If you’re thinking about hiking the red rock trails of Sedona, Arizona, in the Coconino National Forest, I highly recommend it. In May 2016, my husband Dave, our friends Linda and Todd, and I explored the countryside for a few days to celebrate Todd’s 50th birthday.
Here’s the view of our house. Check out Sedona Cliff House on VRBO: https://www.vrbo.com/230013. It’s way cheaper than a hotel, modern, spacious, immaculate, and so truly stunning, with a outdoor soaker tub on the deck adjacent to the red rock face. Honestly, you don’t want the day to end because Mother Nature has dipped her paintbrush in vibrant ochre. P.S.: rent a convertible, like every other tourist, and blast country tunes with the wind in your hair — it’s worth it.
You can get all your trail info at www.greatsedonahikes.com. Make sure you take some protein bars and a lot of water as it is very arid and hot; you can dehyrdate easily. I packed 4 litres in my Cambelbak and drank all of it, each hike.
Here’s what we loved:
Broken Arrow Trail Hike, 7.2 km, moderate level
The views of the red mountains, especially at Chicken Point, are spectacular. There are more hikers, and even a jeep or two, out there because it is such a draw.
Jordan Trail, Devil’s Kitchen, & Soldier’s Pass Trail, 6.4 km, moderate level
This hike is close to town and affords you some great vistas. Make sure you have sturdy hiking boots as there is a lot of loose rock and ankle-twisting terrain at the beginning.
Boynton Canyon, 9.6 km, moderate level
Most of this hike is in the much welcomed, cooler forest; the trail culminates in a spectacular canyon and vortex site. You can hit Enchantment Resort on the way back for lunch. Don’t miss their delicious guacamole, prepared at your table.
Okay, when in Rome… We spent a few hours in what I’d consider the Niagara Falls of the West: the town of Sedona.
TREDSUP 