Hammock Brothers: Sedona Arizona

"The majestic red rock scenery and evergreen vegetation are two reasons for the unique energy of Sedona and its tangible regenerative and inspirational effects. The red-orange color of the rock is one of the most neuro stimulating of colors. It enhances creative thinking and problem solving. Because Sedona is framed year round by green, visitors are also bathed in sense of hope and renewal, regardless of the season. The spectacular trails and overlooks provide numerous opportunities for prayer, and contemplation. "

(Jon)

I left Death Valley in the White Rhino with the intention of rendevousing with the Dragon at Williams, AZ; the gateway to the Grand Canyon. Uninhibited by the pace of the Dragon - I arrived in Williams a few hours before them enabling me to do a load of laundry and eat a hot meal. At the laundry mat I met the elderly couple cleaning the place up to close it down - and the gentleman was excited to tell me about Sedona - where he once owned a house. He pulled down a calender chocked full of photos of the beautiful red rock country, and he explained it was on the way to Phoenix where we intended to meet my family. Our plan changed to go to Sedona before the Grand Canyon.

It had just snowed 8" in Williams, and the temperature was a frigid 18 degrees. Sedona is a few thousand feet below Williams - and as elevation and temperature are directly correllated we decided to push on to Sedona that night. It was a very windy drive - climbing hills and curving our way thru the canyons.

It didn't take us long after arriving to find a place for the night; and this would be a rare full night sleep without interuption from the authorities. As you can see from our view in the morning Sedona is a magical place.

(Free camping with a view - first night Sedona, AZ)

We left that morning and found a perfect stop for lunch at the Wildflower Cafe. (Which we all recommend for their fresh baked breads, hot soups & sandwhiches, at friendly prices) The cafe is conveniently located near the Chamber of Commerce's official visitors center - and after a quick visit with the ranger we were armed with local maps and brochures of things to see in the area.

Slide Rock would be our first destination. Since it was a state park our national parks pass wouldn't help us with the $10 fee for parking. As we are on a travelers budget we decided to park 1/2 mile down the road and walk in. A race insued - Buzz and I hitchhiking and Justin and Sam walking. 90 seconds in Buzz wanted to throw in the towel and we agreed walking the short half mile while hitchhiking would be a better idea. I'd guess about 20 cars passed - not one paying us any mind... Justin and Sam walked thru the entrance without any hassle - but as Buzz and I arrived we noted the sign saying it would cost $3 for each pedestrian. It would cost us $12 instead of $10 for all of our trouble which we explained to the ranger collecting the fee. He agreed to only charge us the $10 and after standing there a few moments he caved and said we could enter for free if we promised to have a good time. The hammock brothers unbelievable stroke of luck continues.

Slide Rock is a natural water slide and is a popular summer destination - the parking lot normally full and cars park on each side of the road as far as you can see - but not today as we had it all to ourself with the occassional visitors stopping in for a while. The cold water easily explained the vacancy but the views and friendly Arizona weather wouldn't be overlooked as we set up our hammocks for a relaxing day of bliss.

Our competitive nature developed a rock throwing game in which we aimed at various targets (bridge, boulder, etc) It eventually even evolved into a rendition of skiball, each level of the cliff on the opposite bank of the river worth points in descending values... We were all winners by the end of the day...

We were advised to catch the sunset at Cathedral Rock and our enchantment with slide rock faded with the dropping temperature. The steep ascent of Cathedral Rock is more of a rock climb than a hike at times, and our heart rate increased in step with the elevation... We were paying the price of our Vegas birthday celebrations...

The sunset on top of Cathedral Rock inspired Justin and Sam to reascend after dinner to camp under the stars in Justin's two man tent. Surely a spiritual place - feel free to ask Justin or Sam about their night... As for Buzz and I we crashed in the vehicles at the trailhead and yet again were awakened by a cop. She was very nice and respectful, but after I called Justin at her request to inform him he had to come down for us to leave and she heard his hesitation (actually refusal) she informed us it was an arrestable offense. Another police car arrived and they chatted then left us saying they would return in an hours time to check to see if we left. Justin and Sam would take their chances staying in the tent as Buzz and I left for a more welcoming place to park outside of Sedona city limits.