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Mother Nature has blessed Sedona with soul-stirring beauty – radiant red rocks (many, like Bell, Coffee Pot, and Snoopy, named for their resemblance to objects), canyons, creeks, green forests, desert vegetation, and brilliant blue skies. Much of the land is protected by the Coconino National Forest, which offers 100+ unique trails.
Biking Although Sedona’s biking reputation is growing, trails remain relatively uncrowded. Cycle-musts: Bell Rock Pathway off Highway 179 and Jim Thompson Trail, a historic wagon route north of Uptown Sedona. Rent wheels at Bike & Bean. Southern Sedona; Bike & Bean, 6020 Hwy. 179; 928-284-0210; www.bike-bean.com
Boynton Canyon Vista Trail Access this red-rock gorge (another vortex spot) via easy 1.5-mile trail. The 5-mile Boynton Canyon Trail #47 leads deeper into the canyon. Rock Pass required. West Sedona; North side of Hwy. 89A; follow Dry Creek Road Red
Cathedral Rock Trail Hike Cathedral Rock via this 1.5-mile trail. Steep slickrock slopes are enhanced by stellar views of Sedona's spectacular countryside. Red Rock Pass required. Village of Oak Creek; North of the Village of Oak Creek, Access from Hwy. 179; on Back O'Beyond Rd.
Fishing Reel ‘em in on Oak Creek, a bountiful trout stream. For supplies, advice, and even guided outings try Sedona Sports (you can also pick up mandatory fishing licenses here). Southern Sedona; Sedona Sports, 251 N. Hwy. 179; 866-204-2377; www.sedonasports.com
Horseback Riding If you prefer to saddle up like they did in the Old West, guided rides on a 45,000-acre, working cattle ranch can be organized through A Day In The West. Uptown; A Day In The West, 252 N. Hwy. 89A; 928-282-4320; www.adayinthewest.com
Off-road Jeep Tours Explore the area's unspoiled back-country via jeep tour – Pink Jeep offers the best outings with stops at ancient ruins, rock art sites, and coyote canyons. Uptown; 204 N. Hwy. 89A; 800-873-3662; www.pinkjeep.com
Slide Rock State Park On a sunny day, don a swimsuit, pack a picnic and follow the crowds to the natural waterslide created by these smooth red sandstone cliffs as they plunge into Oak Creek. Oak Creek Canyon; 6871 Hwy. 89A; 928-282-3034; www.azparks.gov
West Fork Trail One of the area’s most popular hikes, this scenic streamside trail (plan on wet feet) is hugged by towering 100-plus-feet cliffs and laced with chasms. Oak Creek Canyon; Call O' the Canyon Day Area off Hwy. 89A; www.fs.fed.us