Trinity Heights Church is involved in many humanitarian activities, right from dealing with the AIDS/HIV crisis to collecting grants for the poor. It also has a monthly newsletter, "Chimes" which features news about the church and various activities and programs in the church as well as Flagstaff. It also has another newsletter GriefShare, which apt to its name, deals with people who are grieving.

Do the unusual and go ice skating in Arizona! This activity center is an indoor rink with ice skating in the winter (mid-September through April 30) and, on occasion, inline skating during the summer months (June through end of August). Family activities and group competitions put the summer blues on ice, so call ahead to see what's chilling. The center accepts cash and personal checks.

Many travelers are surprised to learn that the world's largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest blankets the mountains of Flagstaff in Northern Arizona. Aromatic treetops brush the endless blue sky just outside of town, but this panoramic portrait is more than just breathtaking scenery for hikers, climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts; it's home to wildlife including the black bear and American bald eagle. Explore elevations of up to 12,633 feet and watch the fauna change from cactus to alpine tundra along the way. Visitors are invited to phone the supervisor's office for information that may be helpful in planning a trip.

Something less than mundane, this tour of Sedona by starlight will introduce you to one of the finest areas in the country for star gazing. Dennis Young is the astronomer of the hour, with more than 20 years of experience under Orion's belt. His half-meter telescope is affectionately referred to as "the Sirius Looker" and is used in guided tours of the stars, which will last about 2 1/2 hours and start at $45 per person. Groups of all ages will enjoy this experience. Bring cash or check, this merchant does not accept credit cards

This award-winning facility is ground zero for arts exhibits, performing arts and community events in the Flagstaff area. The complex includes a 200-plus-seat theater, an exhibition hall, a 4,000-square-foot gallery and a shop selling works by the area's premier artists. Year-round entertainment and seminars feature local, regional, national and international talent. The center is also available for social gatherings and business meetings. It is operated by a non-profit organization. Call for current exhibit and performance schedules and more information.

Originally built as a hospital in 1908, this museum, operated by the Arizona Historical Society, is a tribute to Northern Arizona's pioneer days and agricultural roots. An antique railroad engine welcomes you to the grounds, and exhibits familiarize you with the area's first settlers and their many contributions to the birth and growth of the city. One of the museum's most popular events during the year is the winter "Playthings of the Past" exhibit, featuring toys and games from the late 1800s to mid-1900s. Check the website for complete visitor details.

Northern Arizona's premier facility for the study and exploration of native peoples and natural sciences features exhibits on the evolving cultures and climate of the area. Ever-changing exhibits cover anthropology, biology, geology and archaeology, as well as a variety of fine arts media. Throughout the year, Native American artists are showcased, and in the spring, an annual exhibition of Zuni, Hopi and Navajo artworks and crafts draws big crowds. In the fall, the museum hosts the Trappings of the American West art exhibition.

The nearly 30-acre Foxglenn Park sports plenty of facilities of active, fun-loving folk, including a skate track, basketball courts, soccer fields, a baseball field, a softball field and a playground for the rugrats.

Be sure that your vehicle is in peak operating condition and that the unpaved path is in passable shape, and you're off on an exciting driving adventure! This dirt road rambles through the San Francisco Peaks and Elden Mountain range on its bisecting way between US Route 180 and US Route 89. Along the way, you'll see some of the area's most spectacular scenery from spots that are rarely trod upon by the average visitor. But remember, you'll be traveling some tough terrain, so be sure both you and your vehicle are up to the task. Contact the Flagstaff Visitor Center for more information.

Magic moments in the Triassic Period are literally frozen in time at Petrified National Forest, 116 miles east of Flagstaff. Come explore prehistoric fossils, petrified wood, archeological dig sites and petroglyphs, all in a scenic setting. You'll need two hours or more to fully experience the natural wonders within the park boundaries. Don't miss the fun and informative Rainbow Forest Museum and Painted Desert Visitor's Center. To get there, take Interstate 40 east to Exit 311 and follow the signs. Admission is USD10 per carload.