There are places in life's journey that leave an indelible mark on your soul. Sedona, Arizona is one of them and the Red Rock Scenic Byway will forever leave a smile on my heart.
Like it has been for many, 2021 was a long trying year having to learn how to live the same life in a new way. Sometimes exciting, often frustrating, and we just needed a getaway! We originally booked a few nights in Las Vegas, but while researching nearby places to visit, I ran across pictures of Sedona and immediately felt summoned. Once I saw her beauty, it was suddenly no longer an option to visit, but a requirement.
My research led me to dozens of hiking trails and places of interest, but because my wife has been having major foot issues, I needed to find ways to get the most out of our visit and put the least strain on her plantar fascia. So I picked a few short hikes, a pink jeep tour, and a morning drive along this beautiful roadway.
THE DRIVE
The landscape here in Sedona is unlike anything we have back East. It felt other-worldly, like we were on Mars or some newly colonized planet. I'm sure the folks in Arizona regard it as normal, but from the eyes of a Midwest boy and a Southern girl, it was magical. The type of magical that makes you hold hands like it's your first date and cuddle closer in amazement at how great some moments in life can be.
The Scenic Byway is basically the entire stretch of Hwy 179 from Sedona south to Interstate 17. However, the most glorious views are found in the section between the curve in the road near Sedona Caves trailhead and the Red Rock Ranger District Visitor's Center. Sedona is know to have spiritual vortexes, which even if you don't subscribe to that theology it feels believable because time just doesn't seem to matter in this stretch of earth.
ALONG THE WAY stop at...
Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Vortex @ Bell Rock
District 9 Fire Station
Cathedral Rock
FINAL THOUGHTS
I'm typically very scheduled on a vacation, trying to get as much in as possible, but not here. Here I learned the truth behind living in the moment. If I missed a hike or any places of interest on my list, it wouldn't have mattered. I was just in awe of all that my eyes witnessed and each moment was one I didn't want to end. If ever you are in need of a soul recharge, come plug in here.
2022 / 1 read more