VFR flying and sightseeing are likely to be better in the southwest,
rather than the northwest. Rain and overcast is probable anywhere north
of San Francisco near the coast. Like many, I would recommend Sedona.
There's some good mountain biking and trails all around town. There's
even a trail that goes around the airport, below the rim of the mesa.

The Mojave desert, including Death Valley (National Park) or
Anza-Borrego (California State Park) can also be spectacular
in the winter. Best wildflower viewing is a few months later
than your visit, around March. Both have decent airports.

also... Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, Meteor Crater, Painted Desert,
Monument Valley, Bryce Zion...Las Vegas if you're into that sort of thing.

> So wondered if anyone out there in LML land has any suggestion to fill in
> ten days after Christmas sightseeing in the US without actually going as
far
> as the West Coast (going to Canada and the West Coast next month).