This past mid-winter break (February, 2020), we joined friends and family on a memorable excursion through Arizona. Thought I’d share a few highlights of this sun-filled, other-worldly experience. I reflect on this visit in complete awe of the vast open spaces, spectacular colors (such a counterpoint to the greens & blues of the Pacific Northwest) and social, in-person camaraderie (as I write this during our 6th week at home during the COVID-19 pandemic). Amazing how the world has changed in the few short weeks after our return.
This trip somehow fell into place at the last minute, and I’m oh-so glad it did. My father joined us from Florida (even though his luggage didn’t). And, we got to explore one of the the world’s seven natural wonders with fast-friends from my daughter’s school. After getting our kicks on Route 66, we arrived at the Grand Canyon. It was simply breathtaking. Though it was our first visit, it was somehow familiar and alien at the same time. I simply couldn’t get enough of the various textures, play of light and sheer vastness. Sunrise, mid-day, sunset - each time of day offered a renewed experience. And the stars! I’ve never seen such a rich tapestry of twinkling lights in my life. It was so clear, I caught view of several planets and a satellite crossing the night sky.
En route to Sedona, we toured the Wupatki Peublo Ruins, a 12th Century Native American Community. This ancient structure was set in the valley of surreal volcanic berms spotted with sage. The stacked stone grew out of the boulders creating protective shelter and open arenas for cooking and gathering.
We enjoyed the remaining days at a laid back hotel in Sedona, strategically situated at the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon, such a unique place. Characterized by massive red-rock formations, as well as the contrasting riparian areas of Oak Creek Canyon, the area surrounding this beloved community is considered at least as beautiful as many national parks.
One of the highlights was a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, sitting high atop the red rocks. It was inspired and commissioned by local rancher and sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude. In 1932 she was inspired to build such a church by the construction of the Empire State Building. Staude initially attempted to do this in Budapest, Hungary with the help of Lloyd Wright, son of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. However, their attempt was aborted due to the outbreak of World War II. With this unfortunate turn of events, she decided to build the church in her native home land, Arizona.
Richard Hein was chosen as project architect, and the design was executed by architect August K. Strotz, both from the firm of Anshen & Allen. The chapel is built on Coconino National Forest land; the late Senator Barry Goldwater assisted Staude in obtaining a special-use permit. The construction supervisor was Fred Courkos, who built the chapel in 18 months at a cost of $300,000. The chapel was completed in 1956.
We were so inspired by our adventure that my 4th Grader became an official Junior Ranger. We vowed to fill her National Parks Passport with as many visits as we can in the years to come. How many of these national treasures can you check off your bucket list?
If exploring the Grand Canyon is on your bucket list, check out this Outside How article written by Brian offering many tips and tricks for a phenomenal camping experience.