Sedona, AZ

On Your Own Steam

Mount Wilson, copyright Bob Clemenz

Hiking is Sedona's most popular pastime. The National Forest Service and City of Sedona maintain more than 135 local trails, most of which are easy to moderate and can be hiked in 1-2 hours. For more detail, pick up a copy of Sedona Hikes by Richard and Sherry Mangum (Hexagon Press, 2003) at any local bookstore. This excellent trail guide includes a listing of the author's "personal favorites."

• Easy
  Red Rock State Park is the best bet for children 6 and under. You'll find safe strolls, great views, and ranger-led nature tours.
• Moderate
  Older kids will enjoy more challenging hikes to Boynton Canyon or Secret Canyon and the rock scramble to Vultee Arch. Though harder, there's a payoff: Most lead to arches, caves, and petroglyphs carved into rock by Sinaguan Indians.
• Hard
  The mountain goats in your clan will appreciate Cathedral Rock and AB Young Trails. They're tough but rewarding, with stunning views at the end.

Next to hiking, biking is Sedona's big sport. The Bell Rock Pathway bike trail is 7 miles roundtrip on packed dirt, winding through the rock formations. The trailhead starts in the Village of Oak Creek, just 7 miles south of town. Rentals (and coffee) are available right across the street from the trailhead at Bike and Bean.