Sedona is about 'half-way' between the alpine areas to the north and east, and the sonora desert to the south and west. It sits right under what is called the 'Mo-gi-yon' Rim, which is the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. Has a few 100 degree days in summer ... and a couple freezing days in the winter with periodic snow. Otherwise it's surprisingly temperate.

Even more unique (in Arizona) are creek-side meadows, and springs that flow into Oak Creek and thence into the Verde River. As you can well imagine, this area has supported wildlife for eons and continues to do so today.

What controls 'nature' here are the winter storms from the north (Dec/Jan) and the summer monsoons from the south (Jul/Aug/Sep). Birds and plants adjust their lives to these two events ... the deer and javalina just grit their teeth, and keep munching

Sooo ... what kind of nature are you interested in? CLICK on each section for the most common varieties.

TREES Mainly down near the drainages, where there's water 'somewhere' nearby. 'Sometimes' you wonder. Plus some are so similar, look closely! Plus if there's trees, there's birds too!

SHRUBS Truly amazing, they survive so well with limited water. Each has a trick up their branches in finding and holding onto moisture.

CACTUS These little puppies are almost at their most northern (Arizona) range. Have to survive the freeze. But in the springtime, the flowers are just gorgeous.

WILDFLOWERS With the winter storms in late Dec and Jan, you can plan on unbelievable flowers in March and April. And for goodness sakes, sit down among the flowers now and then. They like you!

BIRDS For birds, Sedona is just north of the Verde River Valley, where over half of US birds can be seen. But Sedona too is great for birding. Plus the views!!

ANIMALS Living here brings a lot of surprises ... the 4-legged type! And they're not shy at all. Most likely to see: rabbits, squirrels, deer and javelina.