With a little research and patience, it is possible to hike in Sedona and avoid the influx of visitors. Enter Thunder Mountain Trailhead, part of the North Urban Trail System in Sedona. The mission that day was a Birthday mission, one which Dave, Margaret, and I chose to accept.

Go early. Even on a Monday morning, the parking at the trailheads are slim to none. Unfortunately, we started mid-morning—thanks to a 1.5-hour commute from Phoenix followed by the never-ending roundabouts that weave throughout the town. 

Majestic Red Rocks as far as the eye can see. John Ford nailed it — this is the land of auras, vortexes, and old-time westerns. 

Along the way, Margaret told us of a couple who once stopped her on a trail in Sedona. They ACTUALLY asked when they were going to see something. OK…

I guess being surrounded by this much beauty can be a bit mind-numbing. Perhaps the hikers had succumbed to visual overload.

Overload or not, it was getting warm. Most Sedona trails are exposed, with limited shade. We returned to the Jeep and brunched at the Coffee Pot—Home of 101 Omelets. YUM.

Leaving Sedona was a bit of an ordeal. Imagine joyously stepping into a picture postcard—only to discover that there is no way out. Did I mention roundabouts? 

Sedona is a must-do. Just remember—bring your camera and your patience.