Making the Most of Your Time

Making the Most of Your Time

Sedona will probably occupy most of your time, so plan to spend at least two days there, hiking or shopping. Any turn off the main drag is almost certain to lead somewhere worthwhile, but Oak Creek Canyon and Chapel of the Holy Cross are must-sees. Then, depending on your preferences, spend your time looking (window shopping or star gazing) or doing (hiking, exploring). If you can, plan to be in Sedona midweek, when the weekend crowds aren't around. A Red Rock Pass is required to park in the Coconino National Forest.

Outdoors enthusiasts should head to Flagstaff for a day to enjoy the Mount Elden Trail System or hit the slopes at Arizona Snowbowl. Flagstaff also has the Lowell Observatory.

Prescott and Jerome can be combined for a day or less, or choose one or the other. You can check out the pulse of downtown Prescott's museum and famous Whiskey Row then spend a night in an historic hotel; Jerome has several quaint bed-and-breakfasts, as well as a Main Street shopping district that may offer more affordable treasures than those at Sedona's boutiques.

For scenic views, nothing beats the Verde Canyon Railroad. Native American historic sites such as Montezuma's Castle and Tuzigoot National Monument offer perspective on native life centuries ago.