Adventure and Recreation is just one of many approaches in Red Mountain’s suite of healing modalities. It represents one more way in which RMS exceeds the standards for programs of its type and goes beyond expectations to support our students.
Adventure and recreation activities encourage individuals to become mentally and physically engaged through fun, action-based activities.
A few examples of our adventure and recreation activities include:
- Skiing / Snowboarding at Snow Bowl (elev. 10,000 feet)
- Rock climbing
- Mountain biking
- Hiking in Sedona’s majestic Red Rocks
- Golf
- Go-carting
- Paintball
The unfamiliar nature of these experiences, combined with the sense of community developed by participating in them, creates a climate in which individuals can challenge their current perceptions, and affords them an opportunity to modify habitual behaviors while enriching their self-esteem.
We typically head out on adventures every Saturday, and most of our students agree it’s one of the highlights of the week.
Additionally, throughout the week, our students participate in biking and hiking as they wish.
If students are injured, sick, or at work, they are not required to participate. If they feel overwhelmed at the notion of one of our activities, we work with them therapeutically to help them feel comfortable, or come up with an alternative activity.
There are solid scientific reasons why Adventure and Recreation works so well.
For example, adrenaline and dopamine, two key neurotransmitters in the brain, are both affected by exercise and physical challenge, and these, combined with the natural beauty of our location, facilitate a lasting lesson that getting healthy can be FUN!
Skiing
Red Mountain Sedona is located 30 miles south of Flagstaff and the San Francisco Peaks. At nearly 10,000 feet, these stunning mountains offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
“Coming from Colorado, I didn’t really know there was skiing in Arizona, let alone that it would be any good. But skiing with the group was really fun. It was good to apply some of the things I’ve been learning here in that context—to take risks, but also to be careful. That balance has always been hard for me, but today I feel like I really got it.” – Female Student
Rock Climbing
We offer our students the opportunity to stretch their capacities as they experience a world-class rock gym. Rock climbing teaches you to think on your feet, plan ahead, and extend beyond your perceived limits.
“This was one of those cases where I wasn’t too sure of myself. The staff and the other students were really encouraging and I was able to make it all the way to the top the first time! The second time, it took me about half as long. It seems that way in life, too. Once I find my route, I can follow it more easily.” — Female Student
Hiking
People come from all over the world to experience Sedona. Hiking here, on your own or in a group, opens up new spiritual depths rarely experienced in other locales.
“I love doing group activities, but I find I get a lot from taking walks alone. Being able to step out of my door and be minutes from some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen is incredible. Being out on the rocks has really helped me heal.” — Female Student
Golf
Sedona is home to some of the best golf in the country. Rolling greens frame the world-famous Sedona Red Rocks.
“I had never golfed before, to be honest, and I didn’t know how much I’d enjoy it. But it was so much fun. Driving around in the cart, laughing with my friends, and letting rip on that ball…was a great experience.” — Male Student
Mountain Biking
Sedona is home to a thriving mountain bike culture, and people come from great distances to bike here. From easy, flat courses to some of the most technical trails in the world, Sedona has it all.
“As a former bike racer, it’s a big thrill to teach our students how to handle the trails in Sedona. Safety is paramount, but as soon as you learn the ropes, you’ll be amazed how much you can do on a bike here. The trails are the main reason I live here, and I love sharing this amazing gift of nature with our students.” – Staff Member