I’m not certain if I was more exited to visit the Grand Canyon National Park or to stop in the colorful town of Sedona on our travels from Phoenix.  It was the perfect mid-trip stop where we would be staying overnight before taking a few hours to explore and continue on to Flagstaff.

It is no secret that the fascinating draw to Sedona is its intriguing red sandstone formations. They are most beautiful at dusk or dawn when the sun’s light appears to illuminate the rocks with colors of orange and red.

Evidence of pre-historic Native American life is quite prevalent here.  Archaeologists have uncovered pueblos and cliff dwellings as well as rock art and pottery from tribes of the Navajo and Hopi.

It wasn’t until the late 1800’s that early settlers began making their way west towards Oak Creek Canyon.  Most would be surprised to learn that the area was prime farmland where there is an abundance of water, lots of sunshine and rich volcanic soil.  The nearby creek was used to irrigate crops in addition to peach and apple orchards.

Sedona was a small town until the 1950s when it grew into a tourist destination and retirement center.  With its mild winters and hot summers, it is no surprise that the area has become popular with snowbirds.    

In addition to the beauty of Sedona’s natural formations, the man-made structure that also attracts visitors to the area is the Chapel of the Holy Cross.  Completed in 1956, the chapel rises out of 1,000 feet of red rock.

Whether it is the natural beauty, the spiritual aura or the perfect weather in Sedona, this scenic town just draws you in and leaves you wanting more.  Visit some of the unique shops in the area or plan for a hike.  Sedona is the perfect destination for an unforgettable experience historically and for some, spiritually.

Have you visited Sedona? What did you think of the area?  I would love to hear about your trip if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading about my short stay in Sedona and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Chapel of the Holy Cross
Sedona, AZ  86336
Telephone:  888 242 7359

Where to Stay:

The Andante Inn of Sedona
2545 W. State Route 89a
Sedona, AZ  86336
Telephone:  928 282 1533

Where to Eat:

Hiro’s Sushi & Japanese Kitchen
1730 W State Rt. 89A #6
Sedona, AZ  86336
Telephone:  928 282 8906

What to Read: 

• A Window on Sedona, Living in the Land of the Red Rocks, by Dottie Webster
• Sedona, Treasure of the Southwest, by Kathleen Bryant
• The Journal of Sedona Schnebly, by Lisa Heidinger
• Skulls of Sedona, by J.R. Ripley

Photo Guide for Sedona: 

• Airport Mesa is accessible by taking the airport road to a parking lot where perfect opportunities await.  Popular for taking sunset photos. From Airport Mesa, photographers can capture pics of Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Chimney Rock, Coffee Pot Rock and Courthouse Rock.
• Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most photographed landmark and one of the best views is from Crescent Moon Picnic Area.  Photograph the rock or hike up for outstanding views of the area.
• Chimney Rock Loop Hike offers fabulous views of Chimney Rock.
• Courthouse Butte Loop Trail for stunning views.
• Devil’s Bridge is one of the most unique locations for capturing the extraordinary scenery of Sedona.  Visitors can walk across the stone arch which provides stunning views of the area.  A four wheel drive is required to access the trail which leads to Devil’s Bridge.
• Red Rock State Park:  For a fee of $10 per vehicle, this amazing park is home the spectacular red rock for which Sedona is known.  The trails reach gorgeous landscape and beautiful views.
• Schnebly Hill Road:  Although you will need a four wheel drive vehicle to access this road, there are some amazing views of Sedona in this area.

Cacti in Sedona

Incredible Rocks in Sedona

Red Rock Country in Sedona

Red Rock of Sedona

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