The Chapel of the Holy Cross: Vortex & Views in Sedona
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While I have had a great time exploring all the fabulous red rock trails in Sedona, there are a lot of scenic activities where you don’t have to work up a monster sweat. With the beautiful towering rock formations surrounding the entire city, a scenic viewpoint is never hard to find. One of the best non hiking viewpoints is found at The Chapel of the Holy Cross, a gorgeous historic Roman Catholic church. What sets this unique church apart are the 2 towering red rock formations surrounding it. The chapel rises 200 feet from the ground with a 90 foot cross as the centerpiece. This beautiful work of art was inspired by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright.
Built in 1932, this architectural wonder is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Recently, the chapel made the list of “7 man made wonders in Arizona.” Not surprisingly, this architectural masterpiece is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. I recommend any non hikers visiting the region to check it out. Not only is the chapel beautiful, but this truly is one of the most stunning viewpoints in the city.
What a view!
The views here are simply out-of-this-word. For the best view without hitting a trail, this is by far my top recommendation. On an interesting side note – that gigantic house that you see from the overlook is owned by the inventors of Lasik. It is one of the most commonly asked questions by new visitors. Imagine living in this amazing house with this view?!
One of the most prominent rock formations visible up here is that of Two Nuns. You will learn during your vacation that every rock is named after the shape it resembles. It becomes a fun challenge to guess the rock during each hike (don’t look it up beforehand!).
“The shrine that provides peace to all who enter”
Services are no longer available. However, you can still meditate, pray, and enjoy the beautiful interior which includes stained glass windows and magnificent views of the red rock landscapes. Or simply enjoy the one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Despite being a man-made attraction, you cannot help but feel connected to nature as you gaze out unto the stunning red rock vistas.
And do not be afraid to visit if you are not at all religious, as the chapel proudly proclaims, “the chapel is a shrine that provides peace to all who enter.” There is also a little gift shop with all sorts of cute little knick knacks if you feel like stocking up on souvenirs or future gifts. They have a nice little display where you can donate a $1 to light a candle as a commemoration to a loved one. I really like this idea! You can read more about the history of the building on the chapel website.
The most powerful vortex: a place of healing
Asides from enjoying magnificent panoramas of breathtaking red rock formations (some of which are over 250 million years old), The Chapel is one of several vortex sites. Numerous hikes in this area possess intense vortex energy. Vortex sites are basically areas of concentrated energy rising up from the earth. Many hikers report healing and balancing properties after visiting vortex sites. If you are up for more exploration, Airport Mesa and Boynton Canyon are both stunningly beautiful vortex hikes.
Many proclaim to feel a certain energy when they visit. Some who come simply to enjoy the views leave with a sense of happiness, purpose, or healing. Today, the chapel remains Sedona’s most powerful vortex site. This city continues to draw a large New Age crowd due to these vortex sites, and has been transforming more and more into a spiritual center with all types of programs available. You can even sign up for a vortex tour if you want to learn more.
Whether you come for the views, the supposed vortex energy benefits, or to meditate and relax, I would easily add this to my best attractions list. No one will ever know for sure if these vortexes possess special powers. Skeptics claim it was a scheme to draw in tourists. However, you cannot help but feel something as you look out at the natural wonders surrounding you in every direction. For one, you will definitely feel more in tune with nature. Number 2, you will be able to forget about your problems for a while as the stunning scenery makes you forget everything else.
For anyone seeking a quiet rejuvenating vacation where you can escape life’s petty problems for a bit, Sedona is about good as it gets. I was so lucky to live in neighboring Flagstaff for a few years. Hiking in Sedona is a wonderful nature experience like no other – you really cannot help but appreciate the simple things in life. I highly recommend checking out a few trails featured in my guide, assuming you have the ability to do so. For those who are unable to hike, Pink Jeep tours and trolley tours are another option.
Location & hours
- Location: 780 Chapel Rd.
- Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
- Gift shop hours: 9:30-4:30pm
- Pricing: No fees to park
- Best views: Early morning
- Best season: Winter as it will be much less crowded
- Pet policy: Dogs not allowed inside. Leashed dogs are ok outside.
