On our way out to the Grand Canyon, we made a stop in Sedona, Arizona. This stop was not originally on our travel plans, but after a few people recommended the detour, we thought we would swing by for a peak.
Can I just say WOW! We were blow away. Sedona has a stunning backdrop of red rocks and lots of fun outdoorsy things to do. Here are three reasons why you should add Sedona to your future travel plans.
Trails
Sedona has some of the most amazing hiking trails we have explored. The trails and hiking possibilities are endless and offer views that will not disappoint.
Not only are the hiking views beautiful, but Sedona is know for it’s energy vortexes. The term vortex in Sedona refers to
Natural geomagnetic points that create a swirling energy center radiating from the earth’s surface.
And yes. I definitely had to look that up. Although all of Sedona is considered to be a vortex, there are a few places that are considered to have stronger energy making it more likely to be experienced.
We had never heard of energy vortexes before, but it sounded like a fun and unique Sedona experience. As we travel, we love finding new things specific to the area, and energy vortexes have never been on that list.
The best known vortexes are at Cathedral Rock, Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. Each location offers something unique and special not to mention the beautiful scenery. You are able to hike these points and there are guides on where to find the energy.
If you plan on hiking these trails make sure to arrive at the trailheads early. The small parking areas fill up early and a parking fee is required. On our second attempt to park and hike we finally caught a spot at Cathedral and Bell Rock.
Cathedral Rock is a spectacular 1 mile hike up to the summit and another mile back down. The trail requires some rock scrambling, but the view was breathtaking and worth every rock! Here is a video we did of our hike to Cathedral and Bell Rock.
Bell Rock is the easiest access to feel the energy. The energy can be felt from any point of the rock and some say they can even feel it from the parking lot. We hiked a ways up the rock to catch some beautiful views. I did ask some people along the way if they felt the energy. Although some stated they did not feel the energy, others strongly stated they did. Whether you believe in the energy or not, either way you will see some amazing scenery.
Tours
If hiking is not your passion, but you want to check out the views or you are looking for a once in a lifetime experience, Sedona offers some unique options. Helicopter tours are an exciting way to soar above the rocks for spectacular views. These tours would offer an ariel perspective only the birds get to experience.
If you would rather stay on the ground you are not out of luck. There are multiple Jeep offloading tours that can take you off the beaten path in Sedona and even as far as the Grand Canyon. Trolly tours are also a great way to explore Sedona. Take a narrative tour of some of the best places Sedona has to offer. Tours are a great way to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Views
Sedona has views that will take your breath away. We saw beauty for miles and these views can not only be seen by hiking, plane, or 4×4, but can be enjoyed by anyone. To catch some some of these spectacular landscapes check out Chapel of the Holy Cross. This church view will take your breath away.
Located on the side of a spectacular red rock formation, access to the church is free to the public and easy to get to. From the back of the Church you will catch a glimpse of Sedona and the view is stunning. You are also allowed to go inside the church as well. Parking can be the trickiest part, so arrive early to avoid crowds. Chapel on the Holy Cross visitors also claim it to be a vortex site.
Another great view came to us by accident. We attempted to hike Airport Mesa , but it did not happen because the parking area was full once again. If this happens, you can drive to the top of the hill and a large parking area awaits. From this spot, you can walk to the trailhead by adding on over a mile to your roundtrip hike distance.
If you want to check out a spectacular view without hiking the mesa, then across the road and you will be invited by a panoramic view that will not disappoint. Everyone of all ages can check out this view if hiking or time is an issue.
In the end we had an amazing venture in Sedona. We plan on traveling back again someday, because there is so much to see and do. The landscapes are gorgeous and Sedona will leave you wanting more.