Things to do in Happy Jack

Oak Creek Canyon is a steep river gorge that carves a breathtaking chasm between Sedona and Flagstaff in northern Arizona. Experience the region known as the little cousin of the Grand Canyon on the Oak Tree Canyon Scenic Drive, a magnificent stretch of road that that brings you some of the best views in the canyon. Wind through forested passes, keeping watch for the hiking trailheads dotted along the roadside. Find a spot to drop a fishing line in the heart of the canyon, Oak Creek, or swim in the gorge’s clear waters.

Slide Rock State Park is a picturesque natural retreat in the middle of scenic Oak Creek Canyon. Within the park sits a 43-acre (17-hectare) apple farm and a historic homestead. Race down the famous Slide Rock water slide or hike through scenic woods.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most magnificent sites in all of Sedona. This Roman Catholic chapel was built on a spur of rock that rises 200 feet (60 meters) off the ground. A breathtaking 90-foot (27-meter) cross cuts down the center of the chapel and looks like it has been wedged into the rock. Admire this incredible structure, which seems to be a natural extension of the distinctive red buttes that surround it.

Bell Rock is a stunning tapered sandstone formation that towers into the sky from the Red Rock Country near Sedona. Explore this geological wonder and alleged “vortex” site to find out why many visitors claim to feel a special burst of energy when they walk amid this magnificent canyon landscape. It’s easy to see why when you’re faced with the immense presence of Bell Rock and its surrounding formations, Courthouse Butte and Spaceship Rock.

Hike up rugged sandstone ledges to the lofty saddles of Cathedral Rock or admire the views of this landmark rock formation from all over Red Rock Country. A well-known sight on the Sedona skyline, Cathedral Rock is a breathtaking formation of redbed sandstone. Spend some time watching the rock’s mesmerizing red tones changing as the sun moves across the sky and take photographs of the landmark in different lights. Lace up your hiking boots and take the short but steep trail that winds upward into the gaps between the towering columns of rock.

Visit Lowell Observatory for daytime guided tours and nighttime telescope viewing sessions. Established in the late 19th century, the observatory is one of the oldest in the United States. The facility operates several telescopes, including the Pluto Discovery Telescope, for historical, educational and research purposes.