We get it: “energy” has become a buzzword of sorts in Sedona. Everyone is trying to claim their place or business or chakra-corresponding crystals have magical powers guaranteed to zap all your troubles away – so how do we separate fact from fiction in this city full of people desperate to make a quick buck?
One word: experience. Those who have climbed Bell Rock know there’s just something different about being up there; something that couldn’t possibly be fabricated. And whether or not you believe in the hoodoo, it would be impossible to leave such a breathtakingly beautiful place without feeling rejuvenated. See for yourself:
One of the most heavily photographed rock formations in the state, this towering behemoth draws visitors from all over the country. There’s no denying its astonishing beauty, but we can’t help but wonder if a force beyond anything we can comprehend plays a part in attracting tourists.
Flickr/oliverdodd
Clocking in at just 3.5 miles round-trip, the trail is short, sweet, and accessible to most everyone. The pathway is wide, few hazards exist along the way, and it only takes about an hour for even the slowest walkers to complete.
Flickr/u-suke
The energy at Bell Rock is considered to be masculine, so it’s a great place to find serenity and mental clarity. Despite what you may have been told, climbing to the summit is not necessary to experience the vortex!
Flickr/serpicolugnut
Parking is available at two separate lots: Courthouse and Bell Rock Vista. The latter requires a ~1-mile hike before actually getting to the rock itself, so we wouldn’t recommend going that route during the hotter months. From your vehicle, locating the trail isn’t difficult at all. Markers are there every so often to help you stay the course and prevent confusion.
Flickr/christine_riggle
You’ll know when the time is right to pause and soak in the healing energy - this guy certainly did! Basking in the peacefulness that comes along with being 4,000 feet up has a way of making most problems seem insignificant.
Flickr/iandeth
All sorts of unique flora and fauna abound throughout the entire length of the trail. Juniper, yucca, and agave sprout around every corner while birds flit to-and-fro. The diversity of plant and animal life in Arizona is truly an amazing sight to behold.
Flickr/michaelpwilson
This photo shows just how many levels Bell Rock has. You don’t have to climb on the formation itself at all to reap the benefits. The trail runs close enough to the vortex for you to feel its effects.
Flickr/alanenglish
So whether or not you believe in the healing energy that supposedly exists atop this breathtaking earthen monolith, one thing’s for sure: we’re blessed beyond belief to have such a beautiful place in our very own backyard. It’s impossible to not feel rejuvenated after reveling in this peacefulness!
Flickr/michaelpwilson
Have you ever hiked the Bell Rock Pathway? Are there any other rocks in Arizona believed to possess healing energies? Do you believe all the hype? Let us know your thoughts!
Flickr/oliverdodd
Flickr/u-suke
Flickr/serpicolugnut
Flickr/christine_riggle
Flickr/iandeth
Flickr/michaelpwilson
Flickr/alanenglish
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
