Although Sedona is surrounded by towering red rock formations, many recent visitors recommend a trip to the official Red Rock State Park specifically to see Cathedral Rock – one of Arizona's most famous landmarks. This 286-acre nature preserve – located about 10 miles southwest of the "Y" (the intersection of routes 89A and 179) along Oak Creek – boasts great views of Sedona's more famous formations. Stop in at the visitor center to learn about the area's history, guided nature walks and moonlight hikes. The park's Oak Creek offers an opportunity to enjoy a picnic lunch cool down, so be sure to pack your swimsuit if you plan on visiting in the summer months.

People rave about the natural beauty of the park and many go as far as saying it is their favorite place in all of Sedona. The park is popular with people of all ages as hiking trails vary in difficulty and length; it even offers a Junior Ranger program for children ages 6 to 12.  

Red Rock State Park has daily activities year-round and is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last entry at 4:30 p.m. (the visitors center opens at 9 a.m.). From mid-May to August, the park is open from 8 a.m. to dusk. Entrance fees are as follows: $7 for adults (ages 14 and older), $4 for youths (ages 7 to 13) and free for children 6 and younger. Additional fees are associated with overnight camping. For more information, visit the park's website.