Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Sedona, AZ!

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Why Visit?

Embark on an inspiring journey to Sedona"s iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross, an architectural marvel seamlessly integrated into the mesmerizing red rock landscape. Renowned for its stunning vistas and spiritual solace, this destination is perfectly accessible for those on wheelchairs or mobile scooters.

Morning Arrival: Begin your adventure early to enjoy the tranquil morning light and cooler temperatures. The Chapel is located at 780 Chapel Road, Sedona, AZ. Wheelchair-accessible parking is available directly at the base of the Chapel. From there, an elevator is conveniently provided to take you up to the chapel level, bypassing the steep incline leading to the entrance.

Chapel Tour: Once inside, you’ll find that the Chapel is fully accessible, allowing you to explore every corner of this serene space. Built in 1956 and inspired by the Empire State Building"s construction, the Chapel stands as a testament to faith and innovation. Its floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the red rocks, creating a perfect backdrop for reflection and photography.

Lunch Break: After your visit, head to one of Sedona’s wheelchair-friendly restaurants. The nearby Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill offers not only accessible dining but also stunning panoramas that complement their delectable dishes.

Afternoon Exploration: Post-lunch, consider a drive along the Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179), which offers numerous accessible viewpoints and picnic areas. The Bell Rock Vista and Pathway is particularly accommodating for wheelchairs and scooters, featuring paved trails that allow you to immerse in the natural beauty of Sedona’s landscapes.

Evening Relaxation: Conclude your day by watching the sunset from the Airport Mesa, which provides an accessible platform to witness the changing colors of the sky against the majestic rocks.

This wheelchair-friendly tour ensures that everyone, regardless of mobility challenges, can experience the spiritual uplift and natural splendor of Sedona’s cherished Chapel of the Holy Cross and its surrounding wonders.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Oak Creek Canyon

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona

Embark on a scenic adventure through Oak Creek Canyon with an itinerary tailored for wheelchair and mobile scooter users. This awe-inspiring canyon, nestled between the vibrant city of Sedona and the high-altitude forests of Flagstaff, offers spectacular views and accessible adventures.

Starting Point: Sedona

Begin your journey in the charming town of Sedona. Hop on the Verde Lynx public transit, which is equipped with wheelchair lifts, and head to the canyon. The buses are accommodating, ensuring a smooth ride to your destinations.

Stop 1: Oak Creek Vista

Your first stop, Oak Creek Vista, offers a breathtaking overview of the canyon. This spot features accessible viewing platforms that provide panoramic views of the red rock landscape. Learn about the area’s geology and history through accessible interpretive displays.

Stop 2: Slide Rock State Park

Continue north to Slide Rock State Park, approximately a 15-minute drive along AZ-89A. The park has designated accessible parking and restroom facilities. While the slide area itself may not be fully accessible, the park offers paved trails and picnic areas where you can enjoy the serene environment and watch others enjoy the natural water slide.

Lunch Break: Indian Gardens Cafe & Market

Enjoy a lunch break at Indian Gardens Cafe & Market, just a short drive from Slide Le Rock. The cafe offers patio seating that is wheelchair accessible and serves up delicious, locally-sourced meals.

Stop 3: West Fork Trail

Finish your tour at West Fork Trail. The trailhead has accessible parking and restroom facilities. The first quarter mile of the trail is paved and allows you to immerse in the natural beauty of the canyon and the vibrant foliage, especially during the fall season.

Return to Sedona

Head back to Sedona to conclude your tour, or stay to explore more of what this enchanting town has to offer. Oak Creek Canyon, with its accessible facilities and enchanting landscapes, ensures that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty Arizona has to offer.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Cathedral Rock

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Accessible Tour of Cathedral Rock, Sedona

Morning: Arrival and Scenic Drive

Begin your adventure to Cathedral Rock by arriving early to enjoy the crisp, fresh air of Sedona. The most accessible route is via the Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179), which is not just a drive but an experience. As you approach Cathedral Rock, the towering red sandstone formations offer a spectacular prelude to what awaits. There are several pull-offs along the way for you to enjoy panoramic views and snap some photos. Parking is available at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead, which includes designated accessible parking spots.

Mid-Morning: Modified Trail Experience

From the parking area, approach the Cathedral Rock Trail – a popular path known for its stunning vistas. While the trail itself is not fully wheelchair accessible due to its steep and rugged nature, the beginning offers a paved, accessible segment where you can take in the views and feel the energy of this iconic vortex site. Interpretative signs provide insight into the geological and cultural history of the area.

Lunch: Picnic with a View

Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at the Crescent Moon Picnic Site, located a short drive away. This area offers accessible picnic tables and restrooms. It"s set against a backdrop of Cathedral Rock, providing one of the most picturesque dining spots in Sedona.

Afternoon: Red Rock State Park

Cap off your day with a visit to nearby Red Rock State Park. The park features the ADA-accessible Eagle’s Nest Loop, a paved trail that offers breathtaking views and a variety of local flora and fauna. The visitor center is also accessible and provides interactive exhibits and more information about the natural history of Sedona.

Interesting Fact

Cathedral Rock is not only a visual marvel but also a magnetic vortex, believed to be a site of spiritual energy and healing – adding an extra layer of mystique to your visit!

This wheelchair-friendly tour of Cathedral Rock ensures that everyone can experience the awe-inspiring beauty and spiritual warmth of Sedona’s cherished landscapes.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Bell Rock

Why Visit?

Embark on an accessible and awe-inspiring adventure around Sedona"s iconic Bell Rock, a place where stunning vistas and easy-to-navigate trails await wheelchair and mobile scooter users. Here"s your guide to a seamless and enjoyable tour.

Starting Point: Sedona, Arizona

Begin your journey in the picturesque town of Sedona. Rent a wheelchair-accessible vehicle from a local provider to ensure a comfortable ride. Head south on Highway 179, a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the red rock landscape, leading you directly to the Bell Rock Pathway.

Bell Rock Pathway

Arrive at the Bell Rock Vista and Pathway, where accessible parking spots are conveniently located. The pathway is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it ideal for wheelchairs and scooters. As you approach the majestic Bell Rock, the path provides several viewing areas designed for all visitors to enjoy the panoramic scenes. The first quarter-mile is the most accessible segment, offering awe-striking views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte.

Picnic at Bell Rock

Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the accessible picnic areas along the pathway. These areas are equipped with accessible tables and provide a serene setting for enjoying a meal with a view.

Visitor Center and Interpretive Exhibits

Don"t miss the nearby Red Rock State Park Visitor Center, which is accessible and offers interpretive exhibits about the geology and ecology of the region. The center also provides information about accessible trails and features a gift shop where you can pick up souveniles.

Interesting Facts

Bell Rock is not only a visual marvel but also a vortex site, reputed to emit energy that many believe enhances spiritual experiences. This natural landmark is predominantly composed of Schnebly Hill Formation sandstone, dating back millions of years.

Wheel back to Sedona enriched by the natural beauty and spiritual mystique of Bell Rock, making for a memorable, barrier-free adventure in the heart of Arizona"s red rock country.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Seven Canyons

Why Visit?

Accessible Adventure in the Enchanting Seven Canyons

Welcome to the Seven Canyons, a marvel of nature"s artistry sculpted into the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest. Here"s your guide to exploring these majestic canyons comfortably and safely from your wheelchair or mobility scooter.

### Morning: Arrival at Canyon Gateway

Begin your journey early in the morning at the main visitor center, which is fully accessible and provides ample parking for disabled visitors. Here, you can rent a specially designed off-road mobility scooter equipped to handle the rugged terrain (be sure to book in advance). Start with a brief orientation session where you"ll learn about the canyons’ geological history and the day"s weather conditions.

### Mid-Morning: Whispering Pines Canyon

Your first stop is Whispering Pines Canyon, known for its serene ambiance and the soft sounds of wind through pine needles. The accessible trail here is a smooth, flat pathway that offers breathtaking views of the canyon walls rising dramatically against the sky. This trail includes several rest stops with shaded seating areas.

### Lunch: Canyon Viewpoint Café

Head to the Canyon Viewpoint Café, which boasts an accessible deck with panoramic views. Enjoy a meal featuring local Southwestern cuisine. The café also offers telescope viewing spots that are wheelchair accessible, allowing you to gaze deeper into the canyon depths.

### Afternoon: Red Rock Ravine

Post-lunch, make your way to Red Rock Ravine. The Ravine features an accessible boardwalk that guides you through vibrant red rock formations and rich desert flora. Informational signs along the path are placed at a readable height for those in wheelchairs, detailing the ecology and wildlife specific to this area.

### Late Afternoon: Sunset at Eagle’s Crest

Conclude your day at Eagle’s Crest. This spot is famed for its stunning sunsets, where the sky and canyon walls alight with fiery hues. The viewing platform here is wheelchair accessible and provides unobstructed views of the horizon, perfect for capturing that memorable end-of-day photograph.

### Departure

Return to the visitor center by dusk. The center"s gift shop is accessible and offers unique souvenirs crafted by local artists, a perfect memento to remember your Seven Canyons adventure by.

Each site within the Seven Canyons has been thoughtfully adapted to ensure that everyone, regardless of mobility, can experience the profound beauty and tranquility of these natural wonders. Enjoy your journey through one of nature’s most splendid galleries, comfortably and at your own pace.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.