With each passing year, our anniversary becomes more dear. As an important one approached an opportunity arose to go West. I exchanged our timeshare, made plane reservations and reserved a convertible for the excursion. We would use a resort in Sedona, AZ to explore all we could during the week.
We landed in Phoenix, AZ then drove the 120 mile drive to Sedona, AZ where we would stay for the week. As we drove to a hiking location we stumbled on the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Next we hiked and got pictures of Bell Rock. We then found a restaurant for lunch. As we talked with the server they pointed us to a canyon up behind town for sunset pictures. After a nap, we took their advice and were treated to a most spectacular sunset which seemed to never end.
We started the next day visiting Tuzigoot National Monument. An hour and a half of exploring the well marked and informative pueblo area was fabulous. We then took the less than hour drive over to Montezuma Castle National Monument. First we visited the museum and then hiked the short trail to the pueblo. The museum was well played out and very informative about the Sinagua inhabitants, culture, and the pueblo itself. We then hiked to the pueblo and it was amazing to see the size of the structure. When we returned to the car and we drove to the well. We hiked the trail down to the waters edge with a view of the cliff dwellings above providing scale as well as remembered cultural insights. I am glad we got to see all of these sites.
In Sedona there is Lots to see so rest is imperative
Next day was a rest in Sedona and at the resort. This was in preparation for a journey north. We journeyed to the 50 miles to Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. A stop at the visitor center introduced us to the eruption about 1100 years ago. The 20 mile trek across the park showed the power of lava flows and magnitude of an eruption which can still be experienced today. Next was a pueblo at Wupatki National Monument. The pueblo came with a gorgeous view of the painted dessert on clear day. The pictures did not do it justice. An end to a wonderful morning.
Next was a 50 mile drive to Walnut Canyon National Monument. This stop included a 185 foot vertical drop to the ruins level 300 feet above the canyon floor. There are 25 dwellings and few rails. Scenic views at every turn. The return drive was an evening look at Oak Creek Canyon with a hair-pin laced road in route.
Next day we took the 60 mile one-way drive to Williams, AZ for a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park via the Grand Canyon Railway. I purchased an upgrade to the observation deck both ways. It was reminiscent of our Alaska trip many years before. Well worth the cost and made for a picturesque trip. We had also purchased a lunch and a bus tour, again well worth the cost. The Grand Canyon is a beautiful place to visit and provided many memories we will cherish.
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