The sculptured red rocks take many, varied and magnificent shapes — the result of 350 million years of tireless erosion. Sedona has been inundated many times by shallow inland seas that have encroached and receded countless times, depositing the layers of sand that now make up the canyons, buttes and spires of Sedona's world-famous Red Rocks.

The Mogollon Rim that towers nearly 3000 feet above Sedona's 4500-foot elevation contributes to the area's dramatic scenery and is home to the world's largest ponderous pine forest in the world.

To ancient Indian tribes, the red rock valley of Sedona was sacred land only to be used for special rites and ceremonies. Today, more than 10,000 people live amongst its concentrated energy centers, or vortexes.

Individual vortexes carry particular energies. Cathedral Rock, for example, whose image is found on countless postcards and travel brochures, holds one of the softest energies in the area. Its feminine, Divine Goddess, Isis and Ascension energy is gentle, but incredibly potent.

Other well-known vortex points worth visiting are Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, whose Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture is world-renowned

Lesser known spots that are equally transformational are Fay Canyon, the area around Thunder Mountain (also known as Capitol Butte) and Chimney Rock, Soldier's Pass and Long Canyon. You'll find hiking, trail and Red Rock recreation information through the Coconino National Forest's Red Rock Ranger District.

Trail maps are available locally wherever Red Rock Passes are sold (required for parking at any trail head or National Forest road side), including at Safeway Food & Drugs and the tourist office on Forest Road. For live webcam views of Sedona, click here.

The Chamber of Commerce is also a good source for accommodation information, be it bed & breakfasts inns or hotels, motels and resorts.

There is little that is not perfect about Sedona's weather. Spring and autumn offer the most moderate temperatures, comfortably warm during the day, sleeping-comfort cool at night. Fall has the added bonus of the golden yellow aspens as their leaves change color along Oak Creek. Winter offers postcard vistas of pristine white snow against crimson rocks. And summer's dry heat offers a respite from the humidity of other regions.

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WWW http://markdavidgerson.com

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