Sedona

Sedona is set amidst one of Arizona's most dramatic landscapes: Massive red sandstone rocks rise from green forests, Oak Creek babbles through a wooded valley, and the light — especially at sunrise and sunset — bathes everything in surreal red and gold hues. No wonder the New Age movement declared Sedona a spiritual power spot: Four "vortex points" are said to emit cosmic energy.

The Red Rocks

Sedona's red rocks are the result of 300 million years of geological layering and erosion. The most famous formations:

• Cathedral Rock — Sedona's landmark, especially breathtaking at sunset from Red Rock Crossing (Crescent Moon Ranch). The hike to the top (1.2 km, steep, scrambling) rewards with a 360° panorama.
• Bell Rock — A bell-shaped formation right off Highway 179. Easy hike around the base (2.4 km) or challenging scramble to the summit.
• Devil's Bridge — The largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona. The hike (6.4 km round trip) is moderate, and the arch is a fantastic photo opportunity — stand on the arch for the "Instagram photo" (but only if you're not afraid of heights!).

Jeep Tours

Sedona's backcountry is only accessible by off-road vehicle. The Pink Jeep Tours (since 1960) are the original — the pink jeeps are a Sedona icon. The "Broken Arrow" tour (2 hours, about $110) leads over extreme rock formations and offers spectacular views. Alternatively: rent a jeep yourself and drive the Schnebly Hill Road — the dustiest, bumpiest, and most beautiful dirt road in Arizona.

Oak Creek Canyon

The drive from Sedona to Flagstaff through the Oak Creek Canyon (Highway 89A) is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the USA. The canyon is reminiscent of a miniature version of the Grand Canyon, only greener and with a babbling brook. Stop at Slide Rock State Park — a natural water slide over smooth rocks, which is great fun in summer ($20 park fee).