07/03/2026
One of Sedona’s greatest paradoxes is that it’s beauty can also be its beast, especially when it comes to fighting fires like the Pocket Fire.
Alex Schlueter, Red Rock Ranger District Ranger for Coconino County National Forest, said at a community meeting Thursday night, “What makes this place special, what makes Northern Arizona Magnificent.. is why firefighting here is incredibly difficult. The red rocks, the steeps canyons, all those slopes are why we can’t put firefighters in there safely.”
We know fire officials keep saying this fire will be “on the landscape for a while” because of those challenges it’s worth noting that Sedona and the surrounding communities outside of Oak Creek Canyon are open. The scenic drive will stay closed at least through the holiday weekend, according to officials.
However, trails and access points still available near Sedona and away from the fire include:
✅Cathedral Rock
✅Bell Rock
✅Chapel of the Cross
✅Merry Go Round Rock
✅Airport Mesa
✅Red Rock State Park
The biggest concern for anyone visiting Sedona or Flagstaff in early July is the rapidly changing air quality conditions. It might be clear skies one hour and thick smoke the next. You can always check the latest air quality report and forecast to plan your trip.
We’re here to help if you need assistance with a wedding relocation, special event pivot, or just have general questions about what is going on in Sedona right now. We also have a guide on our blog with all the official sources of information to help you along the way.
