Looking For Things To Do With Kids In Sedona, Arizona?

We have people email us often asking us what they can do with kids in Sedona, Arizona. Well, there is a lot more than most people can even imagine. Yesterday we featured Slide Rock Park and you can check out another video right here if  you missed it.  It will cost you between $10-$20 per vehicle for a fun filled day at a natural water park. Go as early as you can as the parking lot will fill up quickly.

Slide Rock Park Video

Another great idea is take them biking. There are trails for hiking and biking everywhere and if you didn't bring your bikes, don't worry. You can rent them and have a biking adventure that you will never forget.

Bike Rentals Sedona   

Is you want to plan out your bike trips, here is a good site that has biking trails in Sedona. There will be trails for the inexperienced as well as the experienced trail riders.

Sedona Bike Trails

 Mountain Bike Riding Sedona

Also, if you would prefer to take a guided tour with an experienced guide, Hermosa Tours offers a variety of tours to fit your life style and needs. Check them out!

Hermosa Mountain Bike Tours   

My Hot Air Balloon Ride In Sedona

By David Lee

We had always said that we wanted to go on a hot air balloon adventure but at almost $400 for the two of us, it just seemed way too expensive for us. Even on my first trip to Sedona, a friend of ours went ballooning and while it was tempting, I still couldn't get myself to spend $190 a person for just a balloon trip.

He went and loved it and kept reminding me how I had missed my "once in a life time" opportunity. Little did he know, we were already planning our return trip to Sedona!

On my second trip, I was ready for the adventure. I asked several locals and they assured me it was a wonderful experience and I would not regret a penny. So the last full day of the trip, we booked a flight with Red Rock Balloons.

At 5:30 Am, we were picked up along with the other passengers from various resorts.

We drove quietly in the darkness to a canyon where, once we arrived, they began filling the balloon. A couple of coyotes scampered around as the morning was just beginning to open it's eyes to the new day. Several bunnies sat about a hundred
yards away watching us and this great, colorful balloon grew to it's huge size.


Our balloon was carrying seventeen passengers and our pilot! I bit much for my comfort level. But it ended up being OK. We were climbed into the basket after a brief explanation. Young and old, no one had a problem getting in.

As the sun peaked over the eastern peaks, we rose above the canyon floor and surrounding crimson rock walls and watched the animals below still playing and javelina's scrounging for food. They were not even interested in this huge balloon that was rising above their heads.

Below us, we could see fantastic rock formations rising from the golden valley floor, looking even more vibrant in color than usual from the glistening sunrise.



Above us was an azure blue sky on this cloudless morning. Then to my right, I could see a flock of birds flying by, not seeming to care that they were sharing their space with this colorful giant.

We sailed quietly since there is no engine but there was an occasional sounds of the firing the burner to keep our balloon filled up with hot air.

The only way I knew we were moving was by watching the passing scenery. But in the balloon you can't feel any movement as you drift silently.

The people hardly spoke, only the wind whispered to us. Everyone was somewhere else. We were each on our own adventure. The pilot might point out something now and then and we were lucky to not have the 1 who won't stop with the endless chattering and even the little kids that were on our flight quietly gazed out at the heavens.

We could see deer and javelina, coyotes, rabbits, and birds. You could see the traffic start to appear as the town began awaken. It was simply a magical time for all.


A couple of hours later our basket lightly touched the ground and we were all helped out of the basket. We were treated to yummy muffins, fruit juice, and/or champagne and each of us what given a "graduation" certificates.

It was the best money I have spent on an adventure and even now, years later I can still close my eyes and dream of floating with the birds and seeing the beautiful landscape in Sedona. They say that God created the earth in 6 days, I am sure he spent the last entire day creating just Sedona.

Sedona Hot Air Balloon Rides

Sedona is such a beautiful landscape of red rocks, lush green forests, wilderness areas with high canyon crimson walls and the glistening Oak Creek which meanders through the Oak Creek Canyon.

But there is only so much we can see from the ground or even hiking to the top of the buttes. One of the other ways to view the spectacular area is from a Hot Air Balloon. There are several hot air balloon companies to choose from to help you with a journey of a lifetime.

This is an adventure for everyone and no one will be disappointed. We have gone and there have been passengers in our basket that were 7 to 80 yrs old. So as you can see that as long as you are adventurous and ready for a trip of a lifetime, then you will be thrilled with your adventure. I can tell you that the views are beyond spectacular.

There are only 2 companies that have permits from the Red Rock Ranger District (which are required)they are Red Rock Balloons and Northern Lights. Sky High Balloons is a sister company to Red Rock Balloons so I am sure they have a permit too. Before you go on a flight, make sure they are certified and to check on permits, you can verify it by calling the Red Rock Ranger District at 928-282-4119.

I have gone with both companies and both Red Rock Balloons and Northern Lights are very professional, friendly and have various trips and packages to fit your needs. Most trips are $195 per person and they are about 1-1.5 hrs long (flight time. Red Rock Balloons gave us Champagne the last time we flew with them and we got a little flight certificate.

Check with all of them and you can compare. Some give DVD's of the trips which is also a nice keepsake.

There is a company named Arizona Balloon Works and I have read many complaints about them and they do not have a permit so you might want to steer clear of them.

I think getting the view from above gives you a great perspective of the area rock formations. If you really don't want to spend any money you could see Sedona from this view, check out Google Earth.At least it gives you an idea of what it is like from the comfort of your desk.

If you are wondering what to wear, ask when you make reservation since it will differ according to the time of year. But I can tell you that the trips start out early in the AM. Sunrise over the red rocks will be spectacular but it is always cold in the am. I found that it is best to wear sturdy shoes ( No sandals, flip flops,etc), pants and then layer your other clothes. That way you can remove a jacket if you get too warm. Also were a hat as the heat from the flame cans get warm on your head. But is not as windy as you would expect. But to be on the safe said, ask when you call for reservations. They can better guide you based on the time of year you are going.

Ballooning is such a wonderful, magical experience that I can't even begin to tell you what it feels like. It's just one of those things you have to live it to feel the freedom. If you can afford the price of the fare, then it is worth it for this once in a life time experience. I've been 2 times and each flight was different and yet I still feel like a kid each time I go. I am sure you will too.

Click Here For Northern Light Balloon

Click Here For Red Rock Balloon

and Red Rock's sister company
Click Here For Red Rock Balloon

Go Horse Back Riding in Sedona And Indulge Your Cowboy Spirit

Have you fallen into the vacation rut? Is your family tired of the same ole vacations? Do you have to do the same things on vacation year after year? I say no! So pack away your snorkel and fins and head to Sedona!



Saddle up and indulge your Cowboy/girl Spirit while you are in Sedona. There are several ranches that offer plenty of horseback riding, horsemanship clinics, and even classes on how to care for a horse all while in spectacular Sedona. Enjoy the vistas and the undiluted, real sensations of ranch life in southwestern Arizona.

If you are traveling with kids. This is a great adventure they will love. Call ahead and ask for the ages they accept on their tours.It seems the age requirement is 6 yrs old. I do know they offer reduced rates for kids. On some rides the kids can go to the creek and swing from the ropes. It's a day they will never forget. You can even choose the dinner ride you will enjoy a steak cooked on an open fire.

Ride the trails of Sedona, feel nature up close and explore a red rock paradise exceptionally beautiful, filled with abundant wildlife and rich in the history of the high desert. Sedona offers mild year round climate, providing endless opportunities to enjoy horseback riding in every season!
You can take a guided tour or for the more experienced,rent a horse and head out on your own. Fore those of you who don't want to ride, you can even take classes that can teach you how to connect spiritually with a horse.

Click Here For Equine Workshops

For those desiring to surround themselves with the beauty of this rugged landscape, you can experience it on a gentle, seasoned horse. There are horses and trails for everyone's skill level.

The American West holds a special place in the hearts of millions all over the world. Being a cowboy isn't just about what you wear, how you walk or what kind of horse you ride. Being "Cowboy" is a state of mind and heart, where the West is still alive and doing very well.

While on your journey you can watch the mountains and cliffs gradually turn from orange to startling red in the light of the setting sun. In every season, you'll share good company, breathtaking vistas, exciting horseback rides on seasoned horses and be able to share some Sedona Sunsets and ride your dreams.



Click Here for Sedona Equestrian Trails And Info

Click Here For More Trail Information

Click Here For Foothills Ranch For Horse Rentals and lessons

Click Here For Horseback Riding Tour

Click Here For Horse Rental Rates

Click Here For More Horseback Riding Info

Click Here For Room & Horseback Riding Package

While In Sedona Visit Monezuma's Castle & Montezuma's Well

Located just a short 26 miles from Sedona, Montezuma's Castle sits waiting for you to explore. It was never a castle and Montezuma never lived here. It was more like a prehistoric high-rise apartment complex.

The castle is just three miles from I-17 (exit 289; north Camp Verde) at the end of a side road that winds across flat scrubland and down into the valley formed by Beaver Creek

The castle is recessed in the limestone cliff and sits 70 feet above the valley. It is a 5 story, 20 room dwelling that was built and resided in by the Sinagua Indians in the 12th century.

When first discovered the ruins were thought to be Aztec in origin which is how it got its name.But later it was discovered that was not the case.

They were farmers so their dwelling looked over their fields where they grew their squash, corn, beans and cotton. They were able to use the water from the Beaver Creek that is located nearby as well as provided them safety from any attacks from other people or animals.

This ruin was built so well that it is one of the best preserved prehistoric structures located in the entire Southwest. Additionally you can see some of the remaining ruins from an additional six-story 45-room dwelling which was built at the bottom of the cliff.



At the visitor center, you will find a small museum, and a short (paved) nature trail leading past the ruins, which cannot be seen from the road. Also as you travel along the path you will see gardens with good examples of cacti and other local plants. Also there is a picnic area is located near the visitor center. It sits under sycamore trees that will provide some shade along side the creek.

Its a good place to maybe plan your picnic because since 1951, the parks have not allowed visitors to climb up to the ruins in order to preserve them. So once you walk up the short path and see the castle, there is not really a lot to do. So if it's cool enough out, you might want to just plan on this being your picnic spot and enjoy the view.

Operating Hours, Seasons
Open every day of the year, including Christmas day. Winter hours: 8 AM to 5 PM; Summer hours: 8 AM to 7 PM.

The entrance fees are $5 for an adult which is good for a week. You can also choose to combine this ruin and Tuzigoot Monuments(another set of ruins) and pay $8 for both. You can buy these passes at either park.

Children under 16 are free. And speaking of Children, while visiting the Montezuma Castle ask one of the rangers if your little one can become a Junior Ranger at the Castle. They will be able to provide you with all the information you need. Or you can visit their site to learn more now and let them become Web Rangers now!

Click Here For Kids To Become Web Rangers

Accessibility
The visitor center and most of the paved trail are accessible to wheelchairs. A small part of the Castle trail is too steep for wheelchairs and is marked with a sign. The picnic area is not accessible to wheelchairs. Please contact a ranger for more information and more specific questions you may have. Audio cassettes and braille text are available for the visually impaired.

Click Here For More Information

Click Here To View Slide Show of The Inside Of The Castle



There is no entrance fee for the Well. The well does not take long to explore yet is a worthy stop. You can take in the castle and the well and then settle down for a picnic.



The well is located off exit 293 of I-17, along the winding route through you will see additional dwellings. The route will become unpaved at the side road to the monument. You then will pass the picnic area and foundations of a Hohokam pit house. The house is now protected by an iron roof. You will find parking just past that area. From the parking lot there is a 1/2 mile trail that leads to the south edge of the Well.

Traveling with kids to Sedona?

If you are planning a vacation with your kids to Sedona, planning
activities before you arrive can make your trip much more pleasant for
everyone.

Each of these activities will appeal to different ages as well as
different personalities. Take a few minutes to read through the ideas I have
listed. I think you will find a few that your kids will enjoy!

You can take them to the Out of Africa Wildlife Park. It's located
in Camp Verde about 30 minutes south of Sedona. It's just over 100 acres of
wilderness where people can interact with over 400 wildlife animals that
are from around the world. The animals live in a natural and spacious

habitats. They offer different tours.

Here is their site for more information
Click here to go to Out Of Africa Park

Click Here For $5 Off Coupon

How about camping and/or picnicking?

There are many places around Sedona that will make perfect spots to
picnic. There is an area just a few miles north of Uptown Sedona on
89a, that has picnic tables along side of the river. Here are some links
to get more information and ideas of place to go camping and picnicking.

Click here to go to the Forest Service

Maybe you are looking for something that kids from ages

4-12 can do and you want to drop them off for a day so you can do
something without them, like go to a Spa or hike etc.. Well you are in luck, there
happens to be a Children's program called Camp Coyote, that's located at
the Enchantment resort. They have trained counselors who guide fun
educational activities. They learn about Native American culture and the environment
and go on Nature walks that teaches about plants, animals and insects that
inhabit the area.

Children also do a range of indoor activities in their 1500 square foot Camp Coyote center. A few examples include crafts, beading, treasure hunts, sand painting.

They just recently opened it to be an all year around.
Before they only had it available during certain months of the year.

Here is an example of what the program is like from
their 2007 agenda.

Click Here to view their Calendar

Go hear for more information, and to contact them for the fees and reservations.

Click Here for Enchantment Resort Coyote Camp

-----Take the kids on a Pink Jeep Tour. Go exploring on a guided Pink Jeep. They offer a variety of different guided tours. They have a knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Go here for more info on the tours they offer.

Pink Jeep Tours


Perhaps you are visiting Sedona during the warms Spring and Summer
months. You can take the kids to the Slide Rock State Park. There is
swimming, picnicking, fishing, nature watching, a volleyball court and a nature
trail.
Go here for more information and fees.

Slide Rock State Park


Take a hike with the kids. At this site they have the hiking
trails rated so you will know what you and the kids will be able to tackle.
They have photo instructions for each of the hikes.

Best Hikes in Sedona

You can also buy one of the great Hiking books on Sedona, they have a
bunch of trails and rate the difficulties and have wonderful pictures on the
hikes.

------ At night time when it's time to unwind. You can always stargaze
with the kids. In Sedona, it has some of the best views of the stars since it is
so dark unlike in cities and metropolitan areas that is crowded with lights that
takes away from the full stargazing effects.

Click here to read more about stargazing in Sedona.

Another great place to take kids is the the Sedona Museum where they can learn about
the lifestyles and of the people who first pioneered Sedona from 1876 to the present.They can take a peek into the lives of the pioneers. A visit surely everyone will enjoy.

Click Here For Sedona Museum Info

How about a little fishing? The Rainbow trout farm is a fun way to spend a few hours or even a day.
I'm not sure who will be the biggest kid in the family, the kids or the parents! The staff is helpful and farm area is very clean. The Trout are cord fed and very tasty.If you are a bit queasy about finishing the job, the skilled assistants will help you out with the cleaning. You can take it home or cook it their in the farms picnic area BBQs. You can purchase BBQ kits that include: seasoning, butter, foil, plates, napkins,and forks.

The bad part is that you have to pay for what you catch and that ranges from $7-$10 a fish and believe me they are hungry! In 5 seconds, you will have a fish on your hook. So you can rack up some charges pretty quickly. Rod rental is $1.

They don't have a website but they are at 3500 N Hwy 89A #88 which is above the Y intersection of highways 89A & 170. (928) 282-5799

Another idea for things to do is to take a trip 30-45 minutes to the West to Williams and go to the Grand Canyon Deer Farm. That place is awesome for kids.
Click Here For Deer Farm Info

Also while in Williams they can the trains, that is the place where they Grand Canyon Train Rides leave from.
Click Here for Grand Canyon Train Info

Also if you want more info on other train rides near Sedona, there is the Verde Canyon Train. It is not located in Williams but it too is close to Sedona.

Click Here for Verde Canyon Train Info

If your kids are older and a little adventurous then a great way to spend a warm day in Sedona would be tubing. You can rent a tube, helmet and have everything you need to head out on a cool adventure. There are many spots that they can tube at and the people at Sedona Outfitters can help you out with the best locations for your family.

Click Here For Sedona Tubing Info

If they have been good all day and you want to give them a cool treat, how about heading to one of the many ice cream stores located throughout Sedona. I will be a great way for the entire family to cool down after a busy day.

Click Here For Sedona Ice Cream Stores
Or stop by Sedona Kid Company and let them have some fun shopping.
Click Here To See Sedona's Kid Company Store

These are obviously only a few things that can be done with kids in
Sedona. There is always something to do in Sedona. It's a real chance to be
adventurous and go exploring, learn the history of the area both geographically and
in cultures. It's a wonderful experience for the whole family.