Planning a Visit to Petroglyph National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument – Photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

Planning a Visit to Petroglyph National Monument

A stop on a recent vacation included the Petroglyph National Monument. It stretches seventeen miles along Albuquerque, New Mexico’s West Mesa. It’s on a volcanic basalt escarpment that dominates the city’s western horizon. Authorized June 27, 1990, the National Park Service and the City of Albuquerque together manage the 7,236 acre monument.

Petroglyph National Monument features a variety of ancient petroglyphs carved into volcanic rocks by the Ancestral Pueblo people and other indigenous cultures.

You will want to check the park’s website for the latest information on hours of operation, fees, and any closures or restrictions because of COVID-19.

Decide which of the park’s three main areas you would like to visit: Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, or Piedras Marcadas Canyon. Each area has its own unique petroglyphs and hiking trails. I describe each later.

Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the park to allow enough time to explore the trails and view the petroglyphs. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Some of the park’s trails are without pavement and are rocky, so if you have mobility issues, be sure to check trail condition in advance. 

Please understand that the Petroglyph National Monument is a protected area. Be sure to stay on designated trails and do not touch or disturb any of the petroglyphs.

What is a petroglyph?

Before the visit, I couldn’t define a petroglyph. Perchance, like me, you can’t either. 

A petroglyph is a type of rock art that is created by carving or engraving images or designs into a rock surface. Natural rock outcroppings, boulders, or cliffs makeup their canvass. Techniques used include a variety of techniques, such as pecking, grinding, or incising. The artform is in areas where rocks have soft surfaces. They’re carved on rocks, such as basalt, sandstone, or granite.

Petroglyph photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

Petroglyphs can depict a wide variety of subjects, including humans, animals, symbols, and abstract designs. Simple or complex describe the patterns. Size ranges from small individual figures to large panel compositions.

Petroglyph photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

Petroglyphs are often associated with prehistoric cultures. They provide an important source of information about the beliefs, customs, and daily life of ancient peoples.

Petroglyphs versus Pictographs

Petroglyphs differ from pictographs. Painting or drawing on rock surfaces creates pictographs. They used natural pigments such as ochre or charcoal as the paint.

Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, or Piedras Marcadas Canyon

Boca Negra Canyon 

Boca Negra Canyon is one of the three main areas of the Petroglyph National Monument. We know it for its large concentration of ancient petroglyphs. The canyon is home to over one-hundred petroglyph panels, which feature a wide variety of designs and images, including animals, humans, and abstract symbols.

Boca Negra Canyon trails are an easy, self-guided hike, with about a one mile round trip. The trails are well-maintained and provide visitors with an opportunity to examine the petroglyphs up close. The trail features interpretive signs that provide information about the history and meaning of the petroglyphs.

Petroglyph photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

One of the salient features of the Boca Negra Canyon petroglyphs is the “Great Kiva,” which is a circular, subterranean chamber that was used for religious and ceremonial purposes. The Ancestral Pueblo people, who were the original inhabitants of the area, might have built the Great Kiva. We believe the Ancestral Pueblo people created the petroglyphs in the canyon. Other indigenous cultures who lived in the area created additional petroglyphs.

Boca Negra Canyon is home to the Boca Negra Dam, a historic structure built in the early 20th century to provide water for the nearby community. The Dam trail offers a panoramic view of the Petroglyph National Monument and the city of Albuquerque.

Boca Negra Canyon offers visitors an opportunity to witness a wide variety of ancient petroglyphs and learn about the history and culture of the area through interpretive signs, and also a short hike with a panoramic view of the Petroglyph National Monument.

Rinconada Canyon

Rinconada Canyon is another area of the Petroglyph National Monument and home to over six-hundred and fifty petroglyphs.

Visitors can look at the petroglyphs up close on the self-guided Rinconada Canyon trails. The trails are well-maintained and range from easy to moderate in difficulty. They feature interpretive signs that provide information about the history and meaning of the petroglyphs.

Petroglyph photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

One of the unique features of the Rinconada Canyon petroglyphs is the “Star Circles,” which are a group of petroglyphs that depict a series of concentric circles with radiating lines. Many people believe these petroglyphs to be astronomical and used as a calendar or to track the seasons.

The Rinconada Canyon also offers a trail that leads to a viewpoint where visitors can examine the entire canyon and the surrounding landscape.

Rinconada Canyon has a large concentration of petroglyphs, including unique “Star Circles” and it offers visitors an opportunity to observe a wide variety of ancient petroglyphs and learn about the history and culture of the area through interpretive signs and also a moderate hike with a viewpoint.

Piedras Marcadas Canyon

Piedras Marcadas Canyon is one of the main areas of the Petroglyph National Monument. Known for its concentration of ancient petroglyphs, the canyon is home to over one-hundred and fifty petroglyphs.

The Piedras Marcadas Canyon trails are self-guided and offer visitors an opportunity to see the petroglyphs up close. The trails are well-maintained and range from easy to moderate in difficulty, and feature interpretive signs that provide information about the history and meaning of the petroglyphs.

Petroglyph photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

One of the unique features of the Piedras Marcadas Canyon petroglyphs is the “Thunderbirds,” which are a group of petroglyphs that depict a large bird-like creature with a long tail and outspread wings. These petroglyphs were associated with the sky, thunder, and lightning, and may used in religious or ceremonial contexts.

Piedras Marcadas Canyon also offers a hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint where visitors can see the entire canyon and the surrounding landscape, including the Sandia Mountains.

We know Piedras Marcadas Canyon for its unique “Thunderbirds” petroglyphs and it offers visitors an opportunity to see a wide variety of ancient petroglyphs and learn about the history and culture of the area through interpretive signs and also a moderate hike with a viewpoint.

Conclusion

Petroglyph National Monument features a variety of ancient petroglyphs carved into volcanic rocks by the Ancestral Pueblo people and other indigenous cultures. Hiking opportunities abound. I couldn’t help but think the Pueblo people may have seven encountered a few unidentified flying objects from the rock carving.

Petroglyph photo by Dr. Jim Kepler

Photo Source: All photos were taken by the author unless noted in the photo caption.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

And the Freezing Rain Falls

Freezing Rain

It’s an icy Tuesday morning in North Texas. Freezing rain descended upon us like a Biblical plague around sunrise. The thermometer seems frozen at 25-degrees F.

The sounds of the last hour are endless firetrucks, ambulances, and police cars responding to accidents and the frozen mix of sleet and rain pounding the roof and windows.

I have a cuppa green tea steeping as I type. It’s my reward for opening the north door to take the short video.

My primary prayer today is for safety and the power to stay on for those in the path of our winter storm prayer.

The dress code for today is my warm flannel pajamas, my thick terrycloth bathrobe, and warm slipper. I’ll be in the recliner with a comforter covering me from mid-chest down. I have a stack of books on the bale beside the chair for my entertainment.

Stay warm, stay safe.

Jimmie

 

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

My Monday Moments

Hey there friends!

Just wanted to check in and remind you all to be extra careful with the freezing rain around. I’m wearing a black turtleneck sweater to help chase the cold away. Stay warm!

Guess what, I rescheduled this afternoon’s dentist appointment for mid-February, so I won’t risk sliding off an icy road or slipping and falling on ice. I confess, at sixty-nine years old I fear falling and all the bad things that could happen if I take a tumble.

This morning, I had the best start of my day with my daily Bible reading. I love underlining the meaningful passages, and I’ve got a picture to prove it! It’s the above photo I posted. Yes, that’s me in the picture.

Today is all about cozy moments at home with my coffee bar. I’ve got the best kettle that lets me brew tea, coffee, hot chocolate, you name it. And I’m a total tea/coffee snob, as you can see from my coffee beans, grinders, and multi-size pour over coffee pots in the below photo. Yes, that’s my coffee bar.

Don’t feel sorry for me being stuck in the house today. Oh, no, please don’t. I’ll be spending my day writing from home and staying safe. And as fun as I find writing, I’ll also get to sit in the recliner and read for a few hours. Few things give me more pleasure than reading and enjoying a hot beverage.

Later, I’ll be joining the Writer’s Guild of Texas meeting via Zoom from 7 to 8:30 PM, so that’s something to look forward to! By the end of the meeting, I should know if Mother Nature encased North Texas in ice, as some are forecasting.

Take care and enjoy a cup of your favorite brew. Maybe even crack open your Bible and see what insights you can find.

Cheers, 
Jimmie

Photo sources: All photos are by Jim Kepler.

A Sunday Letter

Dear Friends,

My hope is my letter finds you well and enjoying your Sunday morning.

As we start this day, I wanted to encourage you to make the most of it. Foremost, take a moment to enjoy your coffee and savor the moment. Here in North Texas there is a cold front with rain moving through. Stay warm and cozy. Don’t forget to check your outdoor faucets and pipes to make sure they’re protected from the potential freezing weather that’s descending on much of the USA.

Besides taking care of your physical comfort, consider your spiritual health as well. Attending church in person or streaming it can be a great way to connect with your faith and community. Spending time with your family is also a wonderful way to connect and strengthen relationships. God made humankind to fellowship with Him and others. He even said in

Genesis 2:18, “And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; …”

Don’t neglect your companionship with friends, your relationship with family, and don’t leave God out of your life. Maybe respond to that email a friend sent you that you’ve not made time to answer or call that cherished friend.

As you enjoy your Sunday, why not take the time to read a book or some poetry? This can be a great way to slow down and reflect on life. Life doesn’t have to center on the sporting events on television. Great instrumental music can play in the background as you read and meditate. And don’t forget to get some exercise, even if it’s just a short walk around the block.

I encourage you to make the most of this Sunday. God blessed you with getting to live today.

Whether it’s taking care of your physical, spiritual, or emotional well-being, or taking the time to enjoy the simple things in life, make the most of this time and cherish it.

Remember, the words of the Psalmist from

Psalm 118:24 in the Holy Bible, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Wishing you a wonderful Sunday and a blessed week ahead!

Best regards,
Jimmie A. Kepler

 

What Do You Want to Accomplish?

Jim Kepler Reflecting on Life

Hello Everyone

Hello Everybody. Can you believe it’s already Friday? As I grow older, the week seems to zoom by as fast a as school holiday evaporated when I young. Even though I am officially retired, I try to make the best use of each day I have.

Two-minute warning

Reflecting on something I heard Coach Joe Gibbs (member of the NFL Hall of Fame and the NASCAR Hall of Fame) say. His words, “If we view life as a football game, at my age I’m in the fourth quarter. Not only is it the fourth quarter, but the two-minute warning has been given. I’m now running the hurry-up offense to accomplish as much as I can.” 

Jim Kepler and Coach Joe Gibbs taken at Interstate Batteries Corporate Headquarters. Coach Gibbs was doing a book signing. You can learn more about or purchase his book at the below link.

 

Life Span

I turn 70-years old later this year. As a child in Sunday school and church I learned Psalm 90:10. The verse tells what are expected life-span is. The verse says, “The days of our years are threescore years and ten (70 years); and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years (80-years), yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” 

Each day is precious

Each day is precious. My mother made four score and one and my father made four score and ten. I have an urgency to avail myself to use each day fully and to continue to share my Christian faith. I don’t fear death. I know that heaven is my destination because I am a Believer in Jesus Christ. I just want all of you to spend eternity with me in heaven. So, you’ll hear me share stuff about Jesus from time to time.

How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

 

Gift Idea Books for Valentines Day

Does your girlfriend or wife like to read?

If so, consider giving them a book – along with flowers and taking them out to dinner – for Valentine’s Day this year.

Here are some books published since 2020 you may buy for your girlfriend, wife, or self for Valentine’s Day.

The Push

The Push by Ashley Audrain: A novel that tells the story of a new mother struggling to bond with her baby and the dark secrets of love and obsession that threaten to tear her family apart.

There are over 36,000 ratings on Amazon with an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.  You can click on the below link to learn more about the book. There’s no obligation to buy. It only provides more detailed information and reviews.

The Vanishing Half

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett: this novel tells the story of twin sisters who grow up in a small, southern black community, and the choices which lead them to different lives and experiences. It’s a story that explores the concept of identity, race, and family.

Amazingly, this novel has over 98,000 ratings on Amazon with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. You can click on the below link to learn more about the book. There’s no obligation to buy. It only provides more detailed information and reviews.

The Four Winds

The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah: a historical fiction novel that tells the story of a woman who must make a tough choice to save her family by leaving her Texas home during the Great Depression and start a new life in California. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and the unlikely friendships she forms along the way.

The Four Winds has over 129,000 ratings on Amazon with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. You can click on the below link to learn more about the book. There’s no obligation to buy. It only provides more detailed information and reviews.

The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race

The Code Breaker by Walter Isaacson: It’s the story of Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner Jennifer Douda. The book  explores the revolutionary technology of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and its implications for the future of humanity. It focuses on the work of biochemist Jennifer Doudna, who co-invented the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tool and has been at the forefront of research on its potential uses. It delves into the ethical, social, and scientific questions that arise from this powerful new technology and its potential to change the course of human evolution.

You can click on the below link to learn more about the book. There’s no obligation to buy. It only provides more detailed information and reviews.

The Sanatorium

The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse: Set in a remote Swiss sanatorium, this psychological thriller published in 2020 a detective as she investigates a murder that occurred in the snowy peaks which bury secrets and lies.

This is book one on the Detective Elin Warner Series. You can click on the below link to learn more about the book. There’s no obligation to buy. It only provides more detailed information and reviews.

The Code for Love and Heartbreak

The Code for Love and Heartbreak by Jillian Cantor: A contemporary fiction novel, published in 2020, the book tells a story of love, loss, and the unexpected connections which can change everything.  Emma is a math genius. She and her coding club co-president, George are tasked with brainstorming a new project. The project’s results?  The Code for Love is born. It’s a contemporary romcom retelling of Jane Austen’s Emma.

You can click on the below link to learn more about the book. There’s no obligation to buy. It only provides more detailed information and reviews.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Ideas for Organizing Your Suitcase and Luggage

One Great Way to Organize Your Suitcase or Luggage

Last time, I shared how I needed help with getting luggage when I started traveling. You can read how to about it here – How To Select a Suitcase or Luggage. Click on the link to read the article.

Once you have the correct suitcase and luggage, pack it. Here are some ideas for organizing your suitcase and luggage.

Ideas for Organizing Your Suitcase and Luggage

Make a Packing List:

  • Before you pack, make a list of everything you need to bring with you on your trip.
  • A packing list will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t forget any important items.
  • Commercial packing lists are available to help you select your clothing

Roll Your Clothes:

  • Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help save space in your suitcase and prevent wrinkles.
  • I learned this trick when in the US Army.

Use Packing Cubes:

  • Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags you can use to organize your clothes and other items within your suitcase.
  • They can help you keep track of what’s in your suitcase and make it easier to find things when you’re on the go.

Pack Heavier Items at the Bottom:

  • To balance the weight in your suitcase and make it easier to lift, pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top.
  • Items packed on the bottom creates a lower center of gravity and prevents the bag from tipping over.

Use the Space Inside Your Shoes:

  • To save space in your suitcase, consider packing smaller items inside your shoes.
  • It’s a good place to store a belt or braces (suspenders).

Use Packing Wraps or Compression Bags:

  • Packing wraps or compression bags can help you compress your clothes and other items.
  • They allow you to fit more into your suitcase.

Leave Some Room for Souvenirs:

  • Don’t pack your suitcase too full.
  • You’ll want to leave some room for souvenirs or items you pick up on your trip.

Consider Your Travel Destination:

  • Think about the climate and activities you’ll be taking part in at your destination, and pack accordingly.
  • This will help you avoid over packing or forgetting important items.

Happy travels!

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

What Does the Bible Say About Hope?

 

What Does the Bible Say About Hope?

We can experience hope because of God and in God. God gives hope to the hopeless.

He shines His light in the darkness. He heals the broken hearted and the broken world. Hope exists because of His redemption.

The Book of Psalms are full of hope. The Psalms point to a celebration of hope we have in the Lord God.

Psalms strengthen our faith. They can lighten our heart and heartache. They can also give us hope for the future and a clear vision of the hope we have in the Lord.

Here are ten Psalms that share the hope we have in the Lord.

Psalm 27:13-14 KJV – The Lord’s Goodness

 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.  Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:13-14 KJV

Psalm 37:1-6 KJV – Trust in the Lord

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.

Psalm 33:18-19 KJV – The Eye of the Lord

 Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.

Psalm 13:5-6 KJV – Trusted in Thy Mercy

But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.

Psalm 51:10-12 KJV – Create, Renew, and Restore

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

Psalm 34:17-20 KJV – The Lord Hears, Delivers, Saves, & Keeps

The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken

Psalm 121:1-2 KJV – From Where Do I Get Help?

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

Psalm 121:7-8 KJV – Who Will Protect Us From Evil?

The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Psalm 62:5-6 KJV – Who is My Rock?

My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.

Psalm 42:5 KJV – Praise God For His Help

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

Man or woman’s ultimate hope comes from knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord? If you died tonight, would you go to heaven?

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus – Jimmie’s Story.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

 

 

 

How To Select a Suitcase or Luggage

Packing a Suitcase is An Art

Who knew packing a suitcase was an art? Not me. 

Too often a man doesn’t realize or appreciate all his wife or significant other does for him. It took my wife dying for me to come to this realization. She always packed the bags for our vacations and for my business trips. She never complained that we were still using the same luggage we’d received as a wedding present all those years ago.

Old, outdated suitcases, a laundry basket, tote bags, and even grocery sacks jammed full of my belongings filled my car as I drove halfway across the United States to attend a writer’s conference.

Hassle and major pain describes unloading the car each evening as I checked into my hotel. The only benefit from my packing was all the steps I walked as I made four or five trips from my car to the room each night. At the conference center, I repeated the scene as I carried my baggage to the room.

To my horror, once in the room I couldn’t find simple things like pain medication or even my socks without rifling through a suitcase, bag, tote, and even plastic sack. I promised myself I would never repeat this nightmare.

I asked the counsel of a couple of experienced traveller friends. With their help, I learned how to get the right bags and how to organize them for a trip. The cross-country trip a few years ago was the first of many. I’ve traveled to a resort out of the country, taken a couple of cruises, and made a few trips across the USA. I’ve learned the right suitcases and bags are important.

How To Select a Suitcase or Luggage

Size and Weight: 

  • One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a suitcase for traveling is the size and weight of the suitcase.
  • Airline weight restrictions vary, but most airlines have a weight limit of 50 pounds for checked baggage, so it’s important to choose a suitcase that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
  • I have one bag to carry-on, one for my computer, and then I check a larger bag.
  • If you have more bags, you’ll get charged extra baggage fees.
  • You should opt for a carryon luggage as large as 22 (length) x 14 (width) x 9 (height) inches.
  • A checked bag no larger than 62” (the total linear dimensions of length + width + height), including wheels and handle, which is standard for most US airlines.

Durability: 

  • I lost a wheel on a large suitcase on my first trip. It made moving the item almost impossible.
  • I learned that cheaper isn’t better.
  • It’s important to choose a durable suitcase that can withstand the rigors of travel.
  • Search for suitcases made from strong materials like polycarbonate or ballistic nylon, which are less likely to get damaged during transit.

Organization: 

  • Packing a suitcase can be a hassle, so it’s important to choose one with organizational features like compartments and pockets to help keep everything in its place.
  • I’ll write a follow-up article on how to pack your suitcase.

Wheel and Handle: 

  • Remember my lost wheel? It made moving the large bag a hassle.
  • I failed to consider the mobility of my suitcase.
  • Considering mobility is important.
  • Look for four-wheeled suitcases as they are more stable, easier to move and you can pull it beside you instead of carrying it.
  • Also, telescoping handles for easy carrying.

Security: 

  • Make sure that the suitcase has a secure lock, so that your belongings will stay safe while in transit.
  • Make sure you know your lock combinations as security check points may want to inspect the bag’s contents.

Water Resistance: 

  • A visit to a place with a high chance of rain or humidity requires special consideration.
  • You’ll want to choose a suitcase that is made from water-resistant materials to help keep your belongings dry.
  • This helped on a cruise – tour I took to Alaska.
  • My luggage sat in the pouring rain at Whittier, Alaska, for a half-hour when being transferred from the ship to the train.

Brand Reputation: 

  • It’s a good idea to choose a suitcase from a reputable brand that has a track record of producing high-quality and durable products.
  • Ask your friends who travel what they recommend.

Overall, these are the most important aspects that you need to keep in mind when choosing a suitcase for your travel. It will depend on your specific travel needs and budget to decide which one is the best for you.

Once you have your bags and suitcase. You’ll need to pack them Next, I’ll share one great way to pack and organize your suitcase and bags.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Ideas For Visiting Sedona, Arizona

Driving into Sedona Arizona

Ideas For Visiting Sedona, Arizona

We know Sedona, Arizona, for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, spiritual energy, and UAPs. There are many ways to experience these aspects of the area, whether through outdoor adventures, cultural events, spiritual practices, and even UAP/UFO tours. Here are a few ideas for a trip to Sedona:

Cathedral Rock - Sedona AZ-1 Terrydarc, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Red Rock Canyons

Take a scenic drive through the red rock canyons and visit some of the famous landmarks, such as Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. Both are in the Sedona area within the Coconino National Forest.

  • Cathedral Rock is a massive rock formation known for its steep cliffs and distinctive shape. The rock gets its name from the way it towers over the surrounding landscape, resembling a cathedral. 
  • Bell Rock is another popular rock formation. Known for its distinctive bell-shaped cliffs, the rock gets its name from its shape, and is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and tourists. 

Both are popular destination for hikers, who can access the rock via several trails that wind their way through the surrounding area.

Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) or Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) Tours

That’s right, UAPs.

You might be thinking, just what is an UAP? It’s what we used to call a UFO. That’s right, a UFO as in an unidentified flying object or flying saucer.

Thanks to a rebranding campaign, an UFO is now an UAP, unidentified aerial phenomenon. US officials recently renamed the old-fashioned unidentified flying object as a UAP. The current definition is a UAP is any perceived aerial phenomenon that cannot be identified or explained.

There are several companies in Sedona, Arizona that offer tours focused on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) or unidentified flying objects (UFOs). Some of these tours may include visits to sites that are believed to be hotspots for UFO activity or may involve guided discussions about UFO sightings and encounters. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Sedona UFO Tour: This company offers a variety of UFO-themed tours, including a “UFO Hot Spot” tour that takes visitors to locations around Sedona that are rumored to be UFO hotspots, and a “UFO Sighting and Encounter” tour that features stories and discussions about UFO sightings and encounters.
  • Sedona Spirit Tours: This company offers a “UFO and Vortex Tour” that includes visits to vortex sites and discussions about UFO sightings and encounters in the Sedona area.
  • Sedona Stargazing: This company offers a “UFO and Vortex Adventure” tour that includes visits to vortex sites and discussions about UFO sightings and encounters, as well as stargazing opportunities.

To find more tour options and to book a tour, search online or visit the websites of local tourism organizations, such as the Sedona Chamber of Commerce or the Sedona Tourism Bureau.

You may also find information about UFO-themed tours by contacting local tour companies or by asking for recommendations from people you know who have visited Sedona.

Airport Mesa or the Fay Canyon Trail

If you need more stunning red rock formations and breathtaking views, consider the Airport Mesa and Fay Canyon Trail

  • The Airport Mesa is a mesa on the east side of Sedona. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding red rocks and the Verde Valley. Viewing the Verde Valley flooded me with childhood memories. I lived in Arizona for six years growing up. The Verde Valley was a frequent vacation and weekend get away destination for my family.
  • Spectacular Sunset viewing: The mesa is accessible via a short hike from the Airport Mesa Trailhead. It is a popular spot offering awesome sunset viewing.
  • Fay Canyon is a moderate to strenuous hike in the Coconino National Forest, just outside of Sedona. The trail takes you through a beautiful canyon filled with towering red rock cliffs and narrow corridors. Along the way, you’ll encounter a small waterfall and a variety of plant life, including juniper trees and wildflowers. The trail ends at a viewpoint overlooking a picturesque meadow, providing a rewarding end to the hike.

Both the Airport Mesa and Fay Canyon Trail are excellent choices for nature lovers and hikers looking to experience the beauty of Sedona’s red rock landscape.

Sedona Heritage Museum

If you’re interested in history, visit the Sedona Heritage Museum. You will learn the history of Sedona and the Verde Valley. Part of the educational experience and programs includes the museum’s collection of artifacts and historical objects. 

  • Sedona Heritage Museum features exhibits that highlight the history and culture of the Sedona and Verde Valley region, including its indigenous peoples, early settlers, and its development as a tourism destination.
  • The museum has artifacts and historical objects collections that tell the story of the region’s history, including Native American pottery, pioneer tools and household items, and items related to the tourism industry.
  • The Sedona Heritage Museum is housed in the former Sedona Grammar School, which was built in 1922 and is a historic building in its own right. The museum offers tours of the building and its exhibits, as well as the opportunity to explore the surrounding grounds.
  •  The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors, including lectures, workshops, and special exhibits. These provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about the history and culture of the region in an engaging and interactive way.

The Sedona Heritage Museum plays an important role in preserving the history and culture of the Sedona and Verde Valley region, and serves as a valuable resource for the local community and visitors alike. It is a key part of the community’s efforts to preserve and promote its rich history and culture.

Hot Air Balloon or Helicopter Ride

Take a hot-air balloon ride or a helicopter tour for a unique and beautiful view of the red rock landscape. There are benefits of seeing the area from the air instead of your car.

  • Unique perspective: Both hot-air balloon rides and helicopter tours offer a unique perspective of the landscape that you can’t get from a car. From high in the air, you’ll be able to see the red rock formations of Sedona in a way that is not possible from the ground.
  • Scenic views: Both hot-air balloon rides and helicopter tours offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll be able to see the red rock formations of Sedona from a new angle and take in the area’s beauty in a way that is not possible from a car.
  • Relaxation: Hot-air balloon rides and helicopter tours are a more relaxed way to see the sights. There’s no need to worry about traffic or navigating unfamiliar roads, so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
  • Excitement: Both hot-air balloon rides and helicopter tours offer an element of excitement that you won’t find on a car tour. Soaring through the air is exhilarating and is sure to be a memorable experience.

Overall, hot-air balloon rides and helicopter tours offer a unique and exciting way to see the sights in Sedona, and offer a level of relaxation and scenic views that you won’t find on a car tour.

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village is a shopping center in Sedona, Arizona that is known for its collection of art galleries, studios, and boutique shops.

  • The center resembles a traditional Mexican village, with cobblestone streets, fountains, and colored buildings.
  • It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to browse the wide variety of handcrafted items on offer, including jewelry, ceramics, glassware, and textiles.
  • The village also features several restaurants and cafes, as well as live music and other entertainment.

Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village and browse the galleries, studios, and shop for a unique experience.

Spa Treatment

Sedona, Arizona, is a popular destination for spa treatments and wellness retreats. There are many options for spa treatments in Sedona, including:

  • Massages: Many spas in Sedona offer a variety of massage techniques, such as Swedish massage, hot stone massage, and deep tissue massage.
  • Facials: Facial treatments can include exfoliating, moisturizing, and other techniques to help rejuvenate and refresh the skin.
  • Body wraps and scrubs: These treatments involve exfoliating the skin with a scrub or wrapping the body in a cocoon of mud, clay, or other ingredients to nourish and moisturize the skin.
  • Manicures and pedicures: These treatments involve grooming and polishing the nails and cuticles, as well as massaging the hands and feet.
  • Salon services: Many spas in Sedona also offer hair styling, coloring, and other salon services.

It’s a good idea to research and compare different spas in Sedona to find the one that best meets your needs and preferences. You may also want to consider booking a package or wellness retreat that includes multiple spa treatments and activities.

Local Wineries or Brewery

You might go wine tasting at one of the local wineries or visit a brewery to sample some of the local craft beer. Sedona is home to several wineries and breweries that offer visitors the opportunity to sample some of the local craft beer and wine.

  • Wineries: Visiting local wineries can be a great way to learn about the local wine-making industry and taste some of the unique flavors that are produced in the region. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, which can be a fun and educational experience for visitors.
  • Breweries: Breweries are also a popular attraction in Sedona, and offer visitors the opportunity to try a variety of craft beers that are made with local ingredients. Many breweries also offer tours and tastings, which can be a great way to learn about the brewing process and taste some of the local beer.

Overall, visiting local wineries and breweries can be an enjoyable way to experience the local culture and taste some of the unique flavors produced in the region.

Sedona Performing Arts Center

The Sedona Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art performing arts facility that hosts a variety of live performances and events, including concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and more.

Some things to see and do at the Sedona Performing Arts Center might include:

  • Live Performance or event: The performing arts center hosts a range of performances and events, including concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and more. You can check the center’s website or social media pages to see what’s coming up and purchase tickets to attend.
  • Taking a tour: The Sedona Performing Arts Center offers guided tours of the facility, which gives you the opportunity to learn more about the history and features of the venue.
  • Taking part in a workshop or class: The center may offer workshops or classes in various performing arts disciplines, such as acting, dance, or music.

You can check the center’s website or contact them to see if there are any opportunities to take part in these activities.

Sedona Art Center

The Sedona Art Center is a non-profit organization in Sedona, Arizona that offers a variety of art-related programs and events for the community. Some activities that you may participate in at the Sedona Art Center include:

  • Art classes and workshops: The Sedona Art Center offers a variety of art classes and workshops for people of all skill levels, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and more. These classes are taught by local artists and help you develop your skills and explore new techniques.
  • Exhibitions: The Sedona Art Center hosts exhibitions of work by local artists throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase a wide range of media and styles, and provide an opportunity to see the work of talented artists in the community.
  • Artist talks and lectures: The Sedona Art Center often hosts artist talks and lectures, which provide an opportunity to learn more about the work and techniques of local artists. These events may include demonstrations, discussions, and Q&A sessions.
  • Special events: The Sedona Art Center may also host special events throughout the year, such as open studios, art fairs, and holiday markets. These events provide an opportunity to meet local artists, see their work, and purchase art.

The Sedona Art Center is a great place to learn about and appreciate art, and to take part in a variety of art-related activities.

Photo Source: All photos were taken by the author unless noted in the photo caption.
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