Chicago Guest Loved Her Hikes!

[JohnB]

This is a follow-up to my request for Sedona/Grand Canyon hiking ideas.

My friend, Connie, had a blast this past week! Here is a recap of our hikes. We mixed them up pretty well, and I was mildly surprised to hear her tell me her favorite one.

We drove up to Sedona on Saturday early afternoon and took in Boynton Canyon - of course, she loved the spectacular scenery and a leisurely stroll. Best of all, she's not a shopper, so we just drove right on up to Flag for the night!

Sunday morning we cruised to the Canyon. To her dismay, it was snowing when we awoke and all the way to the rim! She just about cried when we arrived, as the clouds had covered any vistas, as well as any view more than 10 feet in front of my car. But I assured her the clouds would certainly part at some point if we continued with our hike down the Bright Angel trail. They did, and she was in awe the entire time - at least the times she wasn't sliding down the icy, shaded portions of the trail. I explained to her the importance of proper footwear, of course. And again, no shopping!

We drove back to Phoenix that night, and Monday we went to South Mountain for a 3.5 hour hike. Just ventured on the Ridge Line trail to the National, then proceeded to Hidden Valley. Connie took some awesome pictures of the plant life, and I manage to snap a shot of a lizard on the rock I climbed. Here is where she became addicted to Arizona - just sitting on a ledge (maybe Window rock?) and looking Northeast toward Four Peaks. It really was a spectacular view.

Finally on Tuesday, we did the short trip up Squaw Peak. She is still telling me how it kicked her butt! She rested all day yesterday.

Connie's heading home today (with maps and brochures for all her friends who may venture this way), but I'm convinced she'll be returning soon. Thanks again for all your feedback on this trip!

[ck_1]

Which was her favorite?

[BoyNhisDog]

Sounds fantastic! The geology of the Grand Canyon is very diverss through all of it's zones and Sedona is magic. The Four Peaks are 2 billion year old pre-cambrian rock. Not too many two day adventures like that.

[JohnB]

Sorry, I forgot to mention her favorite. Connie enjoyed South Mountain (Hidden Valley) the most, which I think is great, considering how convenient it is. I think the uniqueness of the landscape, the cactus varieties, and the animal life combined with the views to really make her day. And the workout was great, too!