With stunning scenery that is arguably among the most beautiful on the planet, Sedona, is the place to relax by a river stream, hike in the hills, and energize your soul and metaphysical strength at its many vortexes.
Here are some ideas of what to do and see in this magnificent Red Rock Country.
Vortex Sites
Even if you’re not an adherent of the New Age movement, plan on visiting at least one of Sedona’s famous vortexes. They’re at some of the most gorgeous spots around town. Vortexes (the proper grammatical form “vortices” is rarely used here) are thought to be swirling centers of energy that are conducive to spiritual healing, meditation, and self-exploration. Believers identify four primary vortexes: Boynton Canyon, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Airport Mesa.
Red Rock Scenic Byway
This spectacular 7.5-mile drive winds through Northern Arizona’s Coconino National Forest covered with evergreen pinion trees. With stunning views of red rocks at every turn, Red Rock Scenic Byway tops the list as one of Sedona’s “must do” drives with numerous “must see” stops along the way.
Red Rock Crossing/Cathedral Rock
The most famous views in Sedona revolve around Cathedral Rock. Oak Creek flows past the base of the formation to create a much-photographed image. That scene is most often captured from Crescent Moon Picnic Area, known locally as Red Rock Crossing.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Appearing to rise out of the red rock formations, the Chapel of the Holy Cross towers in a panorama of buttes, valleys, and sky—all a source of inspiration inviting rest and reflection. Designed by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a studentl of Frank Lloyd Wright, the Chapel has been a compelling Sedona landmark since its completion in 1956.
Bell Rock Pathways
Named for its silhouette, Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations and is home to the Bell Rock Pathways trailhead that connects adventure seekers to over 100 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails for all ages and skill levels.
Red Rock Country Visitors Center
Located at the southern gateway to the Sedona area, the Red Rock Country Visitors Center allows you to stock-up on helpful information to guide your exploration of the many hiking and biking trails, scenic attractions, and more. The center also sells the Red Rock Parking Pass that allow vehicle access to the area’s National Forest land.
Pink Jeep Tours
Pink Jeeps are ubiquitous in Sedona, shuttling visitors past the sights year-round. One of the most popular tours is the Broken Arrow, a two-hour off-road tour with views and thrills galore. You pass through a suburb and disappear into the timber. Minutes later, you’re climbing up the side of the famous red rocks.
Uptown Sedona
From the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory to the Open Range Grill & Tavern to dozens of psychics, mystics, and crystal shops, this picturesque part of town is where to go for a bite between hikes, bikes, and other outdoor adventures. Book a Pink Jeep tour here and enjoy a cool ice cream cone.
Tlaquepaque
Nestled on the banks of Oak Creek is Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a collection of Spanish-style buildings reminiscent of a Mexican hamlet. Cobblestone walkways meander past vine-covered walls and beneath stone archways. Graceful Arizona sycamores shade the courtyards where shoppers stroll past splashing fountains and beds bursting with flowers. Tlaquepaque houses a collection of upscale galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Oak Creek Canyon
There’s a reason Oak Creek Canyon is the second-most visited canyon in Arizona. In just 15 miles, the drive takes you past countless outstanding vistas. Don’t miss Oak Creek Canyon Vista at the top. It has a terrific overview of the canyon. Native American artists sell jewelry, pottery and other handcrafted items at the overlook.
Worth Pondering…
There are only two places in the world
I want to live—Sedona and Paris.
—Max Ernst, Surrealist painter