Amazing Tree Colors. Inviting running Water. Shining Bright Sun. Temperature Perfect. Clear Nature Smell. Smooth Stacked Rocks and Even Trails. All our senses were delighted by a hike to Red Rock Crossing where Oak Creek flows outside of Sedona, AZ.
This is a delightful space to visit in a state park outside of town about 15 minutes. The access to the remarkable Buddha Beach is not far down the path nearest the parking lot. This area is known for stacked Cairns and reflection points and is known to be a strong vortex.
What area do you always re-visit whenever you can? When has a place exceeded your expectations? What is a “moment to remember” in nature?
Several years ago, I visited this area with several friends for a 50th Birthday celebration. We took a long hike to Cathedral Rock across the river and visited the Cairns on the way. We knew we were heading to the vortex so we climbed the side of the mountain.
The strangest thing occurred. We hiked and climbed for 1:45 minutes at least. When we decided to return on the same path, it took us only 1:05 minutes. Yes, we were descending, but there is no explaining how we were on the same path and yet such different times. A Vortex Time Warp??
Oak Creek passes through this area and flows near Cathedral Rock and in the fall is a very nice stream. In the flood season, all the Cairns are removed or the lined rocks are full of water.
See, a king will reign in righteousness and rulers will rule with justice.
Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm,
like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land. Then the eyes of those who see will no longer be closed, and the ears of those who hear will listen. Isaiah 32:1-3 NIV
Late in the afternoon, the trees glowed in orange and yellow shades of hue. The lowering light was reflected off Cathedral Rock on the backside. We decided to save climbing it for the next day as crossing the creek seemed treacherous.
Red Rock Creek Crossing never fails to delight. And surprise. Reflection of trees on the creek and sun bouncing off Cathedral Rock and the path stones created a moment to remember.
