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Visitors who enjoy outdoor adventure are attracted year-round to the
Verde Valley area. Five State Parks dot the Verde Valley and offer
unique outdoor adventure from Slide Rock State Park’s natural water
slide and Forte Verde’s Historic Park featuring the primary base for
General Crook’s US Army scouts and soldiers in the late 19th century,
to Red Rock State Park which captures the natural beauty of Sedona’s
Red Rock country and allows visitors the opportunity to experience a
lush riparian habitat and many forms of wildlife along a 5-mile network
of trails.
Visitors also enjoy biking, horseback riding on the Yavapai Apache
Nation reservation, drive tours through the majestic Oak Creek Canyon,
fishing and bird-watching. For a “bird’s-eye” view of the
spectacular scenery, explore the area by scenic airplane, helicopter
rides, bi-plane or hot-air balloon. The Coconino National Forest
and State parks offer a two-million-acre playground of unlimited
adventure and exploration.
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
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 three chamber visitor
centers and other locations in this area, is required for parking on
forest land.
Camping and Picnicking
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. Call (877) 444-6777 for information, and check the
directory in this guide for private campgrounds and RV facilities.
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 rides include such entertaining delights
as creek crossings and outdoor dining – and you always can sing, of
course. Check the business directory in this guide for outfitters.
Tours and Excursions
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. For specific information, refer to the business
directory in this guide.
Golf and Tennis
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 its 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.
Additional Links:
Camp Verde: Trails
Cottonwood: Golf
* Vinyards/Wineries
Sedona: What
To Do
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