Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa is a hillside viewpoint and hiking area on Airport Road, just west of central Sedona. A short climb from the lower parking area brings you to broad views of the red-rock formations and valley; the summit is a popular place to watch sunrise or sunset. You can also walk the Airport Loop Trail around the mesa, though the full route takes longer than a quick viewpoint stop. Airport Mesa is one of Sedona’s vortex sites, a place some people visit for meditation or reflection.

The viewpoint and its trails

Airport Mesa sits on Airport Road near the Sedona Airport. From the lower parking area, a short uphill walk leads to the viewpoint. The higher ground gives you a wide look across Sedona, the valley and the surrounding red-rock formations.

For a longer outing, the Airport Loop Trail circles the mesa. The route is rocky in some places, and accounts of its length vary. Allow about two hours if you plan to walk the loop with photo stops. If you have limited time, a short walk to the viewpoint gives you a taste of the scenery without committing to the full route.

Sunrise, sunset and the vortex

The viewpoint draws people at both ends of the day. At sunrise, the first light falls across the red rocks; at sunset, the formations change color across the view. You may not see the sun itself setting from the viewpoint, but the surrounding landscape is visible in several directions.

Airport Mesa is also considered a vortex site by some people in Sedona. Visitors may meditate, reflect or practise yoga there. Give others space and pass quietly if they are taking time for their own practice.