Sedona Hi-Points Luxury Van Tour — Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock & Airport Mesa at Sunset
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate; must be able to step on and off a van and walk short uneven stretches.
Overview
In two hours you can trade downtown bustle for red-rock panoramas. This luxury van tour hits Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock and Airport Mesa at sunset—perfect for first-time visitors who want big views and local context without the parking headache.
Sedona Hi-Points Luxury Van Tour — Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock & Airport Mesa at Sunset
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You climb into a climate-controlled van as the late afternoon sun softens the red sandstone into a palette of orange and rust. The driver pulls away from Uptown Sedona and the town’s storefronts slip past. Outside, the road threads between sculpted mesas and hoodoos; inside, a guide points out the geological language of the landscape while the van hums along Highway 179 toward Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Book late-afternoon for sunset
Schedule the tour to arrive at Airport Mesa 30–45 minutes before sunset for peak color and softer light for photos.
Bring sun protection and water
Even short stops expose you to desert sun and dry air—carry a 1L water bottle and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Wear stable shoes
Most stops are short walks over compacted dirt or low rock; supportive shoes reduce slips and knee strain.
Bring a child car seat if needed
Operators require car seats for children 6 and under—confirm in advance to avoid being turned away.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert cottontail rabbit
- Red-tailed hawk
History
The red-rock formations are largely Schnebly Hill sandstone; the Chapel of the Holy Cross, completed in 1956, is a midcentury landmark built into the cliffs.
Conservation
Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing fragile sandstone; Sedona’s trail use and development are managed to protect soils and native vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sedona
Recommended Gear
Supportive walking shoes
Good traction and ankle support for short off-van walks and rocky viewpoints.
Sunglasses & sunscreen
Protects against intense UV and glare off sandstone, especially midday to late afternoon.
summer specific
Light layers
Desert temps swing; a windbreaker or fleece is handy for evening breezes on Airport Mesa.
fall specific
Camera or smartphone with wide-angle
Capture the sweeping red-rock vistas and chapel architecture—wide angle helps fit formations into frame.