Sedona
Red Rocks and Mystics
Sedona red rocks. Photo by Darnell Renee
Sedona
Population: Approximately 10,000 (2020 Census)
Founding and Naming
Sedona’s history spans 350 million years, shaped by geological processes that formed its iconic red sandstone formations. Originally inhabited by the Sinagua people (650 CE to 1400 CE), the name “Sedona” was suggested by Ellsworth Schnebly in 1902 and approved by the U.S. Postal Service, naming the town after his wife, Sedona Schnebly.
Indigenous Presence and Cultural Legacy
The Sinagua left behind significant archaeological sites, including the Palatki and Honanki cliff dwellings with rock art and structures built into the red rock cliffs. Other indigenous groups, such as the Hopi, Yavapai, and Apache, also have historical ties to the region.
Infrastructure Development
In the 1950s and 1960s, Sedona saw significant infrastructure improvements, including electricity and paved roads, making the town more accessible and setting the stage for growth.
Emergence as a Spiritual Destination
In the 1970s, Sedona became a recognized spiritual center due to its energy vortexes—locations believed to enhance meditation and healing. This attracted spiritual seekers and New Age practitioners, marking Sedona’s transformation into a New Age mecca.
The Harmonic Convergence
In 1987, Sedona hosted the Harmonic Convergence, a global meditation event that brought thousands to the area and cemented Sedona’s reputation as a destination for spiritual growth and global consciousness.
Cultural and Economic Growth
From the 1990s onward, Sedona experienced rapid growth, becoming a hub for spiritual tourism, wellness retreats, and artistic expression. The town developed a unique identity blending natural beauty, indigenous heritage, and spiritual significance.
Outdoor Recreation and Tourism
Sedona is renowned for its outdoor recreation, with over 400 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. The red rock formations and Coconino National Forest attract millions of visitors annually, making outdoor tourism a key part of the local economy.
Today’s Vibe
Today, Sedona is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, energy vortexes, and thriving arts and wellness communities. It remains a popular destination for those seeking spiritual reflection, outdoor adventure, and creative inspiration.
Points of Interest
- Red Rock Formations – Iconic geological structures like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte.
- Vortex Sites – Locations such as Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa, believed to be centers of energy conducive to meditation.
- Palatki and Honanki Ruins – Ancient cliff dwellings and rock art sites of the Sinagua people.
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village – A cultural center with galleries, shops, and restaurants.
- Chapel of the Holy Cross – A chapel built into the red rocks, offering panoramic views and a place for reflection.
- Coconino National Forest – Offers extensive hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing amid stunning red rock landscapes.
Population: Approximately 10,000 (2020 Census)
Founding and Naming
Sedona’s history spans 350 million years, shaped by geological processes that formed its iconic red sandstone formations. Originally inhabited by the Sinagua people (650 CE to 1400 CE), the name “Sedona” was suggested by Ellsworth Schnebly in 1902 and approved by the U.S. Postal Service, naming the town after his wife, Sedona Schnebly.
Indigenous Presence and Cultural Legacy
The Sinagua left behind significant archaeological sites, including the Palatki and Honanki cliff dwellings with rock art and structures built into the red rock cliffs. Other indigenous groups, such as the Hopi, Yavapai, and Apache, also have historical ties to the region.
Infrastructure Development
In the 1950s and 1960s, Sedona saw significant infrastructure improvements, including electricity and paved roads, making the town more accessible and setting the stage for growth.
Emergence as a Spiritual Destination
In the 1970s, Sedona became a recognized spiritual center due to its energy vortexes—locations believed to enhance meditation and healing. This attracted spiritual seekers and New Age practitioners, marking Sedona’s transformation into a New Age mecca.
The Harmonic Convergence
In 1987, Sedona hosted the Harmonic Convergence, a global meditation event that brought thousands to the area and cemented Sedona’s reputation as a destination for spiritual growth and global consciousness.
Cultural and Economic Growth
From the 1990s onward, Sedona experienced rapid growth, becoming a hub for spiritual tourism, wellness retreats, and artistic expression. The town developed a unique identity blending natural beauty, indigenous heritage, and spiritual significance.
Outdoor Recreation and Tourism
Sedona is renowned for its outdoor recreation, with over 400 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. The red rock formations and Coconino National Forest attract millions of visitors annually, making outdoor tourism a key part of the local economy.
Today’s Vibe
Today, Sedona is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, energy vortexes, and thriving arts and wellness communities. It remains a popular destination for those seeking spiritual reflection, outdoor adventure, and creative inspiration.
Points of Interest
- Red Rock Formations – Iconic geological structures like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte.
- Vortex Sites – Locations such as Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa, believed to be centers of energy conducive to meditation.
- Palatki and Honanki Ruins – Ancient cliff dwellings and rock art sites of the Sinagua people.
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village – A cultural center with galleries, shops, and restaurants.
- Chapel of the Holy Cross – A chapel built into the red rocks, offering panoramic views and a place for reflection.
- Coconino National Forest – Offers extensive hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing amid stunning red rock landscapes.