Journey Through Red Rocks, Sacred Spaces, and Slot Canyons: A Southwest Adventure
Heading north out of Phoenix, a group of fifteen people (some known and most not) began our journey with a scenic drive towards Flagstaff, where we stopped for lunch at the charming Toasted Owl Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of town, its quirky decor and delicious food made for a cozy pause before the next leg of our adventure: a guided tour through the majestic Antelope Canyon. This stunning slot canyon, with its fluid walls of sculpted sandstone, reminded us of the quiet artistry of nature and the power of wind and water over time.
That evening, we made our way to Cliff Dwellers Lodge in Marble Canyon. This rustic yet welcoming lodge sits near the base of the Vermillion Cliffs and carries a deep history. Originally established as a trading post in the 1920s by Blanche and Bill Russell, the remnants of their homestead still stand, offering a glimpse into the rugged life of early settlers in the region.
The next day brought a blend of ancient history and heartfelt connection. We stopped at Moqui Cave, where we learned about dinosaur tracks preserved in the sandstone—footprints left behind millions of years ago. From there, we headed to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary near Kanab, Utah. This vast sanctuary is a haven for rescued animals and includes a sacred pet cemetery adorned with engraved wind chimes. As the wind stirred the chimes, their music filled the air with a sense of joy and reverence, a beautiful tribute to lives well-lived and deeply loved. We then ventured to Mossy Cave Trail that offered both a waterfall and climbs to the cave.
Our journey then took us to two iconic national parks—Zion and Bryce Canyon. Zion welcomed us with dramatic canyon views and a descent by vehicle through towering cliffs and tunnels. We hiked the Emerald Pools Trail, a steep, boulder-strewn path that challenged our endurance but rewarded us with sparkling waterfalls and shaded rest spots. After a refreshing break under a broad shade tree and plenty of water refills, we enjoyed the scenic and peaceful Narrows Trail before capping the day with dinner at Springdale’s farm-to-fork restaurant, the Spotted Dog.
The next morning, we ascended to Rainbow Point at 9,115 feet—cold and windy, yet breathtaking. Then we hiked the Rim Trail, a flat path that hugged the canyon’s edge, offering panoramic views. Descending into the canyon via the Navajo Loop Trail brought us face to face with Bryce’s iconic Hoodoos. Climbing back up through Wall Street’s steep switchbacks was intense but empowering. Bryce Canyon offered a more personal descent—one we made on foot. Staying at Ruby’s Inn just outside the park gave us easy access to the trails, along with hearty meals and a lively dinner show at Ebenezer’s.
From sacred spaces and soulful trails to the geological wonders of the Southwest, this trip was more than an adventure—it was a grounding experience filled with beauty, history, and the quiet wisdom of the land.
