Travel Log: Sedona, Arizona
A little bit of adventure and a whole lot of calm and relaxation
A few weeks ago I went on an ESSENCE Escapes journey through Sedona, AZ to find stillness, reconnect with myself, and let clarity lead the way. I am grateful to have partnered with ESSENCE and smartwater® Alkaline with Antioxidant for this beautiful reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated, it can start with something as simple as a deep breath, a quiet walk, and staying hydrated with intention.
If you are looking for a domestic destination to have a little bit of adventure and a whole lot of calm and relaxation, Sedona absolutely deserves a spot on your bucket list.
The Perfect Sedona Itinerary
Start with Sunrise Yoga
My first morning began at dawn with sunrise yoga on top of a mountain with an incredible instructor named Yolanda. There's something magical about greeting the day from that elevation, surrounded by Sedona's dramatic red rock formations.
Get a Hiking Guide
If you want to go hiking in Sedona, make sure to get a guide. There are hundreds of trails here, and you don't want to get lost in nature! I hired a local guide who took me on an amazing nature hike between giant rock formations on our way to the top of Chimney Rock. He also told me about the plants, animals, and geology that make this place so unique.
Take an Off-Road Adventure
The off-road tour was quite shake-y, but worth it for those incredible views. It's moments like this where you realize how insignificant you are like as a human being on this planet. These rock formations have been here long before us and will be here long after we're gone.
Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad
The afternoon train ride through Verde Canyon was such a charming and elevated experience. I got to dress up a bit, meet fellow passengers, and enjoy the beautiful Arizona landscapes from the comfort of the train. The open-air cart is perfect for photos if you want to capture yourself with all those breathtaking canyon views.
Experience a Sound Bath
The sound bath experience was something I'd never tried before, but it's definitely something I'll be seeking out on future travels.
End at Cathedral Rock for Sunset
Ending my trip at Cathedral Rock during sunset felt like the perfect cherry on top of an absolutely amazing adventure. From the morning sunrise yoga to the sound bath, the beautiful train ride to this final sunset moment, Sedona is the perfect place to find calm and relaxation.
Tips for Your Sedona Trip
Hire local guides: They know the best spots and can share stories you won't find in guidebooks
Stay hydrated: The elevation and dry air mean you need more hydration than usual. I particularly love smartwater® Alkaline with Antioxidant because it helps me to feel replenished and refreshed.
Bring layers: Desert temperatures can vary dramatically from morning to evening
Be open to new experiences: Sedona has a way of pushing you outside your comfort zone in the best possible way
Be well. Travel well. Live well. Until next time: catch me if you can!
- Jessica
Say hi on Instagram or check out my book and YouTube channel for more travel tips!
I visited Sedona, Phoenix, and Flagstaff this past January and it was by far one of the best trips I have had in a while! The history, food, shopping, and the overall calm the area offers its visitors is beyond words. I am glad you enjoyed yourself. I want to do the hike to Antelope Canyon the next time I go!
I went to Sedona on a solo birthday trip and absolutely loved it...I hiked every day and still didn't see everything I wanted to😊