Explore the elevation of Sedona—perched at 4,350 feet above sea level, surrounded by stunning red rock formations, spiritual landmarks, and breathtaking desert scenery that defines this iconic Arizona destination.

Table of Contents

Where is Sedona?

  • Location: Sedona sits on the county line between Coconino and Yavapai counties in central Arizona.

City Profile

  • Nicknames: Often called Red Rock Country and Arizona’s Scenic Gem.
  • Fame: Renowned for its towering red sandstone formations, spiritual vortexes, and outdoor adventures.
  • Population: Just over 10,000 residents, making it a peaceful yet popular town.
  • Size rank: Covers an area of around 19 square miles, small but packed with attractions.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Sedona stands at an elevation of 4,350 feet (1,330 m) above sea level.
  • State comparison: Arizona’s average elevation is 4,100 feet (1,250 m), placing Sedona slightly above the state mean.
  • Tallest building: Sedona isn’t known for skyscrapers; its “tallest” structures are likely scenic formations and sacred sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
  • City founding: Officially founded in 1902, though the area has been inhabited since 10,000 BC.
  • Name origin: Named after Sedona Schnebly, wife of the city’s first postmaster.
  • Growth story: Sedona evolved from a small farming village into a renowned artist, wellness, and tourism hotspot.
  • Modern evolution: Today, Sedona is a major draw for spiritual retreats, film productions, and eco-tourism.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Local contrast: Sedona sits in a high desert basin, with surrounding formations and plateaus reaching even greater heights.
  • Highest nearby point: Humphreys Peak – 12,633 feet (3,851 m), the tallest point in Arizona, located north near Flagstaff.
  • Other nearby formations: Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte tower dramatically above town.
  • State city comparison: Sedona is higher than Tucson – 2,388 feet (728 m), Phoenix – 1,086 feet (331 m), and Scottsdale – 1,257 feet (380 m), but lower than Flagstaff – 6,910 feet (2,106 m).
  • Highest city in Arizona: Flagstaff – 6,910 feet (2,106 m).
  • Lowest point in Arizona: Colorado River near Yuma – 70 feet (21 m) above sea level.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Sedona has a temperate semi-arid climate with warm days, cool nights, and low humidity.
  • Rainfall: Receives less than 20 inches of rainfall annually, mostly in spring and fall.
  • Humidity: Typically low, which contributes to a pleasant year-round outdoor experience.
  • Summer temperatures: July sees average highs around 97°F (36°C) and lows near 64°F (18°C).
  • Winter temperatures: January brings highs around 57°F (14°C) and lows near 31°F (-1°C).
  • Entertainment: Explore world-class art galleries, film sites, and iconic spiritual landmarks like Chapel of the Holy Cross.
  • Recreation: Popular for hiking, mountain biking, jeep tours, and vortex exploration.

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