Sedona Vortex Tours

Sedona Vortex Tour Guide Joya Joya, a/k/a Kali or Kamala, has led spiritual journeys to energy vortexes around the world, such as India, Egypt, Mexico, Peru and currently leads vortex tours in Sedona, AZ in an effort to awaken participants to all the possibilities of their higher vibrational self.

Sedona Vortex Tour Guide Abby Now that she lives in Sedona, AZ, she has been offering unique vortex journeys. She has been going to the vortexes since the mid 1980's. For deeper connection with the vortex energies, Abby offers a combination of experiences at the vortexes. Abby does Drumming, ceremony, meditation to connect you to the energy of the vortex a your choice of a channeling/reading, sound healing or Reiki.

Sedona Vortex Tour Guide Aurora Your tours with Aurora will take you not only to the Vortexes but also to the Sacred space within yourself. She will use Inner Journeys and visualization to help you to connect to both the land and to your authentic self so healing, clarity and realization can take place. Aurora has studied many different healing modalities, and her sessions are always a combination of the different techniques - and very customized to each clients' need.

 

 

No, it’s not vortices. In Sedona the plural of vortex is usually vortexes. So what is a vortex, anyway? Well you see them in everyday life. The turbulent flow of water makes vortices. If you have ever seen a whirlpool in a river or watched water going down the drain in the bath tub and have witnessed the tornado like glassiness of spinning water, you have seen a vortex. A vortex is created from spiraling motion of air or liquid around a center of rotation. If you have ever witnessed a dust devil kick up in the desert, you have seen a vortex.

In Sedona vortexes are created, not by wind or water, but from spiraling spiritual energy. The vortexes of Sedona are named because they are believed to be spiritual locations where the energy is right to facilitate prayer, mediation and healing. Vortex sites are believed to be locations having energy flow that exists on multiple dimensions. The energy of the vortexes interacts with a person’s inner self. It is not easily explained. Obviously it must be experienced.

Geology of the Red Rocks

Over millions of years, layers of sandstone and limestone were left in the area by a receeding ocean. Iron oxide eventually covered the grains of sandstone and, in a natural process, rust formed. The stunningly beautiful red rocks of Sedona are the result of this process.

Native American History

Human history in the Sedona area began about 4000 BC when hunter-gatherers roamed and settled in the Verde Valley and Prescott areas. Between 900 and 1350 AD, a more advanced civilization began building pueblos and cliff houses. Known as the Sinagua (without water) they were proficient in farming, had an understanding of astronomy, and made baskets, pottery and jewelry. They established trade routes with the peoples of the Pacific coast, Mexico and Central America. (History courtesy: City of Sedona)

Cliff dwellings are still evident today. One of the most beautiful is Montezuma’s Castle, not far from Sedona. As you hike the red rocks, you will see petroglyphs and pictographs left behind by these ancient peoples. The awe inspiring vistas, along with the magnificent views of the sky, have drawn out the spiritual nature of people from the very beginning.

Harmonic Convergence

In 1987, Sedona‘s reputation as a spiritual center got quite a boost. Many journeyed to Sedona during the time of the highly anticipated Harmonic Convergence. Our Aetheism writer, explains Harmonic Convergence. On the weekend of August 16th and 17th, 1987, the great "Harmonic Convergence" was supposed to take place - at least, that is what José Arguelles told people. A great many believed him - not simply prominent leaders of the New Age movement like Shirley MacLaine, but also millions and millions of adherents.

What was the nature of this convergence? Well, according to Arguelles, at this time the Earth would start slipping out of its "time beam" and risk spinning off into space - only by the concerted, psychic efforts of the human race would it remain where it was supposed to be. This time would see a great increase in the experience of deja vu and UFO sightings. However, if enough people would simply gather at sacred places around the globe and concentrate enough, the New Age would begin, the Earth would remain safe and a new era of harmony and love would be inaugurated.

Sedona was a sacred place, so why not gather there. Ultimately the earth did not slip away and spin into space, so did this convergence of people in Sedona help?

The Curious and Faithful Come

A wonderful account of a recently graduated massage therapist attending an Arizona conference is not unlike those that journey to Sedona for the first time. In the article, A Sedona Arizona Spiritual Quest, he recounts, “My spiritual quest to Sedona was due to the fact that some of the world's energy vortexes are located here. These vortexes are subtle energy centers where spiritual and psychic powers are enhanced. To say I was a little curious was an understatement. My hotel room window afforded me an unobstructed panorama of one of these energy vortexes known as Bell Rock. That would be my first hike on my quest.”

He then goes on to tell about his hike with the first taste of spirituality... being "needled" by an Arizona cactus!

Has Anyone Ever Seen a Vortex?

Linda, an About Southwest reader, writes, "My daughter and I recently visited Sedona Arizona for the first time. It was just so delightful and beautiful. A couple of the photos that we took are covered in rainbow colors. Does this have anything to do with the Sedona Arizona Vortex? Have a look at her photos and see what you think!

 

Where are the Vortexes?

This information is courtesy Pete A Sanders, Jr. from Free Soul, spiritual education program. Pete does research, lectures, conferences and leads vortex tours in Sedona. The terminology used in describing the vortexes is from Pete's work and is described in this article on vortexes. His easy to understand guide to vortexes, "Scientific Vortex Information" can be purchased online or in Sedona bookstores.

Red Rock Crossing

Take Hwy 89A southwest out of Sedona (toward Cottonwood). At the top of the hill (after Foothills South/Sedona Medical Center) make a left at the light (Upper Red Rock Loop Rd.) Go down the hill (1-2 miles). At the bottom make a left and follow the signs for Red Rock Crossing/Crescent Moon Recreational Area. From the parking lot walk upstream 1/4 to 1/2 mile (level) to the red rock beach area. You can go further upstream for deeper swimming holes. This is an "inflow plus lateral water cleansing combination) vortex. ($8.00 per car charge).

Saddle of Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock can be seen from Red Rock Crossing and easily identified by its two twin spires and large saddle. This vortex is a cone shaped pile of black lava rocks and is located just below the western ledge of the saddle. Follow the directions as if you were going to Bell Rock. On Hwy 179 go past Chapel Road about a mile to Back O'Beyond Road (well before you reach Bell Rock). Turn right and take this road to the end to the parking lot on the left. Follow the moderate to strenuous trail to the saddle between the three rock spires. This is an "upflow in an inflow combination" vortex. (Requires Red Rock Pass for Parking)

Bell Rock

Bell Rock is a major Sedona landmark visible just past the village of Oak Creek. If already in Sedona, take Hwy 89A to the traffic circle junction of Hwys 89A and 179. Take Hwy 179 past Poco Diablo Resort. Look for the Bell Rock parking area several miles further on the right. Bell Rock is across the street on the left. There is also dirt parking space there. Follow the clear trails into the base of the rock and proceed from there as high as you wish. This is a "pure upflow" vortex. (Requires Red Rock Pass for Parking)

Boynton Canyon and Long Canyon Mesa

Boynton Canyon is considered by some to be the most powerful of the vortexes in Sedona. It is a scenic box canyon. Take Hwy 89A Southwest toward Cottonwood. At the lst light in town (at Cinedona Theaters) make a right on Dry Creek Rd. Go 3-4 miles to the "T." For Boynton Canyon turn left at the "T" and follow signs to the Boynton Canyon Trail. The small parking area will be on your right. For Long Canyon turn right at the "T." When the paved road ends, follow the dirt road to the left (200 yards) to a small parking area. Walk up the steep hill. At the top of the hill go left. When the road next forks, go right. Follow the road to the large medicine wheel on Rachel's Knoll (total walk 1/2 to 3/4 mile - 15-20 minutes. Please respect signs asking for near complete quiet. Tnis is a "Upflow and Inflow Combination" vortex.

Airport Mesa

Vortex or no vortex, Airport Mesa is an inspiring place to be with 360 degree views of the valley. It is the closest vortex to the center of Sedona. Take Hwy 89A to the Airport Rd. (at circular building). You can either take the road all the way to the top and follow the signs for "Sunrise Service" to the Masonic Lodge Memorial Cross and meditate there or pull into the small pullout 2/3 of the way up and hike up to the top of either of the two side mounts (200 yds.) The closest mound is the main vortex area. The easiest route to the top is on a trail that goes around the left of the base and then up. This is an "upflow" vortex. (Red Rock Pass Required for parking). Imagine, a "fly-in vortex!"

Oak Creek Canyon Overlook

Take Hwy 89A north toward Flagstaff. At the top of the switchbacks (15-17 miles from Sedona) look for the entrance to the overlook on the right. Park and walk out to the vista point (1/4 mile - level). This is an "upflow and lateral combination" vortex.

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Follow the directions for going to Bell Rock. Ater Poco Diablo Resort look for signs for the Chapel. Chapel website. Follow the signs and make a left on Chapel Road. It ends at the Chapel parking area. Walk (50 yards) to sitting rocks or benches. This is a "complex combination" vortex and view area.

West Fork - Energy Well Spring

This is the most biodiverse spot in Arizona. Take Highway 89A 11 miles north of Sedona (toward Flagstaff). One mile past Don Hoel's Cabins, look for the entrance to the parking lot at the big sweeping curve to the right. At the southwest corner of the parking lot follow the trail along the creek to the metal sign at the crossing point. Once you are up the opposite bank, walk south to the ivy glen and turn right. Follow the trail 1/4 mile until you come to the West Fork Creeek. Once you cross this smaller stream you are at the official beginning of West Fork. The mostly level trail starts there. Wear old shoes or Gortex boots as the trail repeatedly takes you through the creek. Having a walking stick for balance when crossing the creek is also good. This is a "lateral" vortex with timelessness effects.

What is a Vortex?
Vortex Tours and More Information

 

I only recently went on a Vortex Tour, although I have been inspired as I hiked through the canyons and red rocks of Sedona. Here are some of people who can take you on a tour of the Sedona Vortexes.

Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours - Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours in Sedona Arizona offers experiential Jeep Tours, Hikes, Indian Ruins and Sacred Site (vortex) tours through the beautiful Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona.

Sedona Vortex Tours -The Sedona Heart Center believes that their tours stand out in a crowd partly because of the rich diversity of the tour guides. Each guide is gifted uniquely in the healing arts, something to keep in mind as you plan your retreat or tour. They would love to take you out on a Vortex Tour or do a Medicine Wheel ceremony with you.

Sedona Herb Walks and Vortex Tours- Tours led by Feather, a practicing herbalist, gentle wildcrafter and medicine maker with over 20 years experience.

Crossing Worlds Journeys and Retreats - More than a tour, these are unique, informative, inspiring, non-commercial experiences that cross you into ancient & contemporary understandings of earth, spirit and human community. Tours of Sedona and beyond.

Private Guides - Mr. Sedona - Dennis Andres. Sedona's most recognized private guide is the author of "What Is a Vortex?" Join Dennis to experience natural beauty and thoughtful spirituality at a pace that's just right for you. Complete satisfaction guaranteed. Advance reservations essential.

Vortex Tours and Lectures by Pete A. Sanders, Jr. - Mr. Sanders gives a preparatory lecture. You can attend the lecture without participating in his tours. For information on the Monday lectures, contact the Sedona Institute of Eco-Tourism. When I attended, the charge for the lecture was $15.00.

Tour participants travel to two of Sedona's vortex areas. Mr. Sanders is a fully permitted Hiking Guide. As such he can lead tour participants (in their own vehicles) to designated parking places and hike with them to selected meditation sites. Participants are instructed in how to best tap the two locations for the contemplation, problem solving, or spiritual skills that they are most interested in.

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours - I recently had the pleasure of going on a Vortex tour with Arizona Safari Jeep Tours. It's a great tour if you want to get out of town, visit a couple of vortex sites, learn something about vortexes and know you won't be expected to become an instant "believer." The tour was laid back, really didn't take us off-road, yet it took us to beautiful sites such as Red Rock Crossing, a very powerful vortex site.

More Information on Sedona Spiritual Pursuits

The Spiritual Side of Sedona - From the Sedona Chamber of Commerce. Everything from Weddings to Spas.

The Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association - They connect spiritual seekers in Sedona to the metaphysical spiritual practitioners and businesses who can best assist them in their journey.

Where to Find a Vortex
What is a Vortex and More Sedona Information

 

One of the vortex information handouts provided by vortex guide and spiritual educator, Pete A Sanders, Jr. was an "Environmental Awareness and Sacred Site Etiquette Guide." I'd seen the medicine wheels and stacked rocks left by so-called spiritual people and thought sharing this information might be a good thing.

Please Do

Please Don't

Sedona is a city and community that straddles the county line between Coconino and Yavapai counties in the northern Verde Valley region of the U.S. state of Arizona. According to 2005 Census Bureau estimates, the population of the city is 11,220.

Sedona's main attraction is its stunning array of red sandstone formations, the Red Rocks of Sedona. The formations appear to glow in brilliant orange and red when illuminated by the rising or setting sun. The Red Rocks form a breathtaking backdrop for everything from spiritual pursuits to the hundreds of hiking and mountain biking trails.

Sedona is named after Sedona Miller Schnebly (1877–1950), the wife of the city's first postmaster, who was celebrated for her hospitality and industriousness.

Contents - Sedona Vortex Tours 1 Climate 2 Geography and geology 3 Demographics 4 History 4.1 Native American 4.2 Anglo-American settlement 4.3 Political structure 4.4 Cinematic legacy 4.5 Fire 5 Arts and special events 6 Popular Culture References 7 Education 8 Vortexes 9 Notable current residents 10 Notable former residents 11 Photos 12 See also 13 References 14 External links

Climate - Sedona Vortex Tours

Sedona has a temperate mountain climate. In January, the normal high temperature is 51 degrees with a low of 21. In July, the normal high temperature is 93 degrees with a low of 63. Annual precipitation is around 19 inches.

Geography and geology - Sedona Vortex Tours

Sedona is located at 34°51′36″N 111°47′21″W / 34.86°N 111.78917°W / 34.86; -111.78917 (34.859897, -111.789199), which is in the Upper Sonoran Desert of northern Arizona. At an elevation of 4,500 feet (1,372 m), Sedona has mild winters and summers that are often described as being, "not as hot as Phoenix."

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 18.6 square miles (48.2 km²), all of it land.

The famous red rocks of Sedona are formed by a layer of rock known as the Schnebly Hill Formation. The Schnebly Hill Formation is a thick layer of red to orange-colored sandstone found only in the Sedona vicinity. The sandstone, a member of the Supai Group, was deposited during the Permian period.

Among the rock formations is one that closely resembles the character Snoopy (from the popular Peanuts comic strip) lying on top of his doghouse. Another nearby rock is said to resemble Lucy, also from Peanuts. Other landmark rock formations include Coffeepot Rock, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Chimney Rock, Courthouse Butte, the Mittens, the Cow Pies, and the Rabbit Ears.

Demographics - Sedona Vortex Tours

As of the census of 2000, there were 10,192 people, 4,928 households, and 2,863 families residing in the city. The population density was 548.0 people per square mile (211.6/km²). There were 5,684 housing units at an average density of 305.6/sq mi (118.0/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 92.17% White, 0.49% Black or African American, 0.45% Native American, 0.94% Asian, 0.09% Pacific Islander, 4.29% from other races, and 1.57% from two or more races. 8.90% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

At the 2000 census there were 7,229 people living in the Yavapai County (western) portion of the city (70.9% of its population) and 2,963 living in the Coconino County (eastern) portion (29.1%). By land area Yavapai had 66.2% of its area, versus 33.8% for Coconino.

There were 4,928 households out of which 15.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.6% were married couples living together, 6.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.9% were non-families. 32.2% of all households were made up of individuals and 14.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.06 and the average family size was 2.52.

In the city the population was spread out with 13.7% under the age of 18, 4.5% from 18 to 24, 21.2% from 25 to 44, 35.0% from 45 to 64, and 25.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females there were 88.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $44,042, and the median income for a family was $52,659. Males had a median income of $32,067 versus $24,453 for females. The per capita income for the city was $31,350. About 4.7% of families and 9.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.1% of those under age 18 and 5.0% of those age 65 or over.

History - Sedona Vortex Tours

Native American - Sedona Vortex Tours

According to the Yavapai Native Americans, their ancestors were the first people of Sedona, descendants of "The First Lady," daughter of the Lady of the Pearl. The Yavapai Creation Story recounts how The Lady of the Pearl was sealed in a log with the Woodpecker and sent from Montezuma Well at the beginning of a Great Flood. For days and nights to follow, it rained incessantly and flood waters rose to cover every land form on earth. After 40 days, the rain stopped, the water receded and the log finally came to rest in Sedona. The Woodpecker freed the beautiful young woman from the log and guided her to the summit of Mingus Mountain, bearing a white stone or "Pearl" her people had given her for protection on the journey. There, she met the Sun, who fell in love with her. Returning to Sedona, she bathed in an enchanted pool in Boynton Canyon. Soon afterward, she gave birth to a daughter, referred to as the "First Lady," mother to all the Yavapai people. (Source: Spokesperson/representative of the Yavapai-Apache Nation Clarkdale, AZ.)

The Yavapai-Apache tribe were forcefully removed from the Verde Valley in 1876, to the San Carlos Indian Reservation, 180 miles southeast. 1500 people were marched, in midwinter, to San Carlos. Several hundred lost their lives. The survivors were interned for 25 years. About 200 Yavapai-Apache people returned to the Verde Valley in 1900.

Anglo-American settlement - Sedona Vortex Tours

The first Anglo settler moved into Oak Creek Canyon in 1879. The early settlers were farmers and ranchers. Oak Creek Canyon was well-known for its apple orchards. In 1902, when the Sedona post office was established, there were 55 residents. In the mid-1950s, the first telephone directory listed 155 names. Parts of the Sedona area weren't electrified until the 1960s.

Sedona began to develop as a tourist destination, vacation-home and retirement center in the 1950s. Most of the development seen today was constructed in the 1980s and 1990s. As of 2007, there are no large tracts of undeveloped land remaining. Section source:

Political structure - Sedona Vortex Tours

Politically, Uptown Sedona (the part in Coconino County) and West Sedona (the Yavapai County portion) form the City of Sedona. Originally founded in 1902, the town was incorporated into a city in January 1988. The Village of Oak Creek, despite its location seven miles (11 km) to the south and outside Sedona city limits, is a significant part of the community.

Cinematic legacy - Sedona Vortex Tours

Many of Hollywood's classic westerns were filmed in or near Sedona. The red rock buttes and desert landscape provided a striking setting for these films, most notably Broken Arrow (1950), starring James Stewart. A number of the movie's shooting locations can still be visited via off-road trails.

An intricate chase scene in the Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin comedy Midnight Run was filmed on the trails surrounding Sedona.

Fire - Sedona Vortex Tours

On June 18, 2006, a wildfire, reportedly started by campers, began about one mile (1.6 km) north of Sedona. The so-called "Brins Fire" covered 4,317 acres (17 km²) on Brins Mesa, Wilson Mountain and in Oak Creek Canyon before the USDA Forest Service declared it 100% contained as of 6 p.m. on June 28. Containment cost was estimated at $6,400,000.

Arts and special events - Sedona Vortex Tours

There are several events that are hosted annually in the Sedona area, including:

• Sedona International Film Festival
• Sedona Jazz on the Rocks Festival
• Sedona Marathon
• Sedona Miracle Annual Charity Fundraiser 

Sedona is home to several notable arts organizations in Northern Arizona.

• The Sedona Arts Center, founded in 1958, is the oldest arts center in northern Arizona.
• The Sedona Jazz on the Rocks festival, founded in 1982, takes place annually at Radisson Poco Diablo Resort and other locations over four days in September.
• Chamber Music Sedona sponsors a chamber music program annually from October to May. 2007-2008 is the 25th anniversary season for this organization.
• Sedona International Film Festival & Workshop was established in 1995. The weeklong annual festival takes place in late February and early March at Harkins Theatres while supplemental events take place at area resorts. The festival also hosts monthly events.
• GumptionFest, established in 2006 by GumptionFest Artistic Support Foundation Executive Director Dylan Jung, is a grassroots, local art street festival takes place the first weekend of June.
• NORAZ Poets, founded in 2003, is a nonprofit poetry network based in Sedona.

Popular Culture References - Sedona Vortex Tours

• Sedona is mentioned in the Pixies song "Havalina" the last song on their album "Bossanova." The lyrics are: "Walking in the breeze / On the plains of old Sedona / Arizona / Among the trees."
• The Electro group Dynamix II released a single by the name of Sedona.
• Aerosmith recorded a song called "Sedona Sunrise" released on their 2006 compilation Devil's Got a New Disguise. The lyrics and laidback tone of the song were apparently inspired by the songwriters' visit to Sedona.
• Inspired by the gorgeous rock formations surrounding the town, music composer Steven Reineke wrote a piece which he named "Sedona."
• In Jamie O'Neal's love ballad, "There Is No Arizona", Jamie belts out the name Sedona in the chorus, "There is no Arizona. No painted desert, no Sedona."

Education - Sedona Vortex Tours

Sedona is served by the Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District.

Sedona Red Rock High School (SRRHS), is located near the edge of town in West Sedona. The school's mascot is the Scorpion. The high school's new campus, a series of single story buildings, is located opposite the Sedona campus of Yavapai College, in West Sedona.

Sedona Charter School (SCS) is located behind the Sedona Public Library, it serves as Montessori based school for grades K-8th grade.

Yavapai College's Sedona Center for Arts & Technology includes the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking, the Business Partnership Program, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, and the University of Arizona Mini Med School.

Verde Valley School, a boarding/preparatory high school with many international students, is located between the Village of Oak Creek and Red Rock Crossing.

University of Sedona, a non-traditional institute providing ministerial training and education in metaphysics.

Vortexes - Sedona Vortex Tours

There is a specialized New Age tourist industry in Sedona, where the "Harmonic Convergence" was organized by Jose Arguelles in 1987. Some purported "spiritual vortices" are said to be concentrated in the Sedona area at Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Schnebly Hill.

Notable current residents - Sedona Vortex Tours

• Maynard James Keenan
• Samaire Armstrong
• Michelle Branch Sedona native
• Ted Danson
• Justin Frankel Sedona native
• Stanley Jordan
• Diane Lane owns a second home in Sedona.
• Gerard Maguire
• U.S. Sen. John McCain, (R-Arizona) owns a ranch southwest of the city
• Al Pacino owns a second home in Sedona
• Debbie Reynolds owns a vacation home in Sedona
• Jane Russell
• Glenn Scarpelli openly gay American actor (of One Day at a Time fame) and co-proprietor of the Sedona Now television network
• Robert Shields

Notable former residents - Sedona Vortex Tours

• Lucille Ball
• Joe Beeler lived and worked in Sedona, 1961-2006.
• Max Ernst lived in Sedona from 1948 to 1953 with his fourth wife, the artist Dorothea Tanning.
• James Gregory
• Ann Miller owned a Sedona vacation home
• Lois Moran
• Donald O'Connor
• Israel Regardie died in Sedona in 1985.
• Orson Welles
• Deborah Walley
• Mary Wills
• Sean Young lived in Sedona in the '90s

Photos - Sedona Vortex Tours

Susan Kliewer's statue of Sedona Schnebly outside the Sedona Public Library

Sunset over the red rocks

Sinkhole called The Devil's Kitchen in Soldier's Pass. The giant rock in the center is called The Grand Piano.

See also - Sedona Vortex Tours

• Chapel of the Holy Cross
• Village of Oak Creek
• Oak Creek Canyon
• Mogollon Rim
• Sedona Airport

References - Sedona Vortex Tours

External links - Sedona Vortex Tours

• City website
• Sedona Chamber of Commerce
• Sedona Public Library
• Sedona travel guide from Wikitravel
• Sedona, Arizona is at coordinates 34°51′36″N 111°47′21″W / 34.859897°N 111.789199°W / 34.859897; -111.789199 (Sedona, Arizona)Coordinates: 34°51′36″N 111°47′21″W / 34.859897°N 111.789199°W / 34.859897; -111.789199 (Sedona, Arizona)