<p>I am blessed to live in one of the most beautiful states in our great nation.  I think we might also boast the most diverse landscapes of any of the other 49 states. </p>

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<p>I awoke on Day 24 in the Sonoran Desert, which is actually quite stunning. </p>

<p>pic of south mountain</p>

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<p>After a 2 hour drive from Captain Adventure's house, we scaled the Red Rocks of Sedona.  </p>

<p>pic of sedona</p>

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<p>After another 30 minute drive, we hiked a pine forest trail in Flagstaff (trail elevation 9600 ft.)</p>

<p>pic of flagstaff</p>

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<p>As you can see, if you can tolerate 115 temps for a few months, then this state is one breathtakingly majestic oyster. </p>

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<p>The plan for Day 24 started with a Google hunt for the height of Aspen "gold rush" in Flagstaff.  I've been to Flagstaff many times, but never at the peak of fall foliage, and I wanted an autumnal experience to remember. </p>

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<p>The second weekend of October is considered THE weekend to visit Flagstaff for fall colors, so I called up my friend, David (aka Captain Adventure), who lives and breathes nature stuff.  It took him about a ¼ of a second to accept my invitation. </p>

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<p>We decided to turn this into a 2-day nature extravaganza.  First stop:  Sedona, Arizona.  Which.  Is.  Absolutely.  Incredible.  One of my favorite places on earth.  If you've never been, start plotting a Sedona escape soon. </p>

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<p>Sedona is known not only for its stunning one-of-a-kind scenery, but also for its Woo-Woo factor.  If you're ready to get you're New Agey freak on, then Sedona is your place.  I would guesstimate that Sedona has more psychics per capita than anywhere else on earth.   </p>

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