SEDONA ALTITUDE: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SEDONA’S ELEVATION AND ALTITUDE SICKNESS
SEDONA ALTITUDE
Unsure of Sedona’s elevation and if you should worry about altitude sickness?
Sedona’s stunning landscapes are captivating not just because of their natural beauty but also because of the area’s unique elevation. Sedona offers breathtaking views and a distinctive climate that distinguishes it from other destinations. So, should you worry about altitude sickness?
While we can each react differently to elevation levels, read on to discover Sedona’s elevation and if you need to be concerned about altitude sickness and how to prevent any symptoms.
HOW HIGH IS SEDONA?
What Is Sedona’s Elevation?
Sedona’s city area is 4,350 ft (1,330 m) above sea level. However, you will notice you’re in a rocky and mountainous area, so the elevation ranges from 4,326 to 7,122 ft (1,319 to 2,171 m) above sea level.
Is Sedona Considered High Altitude?
Yes and no. High altitude is generally between 4,900 to 11500 ft (1,500 to 3,500 m). If you stay around the city area, you’ll stay below that. If you hike to one of Sedona’s Red Rock summits, you’ll climb to a high altitude.
What Is The Highest Elevation In Sedona?
Wilson Mountain is Sedona’s highest summit, at 7,122 ft (2,170 m). It is the only peak over 7,000 feet, located just west of Oak Creek Canyon.
What Are Other High-Altitude Summits In Sedona?
Wilson Mountain is the only summit over 7,000 ft, but there are nine others with an altitude of over 6,500 ft.
- Munds Mountain: Elevation 6,834 ft (2,083 m)
- Lost Wilson Mountain: Elevation 6,762 ft (2,061 m)
- Maroon Mountain: Elevation 6,666 ft (2,031 m)
- Lee Mountain: Elevation 6,592 ft (2,009 m)
- Lost Mountain: Elevation 6,583 ft (2,006 m)
- UN 6564 – Manzanita Mountain: Elevation 6,564 ft (2,000 m)
- Bear Mountain: Elevation 6,562 ft (2,000 m)
- UN 6549 – The Fortress: Elevation 6,549 (1,996 m)
At That Elevation, Does it Snow in Sedona?
Yes, it snows in Sedona, but only 3 1/2 inches between late December and early March. The area experiences light dustings of snow about five times per year.
For my guide to snow and winter in Sedona, click here.
Is Sedona Considered High Desert?
Yes, Sedona is in Arizona’s high desert, the Mojave Desert. This area extends from the Colorado River in California to the northwestern and north-central parts of the state. It is considered a high desert because most of this area’s altitude is between 2,000 and 4,000 feet (610 and 1,220 m).
Sedona vs. Phoenix Altitude
Sedona is 116 miles (2 hours) north of Phoenix, but its elevation differs. Sedona is 4,350 ft (1,330 m) above sea level, while Phoenix drops to 1,086 ft (331 m). This explains the 10-degree average daily temperatures in the summer and snow in the winter.
OTHER NEIGHBORING AREA’S ELEVATION
Arizona has a diverse elevation range. This variation creates a wide range of climates and ecosystems, from the cooler, pine-covered mountains in the north to the hot, arid deserts in the south. This makes Arizona’s landscapes incredibly varied and exciting to explore.
Here’s more on the elevation of the areas that surround Sedona:
What Is The Grand Canyon Village Elevation?
Grand Canyon Village lies at 6,804 ft (2073 m) above sea level.
What Is The Grand Canyon Elevation Range?
While Grand Canyon Village lies at 6,804 ft (2073 m), other areas of the Grand Canyon are lower and higher. The lowest altitude point is Phantom Ranch on the canyon floor at 2,400 ft (732 m). Navajo Point is the highest point on the South rim and is 7,498 ft (2,285 m). On the North Rim, Point Imperial is the highest at 8,803 ft (2,683 m).
What is Flagstaff’s Elevation?
Flagstaff, next to Mount Elden is around 7,000 feet (2,100 m).
What Is Denver Elevation?
Nicknamed the “Mile High City,” Denver’s altitude is approximately 5,280 feet or (1,609 m).
SEDONA ALTITUDE SICKNESS
Can You Get Altitude Sickness In Sedona?
Altitude sickness happens when your body has trouble adjusting to the lower oxygen levels at high elevations. Generally speaking, you will not get altitude sickness in Sedona because symptoms typically appear at 8,000 ft (2,438 m). At 4,350 ft (1,330 m), it is rare to experience symptoms.
If you are hiking to one of Sedona’s high-elevation summits, you could be at risk for altitude sickness. If you hike lower elevations like Cathedral Rock, you only notice a shortness of breath from the thinner air.
What Are The Altitude Sickness Symptoms?
Altitude sickness symptoms usually appear within hours of reaching high altitude, making them easy to address quickly. However, they can also vary in severity.
Here is a common list of symptoms:
🏔️ Dizziness or lightheadedness
🏔️ Shortness of breath
🏔️ Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
🏔️ Headache
🏔️ Swelling of the face, feet, or hands
🏔️ Fatigue and weakness
🏔️ Insomnia
🏔️ Reduced performance and coordination
How Do You Avoid Altitude Sickness And Symptoms?
Proactivity is always better than reactivity, especially with altitude sickness symptoms. Here are six ways to prevent altitude sickness.
✅ AVOID STRENUOUS EXERCISE OR ACTIVITY ON THE FIRST DAY
Our bodies typically take 24-36 hours to adjust to a new altitude. If possible, create a less demanding first-day itinerary.
✅ STAY HYDRATED AND REPLENISH ELECTROLIGHTS
The air is drier at higher altitudes, dehydrating you much more quickly. The higher up you go, the more water you should drink.
✅ USE SUN PROTECTION
The thin atmosphere at higher elevations provides less protection from the sun’s UV rays. Be sure to protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke.
✅ AVOID OR LIMIT ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE INTAKE
Alcohol can worsen altitude sickness symptoms. If you want an alcoholic drink, wait 48 hours to ensure your body has adjusted. Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages should also be avoided at least one day before traveling to higher altitudes.
✅ EAT MORE CALORIES AND CARBS
Your body burns more calories at a higher altitude because it works harder to get enough oxygen to keep it working. Increase your calorie intake to keep your body healthy and energized. Focus on nutrient-dense foods.
✅ SLEEP AT LOVER ELEVATION
If hiking to high-altitude summits, consider taking day trips to a higher elevation and then returning to a lower elevation to sleep. This will allow your body to take in more oxygen at the lower elevation.
THE WRAP-UP: SEDONA ALTITUDE
When planning a visit to Sedona, it’s important to know how the elevation might impact your health. Sedona is not considered high altitude. Generally speaking, you shouldn’t have any issues with altitude sickness while wandering the streets of Sedona or on most hikes. Now that you know the level of concern regarding altitude sickness in Sedona, you can continue planning your trip and have fun! Safe travels.