Discover Cottonwood, AZ: Your Ultimate Base for Sedona Hiking, Great Scenery and Wine Adventures

Cottonwood, Arizona offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, stunning views, and rich wine culture, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby Sedona. Whether you’re passionate about hiking, eager to soak in breathtaking scenery, or interested in sampling local wines, Cottonwood provides easy access to all these experiences at an affordable cost. This post highlights the best hiking trails, scenic drives, and wineries to visit while staying in Cottonwood. Of course, we recommend you stay with us at Origins Bed and Breakfast - just a 25-minute drive to west Sedona!

Down Town Cottonwood

Why Choose Cottonwood as Your Base

Cottonwood offers several advantages for visitors planning to explore Sedona:

• More affordable accommodations compared to Sedona’s higher-priced hotels and resorts.

• Less crowded atmosphere while still being just a short drive from Sedona’s main attractions.

• Access to local dining, shops, and cultural sites in Old Town Cottonwood.

• Proximity to both hiking trails and wineries, allowing visitors to mix outdoor activity with relaxation.

  
  

This combination makes Cottonwood a practical and enjoyable hub for your Sedona adventures.

Hiking Trails Near Sedona Accessible from Cottonwood

Sedona’s red rock formations attract hikers from all over, and Cottonwood’s location makes it a convenient starting point. Here are some must-try trails:

• Airport Mesa Trail

This trail offers panoramic views of Sedona’s famous red rocks. It’s a moderate 3.5-mile loop that’s perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes. The trailhead is near the Sedona Airport, providing a unique vantage point over the landscape.

• Boynton Canyon Trail

Known for its stunning canyon views and diverse plant life, Boynton Canyon Trail stretches about 6 miles round trip. It’s a moderate hike that leads to a scenic box canyon, ideal for those wanting a peaceful nature experience.

• Bell Rock Loop

Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s iconic formations. The 3.6-mile loop trail circles the rock, offering close-up views and opportunities for rock scrambling. It’s accessible and family-friendly.

• Doe Mountain Trail

This 3.3-mile round trip hike climbs to a flat mesa top with sweeping views of the surrounding red rocks. The trail is moderately steep but rewards hikers with a unique perspective of the area. This is one of our favorites!

• Sedona Cultural Center Trails

For a mix of culture and nature, explore the trails around the Sedona Cultural Center. These paths are shorter and easier, perfect for casual walkers interested in local history and art.

Scenic Drives to Experience Sedona’s Beauty

Cottonwood’s proximity to Sedona means you can enjoy some of the most picturesque drives in Arizona. Two routes stand out:

• Dry Creek Road

This road winds through rugged desert terrain and red rock formations. It’s less crowded than the main highways, and offers a quiet drive with plenty of spots to stop and take photos or short walks.

• Upper Red Rock Loop Trail  

This scenic loop provides access to several trailheads and viewpoints. Driving this loop lets you experience Sedona’s varied landscapes, from towering cliffs to lush creek beds.

• Highway 89-A from Jerome  

This drive is nothing short of breathtaking, offering an array of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. This route is renowned for its picturesque views, making it a favorite among travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure.

All three routes are excellent for those who want to enjoy the scenery without committing to a full hike.

Exploring Cottonwood’s Wineries and Wine Culture

Cottonwood is part of Arizona’s growing wine country, and is located in the heart of the Verde Valley AVA (American Viticulture Area). Within and nearby Cottonwood, you will find several wineries and tasting rooms that showcase local varietals. Here are some top spots to visit:

• Southwest Wine Center

Located at Yavapai College, this center offers tastings and educational experiences about Arizona wines. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s unique grape-growing conditions.

• Alcantara Vineyard

A family-owned, sustainably-farmed and passionately-tended vineyard just ten minutes from Origins B&B, Alcantara helped pioneer winemaking in the region and continues to craft varietals that showcase the unique character of this land.

• Chateau Tumbleweed

Known for its friendly atmosphere and quality wines, Tumbleweed offers tastings of reds, whites, and blends. The winery often hosts events and live music.

• DA Ranch Estate Vineyards

This family-owned winery produces small-batch wines with a focus on sustainability. Visitors can enjoy tastings in a relaxed setting surrounded by vineyards.

• Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery

Situated near the scenic Oak Creek, this winery combines beautiful views with a diverse wine selection. It’s a perfect stop after a day of hiking or driving.

Sampling wines in Cottonwood provides a relaxing way to end an active day exploring Sedona’s outdoors.

Plan Your Trip for a Balanced Experience

To make the most of your visit:

• Start your mornings with a hike on one of Sedona’s well-known trails like Airport Mesa or Bell Rock.

• Spend afternoons driving scenic routes such as Dry Creek Road to take in the landscape without rushing.

• Reserve time for wine tastings at Cottonwood’s wineries, where you can unwind and discover local flavors.

• Explore Old Town Cottonwood for dining and shopping to experience the town’s charm.