29 Awesome Things to Do in Sedona Besides Hiking 2024
Ready for a detour from the usual hiking in Sedona? You’re in the right place!
I’m sure you’ve probably heard the buzz about Sedona being hailed as one of the ultimate hiking destinations in the US, with its stunning natural beauty stealing the show. It’s definitely what drew me to this Arizona gem.
But, beyond those famous trails, Sedona’s got a whole bunch of other awesome activities just waiting for you to discover.
Sedona’s like a giant playground with tons of unique things to do!
In this post I’m spilling the deets on 29 of the coolest things to do in Sedona besides hiking.
The best part? A bunch of these activities won’t cost you a dime!
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Resources for Planning Your Trip to Sedona
🏜️ Looking to make the most of your time in Sedona? Take a look at this 4 Day Sedona Itinerary for an Epic Weekend Getaway. And for a shorter stay here’s The Ideal Sedona Day Trip Itinerary + The Best Highlights.
🏨 I’ve already picked out the Best Hotels in Sedona with a View, making your accommodation choice a breeze. If you want to save on your hotel, go ahead and book through Hotels.com or VRBO and start racking up that One Key Cash!
🛩️ Just a heads up – score extra One Key Cash by booking your flights and car rental through Expedia. Use it for more travel adventures and discounts down the road!
🚁 Book your amazing activities and tours with GetYourGuide or Viator. Plus, enjoy the peace of mind that you’ll get a full refund if plans take an unexpected turn.
🧳 Make sure you don’t forget anything with this complete Sedona Packing List.
Top 29 Things to Do in Sedona Besides Hiking Trails
Here’s an awesome list of things to do in Sedona that goes way beyond just hiking.
1. Visit The Chapel Of The Holy Cross
The Chapel is one of the top three attractions in Sedona and is recognized as one of the “10 Most Beautiful Churches Around the World.”
The Chapel seamlessly integrates with natural rock formations and features a central stained-glass window supported by a large cross. It’s not just an architectural marvel, but also one of Sedona’s vortexes believed to embody powerful spiritual qualities of peace, harmony, and balance.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this remarkable blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and architectural excellence.
Plus, it is free!
2. Pink Jeep Tours
You can’t visit Sedona without going on a Pink Jeep Tour. Yes, PINK jeep tours!
Go on thrilling four-wheeling adventures that unveil places you never thought four wheels could reach, tackling rocks bigger than cars. Prices range from $49 to $190 per person. Along the trail, discover iconic Hollywood filming locations like Jimmy Stewart’s “Broken Arrow” (1950).
So, strap in, take a deep breath, and soak in breathtaking 360-degree views of the Southwest wilderness.
Pro Tip: Choose the Broken Arrow Tour, easily ranked the best time and time again! It showcases some of the most beautiful views.
3. Take an ATV tour
Jumping on an ATV in Sedona will crank the excitement up a notch as you explore this stunning landscape.
While hiking is undoubtedly a fantastic way to connect with nature, an ATV tour offers a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience, allowing you to cover more ground and access hidden gems that may be challenging to reach on foot.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just someone looking to spice up their Sedona experience, an ATV tour emerges as one of the best alternatives to hiking.
4. Wineries Of The Verde Valley Wine Trail
Calling all wine lovers! You simply cannot miss out on the Verde Valley Wine Trail.
The Verde Valley Wine Trail connects the dots between four wineries: Alcantara Vineyards, Page Springs Cellars, Oak Creek Vineyards, and Javelina Leap Vineyards. It’s all about mixing together history, gorgeous scenery, and some seriously tasty Arizona wines.
So, grab a glass of your favorite wine, take in the stunning views, and enjoy the journey along the Verde Valley Wine Trail.
Remember: There will be plenty of tastings along the way, so please drink responsibly and arrange for a designated driver. Better yet, schedule a guided vineyard tour!
Here are the best Sedona Wine Tours:
5. Take A Scenic Drive on the Red Rock Scenic Byway or the Red Rock Loop Road
The Red Rock Scenic Byway, also known as State Route 179, is a 7.5-mile stretch renowned for its breathtaking views of Sedona’s unique rock formations.
On the other hand, the Red Rock Loop Road is a scenic drive that forms a loop around the Sedona area. It’s a longer route and offers additional perspectives of the stunning landscape.
While these two stunning drives do overlap in some areas, they provide different experiences and vantage points of Sedona’s natural beauty.
Any season is perfect for a scenic drive, offering breathtaking beauty and otherworldly scenery. With numerous viewpoints and hiking spots, it feels like you’re entering another world.
Bonus—it’s FREE!
6. Slide Rock State Park
Picture yourself reliving carefree childhood joy as you slide down an exhilarating 80-foot-long natural rock slide.
Nestled in Oak Creek Canyon, Slide Rock State Park offers more than just a mere spot to visit. Here, you’ll discover a natural water slide, a 43-acre historic apple farm, cozy rustic cabins, winding hiking trails, and plenty of hidden fishing spots.
Don’t miss out on this incredible fun – guaranteed to put a big smile on your face!
Fees range from $10 to $30 during peak season and holidays but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it, especially to escape the desert heat when visiting Sedona.
7. Visit Sedona Arts Center
Whether you’re an art aficionado like me or just craving inspiration, let me tell you, the Sedona Arts Center is THE spot to bask in all that creative goodness.
Visit the Arts Center Gallery for local art ranging from fine art to jewelry and photos, perfect for unique Sedona souvenirs.
And don’t forget about events like the Sedona Plein Air Festival, where local and international artists create amazing outdoor masterpieces, celebrating creativity and community vibes!
It’s FREE to visit the Sedona Arts Center. Enjoy!!
8. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway
All aboard!
The Grand Canyon is a must-see on any Arizona vacation bucket list. But why not make the journey by taking a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona? Just an hour outside of Sedona.
Get ready for an epic train adventure featuring a variety of car classes, from the timeless 1923 Pullman style to modern ones with panoramic views.
But first, you’ll witness a staged old-time Wild West shootout before boarding the train.
As you chug along, each train car has its own attendant, bringing its unique flair of entertainment to the journey.
9. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Rides
Consider booking a sunrise hot air balloon ride with one of Sedona’s many reputable companies for an unforgettable experience.
The serenity of the early morning combined with the bird’s-eye view creates a magical ambiance, making it one of the best ways to start your day in Sedona.
Hot air ballooning is motionless and peaceful, letting you soak in Sedona’s beauty effortlessly. You can end your adventure with a chic champagne brunch.
10. Take a Helicopter Tour
Discover Sedona from another incredible bird eye view, but this time with a whole lot more of a rush.
Coming from a helicopter pilot’s wife, take it from me, this experience is a must-do! Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure or a romantic rendezvous, you won’t regret this decision.
Remember that although helicopter rides can be a memorable experience, they do come at a cost. Choose the one that fits your budget and enjoy the breathtaking views! I highly recommend this helicopter tour!
11. Night Sky Tour (Stars and UFO tour)
Step into the Twilight Zone!
If you’re intrigued by the concept of extraterrestrial life, then this night tour is perfect for you.
You will be shown the difference between regular objects in the night sky like planes, satellites, etc. and UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena).
Whether you’re a dedicated believer or just up for some stargazing fun, get ready for a mind-bending journey that’ll totally shift your outlook on the world!
12. Kayak the Verde River
If you have a bucket list, you just might want to put this on it!
With an average of 275 sunny days per year in Sedona, kayaking on the Verde River is one of the top outdoor adventures for the area. Have fun paddling down this river, where you will encounter beautiful scenery and both tranquil stretches and exhilarating rapids along the way.
The cities of Camp Verde, Clarkdale, and Cottonwood are the main population centers along the river.
13. Visit The Vortexes (tours)
If you are craving uplifting vibes and energy, then Sedona vortexes are the honeypot for just that!
The Visit Sedona website describes the vortexes as “swirling centers of energy that are conducive to healing, meditation, and self-exploration.” It adds that the vortex sites “are places where the earth seems especially alive with energy.”
Sedona has four main vortex locations: Boynton Canyon, Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, and Cathedral Rock.
Among them, the Airport Mesa vortex is known for requiring the least amount of hiking. If you’re not keen on a strenuous hike but still want to tap into the vortex energy, Airport Mesa is a great choice. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere and captivating views without an extensive trek.
Opting for a vortex tour is an excellent decision if you want guidance and insights into these mystical energy points.
14. Participate in Desert Yoga
The calm and beauty of the Sedona desert make it a perfect spot for yogis of all levels, from beginners to seasoned practitioners. Personally, I’ve discovered few places as peaceful as Sedona for a yoga session.
What’s even more special is the option to join yoga tours that take you amidst the red rocks. These tours not only guide you through your practice but also allow you to connect with Sedona’s stunning scenery.
15. Have a Spa Day
Treating yourself to a spa day in Sedona is one of the best things to do besides hiking when visiting Sedona. It’s also one of the top spa destinations.
Sedona’s spas provide a holistic wellness experience with diverse treatments to rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit. Many also feature Native American-inspired rituals to deepen your cultural connection.
Whether you’re going solo, marking a special occasion, or just enjoying a romantic getaway, a spa day is something we can all enjoy and deserve.
16. Shop at Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Whoa, that’s a mouthful.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village (pronounced T-lockey-pockey) is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
Nestled along Oak Creek, Tlaquepaque is the top shopping spot in the Southwest, offering 45+ unique specialty shops with stylish women’s clothing, art galleries, jewelry, home décor, handcrafted rugs, and more.
Tlaquepaque is a vibrant gathering spot designed to resemble a traditional Mexican village. Here, you can experience traditional fiestas from Mexico’s past and present.
17. Mountain Biking
Perhaps it’s the vortexes, but lots of people swear by the awesome vibes they feel when mountain biking in Sedona’s desert. So, if you’re into hitting the trails, this is your spot!
Emerging as a popular bike haven, Sedona has approximately 250 trails to discover. It stands out as an exhilarating destination for both seasoned bikers and beginners alike.
Don’t fret – whether you’re a novice or somewhere in between, there are plenty of trails tailored to your skill level.
18. Horseback Riding
This is definitely on my bucket list of things to do in Sedona. I can’t think of a better way to explore this red-rock country.
This might be an option for you, too.
Horseback riding is a much more peaceful and less invasive way to appreciate the natural beauty that lies all around this remarkable region.
You can also find good stables in nearby cities like Prescott and Flagstaff within an hour’s drive. If you’re mindful of your budget, costs can range anywhere between $80 to $375 per person.
19. Watch A Sunset at Airport Mesa Overlook
Airport Mesa is renowned as the prime sunset viewing location in Sedona and is highly recommended after sunset for its night views.
This spot is also one of Sedona’s amazing vortex sites!
Because of its popularity, this spot gets pretty jam-packed, and parking can be tough with the crowds. So head out a little earlier or try watching the sunrise views instead.
20. Oak Creek Brewery
OK, you beer connoisseurs, here is a noteworthy find. Tucked away in Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, you can’t leave Sedona without swinging by the pride and joy of Sedona.
Oak Creek Brewery offers a diverse range of brews, including pale ales, rich stouts, and seasonal specialties.
Top off your visit with delicious eats from Oak Creek’s pub, where you can fill up without emptying your wallet with most dishes priced under $20.
Oh, and definitely don’t miss out on their legendary Nut Brown Ale – it’s the brew that made them famous!
21. Visit Sedona Farmers Market
The Sedona Community Farmers Market in West Sedona is such a wonderful event!
It’s all about celebrating local farmers, promoting sustainability, and bringing the community closer together.
Operating exclusively on Sundays, the market runs from May to October during the summer, from 8:00 a.m. to noon, and from November to April during the winter, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Remember: without farms, our markets and tables would be empty.
22. Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park
What is a Amitabah Stupa you ask?
It is considered a living presence of Buddha, and there are a few stupas in the United States. This is the only one located in Arizona at the foot of Thunder Mountain.
A bit tucked away from the usual spots, this park was set up for folks wanting to connect with their spiritual side or simply find a peaceful spot to contemplate.
Everyone’s invited, regardless of religious background, and the best part? It’s FREE!
23. Get a Psychic Reading at Mystical Bazaar
This is something I am not into, but you can’t ignore the fact that Sedona is known for its immense metaphysical energy.
Mystical Bazaar provides spiritual and psychic readings from highly skilled individuals, many trained by renowned masters globally. They offer various options, including couples sessions, phone consultations, and even readings in Spanish.
This is totally a story to spice up your conversations and a memory to stash away in your brain’s “fun” folder! Price Range: $40 – $120.
24. Visit the Sedona Heritage Museum
If you are history buff like my hubby, The Sedona Heritage Museum is an interesting little gem that presents the history of the Sedona area, from post-Civil War days to the present.
Explore fascinating insights such as the origin of Sedon’s name, stories of its influential figures, engage in a museum scavenger hunt, and keep the kids entertained with “Kids Korral” dress-up activities and more!
25. Have a Picnic with a View at Crescent Moon Picnic Area
Crescent Moon, nestled under Cathedral Rock along Oak Creek, is a favorite spot in the Southwest for photography, swimming, and water adventures.
This area is constantly bustling with people. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during early mornings or for sunset.
Enjoy this tranquil setting with the best views of Cathedral Rock reflecting in the calm waters and the soothing melody of Oak Creek, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
26. Take an Open-air bus sightseeing tour
You’re going to love the 360-degree open-air bus tours with shade! They will drive to all the main highlights.
Create lasting memories with a photo opt with the iconic red rocks, experience energetic vortexes, be treated to classic sites including Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock or the Amitabha Stupa/vortex, and don’t forget the Grand Canyon. Great enjoyment for any age, including seniors.
27. Grab a unique souvenir at the Son Silver West Gallery
You MUST see this place! Son Silver Galleries is an emporium of absolutely everything.
You won’t believe it, but just when you think you’ve seen everything, there’s another room packed with even more stuff!
This intricate maze of metal, plastic, colors, and one-of-a-kind finds can easily captivate you for hours! You’ll find something for everyone here, regardless of your interests.
Whether you’re hunting for a fun souvenir or a quirky gift, you’ll have a blast exploring this eclectic shop.
28. Play a round or two of golf
If you’re a golf buff, it’s time to tee off.
Although Sedona has only a limited number of courses, it offers a diverse selection suitable for players of various skill levels. Ranging from casual 9-hole par 3 layouts to demanding 18-hole Championship courses, there’s an option to accommodate every preference.
With almost 300 days of sunshine each year and unparalleled scenery, this is a golfer’s paradise.
29. Grab a seat on a trolley tour
Another way to see Sedona’s iconic landmarks is to take a step back in time with a fun, informative tour on the Sedona Trolley. You listen to exciting little-known facts about the town and hear American Indian legends from your expert guide.
You also pass by filming locations from old Hollywood westerns and stop at some of the popular landmarks for photo ops.
Fun Day Trips From Sedona
Want more adventure? Let’s explore exciting destinations just a hop, skip, and jump away from Sedona, perfect for a memorable day out.
Drive to the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a must-see for anyone visiting Arizona.
Driving offers incredible flexibility. You can stop whenever you want for photos or make detours like Flagstaff for a break, coffee, or snacks.
The South Rim, reachable from Sedona, offers the most amenities but tends to be crowded. It’s about 100 miles from Sedona, usually taking 2-2 ½ hours to drive, depending on traffic and scenic stops.
Traveling to the North Rim takes around five hours, notably longer than to the South Rim. Despite offering a quieter and less crowded atmosphere, it’s more isolated and provides fewer amenities for visitors.
The preferred route to the South Rim is Scenic Highway 180, showcasing diverse landscapes, including majestic red rock formations, expansive high deserts, and lush pine forests.
Whichever path you choose, enjoy the journey!
Montezuma’s Castle
For an intriguing day trip, consider visiting Montezuma Castle National Monument, just an hour’s drive from Sedona.
I added this pit stop to my drive back to Phoenix from Sedona, where I flew into Arizona.
The monument is among North America’s finest preserved cliff dwellings, resembling an early apartment building with five stories and twenty rooms carved into a vertical limestone cliff. It’s the third National Monument dedicated to preserving Native American culture.
Standing 90 feet tall, access was limited to ladders, ensuring the tribe’s safety from potential intruders, human or animal.
At one time, visitors were allowed inside to look around, but limestone is soft, so when it became a National Monument, the public was kept out to preserve it. It is still an extraordinary site from below and well worth the $10 entrance fee.
Out of Africa Wildlife Park
No need for a passport for this wild African escapade! Just a quick 30-minute drive from Sedona, prepare to meet hundreds of exotic mammals, birds, and reptiles from all corners of the globe.
You must experience the Predator Zipline! It’s an exciting adventure that takes you on a thrilling journey over the safari park with wild animals below.
For thrill-seekers, there’s an ultra-long, ultra-fast triple line for racing to the bottom with friends, all under certified guide supervision.
You can also take an African Safari Tour surrounded by African plains animals such as giraffes, zebras, and gemsbok. You won’t want to miss the Out of Africa Wildlife Park.
Visit the Old West Town of Jerome
Are you ready to visit the “wickedest town in the west”?
The Old West Town of Jerome is a quick 20-mile drive from Sedona, between Flagstaff and Prescott. It’s the perfect day trip.
Once a bustling gold mining town, it also brought raucous behavior, drunkenness, and prostitution to Jerome. When the gold and copper reserves declined, it turned into a charming ghost town, leaving about 50 residents.
Today, it’s a popular tourist destination, and the best part is it is FREE to explore!
Here are a few fun things to do while in Jerome:
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Have lunch at the Haunted Hamburger.
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Visit the Gold King Mine and Ghost Town open-air museum.
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Stand on a glass floor 1700 feet above an old mine shaft at Audrey Headframe Park.
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Grab a treat at OJ’s Cooper County Fudge.
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Enjoy a mining day’s historic shuttle tour.
Visit Page and Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a masterpiece of nature and a sought-after tourist destination.
The swirling sandstone walls, carved over a millennia by rushing water, form deep and narrow passages.
There are two distinct sections: the Upper Antelope Canyon, nicknamed “The Crack,” and the Lower Antelope Canyon, known as “The Corkscrew.”
Photographers and nature enthusiasts from across the globe come to see the mesmerizing wave-like sandstone formations.
It is not possible to see the canyon by yourself. You must book a tour in advance with one of the local tour companies.
A heads up: The Upper Canyon is always packed with long lines. Guides will also rush you, giving you little time to enjoy the area. The Lower Canyon’s a tad less crowded, though.
Even though it is always full of visitors, its uniqueness is definitely worth seeing.
How to Get to Sedona Arizona
The most popular way to travel to Sedona is by flying into Phoenix, Arizona. Sky Harbor International Airport is the primary airport in Phoenix and serves as a hub for both American Airlines and U.S. Airways. Sixteen other airlines also fly to Phoenix, including Air Canada and British Airways.
From Phoenix, it’s a two-hour drive on Interstate 17 to Sedona – assuming there’s no traffic!
Flying into Flagstaff is an alternative to reaching Sedona. With a drive time of approximately 45 minutes, it offers a shorter journey compared to Phoenix, but airline tickets tend to be more expensive.
The Flagstaff Pulliam Airport serves as a gateway to the region, and as you land amidst the mountainous landscape, you’re already in for a scenic treat.
Where to Stay In Sedona Arizona
Wondering where to hang your hat in Sedona? Here are the best accommodations that’ll suit every style and budget.
And if waking up to breathtaking views is your jam, don’t miss my blog post on the Best Hotels in Sedona With a View – it’s a must-read guide for those seeking the perfect panorama during their stay.
Luxury
L’Auberge de Sedona, South Sedona
Sky Ranch Lodge, West Sedona
Atop Airport Mesa, you’ll enjoy a genuine sky oasis with Sedona’s most breathtaking views, as recognized by Forbes Magazine. It is the only hotel globally certified as a botanical garden. Rightly called a sky oasis, the charm of this lodge melds historic charm with modern comfort.
Mid Range
Arabella Hotel, Uptown Sedona
Located among Sedona’s red rocks and the peaceful Oak Creek, this luxury hotel offers lots of activities and stunning views. In the town center, you can visit art galleries on Gallery Row or hike to Snoopy Rock. Plus, the famous Mexican restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience.
Hyatt Vacation Club at Piñon Pointe, Uptown
This charming, centrally located hotel will keep you coming back. Set against stunning red sandstone, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Families will find their perfect retreat here, thanks to amenities like the dedicated children’s pool area. Plus, with Sunset and Sugarloaf Mountain Trailhead nearby, you can easily explore the beautiful red rock landscape or enjoy mountain biking excursions.
Budget Friendly
Wildflower Inn at Bell Rock, Oak Creek
Wildflower Inn is ideally situated just 1.4 miles from the Bell Rock trailhead, 1.5 miles from Canyon Mesa Country Club, and 18.6 miles from Montezuma Castle National Monument.
Dreamcatcher Inn, West Sedona
The Dreamcatcher Inn of Sedona stands out as a premier budget lodging choice in Sedona, bringing you intimately close to the captivating natural beauty the town is renowned for.
Visiting Sedona: FAQ’s
Here are a few of the most asked questions about things to do besides hiking trails in Sedona. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty and make your Sedona trip as smooth as possible!
Can you enjoy Sedona without hiking?
Absolutely!
In Sedona, there’s something for everyone, and many activities require minimal effort. Even if all you choose to do is gaze at the stars and marvel at the surreal beauty of the towering red rock formations, it would still make for a memorable trip.
Where can I see Cathedral Rock without hiking?
Yes, you can catch glimpses of Cathedral Rock from various viewpoints and even the parking area. However, to see the panoramic views of the famous Instagram-worthy photo spots from the crown of Cathedral Rock, you can only get to those by hiking to the top.
Red Rock Crossing and Crescent Moon Picnic Site are two easily reachable spots offering stunning views of Cathedral Rock without the need for hiking.
What is the most scenic drive in Sedona?
I would have to say, without a doubt, that my favorite scenic drive is the Red Rock Scenic Byway in the beautiful Coconino National Forest. Also known as State Route 179 in Sedona, this 7.5-mile road begins at Interstate 17 and ends at State Route 89A in Sedona.
It has some of the most diverse landscapes I have ever seen. One minute, you will see towering red rocks, and the next, you will be in a high desert area or a forest of pine trees. Simply breathtaking!
What is the easiest vortex to walk to in Sedona?
The Airport Mesa vortex is considered one of the easiest to access in Sedona. You can drive up to the Airport Mesa overlook and experience the vortex energy without the need for an extensive hike.
Among the vortexes, my personal favorite, and one that I think is incredibly easy to get to, is the Bell Rock Vortex. The trail around Bell Rock spans a little over a mile and is nicely kept and level, making it a breeze.
How many days do you need to explore Sedona?
For non-hikers, one day is enough to explore the highlights of Sedona.
With a well-planned itinerary, you can enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride, scenic drives, visits to landmarks like the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and even spa experiences.
While a single day may not cover all of Sedona, it’ll provide a taste of the stunning scenery and unique activities the area has to offer, making it a worthwhile and memorable visit.
That’s a Wrap on The Things to Do in Sedona Besides Hiking
Wrapping it up – Sedona isn’t just about hiking. There’s a whole bunch of awesome things to do in Sedona besides hiking.
Whether you’re up in a hot air balloon, treating yourself to a spa day, or absorbing the vortex energy, Sedona’s got diverse experiences.
So, embrace the unique charm of this Arizona gem and discover what else it has to offer besides its trails.
Talk to you later!
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