"Sedona: General and Spiritual" a Sedona Travel Page by goingsolo

Sedona, home of the red rocks and haven to new age followers seeking enlightenment, is a sedate and scenic community only 2 hours North of Phoenix and about 2.5 hours south of the Grand Canyon. With an elevation of 4500 ft, Sedona has a relatively mild climate, although it can get cool in the winter, especially at night. Sedonas landscape is marked by red rock formations such as Cathedral, Bell and the recently renamed Snoopy Rock. These areas are rumored to possess mystical powers and to contain energy centers known as the vortexes. Boynton Canyon, just outside Sedona, is surrounded by Coconino National Forest and was supposedly the area which provided Walt Disney with the inspiration for the "Thunder Mountain Railroad" attraction. Oak Creek, which flows through its namesake canyon and portions of Red Rock State Park, is said to heal and cleanse the spirit.

Sedona has an abundance of activities, such that a first time visitor can easily spend a week in this area. Nearby Boynton Canyon and Red Rock State Park have numerous hiking trails. Pink Jeep tours (www.pinkjeep.com) offers four wheel drive excursions into the red rock areas as well. Sedona has world class golfing. As for culture, Sedona also has many art galleries and shops, particularly of the New Age variety, featuring elaborate crystals, candles and other items.

Although short on nightlife, Sedona is not lacking in fine cuisine. The Yavapai restaurant in Enchantment Resort is nothing short of spectacular, and the 5 star jacket only restaurant at L'Auberge is said to be worth the steep price.