SEDONA SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Switchbacks and Cathedral Rock: The Red Rock Loop Road — Self‑Guided Tour
A four-hour, self-guided loop from Sedona that threads switchbacks and valley rims, passing Cathedral Rock, Crescent Moon Ranch on Oak Creek, Red Rock State Park and Chavez Overlook.
Switchbacks and Cathedral Rock: The Red Rock Loop Road — Self‑Guided Tour.
The Red Rock Loop Road is our premier route. Enjoyable for all riders but must be comfortable with sharing the road with vehicles. Experience awe-inspiring views as you coast down the switchbacks to the bottom of the valley. Points of interest are the back side of Cathedral Rock, Crescent Moon Ranch on Oak Creek (a great picnic spot!), Red Rock State Park, and Chavez Overlook. Bring your bathing suit during the summer months for a refreshing dip at Buddha Beach.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Switchbacks and Valley Rides
Ride a premier loop that drops down switchbacks into the valley for long vistas and open red‑rock panoramas—central to why this is the operator's flagship route.
Cathedral Rock & Crescent Moon Ranch
The tour takes you past the back side of Cathedral Rock and along Oak Creek to Crescent Moon Ranch, noted as a great picnic spot along the way.
Summer Swim at Buddha Beach
During the summer months bring a bathing suit: the route offers access to Buddha Beach for a potential post‑ride dip in Oak Creek.
What the day feels like
What the ride feels like
Over four hours you’ll follow the premier Red Rock Loop Road, sharing paved shoulders with traffic as you descend switchbacks into the valley, pause for views at overlooks and parks, picnic beside Oak Creek, and—if the season allows—cool off at a nearby beach.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this loop and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The loop is planned as a four‑hour outing; summer offers the option to swim at Buddha Beach, so plan attire and timing accordingly.
Bring your own backpack with water and snacks; a bathing suit is recommended in summer months.
Helmets and a bike lock are provided with the tour.
This is the operator’s premier route; riders will share the road with vehicles and should follow local road rules and operator guidance.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Red Rock Loop Road tour?
The tour is four hours in duration.
Is this a self‑guided tour?
The official trip title lists this as a Self‑Guided tour on the Red Rock Loop Road.
What equipment is provided?
The tour includes a helmet and a bike lock.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your own backpack with water and snacks; in summer, bring a bathing suit if you plan to swim.
Are there any rider restrictions or requirements?
The route is described as enjoyable for all riders but participants must be comfortable sharing the road with vehicles.
What are the main stops on the route?
Key points of interest include the back side of Cathedral Rock, Crescent Moon Ranch on Oak Creek, Red Rock State Park, Chavez Overlook, and seasonally Buddha Beach.