How To Spend a Weekend in Sedona, Arizona

Things To See and Do When on Vacation in Red Rock Country

© Sharon Falsetto

Nov 27, 2008
Schnebly Hill Road Sedona, Sharon Falsetto
Sedona is becoming one of the top tourist destinations in the USA; this relatively small place in Arizona offers many things to see and do in addition to the red rocks.

The city of Sedona in Arizona was named after the wife of the postmaster, Theodore Carlton (T.C.) Schnebly; he proposed several names to the Postmaster General before Dorsey Schnebly, T.C.'s brother, suggested that of T.C.'s wife, Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly. Today, the city of Sedona hosts millions of visitors every year, a vast difference to its humble homestead beginnings.

Sedona is famous for its beautiful scenery, sun sets and the red rock formations which are visible from every vantage point in Sedona; however, once visitors have seen the red rocks, there are many other experiences to be had in Sedona. Sedona is known for its spas, art galleries, mystical tours and vortexes, hiking and mountain biking trails; whether its relaxation, rejuvenation or exertion a visitor seeks in Sedona, all can be found in Sedona.

Sedona Spas and Galleries

Sedona has some of the top spas and hotels in the USA including the Enchantment Resort; however, there are many spas to choose from in Sedona for all tastes and budgets. Treatments include aromatherapy massages, reflexology, herbal wraps, Ayurvedic detox and traditional Native American treatments. Some people choose to be married in Sedona too, with many hotels offering luxurious spa wedding packages. Sedona is also home to art galleries and designer stores.

Sedona Trails for Hiking and Driving

The trails surrounding Sedona are many and are suitable for a variety of fitness levels from easy to strenuous. Hiking is permitted on all trails which are designated but mountain biking and horseback riding may only be carried out on trails which are designated for them; this ensures that Sedona's red rock country remains enjoyable for visitors in future years.

Popular hiking trails are those off Schnebly Hill Road, including the Huckaby trail, and Devils Bridge trail, located off Dry Creek Road. All parking on Forest Service land requires the purchase of a Red Rock Pass. Trails afford magnificent views of Sedona and Red Rock Country and some are of historical significance. For off-road driving, there are several jeep companies to choose from.

Ancient Indian Ruins and Vortexes of Sedona

Within the Sedona area, there are many ancient Sinagua Indian ruins including Montezuma Castle, Palatki and Honanki heritage sites, and Tuzigoot national monument. Ancient rock art dating back 6,000 years can be found at Palatki and Honanki heritage sites; Tuzigoot national monument dates back to A.D. 1000. Montezuma Castle offers an insight into the life of the Sinagua Indians who farmed nearby.

Sedona was considered to be a spiritual place by native people many centuries ago; today, many people seek out Sedona for a spiritual experience too. Several tours can be taken to experience Sedona's vortexes, said to be a hot spot of natural energy, creating releases of positive and negative energies. Some of Sedona's red rock formations such as Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock are reputed to be vortexes.

Sedona Accommodation

Sedona has exclusive top resorts such as the Hilton and the Sedona Rouge Hotel and Spa; however, other reasonable and budget accommodations can be found with Best Western and the Sky Ranch Lodge. During the summer months, there are several camp sites open along Oak Creek Canyon, situated between Sedona and Flagstaff; some camp sites are open year round. Oak Creek Canyon is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

For Further Information :

Sedona Chamber of Commerce


The copyright of the article How To Spend a Weekend in Sedona, Arizona in Arizona Travel is owned by Sharon Falsetto. Permission to republish How To Spend a Weekend in Sedona, Arizona in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


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