Exploring Sedona’s Red Rock Country: Vortexes and Views

Views of Sedona from
Schnebly Road

Sedona, Arizona is known not only for its stunning red rock vistas. It is also believed to be a magical place with unusually strong spiritual vibes. No matter what your beliefs, there is so much to see and do in Sedona.

You can investigate the spiritual side of Sedona and experience the power of the Vortex sites. You can take a hike and enjoy the natural beauty that Sedona and Oak Creek have to offer. Or pamper yourself at a resort and shop the galleries and boutiques.

We've put together a list of great things to do to get you out and about in Sedona's Red Rock Country.

Take a Jeep Trip Up Schnebly Hill Road
Just off Hwy 179 after you pass Tlaquepaque Shopping Village, turn left and look for Schnebly Hill Road. This is the beginning of your adventure IF you have a road-worthy car.

I've seen SUVs, jeeps, and regular cars on this rocky, dusty road, but I highly recommend that you drive the road in a 4WD vehicle. Drive up the dirt road, carefully picking your way among the rocks and you will come to several turn-outs. At each one there is a beautiful vista of Sedona and the Red Rocks. My favorite overview and an opportunity for a short hike is the area known as the “cow pies.” Have a look at the weathered rock formations and you will know why. Some believe this is a vortex site.

 

If you don’t have an off-road worthy vehicle you still can enjoy the area. Sedona is known for their jeep tours. Pink Jeeps and A Day in the West are two companies I have ridden with.

Pink Jeeps take visitors to see the sights of Sedona

Photograph Red Rock Crossing and Crescent Moon Ranch Park
Just outside town on Red Rock Loop Road off US 89A you will find a fantastic little park, Crescent Moon Park. On the way, you'll find pullouts where you can enjoy the views.

Once you are there, wander the paths taking you toward Oak Creek. One of the most photographed scenes, towering Cathedral Rock reflected in the waters of Oak Creek, is accessible from the riverbank by walking a series of stones across the creek.

This is not only a beautiful place, it, too, is also a vortex site. Enjoy Oak Creek as it flows over rocks, watch the clouds in the brilliant blue sky and wait for that perfect photo as the light changes on the face of Cathedral Rock.

You can also take a hike, follow other park paths and learn about the history of Crescent Moon Ranch. Picnic facilities are available.  (Park fee: $10.00 per car)

Sedona vistas

Go on a Vortex Tour
While you are in Sedona, you'll want to find out more about the spiritual side of of Sedona. You'll be especially curious vortexes. There are eight primary vortex sites in Sedona. Vortexes are spiraling energy, kind of like a whirlpool or tornado. Locals can tell you where the vortexes are and about their experiences. And, of course, there are lists on the Internet.

But why not take a vortex tour with one of the jeep trips. Some are serious about the spiritual energy in Sedona and others are less spiritual about their narratives. But all will enlighten you about the mysterious Sedona vortexes and all will take you to vortex sites. Earth Wisdom Jeep tours is one of the more serious tours.

More Information:

Places to Stay in Sedona
Visiting Sedona

Exploring the Spiritual Side of Sedona

Photography copyright: Elizabeth Rose Photography