The Beauty and Art of Sedona

Red rock monoliths, Oak Creek Canyon, Coconino National Forest, almost everywhere you look there are breathtaking views. For all the talk about vortices, and spiritual places Sedona is in the middle of one of the most awe-inspiring national forests. In fact, the vortices are a bit of a hype – there’s so much beauty surrounding, almost any place will inspire.

Explore the Outdoors

The rocks get their color from hematite (iron oxide) better known as rust. The rocks themselves are in geological layers, like a layer cake, dating back 80 million years (yes, you read that correctly). The combination has created the spectacle of huge red cliffs and monoliths.

Grab a map and drive into the canyons and hike. Enjoy the Red Rock State Park If you go to Coconino National Forest you'll need a pass to park, but it's worth supporting our natural heritage, and you can happily spend a day exploring the trails, picnicking and more. Visit Stop at the visitors center and pick up a map and guide with the scenic drives and hikes organized by level of difficulty.

You can learn more about and where to find some of the famed Sedona Vortices. Of course, do some spontaneous exploration, picking up maps and information at the tourism office and or VisitSedona. Enjoy a lovely drive either wandering around the area, or head to the Red Rock Scenic Byway (State Road 179) which offers great views with convenient pulloffs.

For a place with spiritual beauty, visit the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park. This sacred Buddhist place is open to the public. Built by Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC), under the direction of its spiritual director Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, it has two stupas on 14 acres of some of the most beautiful Sedona scenery. It is far less commonly visited and thus provides a place of peace and beauty (and a chance to appreciate the spiritual architecture and learn about the making of the stupa) without crowds. Just walking up the path, the feeling the positive energy sets the tone.

Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most famous in this view-studded area. It's a place of beauty and calm. Be advised, it's considered to be one of prime vortices and is therefore doubly popular.

Exploring Sedona

Apart for the spectacular scenery, the town of Sedona is fun. Getting around town is not difficult. It's a walkable city that also offers free daytime trolleys that connect many parts of town. Almost everything is located either on Hwy 89A or on the small roads leading north.

Famous for its art, just head to the Gallery District and you'll find galleries galore, including Exposures - one of the largest in town.

Plan a stop to enjoy the Tiaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village which means best of everything. It is a charming riff on a Mexican village filled with stucco, cobblestone, arches sheltering galleries and shops. If you love glass art, definitely seek out Kuivato for translucent beauty.

Take a Tour

There are plenty of ways to explore Sedona and the wilderness. To get an overview of the city and the nearby attractions try a trolley tour. The Sedona Trolley Tour takes you to some of the nearby landmarks and photo op places, and provides history, trivia, and tips.

Take one of the quirky tours to some of the four-wheel-drive places. We did the Red Rock Western Jeep Tour of the vortex sites, with our guide Tax in full cowboy attire. The company also offers a range of intriguing tours.

For other forms of transportation, try a hot air balloon or a helicopter to fly over the famed sites.

Lodging

Sedona offers a full range of accommodations. We stayed at the perfectly located Creekside Inn - literally on Oak Creek and in the middle of town (Gallery District). This B & B offers luxury rooms with patios, lovely views, and delicious breakfasts with charming and helpful hosts.

For more information Visit Sedona