In the past when I thought about the state of Arizona, the words hot dry and desert automatically popped into my head. Well, now that I have visited the western state, I would like to add beauty and incredible ancient history to that descriptive word list! It was quite hot and very dry but the painted desert views, prickly cacti, large red rock formations and all the national monuments took my breath away!
Sedona
Chapel of the Holy Cross– The Roman Catholic chapel is built into the buttes in the red rock of Sedona. The chapel was completed in 1956 and is still used today as a venue for weddings and special services. The form of the cross sinks into the landscape with windows around it forming the chapel inside. The form and decoration are very minimalist with a lighting quality and color that matches the bleak yet beautiful land. The building juts up 250 feet from the rock.
On the inside of the chapel, a statue of Jesus Christ is hung on the cross with the windows behind him. It was a memorable and beautiful sight to see Jesus our Lord and Savior on the cross with the red stunning rocks of Sedona in the background!
Cathedral Rock– We took a short walk around the lower trail of Cathedral Rock but was not able to climb up for we did not have the proper attire. The trail is more of a rock climb than just a leisurely stroll, so be sure to wear the appropriate clothes for hiking and carry lots of water! The hike is a about mile long and open to kids. With all the large rocks around the trail, it’s more on the moderate side of hiking.
Bell Rock – We arrived at Bell Rock right in the middle of the day. The sun was shining on top the structure so it’s difficult to observe all the distinctive layers. Mom and I walked the well marked base trail on the pathway. We were able to snap some lovely pictures and see impressive views.
Bell Rock is said to be one of the larger vortex sites in Sedona. Vortexes are said to be sites with intense concentrations of energy spiraling upward from the Earth. Many people believe that vortex sites possess physical, emotional, and spiritual healing properties. The only thing I felt when we were there was really hot and thirsty! haha It is definitely worth a trip to visit!
While we were in Sedona, we stopped at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for lunch. I had grilled shrimp, and Mom ordered the chicken salad at Oak Creek Brewery & Grill. For dessert we decided to cool off with ice cream at Sedona Cake Couture!
After lunch and ice cream, we headed to Tuzigoot National Monument and Montezuma Castle. You can read about our trip at both of these monuments here and here.
We spent the night at Sedona Cedars Resort. It was located right in town a few miles from anything we needed. It also had a wonderful view off the back deck and a walking trail down to the Oak Creek.
The next day we drove to Walnut Canyon National Monument and hiked the Island Trail! Click here to read all about our adventures and the many many steps we climbed.
For lunch Mom and I dined at Goldies Dinner on Route 66. It was a fun place to eat with a vintage vibe! Plus now I can say I have been down the legendary Route 66.
Grand Canyon National Park
After a walk around Walnut Canyon, we headed to the Grand Canyon! I was so excited to finally visit a National Park that had been on my national park list for years!
When we arrived at the Grand Canyon we checked into our room at Maswik Lodge, the Pinyon Pine building. Once our belongings were tucked into our room it was time to explore!
We walked part of the Bright Angel Trail and took loads of pictures! And a few videos..
Mule riding the Rim Trail was such an adventure! We started from Yaki Mule Barn and made a four mile trek around the rim. I rode a sweet mule named Maddie, and Mom rode Judd.
Olivia, the mule wrangler led us along the Rim Trail on the tour. She provided some history of the Grand Canyon and escorted us to several prime spots for viewing!
The view from Mather’s Point was truly amazing!
Within the park we traveled by bus to Hermit’s Rest and to site see along the way. The first stop was the outlook at Mohave Point for a precise view of the trail down into the canyon. Mohave Point is located on the South Rim Trail and has a fine view of the cliffs and a glimpse of the Colorado River in the valley of the canyon.
Hermit’s Rest was beautiful and the perfect place for a chocolate cake square snack! It’s the end of the bus route and resting point for those hiking the Rim Trail.
As a whole the park was not crowded and there was plenty room for everyone to social distance when needed. Several of the visitors and stores were not open because of COVID-19 restrictions. Thankfully we were still able to get our cancellation stamps and a few souvenirs.
I could have taken a hundred pictures of the Grand Canyon, and none of them would do justice to the true vastness and beauty of this magnificent national park!
Michelle's House of Miniatures 
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