Adventure brief
Red Rock Run
Experience Sedona’s red rock canyons on a thrilling Jeep tour combined with a delicious lunch and rich Native American ruins. Discover why Red Rock Run is a top outdoor adventure near Scottsdale.
Located just outside Scottsdale, Arizona, Red Rock Run offers a compelling way to experience the uniquely rugged landscape of Sedona’s world-famous Red Rocks. This 12-hour experience plunges visitors deep into some of the most photogenic sandstone formations around, capturing the vibrant red hues that define the region’s dramatic skyline. The tour’s highlight is a 1.5 to 2-hour Jeep excursion that maneuvers through winding trails and striking canyons, providing up-close encounters with towering buttes and sweeping overlooks carved from ancient sandstone layers.
Guests also enjoy a midday pause for lunch at a premier local restaurant, grounding the adventure with fresh Southwestern flavors before heading into the next phase of discovery: Native American ruins. These historic sites offer a glimpse into the lives of ancestral peoples who shaped this land thousands of years ago. The ruins convey a tangible sense of cultural heritage, with stone structures and petroglyphs nestled in the shadows of the red rock cliffs.
What makes Red Rock Run stand apart is its blend of thrilling off-road action, authentic regional cuisine, and educational immersion into Indigenous history, creating a layered adventure that thrills outdoors enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The rugged landscapes are not only scenic but also geologically significant, with towering sandstone formations sculpted by millennia of wind and water. Sedona's distinct vortex energy reportedly infuses the area with special qualities, adding a subtle spiritual dimension to your journey.
Offering both accessibility and excitement close to Scottsdale, Red Rock Run is a standout for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Arizona’s signature desert beauty and heritage in one active day. This carefully curated trip balances adrenaline, culture, and natural spectacle, making it a must for anyone drawn to the Southwest’s iconic terrain.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring plenty of wateressential
Sedona’s desert climate can be dehydrating, so carry at least 2 liters of water on your Jeep tour.
- 02Wear sturdy footwearessential
Trails and jeep rides cross rocky terrain; hiking boots or closed shoes are best for traction and protection.
- 03Apply sun protectionessential
The Arizona sun can be intense even in cooler months; use sunscreen and wear a hat to avoid sunburn.
- 04Charge your camerainfo
You'll encounter stunning vistas and ancient ruins that deserve high-quality photos, so ensure your camera or phone is ready.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides support and traction for rugged jeep trails and ruins walks.
EssentialSunscreen
Protects skin from harsh desert sun throughout the tour.
EssentialWater bottle
Hydration is vital for desert climates and outdoor activities.
EssentialCamera or smartphone
Captures landscape views and historic sites during the adventure.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Doe Mountain Trail for panoramic views, Grasshopper Point swimming area with natural pools
Local fauna
Desert mule deer, Gila monsters
Historic heritage
Sedona’s Red Rocks have been home to Native American peoples for millennium, with ruins that date back over 1,000 years.
Mindful exploration
Tour operators promote Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile desert ecosystems and cultural sites.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Bell Rock overlook, Cathedral Rock viewpoint, Ancient ruins sites
- Subjects
- Red rock formations, Sunlit canyons, Native American petroglyphs
- Best times
- Golden hour, Sunrise
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are children allowed on the Jeep tour?
Children are welcome but should be at least age 6 and capable of enduring a bumpy ride.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Due to rugged terrain and jeep limitations, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
What should I bring for lunch?
Lunch is provided at a local restaurant featuring Southwestern cuisine during the tour.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Cancellations or reschedules typically require 24 hours notice; check directly with Red Rock Run for policies.
How much walking is involved?
Walking is moderate, mainly at the ruins and viewpoints, requiring comfortable shoes.
Is this year-round?
Yes, Sedona’s climate allows tours throughout the year, but summer heat can be intense.