Astrid Taran

Senior Special Projects Editor

I love kayaking, and all of my past kayaking experiences have taken place on lakes and in oceans. Some of my favorite memories in the water were in New York's Finger Lakes, which was a perfect activity before a day of wine tasting, and in the Galapagos, where sea turtles swam up to greet me as I paddled through the Pacific.

This weekend, I visited Cleveland for the first time. Set on the Cuyahoga River, I had the opportunity to try something I haven't tried before: urban kayaking. The city's riverfront was filled with barges and freights. As the guide pushed my boat into the water, he smiled and said, "Just remember: If you see a large boat, move to the side or you'll flip over."

Heart pounding in my chest, I remained hyper-aware of my surroundings at all times. Much like driving in the city, kayaking in a city required my full attention—but the stunning view of the cityscape I got from the seat of my kayak was worth it.

This month, TripSavvy is celebrating all things outdoor adventure with great new features, including my account of rock climbing among Sedona's famed energy vortexes, as well as the best U.S. national parks for adventure junkies and even the micro-adventures beginners can incorporate into their everyday life. Because much like what I learned this weekend in Cleveland, outdoor adventure can be done anywhere, by anyone, at any time.

On Our Radar

I Rock Climbed in Sedona—and Got Up Close to the Area's Energy Vortexes

The vortexes are said to guide those who seek them. I quickly became a seeker.

7 Micro-Adventures You Can Incorporate Into Your Everyday Life

If climbing Mount Everest isn't yet in the cards, start with these small thrills.

Pooping in the Outdoors: The Complete Guide

Adhere to the Leave No Trace philosophy and poop outdoors responsibly.

Destination of the Day

Sedona, Arizona

Anyone familiar with Sedona immediately associates it with Jeep tours and outdoor adventure in the surrounding red rock formations, but this city of 10,000 residents is much more than that. Art galleries line its main streets, five-star restaurants draw foodies, and romantic resorts make it the perfect in-state getaway.

Things to Do

Sedona is known for its outdoor adventures, but there's more than one way to experience Red Rock Country. With more than 100 trails in the Sedona area, hiking is the most obvious option, but you can also mountain bike many of the trails or go off-roading on a guided or self-guided tour. For a more relaxing day, soak up the healing energy of a vortex, spend a day getting pampered at a spa, or stroll through boutique shops and art galleries.

Where to Eat

Dining in Sedona is just as much about the view as it is the food. For most of the year, diners choose to eat on a restaurant's patio, although some eateries have floor-to-ceiling windows that frame equally impressive views. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a quick bite to eat in between visiting galleries, these restaurants won't disappoint.

Where to Stay

For a pampered getaway, luxury resorts like Enchantment Resort, Amara Resort and Spa, and L'Auberge de Sedona feature spas, fine dining, and incredible views for $500-plus a night. If you're looking to save, bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels usually come in at half that much, and vacation rentals are comparatively budget friendly. You can save a little more by staying about 10 miles from Uptown on Highway 179 in the Village of Oak Creek; however, if you want to park your car and walk during your stay, stick to accommodations in Uptown.

Vacation Like a Pro

Sedona makes a great base for exploring the rest of the state. From Sedona, it is just a two-hour drive to the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world, and a 45-minute drive to the ghost-town-turned-art-community of Jerome. The city is also 20 minutes away from several of northern Arizona's best wineries, located in Cornville.

Teresa Bitler
Contributing Writer

Your Packing List

For summer in Sedona, pack lightweight clothing like tank tops, short-sleeved T-shirts, shorts, and sandals.

Bring your swimsuit and plenty of sunscreen!

Don't forget closed-toed shoes for hiking and other outdoor activities.

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Get Inspired

One of the best-kept secrets in adventure travel, Mongolia is off the beaten path but worth the effort to get there. There is a lot of open space to explore, ranging from the remote and rugged Altai Mountains to the vast and wide-open Gobi Desert. We recommend getting away from it all on a fat bike tour through Tavn Bogd National Park with Round Square Adventures, a trip that combines physical challenge with remote and wild settings.

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