Sedona AZ

The town from Sky Ranch Lodge

I have to recant. I was so eager to tar Sedona with the same brush I used on Taos (deservedly so in that case) I rushed to judgement.

This morning after checking out of my delightful room at Sky Ranch Lodge, I drove into town for breakfast and a walk around. Breakfast was at the Hitching Post where I had a vegetable omelet with fresh asparagus, carrots, peppers, and onions served with home made hash browns and pico de gallo. The service was attentive, the coffee was fresh, and the bill was very reasonable. My server, Esther, gave me a tutorial on the names of the rocks before sending me on my way.

The Hitching Post

I strolled the village and was impressed that tucked amidst the ticky tacky souvenir shops and jeep tour companies were some very nice shops and galleries. I was also impressed by how friendly the locals were. It was clear from their conversations that they were here for the land. It drew them in the first place, and kept them there. And the land is impressive. The red rocks are magical. And though I wouldn't want to live there, I was glad I had decided to visit.

I left Sedona and drove to Palm Springs where I am tonight. It was over 100 degrees the entire trip. The only visual relief from the beige desert landscape were the seguaro cactus. Southwestern Arizona was, to quote Stephen Sondheim, hot and monotonous. Tonight I am in Palm Sprinds where it is hot, but certainly not monotonous. I'll stay here for a few days before heading north.

Esther told me the name of this rock but I forget it