|
Located in Arizona's high desert under the towering southwestern rim of the
vast Colorado Plateau, the city of Sedona is blessed with four mild seasons
marked by abundant sunshine and clean air. Ideally, the annual average
high and low temperatures are 74.7 and 45.7 degrees, respectively.
Almost the entire world knows that Sedona, strategically situated
at the mouth of spectacular Oak Creek Canyon, is a unique place. Characterized
by massive red-rock formations, as well as the contrasting riparian
areas of Oak Creek Canyon, the area surrounding this beloved community
is considered at least as beautiful as many national parks.
The city of Sedona, one of Arizona's premier tourism, recreation, resort, retirement
and art centers, was incorporated in 1988. Historically, it was a rural
ranching community located far off the beaten path, but its unsurpassed natural
beauty became nationally known through the motion picture industry. Today,
commercials and television shows still are filmed in the unsettled areas surrounding
this city, which annually attracts more than 4 million tourists from around the
world.
Request
Free Sedona Travel Planner!
 |
Activities |
 |
Hiking -
The amazing hikes in this area
all have individual character. Their special attractions are as varied
as their degree of difficulty, unique location and historical significance. Some
lead to high elevations, some hug winding creeks, some afford awesome views of
distant vistas, some offer intimate beauty. Fact is, picking Sedona's most
popular hike is a fickle affair because recent experiences are remembered best,
but you can't go wrong no matter what choice you make. Just remember two
things: Litter defaces, leave no traces, and you need a Red Rock Pass if parking
a vehicle on Forest Service land.
Biking & ATV -
Hiking vs. biking is
a personal matter. They're both exceptional experiences in Red Rock Country,
where an extensive connection of bike trails, often paralleling hiking trails,
has been developed. Be aware, however, that bikes are not allowed in specially
designated wilderness areas, only in the national forest proper. And remember
that a Red Rock Pass, which is available at two chamber visitor centers and
other locations in this area, is required for parking on forest land. Also,
taking an ATV tour
is quite popular in Sedona.
Camping - Popular day-use sites provided by the Forest
Service are located at Call of the Canyon, near the trailhead at West
Fork; Crescent Moon Ranch, headquarters for a world-famous view of Cathedral
Rock; and Grasshopper Point, a smaller site near Midgley Bridge. Designated
picnic areas named Encinoso, Banjo Bill and Halfway are creek-side haunts
in Oak Creek Canyon, as are Bootlegger, Cave Springs, Manzanita and Pine
Flat campgrounds.
Horseback Riding -
Another wonderful way to see Red Rock Country is to get back in the saddle again
and follow happy trails like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers used to do. Some
horseback rides include such entertaining delights as creek crossings and outdoor
dining and you always can sing, of course.
Tours - Sure,
you can see some of the famous red rocks like Snoopy and Steamboat while walking
down main street, and you can look down at winding Oak Creek from spots in the
uptown area. However, to really see this community, as well as ancient
ruins, pristine canyons, vortex sites and even the Grand Canyon, book a tour
or excursion in Jeeps , airplanes,
helicopters and hot-air
balloons or on scenic
railroads . Not only will you totally be amazed at the sights, you'll
learn a lot about Red Rock Country, too.
Golf -
If you're a golf buff, tee it up at highly rated championship
courses open to the public, but don't get more concerned about taking shots
with your camera than your clubs. Rather enjoy a short course? Play
around on a couple of conveniently located executive courses. On the other
hand, if tennis is your game, you'll love playing in Sedona during any season. The
weather is ideal for tennis in winter, spring, summer and fall and this community's
finest resorts offer professional instruction and scheduled competition on
top-quality courts.
Birding - Maybe you've had enough hiking, biking and touring - now it's time
to really relax, to listen to beautiful birds that whistle while they work. This
community is situated at an elevation of 4,500 feet, at the upper margin of
the Sonoran Desert. According to the Northern Arizona Audubon Society,
this elevation, combined with a distinct change of seasons and rich riparian
areas, results in a varied population of birds and thus, good birding any time
of the year. Additional information is available at the District Ranger
Station in Sedona.
Current Events - View current events for Sedona and its surrounding area.
 |
Nearby Cities and Areas |
 |
Flagstaff - Flagstaff is a convenient central location for visiting the major attractions of northern Arizona. It is an attractive city surrounded by national forests and offers plenty of lodging and dining opportunities. It is a mountain retreat from the Phoenix heat in the summer and a wintertime playground.
Prescott - Prescott is a rapidly growing mountain town with old western mining roots. With its pleasant milder climate, it is a popular weekend destination for those escaping the desert heat of the Phoenix area. Outdoor recreation is plentiful in the Prescott National Forest with mountain biking, hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
Verde Valley - Right in the center of Arizona you'll find the towns of Camp Verde, Cottonwood, and Clarkdale along the banks of the Verde River. This area comprises the Verde Valley. This pretty area is surrounded by national forests and plenty of nice scenery.
For events information in the Sedona area, visit the Sedona Events Alliance website.
Request
Free Sedona Travel Planner!
|