We embarked on an incredible journey through Arizona, revisiting the state that had captivated us the year before. Arizona is a place that beckons travelers back, with its endless sites to explore, from ancient ruins to natural wonders. During our 2011 trip, we explored Antelope Canyon, parts of Utah, and Bryce Canyon. This time, our focus was on new destinations, including Cathedral Rock, the ruins of Palatki and Honaki, and the awe-inspiring Meteor Crater.
Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock Pathway
After landing in Phoenix, our first stop was Sedona. The next day, we set out on two remarkable trails: Cathedral Rock Trail and Bell Rock Pathway. Both trails offer easy to moderate hikes that don’t require any special gear, making them accessible for most travelers. Bell Rock Trail, in particular, seemed to emanate a positive energy, often referred to as “chi” by locals and visitors alike. Due to limited time, we didn’t complete the full hikes but explored the areas close to the trailheads, soaking in the breathtaking views before moving on to our next destination—the ancient ruins.
Palatki and Honaki Ruins: A Step Back in Time
Exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites is a must for me. Visiting places where our ancestors once lived feels like a gift, offering a connection to the past. The Palatki and Honaki ruins, both located off the beaten path, were top on our list. While Palatki can be reached with a sedan (if driven carefully), Honaki requires a more rugged vehicle—preferably a jeep—as the terrain can be challenging. For those who prefer a guided experience, there are 4×4 tours available, but we enjoy pushing our limits.
A side note: I discovered Palatki by accident during a photo shoot the previous May. I was following an eagle, hoping to capture it on camera, and ended up finding the path to Palatki. It felt like a good omen.
Seeing the ancient petroglyphs at these sites was awe-inspiring. Imagining what life was like for those who created these carvings, from the wildlife they encountered to the vast starry skies they slept under, was truly humbling. If you plan to visit, be sure to check the opening and closing times. We were fortunate to visit both sites, and it was well worth it.
Meteor Crater
Our visit to Meteor crater in Winslow, Arizona was, admittedly, a bit of a letdown. While the sight of the massive crater is impressive, the overall experience didn’t quite live up to our expectations. Fortunately, we were staying overnight in Flagstaff, so the detour wasn’t too far out of our way. Despite our mixed feelings, it’s still worth seeing at least once.
Our Fav Place To Eat and Drink in FlagStaff
For most of our travels, we rely on a large icebox packed with food, drinks, and snacks, which helps us save money. However, on this day, our hunger led us to seek out a local restaurant. We stumbled upon Beaver Street Brewery, drawn in by the attractive font on their signage. It turned out to be a fantastic find! We spent three hours in their bier garden, enjoying Hefe Weizen, Pilsener, Big Rapid Red, Marzen Lager, Bratwurst, pizza, and more. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
Our journey through Arizona, from the ancient petroglyphs to the Meteor Crater, was filled with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re seeking spiritual energy in Sedona, ancient history in the ruins, or cosmic wonders like the Meteor Crater, Arizona offers something for every traveler. Exploring this state never gets old, and each visit uncovers new layers of its rich and diverse landscape.
