Hills, Canyons, and Creeks - Blissful Hiking in Sedona, Arizona

Summer temperatures can soar well above 100 degrees in Phoenix limiting outdoor activities to pretty much walking from the car into airconditioned buildings.

Valley residents escape to the higher elevations of northern Arizona during the "dog days of summer" seeking refuge from the oppressive triple-digit heat to the cooler temperatures of Arizona hill country.

There are several options for cooler summer escapes - Nomad's Lens prefers the tranquil beauty of Sedona, Arizona.

The beauty and peaceful sounds of Oak Creek.

Hiking the banks of Oak Creek and the numerous valleys of Sedona transposes you to an earlier time when Native Americans lived and thrived on this land.

Remnants of these earlier indigenous societies can be seen throughout Red Rock country and felt by the presences of ancient spirits.

Colorful pastel red and orange sandstone formations glowing before the clear blue sky creates a picture-perfect environment for spiritual awakening.

Hiking the base of Cathedral Rock creates a peaceful, meditative state of heightened awareness and enlightenment.

This peacefully blissful feeling is often referred to as 'experiencing the vortex' (energy fields that promote peaceful meditation and self-awareness).

Hiking along Cathedral rock followed by Templeton Trail was a welcomed relief from the heat and fast-paced lifestyle of Sedona's southern neighbor, Phoenix located only 115 miles away (1 hour and 45 minute drive).

There are many trails, shops, restaurants and resorts to explore in Sedona -- as always, please mention Nomad's Lens on your next journey to red rock country.