Why Visit Sedona?
Located less than an hour away from Flagstaff, the popular tourist town of Sedona welcomes visitors from all over the globe. The view as the sun hits the red stained mountains that have been carved by erosion over millions of years never gets old. This bustling little town is not only vibrant in color but rich in history and things to do!
Sedona’s History
The first documented presence of humans in Sedona dates back to 9000 B.C. The prehistoric Archaic people were successful hunter gatherers in the Verde Valley due to the ecological diversity in the area. Around 650 A.D the Sinagua people occupied this bountiful environment. Known for their pottery, basketry, and masonry, their culture can be investigated due to the pueblos and dwellings that were left behind. Many more tribes came and conquered the land for hundreds of years until the late 1800s when natives were forced out to make room for settlers.
The first settler was John J. Thompson who moved to Oak Creek Canyon in 1876. By 1902 there were 55 residents in the area; mostly apple and peach farmers or ranchers came to the Sedona. The name comes from Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly. She was the wife of Theodore Carlton Schnebly, the first postmaster of the city. Theodore tried to name the area Oak Creek Crossing and Schnebly Station but those were denied by the Postmaster General. The Schnebly’s owned over 80 acres of land and built a large home that served as the first hotel and general store in the town.
What is a Vortex?
Those that encounter the beauty of Sedona often feel an immense amount of peace and tranquility. They are not crazy, there are pockets of energy scattered in Sedona called Vortexes. Vortexes are thought to be swirling centers of energy that people can feel…if they are open minded enough. Feeling recharged and uplifted are common side effects of being near a vortex. The four best sites are Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. Look out for cairns along the trail and twisted trees. These are usually signs that a vortex is nearby!
Due to these energy fields, dozens of new age healers congregate to Sedona to practice their crafts. Getting an aura photo or relaxing in a salt room are all possible experiences when in town.
Sedona’s natural beauty has inspired hundreds of artists and many flock to the town to sell their work and create new pieces. Over 80 galleries can be explored at Tlaquepaque Village, Uptown and West Sedona, or on Gallery Row on State Route 179.
It is no wonder why visitors fall in love with the formation of the landscape along with the positive vibrations that can be felt throughout the town. With iron rich rocks, healing energy fields, and unique architecture, Sedona is a staple when exploring Arizona.
Only in Sedona…
Whether one is hiking, walking, or driving around town, it can be overwhelming to decide what sights to see. There are a few places that shouldn’t be missed when in Sedona.
-Oak Creek is a pristine oasis that many can enjoy. Slide Rock State Park and West Fork Trail are popular destinations along the creek that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the landscape.
Built in 1956, Chapel of the Holy Cross rises 70 feet out of a redrock cliff. This iconic structure is a must see whether one seeks a spiritual experience or not.
The best way to view Sedona? From the air! Grand Canyon Adventures wants you to see this remarkable landscape in an unforgettable way. The thrill of the ride is complemented by tremendous beauty that surrounds you as you sail across this painted desert.
Enjoy the epic landscape and booming tourism industry within Sedona. Our knowledgeable guides that will pick you up in Flagstaff, AZ and will immerse you in Sedona’s recreational activities, shopping centers, and art galleries.