Wonders of Arizona’s Red Rock Country

If you are interested in majestic landforms, scenic drives, pleasant weather, a place where ancient meets contemporary, and a small town vibe, then the city of Sedona is the place for you. Upon entering the city limits, its charm and striking backdrop will pull you instantly. A magnificent destination for international travelers and a quick rejuvenating getaway for Arizonans, Sedona is an American treasure.
Sedona, often called Red Rock Country for the characteristic intense red coloring of its sandstone formations, is located in the state of Arizona, and is two hours away from the capital Phoenix. Ancient ruins and petroglyphs (engravings in rock) indicate that Sedona was inhabited centuries before Columbus’ journey to America. The first dwellers of Sedona are called the Anasazi, which is a term meaning “the ancient ones,” used by the Navajo. Visitors may immerse themselves in ancient times by viewing the remnants of what used to be a flourishing culture by hiking prehistoric routes and taking in ancient constructions. They may imagine the Anasazi fishing, hunting, and farming the red rock Sedona canyons. This city is believed to be a prehistoric ceremonial site and where North and South American trade routes intersected. In 1902, the city was named after the founder, Carl Shnebly’s wife, Sedona Schnebly.
All of Sedona’s brilliance may be discovered by several means. A very popular way is by helicopter to view its splendor from above and delve into the canyons and experience a birds-eye view. Another common way is by jeep tour to travel the pristine red rock landscape that justifiably first attracted the Anasazi and subsequent tribes to settle the area. For those who prefer to explore without a vehicle, there are many hiking and biking paths to follow.
Second only to the Grand Canyon, Sedona is a first-rate travel destination. The combination of pleasant four-season climate and elevated desert terrain in Sedona results in the ideal conditions for year-round visitors and especially for outdoor fanatics. Hikers, fisherman, and campers are spoiled for choice in Sedona. In 1991, the latest state park in Sedona became Red Rock State Park. The park is situated in Oak Creek Canyon, which is a part of the Coconino National Park. Oak Creek Canyon itself is a spectacle to behold. For hikers and bikers of Red Rock State Park, they can explore the many trails it has to offer, such as The Smoke Trail, The Apache Fire Trail, and Eagle’s Nest Overlook Trail. As the 286-acre area was dedicated with the intention to conserve the Oak Creek riparian environment, there are areas where swimming and camping are prohibited. However, it is perfect for fishing, birding, hiking and biking in the designated areas.
Another main park is Slide Rock State Park. The highlight of this park is the natural water slide due to the gushing water from Oak Creek, along with the natural pools where one may swim or fish. The surrounding land is perfect for relaxation and picnics under the shade of cottonwood and sycamore trees. For the more adventurous, there are awe-inspiring trails to explore and admire.
For those less inclined to outdoor activity, Sedona is a beacon of spiritual renewal and relaxation. Aside from gourmet cuisine and luxury accommodations, the open air, foliage, canyons and overall superb scenery have been known to have renewing capabilities and the prompting of prayer, reflection, and revelation. Visitors interested in the metaphysical are in the vicinity of an array of services such as readers, healers, and spiritual counselors. Sedona is also internationally renowned for the Vortex meditation sites that can be toured by visitors. The New Age community declared the detection of four significant vortexes, which are electromagnetic energy sources, in the mid 1970s. Currently, this community provides seminars and events on alternative healing and emotional rejuvenation.
The art scene in Sedona is superlative and unique. It boasts of more than 40 showcases displaying contemporary art and crafts in addition to Native American art. In 1950, Max Ernst the Surrealist painter and sculptor made a home in Sedona, where many other artists and writers followed. The Cowboy Artists of America was established in 1965 there by a collection of western artists. This city became a hotspot to film Hollywood western films since the 1920s. Famous western films starring legends such as Gene Autry, John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Rock Hudson, Elvis Presley, and Robert DeNiro were filmed there. In fact, numerous movie icons of the golden era made Sedona their home, including Walt Disney, Orson Welles, Ann Miller, Jane Russell, Donald O’Connor, and Lucille Ball with her then husband Desi Arnaz.
In 2014, almost four million visitors experienced the beauty of Sedona. They enjoyed the undisturbed small-town atmosphere, with its unique shopping courts, distinctive souvenir boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Outside the downtown area, they explored and appreciated the parks, trails, and ancient ruins. Finally at the end of the day, the visitors of Sedona were treated to the breathtaking view only visible there. A sight that has captured the love and awe of millions from the times of the Anasazi to artists and filmmakers and ultimately to the modern traveler: a magical Sedona sunset.