In short
- Red Rock Passes cost $5 per day or $15 per week.
- Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon require a pass.
- Airport Mesa has a separate $3 daily parking fee.
In this article
Sedona manages trailhead parking through the US Forest Service fee system. If you plan to leave your car at the major vortex sites, you must display a valid pass on your dashboard.
How much is a Red Rock Pass in Sedona?
A Red Rock Pass costs $5 per day, $15 per week, or $30 for an annual pass.
You must purchase and display this pass in your vehicle at USFS fee sites. Alternatively, you can use a valid America the Beautiful Interagency Pass if you already own one.
Which vortex sites require a Red Rock Pass?
You need a Red Rock Pass to park at Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon.
These three trailheads are located on Coconino National Forest land. The passes help maintain the trails and parking areas. Trailhead parking spots fill rapidly before 8 AM.
Where do you park for the Airport Mesa vortex?
You can park at the small saddle lot or the scenic overlook lot, which requires a separate fee.
The saddle parking holds only about 10 cars. If it is full, park at the scenic overlook lot. This overlook lot charges a separate $3 daily parking fee. Red Rock Passes are not valid here.
Do I need a pass if I use the Sedona Shuttle?
No, you do not need a Red Rock Pass to ride the free Sedona Shuttle.
The shuttle runs Thursday to Sunday from designated park-and-ride lots. It serves popular trailheads like Cathedral Rock and Mescal. You do not need to pay a parking fee at the shuttle lots.
Do you have to pay to hike in Sedona?
Hiking the trails is free, but parking a vehicle at the trailhead costs money.
The fees apply strictly to the vehicle parked at the USFS sites. If you walk, bike, or take the free shuttle to the trailhead, you do not pay an entry fee for the trail itself.
Can I take a tour instead of driving?
Yes, booking a guided jeep tour avoids parking fees and crowded lots entirely.
Open-air 4x4 tours pick you up from Sedona hotels or Uptown plazas. These trips last 2 to 3 hours and cost from $105 to $165 per person. The guide handles the driving and access.
Questions travellers ask
Can I use an America the Beautiful pass in Sedona?
Yes, the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass is accepted at Coconino National Forest trailheads like Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon. It serves as a valid replacement for the Red Rock Pass.
Are there days when Cathedral Rock parking is closed?
Yes, Cathedral Rock trailhead parking is often restricted Thursday through Sunday. During these days, you must use the free Sedona Shuttle from the park-and-ride lots.
What forms of payment are accepted at Airport Mesa?
Bring small bills or exact change for the Airport Mesa scenic overlook parking kiosk. The fee is exactly $3 for all-day parking.
