Dear Arizona Travel,
Two friends and I take a yearly trip in the fall, and this coming fall we’re planning to come to Sedona, in late October.  We like to stay in a nice/luxury cabin or large suite with three beds, a living area and kitchen, ideally a bit away from the main hustle and bustle, with quiet, privacy, and scenic surroudings [sic].  We would also love to have a pool to relax by, maybe a spa (although we can also go to a day spa).  We don’t mind driving a bit to get into town.  We’re hoping to hike a bit, and relax a lot.  I checked options on your [Sedona] website, but they are overwhelming – any suggestions to get me pointed in the right direction?  Thanks much.
–Mary S.

One of our suggestions: Junipine Resort in Oak Creek Canyon

Hi, Mary.  Great news: I have three terrific suggestions! While any one of these may not fit all your criteria, they are definitely a step in the right direction. All three of the following properties are located up Oak Creek Canyon, away from the hustle and bustle of Sedona, in beautiful creekside surroundings great for hiking and walking (especially in the fall with the changing colors – gorgeous!) that’s very quiet, scenic, and peaceful.  All of these have cabin or house options with kitchens as you requested.

While none of these places have a pool (it will be a tad chilly for swimming anyway) you can always sit on the banks of the creek or go wading and swimming at Slide Rock State Park – also located in Oak Creek Canyon – a very popular swimming hole with a natural waterslide, cliff jumping, etc.  However, if you do check out a day spa, try Sedona Rouge in West Sedona; it’s a boutique hotel and day spa where spa guests are encouraged to come early and stay late, enjoying the pool for the day (www.sedonarouge.com).

Junipine Resort

Phone: 928.282.3375 – www.junipineresort.com

• In my opinion, this is the most “resort-like” of the three.
• 12 acres with 2.5 acres of common area on Oak Creek
• 50 condominiums that they refer to as ‘creekhouses’

Forest Houses

Phone: 928.282.2999 – www.foresthousesresort.com

• Forest Houses Resort is situated on 20 wooded acres in upper Oak Creek Canyon.
• 17 individual houses
• No children or loud parties allowed

Briar Patch Inn

Phone: 928.282.2342 – www.briarpatchinn.com

• 19 Sedona cabins nestled in the historic Oak Creek Canyon.
• Closest to “town” but still nestled away
• Breakfasts included (delicious!)
• Creekside massages in the gazebo or in your cabin. Facials and yoga also available (read: relaxing!)

I advise you to call each of the properties above, speak with their friendly staff people, and see which one best fits your wish list. I feel certain that you’ll find one of these to be the right fit!

Have a great girls’ trip!

–ChristinaToo

Updated October 2010:
Late September October through mid-October November is the best time to visit Sedona to see the fall leaves change color. Sedona.net gives tips on scenic drives and photography spots for a “leaf-peeping” trip to Sedona this fall…

Read the rest of the article on Sedona.net