marvels like UV scorpion spotting, and a good dose of awe as you witness the universe unfold overhead.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of adventure and education. You’re guided by experts, including guides certified as Wilderness First Responders, who ensure both safety and deep insights into the desert’s nocturnal life. We also love how this tour offers a peaceful escape from crowds—drifting away from the busy daytime trails to find solitude in the dark, where the landscape truly transforms.

However, a possible consideration is the timing. Because the trail choice depends on the season, moon phase, and current conditions, the experience might vary slightly in different months. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking in low light and who want a more intimate, educational look at Sedona’s natural beauty. If you’re eager to connect with the land, sky, and creatures of the night, this tour offers a memorable, authentic taste of Sedona after dark.

Key Points

• Unique nocturnal adventure blending hiking, stargazing, and wildlife spotting
• Expert guides with Wilderness First Responder certification ensure safety and knowledge
• Secluded trails offer minimal light pollution for spectacular star viewing
• UV scorpion spotting reveals hidden desert creatures in vivid blue-green glow
• Flexible season and moon phase considerations influence trail choice for optimal experience
• Small group setting enhances personal attention and relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sedona After Sunset: What’s Included and What to Expect

The Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour isn’t just about walking in the dark; it’s a carefully curated experience designed to reveal the desert’s secrets under the cover of night. Starting just before sunset, your guide will lead you up a trail—often a route that’s chosen based on the season, moon phase, and current conditions—aiming for a scenic vista where the landscape bathes in the warm hues of dusk. Here, the red rocks seem to glow, a natural light show that’s perfect for photos or simply soaking in the moment.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky shifts into shades of violet and indigo. That’s when the real magic begins. You’ll continue into a more remote part of the trail, away from light pollution, where the darkness heightens your view of the stars. Expect to pause at a summit or a clear overlook for stargazing, where your guide will point out constellations and planets with a laser pointer, sharing stories and interesting facts that make the universe feel just a little more personal.

A standout part of this tour is using UV flashlights to find glowing scorpions. These creatures, common in the desert at night, fluoresce a vivid blue-green under ultraviolet light, making their hidden presence obvious without disturbing their natural behavior. Several reviewers have described this as “an unforgettable glimpse into the desert’s hidden world,” and it’s easy to see why—seeing these creatures light up against the rocks is both exciting and educational.

Throughout the hike, your guide’s expertise is evident. They are trained Wilderness First Responders, meaning you can feel confident in their ability to handle any emergency, no matter how remote you might feel. Their insights into desert wildlife, stars, and terrain add depth and context to the experience. As one visitor put it, “Ty made me feel safe and comfortable, even on my first night hike,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

The Itinerary: From Sunset to Night Sky

The tour begins with meeting in the parking lot, where your guide will give a brief overview and answer any immediate questions. After a short van ride to the trailhead, the hike commences, typically just before sunset. The initial part of the hike is leisurely, allowing you to take in scenic vistas of the red rocks that Sedona’s famous for. As you ascend, the landscape is alive with subtle colors and textures, revealing why Sedona has become a magnet for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Once at the summit or a designated vista, you’ll have time to settle in, take photos, and enjoy the changing colors of the sky. When darkness fully takes over, your guide will lead you into a darker, more secluded part of the trail, perfect for stargazing. Without much light pollution, the night sky is a true spectacle—bright, vast, and full of detail.

The highlight of the evening occurs as the stars come out in force. You’ll learn to identify constellations, track planets, and hear stories that connect astronomy with local lore. The small size of the group ensures you can ask questions and share your observations comfortably.

Next comes the UV scorpion scouting. Equipped with UV flashlights, you’ll search rocks, cracks, and trail edges for the eerie glow of these desert creatures. Several reviews praise this part as “surprising and fascinating,” offering a rare glimpse into the desert’s nocturnal life without harming the animals.

The tour wraps up with a return hike, often in the cool night air, back to the starting point. Throughout, your guide will keep the pace comfortable, emphasizing safety and enjoyment.

The Value and What You’ll Take Away

For $445, this tour offers an intimate, educational, and adventurous evening in Sedona. It’s priced to include expert guiding, transportation, snacks, and the special experiences of star-gazing and UV scorpion spotting. Considering the personalized small-group setting, the safety measures, and the opportunity to see a different side of Sedona, it provides solid value for those interested in authentic, nature-based experiences.

Other travelers have raved about guides like Ty, who is “knowledgeable, kind, and humorous,” making the evening both fun and reassuring. Many mention how the experience turned a simple hike into a memorable story—one that combines natural beauty, science, and the thrill of discovery.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who enjoy gentle walks, are comfortable in low light, and have an interest in wildlife, stars, or simply escaping the daytime crowds. It’s also perfect for first-timers to Sedona looking for a safe introduction to the desert’s night landscape, as guides are skilled at making newcomers feel at ease.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour offers a rare chance to see Sedona’s landscape in a completely different light—literally. With expert guides, a focus on safety, and a mix of adventure, science, and natural beauty, it’s ideal for travelers craving a quiet, authentic experience away from the crowds. It’s especially suitable for those curious about astronomy and desert wildlife, or anyone who wants a peaceful night under the stars with knowledgeable companionship.

If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and deeply enriching way to experience Sedona after dark, this tour delivers a memorable journey into the desert’s hidden world. It’s a chance to connect with nature in an intimate setting, leaving you with stories and sights that will stay with you long after the stars have faded.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly stated, the experience involves walking in low light and some wildlife spotting, so it’s best for children over 1 year old who are comfortable with hiking and darkness.

How long is the hike?
The entire tour lasts around 4 hours, including transportation, hiking, stargazing, and wildlife spotting.

What should I bring?
Dress in comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a hat, water, and a camera to capture the scenery.

Are there any safety concerns?
All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders, ensuring safety and confidence during the hike, even in remote areas.

How does the UV scorpion spotting work?
Using UV flashlights, your guide will scan rocks and cracks to make the glowing scorpions visible, providing a safe and fascinating look at these creatures.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
The tour adjusts based on season and moon phase for optimal star visibility, so it’s suitable year-round, but check with the provider for specific timing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by van is included, from a designated pickup point in Sedona.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just curious about what lies beyond the desert horizon, the Sedona Night Hike and Stargazing Tour promises an evening of discovery, peace, and wonder—an experience you won’t soon forget.