When I arrived in Arizona one of the very first things I noticed was its hidden beauty. But there was also something else I discovered; hard to put into words, an energy much like that on the mountain back home. Arizona is well known for its energy vortexes. Energy moves through all things great and small and it is unseen by most. A few of us actually see and feel its effects as we have become attuned to its vibration levels. Certain times and in the right places one can actually stand in the center of these great vortexes. These areas seem to gather, store and amplify energy; for those that are attuned to these energies it can be a very moving experience.

This picture is taking in the Sedona area very breathe taking beautiful energy; the picture can not do it justice. While standing or walking through these areas one may find that a great peace comes over them and the feeling of being energized.

This is Bell Rock in the town of Sedona; many come to visit and feel it.

Sedona is known also for its Red Rock. Due to the huge quantity of red sandstone formations, According to the Native American ' s their ancestors were the first people to settle in Sedona. There is much ancient history surrounding this and some really interesting theories concerning the Lady of the Pearl. As far as it is known the Yavapai-Apache ancestors were the first to settle here.

The Creation story of these people talk about how the Lady of the pearl bathed in the enchanted waters of Boynton Canyon after being sealed in a log with a woodpecker and sent to Montezuma ' s Well at the beginning of the great flood.

This is Montezuma ' s Well. This water hole is supplied by Underground River and springs. This is a natural limestone sinkhole located near Rimrock AZ; some one million four hundred thousand gallons of water flow through it every day. Its water is highly carbonated and also contains very high levels of Arsenic.

The first ever underwater archaeological survey to take place in a National Park was done here and lead by Archaeologist George R Fischer.

Native ' s that settled here built their homes in the cliffs surrounding the well. They used the water to grow crops by building irrigation canals.

This is Montezuma ' s Castle and if you look closely you can see how it was carved out of the mountain by the early native settlers of that time. The sand stone cliffs made great homes and afforded great protection for those that dwelled within them.

This river flows near by Montezuma ' s Castle.

There are many great things of beauty in the desert, below are some photos that one may find of interest.

If asked too, I ' ll write more on this subject. Arizona has much hidden beauty and many great energy vortexes for those that like to explore. It has a wealth of plants that are useable in making medicines for the sick and if you walk out onto the desert away from the lights of the city, should you take a moment and look up towards the heavens, you will not be disappointed for the night sky is filled with very bright stars.

 

South Mountain Park

With 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park is named the largest municipal park in the country. What is great about this state park is there is horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking for all ability levels. So, whether your hike is to be a great workout or a slower pace stroll, there is a trail for everyone. The main entrance is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Lost Dutchman State Park

Found in the Sonoran Desert at an elevation of 2000 feet, this park is shrouded in mystery and even has its own lost treasure legend. There are hiking trails, nature trails, 70 regular campsites, picnic amenities, and special programs throughout the year to keep you entertained if searching for gold isn't your thing. The superstition of the Mountains is based on Jacob Waltz "The Dutchman" who found a gold mine somewhere around Weaver's Needle. No one has found the mine because all tries have failed because of foul play, death, or missing and stolen maps. The park is open 365 days a year from sunrise to 10pm for you to go searching out the "lost mine".

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Their mission as stated on their website is "to instil in people an appreciation of plants through the fostering of educational, recreational, research and conservation opportunities associated with arid land plants." At this park their main goal is to teach visitors about the 3,200 different desert plants within the arboretum, and the more than 230 bird and 72 terrestrial species that can be found along the 1.5 mile main trail. They have guided tours that have special themes such as "Plants of the bible", Bird Walks, and Butterfly Walks just to name a few. During May, June, July and August the Arboretum is open daily from 6:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., whereas from September-through-April admission is taken daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

So, which type of state park are you? Are you the adventurous type who likes to hike, or are you the treasure hunter who seeks out lost mines, or are you the more educational type who loves to learn about birds, animals, and plants? Either way there are some great state parks near Phoenix that can satisfy anyone's personality.