Sedona, Arizona has something for everyone. Whether you’re into history and archaeology; arts and culture; shopping; outdoor recreation; festivals; touring and sightseeing; or the spiritual and metaphysical, imagine doing all this against the backdrop of some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Located in Arizona's high desert under the southwestern rim of the Colorado Plateau, Sedona is situated at the mouth of beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. It was once a rural ranching community, but that soon changed due to the city’s natural beauty. Sedona is blessed with four mild seasons, abundant sunshine, and clean air. The annual average high and low temperatures are 74.7 and 45.7 degrees.

When in Sedona, visit Slide Rock State Park which is a 43-acre historical apple farm located in scenic Oak Creek Canyon. Visitors enjoy picnicking, water play, hiking, photography, and wildlife watching. It costs $8 to $10 to enter the park, depending on the season. If you visit Sedona in September, be sure to attend the Apple Festival. Guests are encouraged to pick apples from the 13 varieties of trees and take them home!

While you’re in Sedona, take a break and watch the wildlife. Nature enthusiasts who double as photographers will have a field day. Make sure to "fade" into the woodwork in order to get that picture perfect photo. Wear natural colors, unscented lotions, and walk softly. Remember, patience is a virtue. To witness wildlife in their natural habitat is a feeling you’ll never forget.

Giddy up’ partner! "It’s not just a trail ride, it’s an adventure" is the slogan for Trail Horse Adventures at Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Sedona. More than 300 birds fly through the park each year. This includes the Cactus Wren, Arizona’s state bird. The 423-acre park is located along the banks of the Verde River. They are open 7 days a week, except for Christmas, and offer one and two and a half hour trail rides; reservations are required. Trails average 2 miles in length, and are moderate to difficult.

Here’s a fun fact about the ranch: Dead Horse Ranch was named by the Ireys’ family who were shopping for a ranch. They found a "dead horse" by the side of the road and named the ranch after the animal. For more information on the park, call 928-634-5283.

Tlaquepaque is Sedona’s Arts and Crafts Village. The village has been a landmark since the 1970s. It offers locals and visitors fine galleries, shops, and restaurants. Fountains, flowers and greenery, spectacular courtyards, hand painted tiles, and much more can be found within this artistically constructed oasis. Hours of operation are daily from 10 am to 5 pm; closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

When you visit Arizona, drive the 2 hours from Phoenix to Sedona; it will be worth the time. The scenery along the way will mesmerize you. The abundance of "red rock" is incredible as are the rock formations themselves. Watch out for those falling rocks! For more information on Sedona, please visit http://www.visitsedona.com/index.php.