One-day trip from the resort: Sedona (practical plan)
Yes — you can do a one-day trip from JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa to Sedona. Plan for roughly a 2-hour drive each way, leave early to maximize daylight for short hikes and viewpoints, and return to the resort in the evening.
In this guide
Overview & travel time
Sedona is known for red rock formations, short hikes and scenic overlooks. From JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa the typical driving route is north on I-17 then west on AZ-179, taking about two hours each way under normal traffic conditions.
Because driving is the primary way to reach Sedona from the resort, expect about four hours total on the road for a round trip — plan your timing around daylight and the season.
- Estimated drive time: ~2 hours each way (subject to traffic)
- Route: I-17 North to AZ-179 (common route from Phoenix area)
- Best travel window: leave early morning to avoid peak traffic and find parking at popular spots
| Item | Suggested timing |
|---|---|
| Depart hotel | 6:30–7:30 AM |
| Arrive Sedona | 8:30–9:30 AM |
| Return to resort | 4:00–6:00 PM (depending on activities) |
Suggested one-day itinerary
This plan assumes you have a rental car or private transport. Start early, aim for 2–4 short stops in Sedona (viewpoints, short hikes, and a casual lunch) and drive back before nightfall.
Choose activities that match your fitness level: a short scenic walk or overlook, a longer 1–2 hour hike if you prefer, and time to browse a local arts area or visitor center.
- 6:30 AM — Quick breakfast at the resort (Starbucks on-site) and drive north
- 9:00 AM — Arrive and visit a scenic overlook or short trail for photos
- 12:00 PM — Lunch (pack or eat in town)
- 1:30 PM — Optional second short hike or gallery/stroll
- 3:30 PM — Begin drive back to JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
| Activity | Why it works on a day trip |
|---|---|
| Short scenic walk / overlook | High visual payoff with limited time and effort |
| 1–2 hour hike | Gets you into the red rock landscape without taking the whole day |
| Lunch and town stroll | Rest, local shops and galleries are clustered and easy to navigate |
What to pack and practical tips
Bring water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy shoes and a light layer. Arizona sun can be intense even outside summer, and temperatures vary by season and elevation.
If you plan a hike, carry enough water for the outing and check cellphone battery/vehicle fuel before leaving the resort; services in some parts of Sedona are limited.
- Water bottle (1+ liters per person recommended for light hikes)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking shoes
- Phone charger or power bank, and ID/credit card
| Season | Key note |
|---|---|
| Spring / Fall | Pleasant for hiking — still bring sun protection |
| Summer / Monsoon | Start early to avoid heat and afternoon storms |
| Winter | Mornings can be cool — bring a warm layer |
Transportation and parking
A car is the most reliable option for a Sedona day trip. The resort notes a Hertz car rental desk on-site for single-day rentals; confirm availability with the front desk or concierge before your stay.
If you prefer not to drive, look into organized tours that run from Phoenix—book these in advance. Parking at popular Sedona trailheads and overlooks fills early, so arriving before mid-morning helps secure a spot.
- On-site car rental: Hertz desk available (check with concierge)
- Public transit and shuttle options are limited for this route — driving is recommended
- Arrive early at trailheads or viewpoints for parking
| At the resort | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hertz car rental desk | Useful for single-day rentals; confirm hours |
| Valet/self-parking | Self- and valet parking are available at the resort (fees may apply) |
| No resort shuttle to Sedona | The resort does not list a shuttle to Sedona — plan private transport |
Timing, fees and reservations
The resort's mandatory daily resort fee covers amenities like AquaRidge Waterpark access for registered guests and other on-site services; it does not cover off-property day-trip costs. Check the front desk for details about specific inclusions during your stay.
If you plan to eat at restaurants in Sedona or join a guided tour, reserve in advance for weekends or peak season. For dinner back at the resort, on-property options include Meritage - an Urban Tavern, twenty6 lounge and several casual outlets.
- Confirm resort fee inclusions and hours with front desk or concierge
- Make restaurant or tour reservations ahead during busy periods
- Bring cashless payment methods; the resort accepts major credit cards
| Back at the resort | Good for evenings |
|---|---|
| twenty6 lounge | Lounge and small plates in the hotel lobby (hours vary) |
| Meritage - an Urban Tavern | American tavern near Wildfire Golf Club (open for lunch/dinner) |
| Just A Splash Bar & Grill | Poolside option if you return mid-afternoon and want a casual meal |
Health, safety and accessibility
Carry adequate water and avoid midday hiking during hot months; monsoon season can bring sudden storms. If you have specific medical or mobility needs, plan routes and parking accordingly and inform companions or guides.
The resort offers accessible room types and accessible public areas; for accessibility at Sedona trailheads and viewpoints, check local trail information or ask the resort concierge for current guidance.
- Watch weather and heat; start early in hot months
- Ask the resort concierge for up-to-date accessibility info and recommendations
- Have emergency contacts and the resort phone +1 (888) 605-1350 handy
| Resort services | Notes |
|---|---|
| Accessible rooms | Multiple accessible room types available at the resort |
| Spa age policy | Revive Spa facilities are for guests 18+ |
| Check-in/out | Check-in 4:00 PM, check-out 11:00 AM (resort policy) |
