Most people who live in the Metro Phoenix area are not aware that Prescott is a reservoir of lake adventures. Less than 100 miles away from Downtown Phoenix is a secret land of glass lakes, mellow rivers and streams and a entirely different way to explore our backyard. The treasure that Arizona’s nature provides continues to keep giving and surprising lovers of Arizona time and time again.

Photo Credit: AZ Central

Kayaking in Prescott can be a relaxing experience or an exciting adventure. Placid lakes offer stunning views with giant boulders and  multi-colored rock walls jetting out of the smooth water; a truly humbling experience that allows nature and yourself to come to a peaceful accord. For a little more action, many of these rocks and be jumped off of. Get a group of friends, rent some kayaks, pack some drinks and sandwiches and have a picnic at the base of a rock wall do a bit of cliff diving! (Make sure to take all your trash back with you.)

Other kayaking trips in Prescott include streams with some class two rapids that have class three spots. Some people follow these streams and rivers for a few days by setting up camp on the banks at sunset after a day of water adventure followed by another great day of kayaking just after having sunrise breakfast.

Photo Credit: Sedona Adventure Tours

Summer will be here soon enough and Phoenicians will be looking for a way to take a break from the heat. There’s so much to do in Arizona – this state is truly fortunate to have so much to offer. This summer, be creative with your weekends. If you and your friends or family are looking for exciting and budget friendly things to do Arizona this summer, there’s no shortage of options here.

Here are some kayak/boat rentals and tours:

• Prescott Outdoors
• Lynx Lake – Rentals
• Water into Wine River Trip
• Paddle to Pints
• City of Prescott – Recreation Services

View Prescott Lakes – Kayaking in a larger map

There’s quite a bit of entertainment that can come from a super action-packed, mostly-mindless, story-lacking but fun blockbuster movie. But for the next few days, Arizona is going get have the opportunity to enjoy a change of pace. Get ready to broaden your horizons and explore some cinematic art!

The Phoenix Film Festivals runs from March 29 – April 5 and there are some really great films worth checking out. The Harkins Theater in Scottsdale will turn into a mecca of storytelling and visual exploration through  a collection of international films as well as Arizona based films. The Phoenix Film Festival showcases a few competition categories that require the movies or shorts to be filmed in Arizona and/or written about Arizona, offering locals the chance to see Arizona from another perspective.

More than 160 films will screen during its eight-day run, and the schedule is packed with must-sees: From drag queen dreams of going to prom in A Fairy Tale to FDR: American Badass, which re-imagines WWI with werewolves, you won’t want to miss out on the kind of creativity that emerges when millions of dollars are not on the line. In addition to taking in indie flicks, film geeks can work on their filmmaking skills with free weekend seminars given by cast and crew members from the festival films.

You should come to the Phoenix Film Festival:

1) If you can’t find anything good to watch at AMC

2) If you have guessed the ending to the last seven movies you’ve watched

3) If you like Michael Bay movies

4) If you like romantic comedies, any of the dozen Saw movies, or a movie that spoofs another bad movie like Another Bad Teen Movie

5) If your  tired of your favorite actor playing the same role in every movie (except Tommy Lee Jones being authoritative and Sean Bean dying. They don’t count.)

6) If you find yourself not knowing most of the films nominated for Academy Awards

7) If you come out of most movies saying, “the special effects were awesome,” but struggle to talk about the storyline

8) If you’ve never seen a film short or don’t even know what is

9) If you’ve ever said, “movies these days suck”

10) If you’ve never been to the Phoenix Film Festival but saw a poster advertising it at your favorite bar

The Grand Canyon State (a.k.a The Valentine State) turns 100 years on February 14, 2012, and you bet there’s a lot of celebrating going on. From parades and festivals to lectures and outdoor adventures, Arizonans are celebrating all that makes Arizona the great state that it is. With such a rich cultural history and diversity in interests, there will be no shortage of things to do.  Events are going on year round, but you won’t want to miss the official day of the Centennial Celebration.

February 14, 2012 Arizona Statehood Day!

7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. (Phoenix City Hall)

Arizona Native American Sunrise Ceremony (Sunrise Is At 7:12am)

 7:45 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. (begins at Phoenix City Hall)

Reenactment of Governor George W.P. Hunt’s Walk to Capitol

 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Senate & House Lawns)

Happy 100^th Birthday Arizona!

• Happy Birthday Ceremony w/ Governor Brewer (9-9:45am)
• USPS First Day Issue Ceremony (10-10:30am)
• Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest Winners & Award (1-2pm)
• Wayne Newton (2-3pm) 

ALL DAY ACTIVITIES:

• USPS First Day Issue Stamp Sale & Cancellation
• Non-stop Arizona Entertainment
• Legacy Projects & Official Centennial Event EXPO
• Centennial Merchandise
• Phoenix Food Trucks
• Birthday Cake

Other upcoming events:

64^TH ANNUAL GOLD RUSH DAYS & RODEO, Wickenburg | (February 16-19,2012) Admission to: Rodeo, Melodrama, Barbeque, Family Carnival, contests, and Webb Center concerts. Free admission to arts/crafts faire, 4th largest parade in AZ on Saturday, old mining contests on Sunday. Award winning signature event celebrating Wickenburg’s mining and ranching heritage. 2012 is the 64th anniversary celebration. The event has been named twice by the Arizona Office of Tourism as the Best Rural Event in Arizona; and the Library of Congress named Gold Rush Days as one of the Legacy events.

A TALE OF TWO CITIES PARADE & FESTIVAL GOODYEAR AND AVONDALE CELEBRATE ARIZONA’S CENTENNIAL, Goodyear (February 25, 2012) | On Saturday, February 25, 2012, the cities of Goodyear and Avondale will host a joint parade through both cities. This inaugural parade and festival will be a celebration of Arizona’s Centennial which is being celebrated throughout 2012 beginning on the state’s 100th anniversary – February 14, 2012. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. on February 25th on Litchfield Road, travel east on Thomas Road and end at Dysart Road. Depending on the number of entrants, the parade is expected to last anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. We are currently seeking parade entrants – floats, bands, vintage cars, horses, gymnastic troops, dance troops, or other entertaining parade entries. An outdoor, family-focused festival called Trains, Planes and Automobiles, celebrating 100 years of transportation, will take place at Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) following the parade from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This fun-filled event will feature gourmet food trucks, light musical entertainment, antique car displays, arts and crafts, bouncers, a Kids Zone, carnival games, face painting, balloon art, and caricature art.

ROOSEVELT’S RIDE, Apache Junction (February 24 – 26, 2012) | The project will feature a President Theodore Roosevelt re-enactor who will be the Grand Marshall for the annual Lost Dutchman Days Parade. He will be riding in an era-specific vehicle. After the parade he will drive to more locations on the historic Apache Trail where he will speak about the building of the road to carry materials for the construction of the Roosevelt Dam.

THE FOUR HIKES OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA, Oro Valley (TBD) | The hiking event will focus on the beauty of the natural environment and education. A celebration at the historic Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley will involve activities for all family members and will focus on the historical aspect of the property and the heritage of Arizona.

TOWN OF PAYSON MOUNTAIN HIGH GAMES, Payson  (June 3-5, 2011) | The Payson Arizona Mountain High Games are the Southwest’s largest celebration of adventure sports combined with ATV trail rides, and a massive outdoor expo. Professional and amateur athletes from all over the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest will converge upon the mountain community of Payson to compete in 9 different competitions for cash and prizes. This year’s sporting events include: Mountain Biking, 5K Trail Run, Dutch Oven Cooking Contest, Archery Competition, ATV Rodeo, ATV Trail Rides, The Sawdust Festival, and an old fashioned horse shoe tournament.

Arizona Facts:

Arizona is located in the Southwestern United States and is one of the Four Corners states. Arizona is the sixth largest state in area and all New England plus the state of Pennsylvania would fit inside the state.  Only 15% of the land is privately owned, while the remaining area is public forest, park land, state trust land and Native American reservations. Due to the large area of the state, Arizona has several different climates. Phoenix is known for it’s triple digit heat in the summer, but its eight plus months 60 degree to 75 degree weather keeps the city’s population growing consistently.  Arizona has 3,928 mountain peaks and summits—more mountains than any one of the other Mountain States (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming) with Mt. Humpheys in Flagstaff peaking at  a height of 12,643 feet. The main industries in Arizona can be summarized as the “Five C’s”: Cattle, Copper, Citrus, Cotton, and Climate.

For more Arizona Centennial Celebration events and information, go to http://www.az100years.org/

Basic Beginnings

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Flagstaff
Most Flagstaff visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Flagstaff. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Flagstaff via I-17,  which is about a 2.5 hour drive. There are a limited amount of flights from Sky Harbor Airport to Flagstaff Airport available, but that is an option. There are shuttle companies that offer daily scheduled trips for about $38 per person each way, while Amtrak has a train station in heart of town as does Greyhound bus service.

Lodging

Flagstaff experiences an influx of Phoenicians trying to beat the summer heat during the months of July – August. Grand Canyon visitors start coming around in May and keep flowing in all the way through October. Then the snow players take it from there during the months of December – February. This town has plenty of hotels, motels, cabins and bed and breakfasts, but it gets booked pretty quickly on holiday weekends, days following a good snow storm or extra hot days in The Valley.  Making plans in advance is recommended especially if you, your family or travel friends have accommodation preferences. Even the hostels get booked up regularly!

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Flagstaff. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $75 – $250 per night in the peak months and $50 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Cabins
Flagstaff is the perfect place to rent a cabin. Flagstaff’s four season weather makes it inviting year round. Cool off  and relax in a summer cabin surrounded by wildflowers with picturesque mountains in the distance. Better yet, stay warm by a crackling fire with a cup of hot cocoa after a day of skiing or sledding in the winter wonderland. Cabins tend to be visitors’ first choice in Flagstaff lodging, so book early if possible.

Bed & Breakfasts

Flagstaff’s charming mountain home atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy staying at a bed and breakfast. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $125 per night to $350 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Flagstaff is certainly pet-friendly. Several Flagstaff bed & breakfasts, inns, cabins and hotels cater to four-legged family members. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Flagstaff, which may or may not be complete, so don’t be afraid to call your hotel or bed & breakfast and ask if Spike or Fluffy can come along.

Dining

How to See Flagstaff…

“Is everyone here young and cool? Even that old man with a white beard acts like he’s 35.” – overheard at Charly’s Pub at the Weatherford Hotel

It’s true. Flagstaff tends to attract people who are looking for adventure. The vibrant spirit often appears as being young at heart – and it’s everywhere. It can’t be helped. From hiking, snowboarding and rock-climbing to Grand Canyon helicopter tours and Colorado River rafting, it all starts in Flagstaff. How do you want to see Flagstaff?

…on a Bicycle Ride Around Town

If you’re planning on staying in town, a bicycle is the perfect way to get around Downtown Flagstaff. That’s what the locals do! There are bike racks everywhere and nothing is far enough to actually need to hop in a car to get to.  In fact, finding a spot to part a vehicle can be quite the chore in this part of town. Rent a bike. You’ll be able to see, experience and interact with more  of everything, guaranteed. There are people from all over the world and all walks of life in the mountain town that you won’t want to miss.

…on a Guided Tour

You won’t want to miss a guided tour of Lowell Observatory. This was where the once so-called planet, Pluto, was discovered. Flagstaff’s fresh mountain air and clear skies make it a wonderful place to explore the Beyond. Other guided tours include the Museum of Northern Arizona, which features a wealth of geological and cultural information about the Southwest; then there is the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, a five-acre park showcasing an extraordinary early 1900s mansion owned by the Riordan family who logged Flagstaff in the city it is today.

Other tours that depart from Flagstaff are tours to the Grand Canyon. Many tours to the Grand Canyon leave from Flagstaff since it is the biggest city near the canyon. Visitors often take helicopter tours, jeep tours, bus tours, river trips or guided hikes. See Flagstaff.com‘s tour guide to get more information and pricing.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Flagstaff offers both easy and challenging hiking, and the reward for those willing to make the effort is a chance to marvel at the beauty of Flagstaff from above,

• Must-Do – Humphrey’s Peak

Humphrey’s is located 14.5 miles northwest to Flagstaff, Arizona. Take US 180 north for 7 miles, then Snowbowl Road (FR 516) for 7.4 miles to the Snowbowl lower parking lot. Find the Humphrey’s trailhead at the north end of the parking lot. All roads are paved.The trail is very well marked until you reach the saddle. The first 3 miles the trail gradually climbs the mountain, then the last 1 3/4 miles it gets steeper and more difficult. There are posts added on the last 3/4 of a mile to help mark the trail. It is very rocky and loose above 12,000 feet. The trail ascends 3 false summits before reaching the true summit. The trail is moderate to difficult, but anybody in some sort of shape can make it without consideration to elevation sickness. Total mileage is approximately 4 3/4 miles.

Trail Length:4.5 miles one way.
Elevation Range: 9,300 to 12,633 feet.
Elevation Gain: 3,333 feet.
Summit Peak: 12,633 feet.
Trail Rating: Strenuous.
Hiking Time: 3 hours one way.
Hiking Season: Late spring to fall.
Winter Permits: Required
Camping:No camping above tree line.

• Local Favorite – Mt. Elden Trails

The summit of Mt. Elden is a 9,299-foot peak on the north edge of Flagstaff. You can hike any of several good trails or drive up a rough road. Wildflowers, a variety of forests, and panoramic views reward those who ascend even part way. A fire-lookout tower marks the summit. Climb the tower, if it’s open, for the best views. On a clear day you’ll see much of north-central Arizona: Oak Creek Canyon and Mormon Lake to the south; the Painted Desert to the east; Humphrey’s Peak, Sunset Crater, and other volcanoes to the north; and Bill Williams Mountain to the west. Flagstaff lies directly below. An eruption of thick, sticky lava created Mt. Elden.
The hiking season runs from May to October, a bit longer for the drier eastern slope. You’ll need to carry water.  Allow at least half a day for a hike to the summit and back; elevation change is 1,300–2,400 feet, depending on the trailhead. Horseback riders and mountain bicyclists can use most of the trail system.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 2.5 – 3.5 miles
Map and Information: Mt. Elden Trail Guide

 …On a Wall (Rock Climbing)

The Pit (Le Petit Verdon) is one of Flagstaff’s most accessible rock climbing areas for people of all skill levels. Most of the routes are sport but there are a handful of trad routes.

Take I-17 towards Flagstaff. Take the Lake Mary Road Exit. Turn right onto Lake Mary Road, then follow this road approximately 6 miles down. On your left, you will see “Canyon Vista” campground. This is where we are camped at the trailhead to the Pit. Park in the parking lot, trail starts at the end. Go down the small trail, take a right at the fork. You can see the crag from the parking lot and trail. Follow the trail to the other side, there you will see the bolts and pitches.

Flagstaff Temperatures and Precipitation:

Flagstaff receives an average annual snowfall of 99.5 inches
based on the 1st day of each month

Flagstaff Average Clear, Partly Cloudy and Cloudy Days by Month Annual Total

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting Flagstaff. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

It’s here! Arizona Snowbowl has officially opened for the 2011-2012 snow season. All resort amenities will be open.  Agassiz, Sunset and Hart Prairie chairs and the Little Spruce Conveyor will be operating daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Over 80% of the resort is now open with terrain available for all ability levels. This includes several of the new runs made over the summer! Flagstaff has been getting some unusually cold weather and the town is excited to have a great skiing and snowboarding season at Snowbowl.

Is this your first time to Arizona Snowbowl?

Arizona Snowbowl is located just 14 miles outside of Flagstaff. It takes about 2 1/2 – 3 hours to the top of the mountain if you’re coming from Phoenix. There are plenty of places to rent ski and snowboarding gear around town averaging about $30/day for a complete equipment set up not including clothing. There are several slopes perfect for beginners. In fact, this is one of the more beginner friendly places to learn. This resort has a great team of instructors to learn from if you feel like taking ski or snowboarding lessons at Snowbowl. So just come out, give it a try and have fun!

Arizona Snowbowl Info:

Lifts Operating

• 3 of 6; Agassiz, Sunset & Little Spruce Conveyor

Surface Conditions
Early season; please watch for marked and unmarked obstacles on the slope sunset Terrain Park

• Boxes: 1
• Rails:3
• Hits: –

For Arizona road conditions please visit ADOT’s website

Forecast: Read the National Weather Service forecast for Snowbowl

Rates:

Please remember that lift tickets purchased in advance do not guarantee vacancy at the Arizona Snowbowl. If our maximum occupancy has been reached on any given day, admission may be denied. An early arrival is recommended for those who purchased their lift tickets in advance.

*HOLIDAY DATES

• Thanksgiving: 11/24/11 – 11/27/11
• Christmas: 12/21/11 – 01/01/12
• Martin Luther King Weekend: 01/14/12 – 01/16/12
• President ’s Day Weekend: 02/18/12 – 02/20/12

Military Discount – Anyone with a DOD card is eligible for a $40 All Day Adult Midweek Lift Ticket. That is 25% in savings!
(Discount is valid Monday through Friday, non-holiday and cannot be combined with any other specials)

Military Discount is also offered at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins. Present your DOD card at the time of check-in to receive 10% off your accommodation!
(Does not apply towards our Stay & Ski package)

Stay and Ski FREE – 2 Lift Tickets for the price of 1 are available with your stay at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins.
This special is available upon check-in. One free ticket per room per night, but additional tickets are available for purchase on the mountain.

Great Discounts for Groups of 10 and more guests.

You can find more discounts like the Peaks Card, which is a five time use lift discount card, or places to rent a ski and snowboard equipment, and other fun stuff on our Peaks Card information page.

“One for the Road” by Teton Gravity Research
Two Showings at the Orpheum Theater
1st Showing – 7:00PM
2nd Showing – 9:00PM
Doors Open 30 Minutes Prior To Showtime
**Tickets Only Available at the Door**
Tickets are $8 for Students with Student ID
or $10 for non-Students

“Is this real life?” Yep. Thanks to Teton Gravity Research (TRG), we get to see what it’s like to not only live on the edge, but what it’s like to live off the edge, flying, falling, climbing… “One for the Road” follows world-class snow athletes in pursuit of challenging nature, physics, the human body and spirit. This film captures what most people will never get to experience. L-I-V-I-N!

Shot on location with some of the world’s most progressive snow sports athletes, TRG brings home epic footage of winter adventures using some of the world’s most technologically advanced cameras including Phantom, RED, GoPro HD, and Canon DSLR. From a record-breaking season in Jackson Hole to Iceland and the Balkan wonders of Macedonia – watch these athletes explore more as they continue through Montenegro, while shredding deep pillow lines at Baldface Lodge and uncover first descents in Pemberton, BC.

Only a select few cities have the privilege of seeing this in the theater and Flagstaff, Arizona is one of them. Tuesday, November 15, 2011, Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center (KPAC) is having its annual fundraiser at the Orpheum Theater. “One for the Road” will have two evening showings, 7pm and 9pm. Proceeds go to KPAC’s avalanche awareness and safety clinics. There will be raffles and silent auction items – and of course an amazing film being shown in a theater with some really great people.

Come support KPAC and experience an unbelievable adventure while sitting in a cozy, warm seat at the Orpheum Theater.

Athletes: Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, Ian McIntosh, Todd Ligare, Griffin Post, Chris Benchetler, Dylan Hood, Dash Longe, Daron Rahlves, Sven Kuenle, Erik Roner, Nick Martini, Dana Flahr, Rory Bushfield, Callum Pettit, Rachael Burks, Shroder Baker, Byron Wells, Andreas Hatveit, Tom Wallisch, Mike Riddle, Grete Eliassen, Josh Dirksen

Locations: Iceland; Macedonia; Montenegro; Pemberton, BC; Baldface Lodge, BC; Jackson Hole, WY; Juneau, AK; France; Utah; Squaw Valley, CA

If you can’t make it to the show, consider donating to KPAC.

Photo credit: CEBImagery.com on Flickr | CC 2.0

Today, we’re proud to present the second installment of a series we call Back(pack) to Basics with a general guide to Sedona, Arizona. We’ve included everything you need to know about visiting Sedona in a lightweight, easy-to-carry guide you can stuff in your “backpack” of travel resources and this year, visit the place USA Today hailed as The Most Beautiful Place in America.

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Sedona
Most Sedona visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Sedona. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Sedona via I-17 to Highway 179 (exit 298) which is about a 2 hour drive. There are several Phoenix to Sedona shuttle companies offering daily scheduled trips for about $90 – $140 per person round trip.

Lodging

The peak seasons in Sedona, when lodging is at a premium and rates escalate, are January 1 – April 15 and September 15 – November 30. You’ll find the best bargains in the summer months and December, both of which are still fantastic times to visit Sedona. The average length of stay in Sedona is about 2.3 nights; you can see most of the sights in two days, but smart visitors will take advantage of many hotels’ “extra night free” programs, making Sedona their home base for additional day-ventures to the nearby Grand Canyon, Flagstaff and Verde Valley. You can find all the great lodging we describe on our guide to Sedona hotels, resorts and lodging, Sedona.net.

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Sedona. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $90 – $250 per night in the peak months and $70 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Resorts & Spas

Sedona is home to some of the most world-renowned resorts and spas in the country. Indulge in a spa vacation or luxury creekside retreat, perfect for couples, honeymooners, girlfriends’ getaways and individuals (go ahead, you deserve it!) Rates range from $200 – $400 per night in the peak months and $130 to $200 per night (and up to $300 per night for the most upscale resorts) in the off-season.

Bed & Breakfasts

Boasting over 17 unique bed & breakfasts, Sedona is a haven for Europhiles who love the personal touch of a bed & breakfast. Innkeepers of these Sedona gems attract guests with uniquely decorated guestrooms, gourmet breakfasts, personal concierge service, and significant overall value. Whether you’re seeking romance and privacy, sightseeing guidance from an expert Sedona insider, or simply a one-of-a-kind accommodation you’ll remember and recommend for years to come, these bed & breakfasts are certain to fit the bill. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $150 per night to $500 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Sedona is pet-friendly. Several Sedona bed & breakfasts, inns and Sedona hotels cater to four-legged guests. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Sedona, which may or may not be complete, so don’t be afraid to call your hotel or bed & breakfast and ask if Spike or Fluffy can come along.

A pet friendly Sedona vacation goes beyond accommodations; check out these suggestions for Sedona pet friendly activities and restaurants that don’t just accept pets, they cater to them.

Dining

How to See Sedona…

There are many scenic viewpoints accessible by car that offer spectacular views of the red rocks of Sedona, BUT first be sure to pick up a Red Rock Pass ($5/day, $15/week) at one of many commercial vendors (stores, gas stations, hotels, etc.,) government offices and self-serve machines throughout the area. (Where to buy) A Red Rock Pass allows you to park, hike, picnic, and take photos on Coconino National Forest land.

…on a Guided Tour

Likely the most popular way to see Sedona, a Jeep tour from any one of nearly a dozen expert companies is a great way to see some of Sedona’s most breathtaking views, discover the backcountry, learn about Sedona’s history, geology and ecology, and bond with friends, family and other visitors. It’s also an ideal way for multi-generational groups to see Sedona together; a Jeep tour is exciting, yet safe, for kids and grandparents, teens and adults alike.

That’s not to say that a tour by Jeep is the only way to see Sedona from a different point of view. You may opt for other guided tours such as van tours; horseback riding; wine tasting tours; river rafting and kayaking adventures; railway tours; hot air balloon, helicopter and airplane tours; or guided vortex hikes. Every one of these tours satisfies a different interest, taste, ability and budget. And whether you’re seeing Sedona from the back of a horse, or down on Oak Creek, or high above the red rocks, each one of these tours changes your vantage point, so even if this is a return trip to Sedona, you can see it in a whole new light. Find a tour that’s right for you on our guide to Sedona tours, Sedona.net.

…on a Self-Guided Driving Tour

The following are loosely listed in order of how you might encounter them on a driving tour of Sedona, starting in the Village of Oak Creek off Hwy 179 and continuing to the “Y” at Hwy 89A, heading west and then doubling back along Hwy 179 toward Uptown Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon along Hwy 89A. Many include easy to advanced hiking in order to reach the best viewpoints, but several can be viewed from a parking lot or on the side of the road (be careful parking roadside; traffic in Sedona can be very busy.)

You can start this self-guided tour at any of the points below and simply go back to the top of the list and work your way down. Since most Sedona visitors begin their visit by entering the area from the south, (from Phoenix, off I-17) we’re starting our list there.

1. From the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, where you can pull into the Coconino National Forest parking lot for the Bell Rock Pathway to view Bell Rock and Cathedral Butte. This turnoff on the east side of the road is about 1.1 miles north of the National Forest’s South Gateway Visitors Center.

2. Return to Highway 179 and head north 2.8 miles to Back O’ Beyond Road, turning west off the Highway and see spectacular Cathedral Rock.

3. Return to Highway 179 and continue north 0.5 miles to Chapel Road, then 0.8 miles east on Chapel Road up the hill to the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross.

4. Continue on Highway 179 and go to the “Y” at the junction of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. You’re now in Uptown Sedona.

5. From Highway 179, take Schnebly Hill Road. This 38 mile winding and picturesque route ultimately ends at an intersection with Interstate 17. You may choose to go the entire way or turn around and head back down to Highway 179 – it’s up to you. (If you do go all the way up to Interstate 17 and want to come down a different way, you can either go south 38 miles to exit 298 and come back up to Sedona through the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, or head north on the 17 and come down Oak Creek Canyon 27 miles on Highway 89A.)

6. Back at the divergence of Highway 179 and Schnebly Hill Road, continue around the world-famous Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Shopping District and follow to the “Y,” a traffic circle at the intersection of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. An exit to the right of the Y will take you to Uptown Sedona, where you’ll find shops, hotels, galleries and restaurants with public free parking lots and on-street parking. Best to get out and stroll a while here… there’s too much to see from your car windows!

7. Leave Uptown and head west on Highway 89A 1.1 mile, turning south on Airport Road (keep your eyes out… there is no traffic light here.) A short, steep climb up the hill to Airport Mesa, home of one of Sedona’s vortex spots and perhaps the most popular scenic viewpoint at sunrise and sunset.

8. Return to Highway 89A and head through West Sedona where you’ll find more shops, dining, hotels and galleries. From Airport Road, travel 2 miles west to Dry Creek Road at which you make a right and head north up Boynton Canyon. Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona Red Rock Country so famous. Boynton Canyon is also home to the renowned Enchantment Resort.

9. Back out on Highway 89A to the west 1.1 miles is Upper Red Rock Loop Road. Red Rock Loop, aptly named, creates a complete loop that passes through Red Rock State Park, one of Sedona’s most popular hiking, picnicing and photography spots. From here, many iconic photos of the view from Red Rock Crossing to Cathedral Rock have been taken.

10. Complete the loop on Lower Red Rock Loop and return to Highway 89A. From here, your trip doubles back 5.5 miles toward Uptown Sedona, and continues up Oak Creek Canyon. You’ll pass Midgley Bridge and Indian Gardens, both great places to stop and take photos. (If traveling north to south, you’ll enter Uptown Sedona about 7.1 miles from Slide Rock.)

11. Just 7.1 miles from Uptown Sedona is Oak Creek Canyon’s most popular attraction, Slide Rock State Park. With easy walking trails, wading in the creek and a natural waterslide, this park is open year-round but is most popular (read: crowded) in the summer months with visitors and families looking for some cool, natural water play. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 2.8 miles from West Fork .)

12. Another 2.8 miles up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A will take you to the trailhead for the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon Trail, an easy 3-mile and extremely popular day hike. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 6 miles from the Oak Creek Vista .)

13. Nearly 6 miles of winding switchbacks up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A is the Oak Creek Canyon Vista. Look for a well-marked and ample parking lot on the east side of the highway. Don’t miss this opportunity to stretch your legs and view Oak Creek Canyon from its apex as it runs south. Breathtaking year-round, it’s a signt to behold in winter, fall, summer or spring. (If returning from I-17 in the north, the turnoff is about 8.3 miles down the canyon.)

14. From here, you can either turn around and head back down Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A south or continue 6.4 miles to the junction of 89A and Interstate 17. If you continue north toward Flagstaff and the I-17, you can either take I-17 south to Schnebly Hill Road or the full 38 miles to exit 298 and return to your starting point in the Village of Oak Creek.

…Through the Lens (Photography)

For viewing and photographing Sedona, the light is most dramatic early or late in the day; mid-day sun tends to flatten the view and soften the colors. Remember that days are short in the winter and long in the summer. Times for sunrise and sunset are listed below along with our Sedona weather tables.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Sedona offers both easy and challenging hiking, and the reward for those willing to make the effort is a chance to marvel at the beauty of Sedona unfolding below.

Best Easy Hike – West Fork Trail

West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is probably the most popular hikes in Sedona because it’s an easy hike and offers something new and uniquely beautiful every season of the year. Though easy, the trail does cross the creek in a number of places, so be prepared to walk across stepping stones or through some shallow water.

Rating: Easy
Distance: 3 miles
Time: 2 – 3 hours round trip
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Best Moderate Hike – Brins Mesa Trail

A convenient and picturesque trail, Brins Mesa leads hikers out into the open to delight in unobstructed views of spectacular red rock formations. Start your hike at the trailhead located about a mile from Highway 89A on Jordan Road in Uptown Sedona. Brins Mesa can be hot in the summer, so be prepared with plenty of sunscreen and water, as you would with all hikes. Turn around at the edge of Brins Mesa to return to the trailhead. If you have two cars, park one at the Jordan Road end and one at the Soldier Pass trailhead and do the whole trail one way.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles – 4.1 miles
Time: 1 hour
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Best Difficult Hike – Schnebly Hill Trail plus Munds Mountain Trail

Schnebly Hill Trail features a moderate and steady climb toward several overlooks offering great views of Munds Mountain, Bear Wallow Canyon and the red rock formations beyond. With simple signage, it’s easy to continue onto Munds Mountain Trail, a steep, switchback ascent, climbing 500 feet in just over .5 mile. You’ll be rewarded by fine views over Jacks Canyon and the rim country all the way to the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. Turn around where the trail flattens out as it emerges on the broad, open, flat expanse of the mountain top.

Rating: Difficult
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 4 hours
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Sedona Weather: Temperatures, Precipitation and Sunrise/Sunset Times

Sedona Temperatures and Precipitation:

Sedona Sunrise, Sunset Times and Length of Days:
based on the 1st day of each month

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting Sedona. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

Individual tickets for shows in the Sedona Film Festival went on sale today, Monday February 15, 2010.  Over 125 films will be featured this week with special guest speakers like Michael Moore in addition to Festival favorites like the   screenwriting workshops and Sedona Green Event.  

Show tickets are selling out quickly, so make sure to check the Sedona Film Festival screening schedule and purchase them immediately.  General admission tickets are $12. If the show you would like to attend is already sold out or says “RUSH” in the schedule block, it’s worth going to theater and seeing if you can purchase a ticket last minute.

Top 10 List of recommended Sedona Film Festival movies:

1) Burma VJ – documentary by Anders Østergaard

2) Garbage Dreams – documentary by Mai Iskander

3) Which Way Home – documentary by Rebecca Cammisa

4) Sergio – feature by Greg Barker

5) Kavi – Live Action Short by Gregg Helvey

6) A Shine of Rainbows - Feature Drama by Vic Sarin

7) The Greatest – Narrative Feature by Shana Feste

8) Polliwood – by Barry Levinson (director of Rain Man)

9) Saving Grace B. Jones – Feature Drama by Connie Stevens

10) Blood Into Wine – documentary by Ryan Page & Christopher Pomerenke

* Since this is and Arizona Travel blog, we highly recommend “Blood Into Wine” for many reasons, one of them being that this is about the Page Springs Winery here in Arizona. The vineyard is ran by winemakers Eric Glomlski and Maynard James Keenan (Tool). The vineyard is gorgeous and worth a wine-tasting visit. Imagine watching the Blood Into Wine then stopping over at the Page Springs Vineyard to experience what you just saw in the theater! 3D films? Sheesh…that’s for fakers. Head over to the vineyard itself located about 25 minutes from the movie theater…really. You won’t regret it. Page Spring’s petite sirrahs are going to put Arizona wineries on the wine vacation destination map.  Here is a video of Eric Glomski giving a wine tour; a little taste if you will. If you’re thinking about staying in town for multiple nights, you can find Sedona hotels and bed & breakfasts, some with special film festival rates on Sedona.net.

Sedona Film Festival Information

Where: Harkins 8

2081 W. Highway 89A
Sedona, AZ  86336
928-282-2221

(Hwy 89A & Sunset Dr.)

From Phoenix
Start: Phoenix, Arizona
End: Sedona, Arizona
Total Distance: 113.4 Miles
Estimated Total Time: 2 hours 

Directions / Miles
Start: Depart Phoenix, Arizona
1: Take I-17 North / Flagstaff 98.4 Miles
2: At exit 298, Exit Ramp 0.2 Miles
3: Turn LEFT (West) onto SR-179 [FR-618 Rd] 0.1 Miles
4: Keep STRAIGHT onto SR-179 14.2 Miles
5: Turn Left (West) onto SR-89A [N HWY-89A] 2 Miles
End: Arrive Harkins Theatres, Sedona, Arizona 

When: February 21-28, 2010

Ticket Price: $12 per showing

Official Website: http://sedonafilm.org/

My dad is just like my grandpa,
but my grandpa is better.

- Zach, 5th grader

Photo credit: ArizTravel.com - All Rights Reserved

“What makes your grandparents so special?”   This was the question Verde Canyon Railroad posed to thousands of grade school students across the state of Arizona, in the annual “Grandparents Day Essay Contest.”

An abundance of entries poured into the Railroad’s Clarkdale depot, full of all the qualities that children find most appealing and important in a grandparent. Winners were chosen from each region, and each successful author will be awarded complimentary first-class train rides for them and their grandparents aboard the famed wilderness excursion train on Sunday, September 13th, 2009 celebrating Grandparents Day.

“We really enjoy reading the essays– they’re always so bright, funny and charming that it makes it very difficult to choose winners,” said Teresa Propeck, Verde Canyon Railroad’s Marketing Director.

“My dad is just like my grandpa, but my grandpa is better,” said Zach Abrigo in his prize winning essay. Abrigo is a 5th grade student at Cottonwood Middle School in the Verde Valley. Adriana Revilla, a 4th grader from Desert Heights School in Peoria, let us know about her “lovable” grandparents, “They are so understanding because when I accidentally gave my grandpa a black eye they did not get mad.”  “What makes my grandparents special is that they love me no matter what,” said McKenna Olsen, a 5th grader from Challenge Charter School in Glendale. “Sure, they’re sometimes embarrassing and weird, but that’s only because they’re just trying to play around with me.”

Students from Del Rio Middle School in Chino Valley submitted an entire binder full of entries about their retiring lunchroom/playground volunteer, Celia Chapman, known as “Grandma” to the entire student body. The students love their “Del Rio Grandma” for helping them open their snacks and lunches, keeping them safe from harm on the playground, and for her famed Hubba Hubba dance every Friday. “She also knows most of our names at school, which is about 700 children,” said 3rd grader, Coltin Farnsworth. Naturally, with credentials like this, the Verde Canyon Railroad will award a train ride to “Grandma” Celia Chapman.

Students love their ‘Del Rio Grandma’ for her famed Hubba Hubba dance [she performs] every Friday.

Other winners include Makaela Hayman,  4th grader at Clarkdale-Jerome School; Keigan Willingham, 3rd grader at Del Rio Middle School in Chino Valley; Miranda Masters,  2nd grader at Canon Elementary in Black Canyon City; Adrian Lara  and Charity DeTemple, both 4th graders at Prescott Valley’s Acorn Montessori; Nialetti Daley, 5th grader at Phoenix’s Joseph Zito Elementary; Collin Wood and Rook Wood, 2nd graders at Bustoz Elementary in Tempe; and Justin Paprocki and Jacob Garza,  5th graders from Challenge Charter School in Glendale.

Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 13th. On this date, the Verde Canyon Railroad departs at 1:00 pm and returns at 5:00 pm, a perfect, leisurely excursion through the wilderness for grandparents, parents, and children of all ages.

The Verde Canyon Railroad depot is located at 300 N. Broadway in Clarkdale, 25 minutes from Sedona, 2 hours north of Phoenix and 90 minutes south of Flagstaff. Go to verdecanyonrailroad.com for more information.

This has been one of the best snow seasons for Arizona in many years. It would be a sin for me not to test out the fresh layers of powder snow blessing the sacred mountains of Flagstaff, Arizona. Sometimes living in Arizona, especially The Valley (Metro Phoenix), can feel a bit monotonous and even look monochromatic without the apparent changes of seasons. But really, Arizona’s best characteristic is its outdoor adventure potential.

A few weeks ago, I was posting the Flagstaff snow report on this blog and noticed that we were expecting another 4-7 inches of fresh snow. All right, for you Utah and Colorado ski elitists, that is nothing. But for us Zonie snowboarders, it means packing up the snowboard and heading up to the mountains immediately. I would have gone that night, except every place I called was completely booked already! When you only live less than a couple of hours away (again, the beauty of Arizona is being only a short road trip away from everything like beaches in Mexico, Las Vegas, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World – Grand Canyon) everyone gets a move on real quick.

A couple of my roommates and I stayed in that Friday night and rested up for the early drive to Flagstaff Saturday morning. The drive was a sight to see; the rain had brought the desert to life with blooming cacti, wild flowers and grass lining the highway. It was strange to see so much color across the horizon leading into the now green hills of the desert. I do love the aromas that come with desert rain. If you are visiting Arizona and happen to be here when it’s raining, don’t curse because your golf game was ruined. Consider yourself lucky to be experiencing something uncommon for the area and enjoy the rare scent the desert exudes just after the rain stops. It truly is unlike any other.

After climbing into the hills on I-17, we reached the scenic stretch that descends into the Cottonwood area, only to find the whole town hidden by a low, ocean of clouds.

Snowboarding at Snowbowl

To be honest, I had a great time snowboarding at Snowbowl. This place gets a lot of mixed reviews, but here are a few things to keep in mind so you know what to expect.

1) Snowbowl is great for families.Big Bear borders will not find the same “hell yeah” music being blasted from the lodge, nor Red Bulls being passed out like nudie fliers in Vegas. There is a college-age population though, being that Northern Arizona University is right there. But for the most part, this place is good family fun.

2)Black slopes are more like blue slopes & blue slopes are short. There are a few really great runs. This is a very good place to take yourself to the next level if you are still learning to snowboard. If you are experienced, you will find yourself at the top portion of the mountain the whole day with not a ton of options. But as snowboarders, I bet you can find a way to entertain yourself.

3) Ski lifts could be better. The green ski lift is a 2-person ride, so the line is slower if you go on a busy weekend. If you can handle it, go to the blue ski lifts. Those are 3-person and they haul ass. If you are going to the black slopes, you have to get off the blue lift and catch a black lift, which means you have to wait in another line. There is no express lift to the top. My suggestion, bring a flask, turn up your i-pod and relax. The sooner you accept the lift issues, the better your experience will be.

4) Training Park is good for beginners. In other words, it’s a pretty sad set up for boarders who have the slightest idea of what they are doing. There are a couple of boxes, no rails if I remember correctly, and maybe a couple of other obstacles. My suggestion, bring a flask and turn up your i-pod.

5) Book your hotel and rent your snowboards right away if there is new snow. Great snowboarding seasons can be rare. So if you hear that there is going to be new snow in Flagstaff, the chances are that everyone else in Arizona has heard the same. Book your Flagstaff hotel right away.