Sedona sits amid the magnificent red-rock cliffs and canyons south of Flagstaff. Its awesome scenery has formed the backdrop for dozens of Hollywood Westerns, but the town shot to fame in the 1980s when psychics identified “vortexes” in the area, which they believed emanated electromagnetic energies that invigorate the soul, and it became a spiritual destination for upscale New Agers.
t The town of Sedona sitting amid striking red-rock cliffs
Experience Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona
t Giant dinosaur skull in front of a New Age shop in Sedona
Today Sedona is so popular that parking in uptown, which is lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and tourist shops, can be a challenge. The real attraction, however, is the breath-taking landscape surrounding the town. Head through West Sedona on Highway 89A to reach Red Rock State Park and the Red Rock Loop Road, where a gentle, wooded stretch of Oak Creek offers hikes and lovely picnic spots. Or drive south along the Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179) to access stunning landmarks such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Cathedral Rock. The wealth of activities includes relaxing spas, jeep tours, backcountry hikes, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hot-air balloon rides. Sedona Trolley tours take in highlights of the town and surroundings.
Spiritual sedona
The Red Rock Country around Sedona is said to be full of mystical "vortexes". These are swirling centers of energy, where the earth’s cosmic forces are especially strong and conducive to healing, meditation, and spiritual practices. Four major vortexes are located at Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, and Boynton Canyon. Each is said to emanate its own particular energy, attracting people seeking enlightenment.
EXPERIENCE Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona
Highlights |
Chapel of the Holy CrossThis Roman Catholic chapel, built into the buttes of Sedona in 1957, was commissioned by local sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude. |
Bell RockResembling a giant red bell, this butte is a key landmark just north of Oak Creek Village, south of Sedona. The rock is claimed by some to be a "vortex" – a center of spiritual energy. |
Cathedral RockAbout 2 miles (3 km)south of Uptown Sedona, this sandstone rock is one of the most photographed formations in the area.The climb to the top along a steep trail is somewhat challenging, but worth the effort for the breathtaking views. |
Courthouse ButteJust east of Bell Rock, this butte can easily be viewed up close due to its proximity to the road and is one of Sedona's most beautiful rock formations. |
Snoopy RockNamed for the Peanuts character Snoopy, this rock resembles his reclining profile. It is visible from Uptown Sedona – you will find a good view of it anywhere from Main Street, where there are shops, restaurants, and galleries. |
Uptown SedonaWith its many art galleries (there are at least 40), shops selling crystals, fossils, and jewelry, and spa facilities, the town of Sedona is the perfect place to unwind. |