|
|
What brings many
tourists to Sedona,
Arizona as well as the reason why Native
Americans have settled here are the majestic Red
Rocks that surrounds this area. To the
Native Americans the Red Rock is sacred and continues
to draw people like a magnet from all over the world
year round. Thanks to John Muir and President Roosevelt
much of the land remains undeveloped so countless generations
can enjoy the natural beauty of the Red Rocks. |
 |
| Maps
to the massive Red Rock Landmarks are available almost
everywhere and along roads to them are numerous pathways
and trailheads. The paths are made from the sediment of
the Red Rock and is equateable to hard-packed clay making
it a smooth surface for a wheelchair user to roll over
(above left photo); however, when it rains they do become
muddy. For the most wheelchair friendly paths, it is recommended
one look for restrooms with the universal accessible symbol
displayed (below left photo) because these seem be the
flattest and widest. Since there are so many parks it
might take a little while to find an accessible one but
it will not matter because the drive in itself is as scenic
as it gets; in fact there is a Driving
tour CD that takes your around to the various Red
Rocks. |
|
As
part of the Coconino
National Forest is a park called the Crescent
Moon Ranch at Red Rock Crossing For the wheelchair
traveler, this is a must see because the cemented walkway
that weavers all over the park is an ideal and easy
way to enjoy the outdoors of Sedona and witness amazing
views of the Red Rock named Cathedral Rock.
Meandering through most of the park is Oak Creek; sometimes
it is more like a stream (below right photo) and other
times it is like a small river (above left photo). There
is also a large picnic area with shaded and non-shaded
picnic tables and a wheelchair accessible restroom that
one should bring hand sanitizer if planning on using.
|
Off
one of the dirt paths is the Red
Rock Crossing/Cathedral Rock Vortex (one
of 4 main Vortices in Sedona). The Native American symbol
of such fields of energy is represented by small stones
placed on top of one another (above middle photo). Along
the red path that takes one to this scared area is the
tranquil Oak Creek, which one follows up stream. When
near a Vortex, the branches of trees begin to twist
and pull the tree closer to the ground, so as one gets
closer more will be present (above right photo and below
middle photo). This path is wheelchair accessible for
the most part, except 3 spots that are difficult, so
assistance is likely needed; see
the complete path here. |
|
No
matter one's religious beliefs, the Chapel of
the Holy Cross is an inspirational landmark
built right into the Red Rock and has breathtaking views
of the surrounding area. Handicapped parking is available
but the ramp up to the church itself is steep (above
middle photo) so be prepared to receive a push or to
make a couple of stops. The church is wheelchair accessible
but the gift shop is not. |
Airport
Mesa is a very popular lookout spot right on
Airport Road off Highway 89A. This area is particularly
beautiful at sunset. Here also is another Vortex. |
|
|
