Travelogue

New Age FamilyWe couldn't leave the area without experiencing the "new ageness" of Sedona so we chose a mountain bike expedition around Bell Rock, which is claimed to be one of the most powerful of the 13 vortexes in the Sedona area. These vortex spots theoretically enhance your psychic powers, emotions, and talents and leave you feeling energized and in tune with your inner being. Hey, that's what vacations are supposed to do aren't they? The ride was great and we did feel energized and at peace, but I'm not sure that it wasn't just from being outdoors and doing something that we love to do.

The trailhead for the Bell Rock ride is on U.S. 179 about 10 miles south of Sedona in the village of Oak Creek. There is ample parking at the trailhead. The trail itself is nice and wide and has amazing views of the surrounding red rock, including Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock. The trip can be anywhere from 3 to 10 miles round trip depending on what side trips you take. The kids really enjoyed this ride and there wasn't any whining. Maybe there really is a vortex here.

Description

Bell Rock, in the heart of Arizona's red rock country, is a rock formation shaped, as its name would imply, like a bell. The trailhead, which has plenty of parking, is located on U.S. 179 about 10 miles south of Sedona in the village of Oak Creek.

Bell Rock is claimed to be one of the most powerful of the 13 vortexes in the Sedona area. According to "New Agers," these vortex spots contain special energy forces that are felt by many that visit them. Each of the different vortexes in the Sedona area theoretically has different powers: Bell Rock (active masculine power), the Airport (gentle masculine energy), Cathedral Rock (nurturing feminine energy), Boynton Canyon (has both masculine and feminine energy) and Chapel (a gentle, comforting feminine touch).

From the Bell Rock Trailhead, there is a great family mountain biking trail which takes you past Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock, with amazing views of the red rock along the way. The trip can be anywhere from 3 to 10 miles round trip depending on what side trips you take.

Keep in mind this is desert and quite hot in the summer, so take plenty of water along with you.

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