Sedona is known worldwide for its majestic red rock formations. But it is also known as a center of new age enlightenment and healing. According to believers and practitioners of this spiritual movement, Sedona is a source of great energy and power, which come from a number of vortexes that are located in the area.The vortexes of Sedona are swirling centers of subtle energy that come out from the surface of the earth. This energy, while not exactly electric, is said to strengthen the "Inner Being" of each person who comes within a quarter to a half mile of the source.
Who among us couldn't use a little more energy? So along with friends -- Lynne and Jason, Tory, Lisa and Wendy -- I set out in search of the vortex in Boynton Canyon and its spiritual powers.
From the start of the trail to its picturesque conclusion, nearly two and a half miles up the canyon, you get a taste of two Arizona life zones. First is the Upper Sonoran Zone, with its sagebrush, oak, pinon and juniper. Wildflowers are also prevalent in April and May. Next is the Transition Zone, which adds a smattering of pine trees among the juniper and oak.
After a short rock scramble, which is harder going up than down, I reached the end of the trail and found myself above the tree tops. The view was breathtaking and invigorating. But there was no sign of a vortex, only the rush of energy that comes from physical activity.
While I didn't find the vortex in Boynton Canyon, that didn't mean I gave up my search for enlightenment and healing, either. So after the hike, we all headed to Oaxaca Restaurant & Cantina. Good food, friends and a little tequila will surely boost any one's spirits.
So if you are in Sedona in search of a vortex, my advice is to consult the experts. There are plenty of guides and resources in town. But if you are on your own, skip the hike and fortify your "Inner Being" with a Red Rock Enchilada and one of Oaxaca's signature margaritas.
Note: After our trip to Sedona, Tory found some information online that leads me to believe that the vortex at Boynton Canyon is near Kachina Woman Rock, on the Vista Trail, which breaks off from the trail through Boynton Canyon, shortly after it's start. If you go, be sure to check it out and let me know what you find.
