Our adventure to the wild west was coming to an end. We had seen and experienced so much in the last week, but we still had some adventure left in us. It was decided another hike would be a good way to close out a wonderful week. We had been told Cathedral Rock was a must do! However, after reviewing the hiking guide and listening to the projected weather (hot – damn hot) we decided that may not be the best destination for the day. We chose the Crescent Moon Trail, which offers great views of Cathedral Rock and runs parallel to Oak Creek. The trail is flat and shaded so it seemed like the best way to close out the week.
Driving the long way to our morning activity to avoid the traffic of Sedona, we took in all the beauty around us. One cannot help to be in awe of the desolation and the beauty that Verde Valley offers. Unfortunately, yesterday on the train the big camera took a spill and the lens and camera body are no longer communicating. Primary picture duty now resides with the Canon G15 and our cell phones.
The trail was as advertised - flat, easy, and shaded. The water rippled along the trail and the stand of trees were beautiful including some very strange shapes we had never seen before. There were very few hikers, which made the walk even that more special. Oak Creek’s cool water offered a wonderful respite for man and beast.
At some points our shaded trail popped out briefly into open areas that offered spectacular views of Cathedral Rock. Once again the weatherman was correct, as the sun got higher so did the temperatures.
The creek for the most part is very shallow and meanders through the trees. There are sections where the water pools and it can be deep enough to discourage non-swimmers not to wade out into the creek.
Another lady, loaded down with bags and cameras, joined the couple on the beach as we were leaving. She decided to cross over the creek. Only steps away from the beach, we heard lots of noise and turned to see the woman struggling in the water after losing her footing. The man, who had just crossed the creek, was rushing out to help her. It was comical at first until we realized how grave the situation was. It was obvious the woman was in distress and needed help. Grabbing her and wedging his feet into the rocks the man held on tightly, but now also needed help to get the lady out of the water. Grabbing the hiker’s walking stick, Tom gave the man something to grab hold of and the lady wrapped her arms around his neck. They both pulled and were able to get the lady to the shore safely. There was no doubt that her camera got wet, but she was unharmed.
We delayed our return and sat at the beach and enjoyed more conversation with the man, who Tom now calls “The Rock”, and his wife. A little more exciting than we hoped for on our walk but still a lovely morning. It was a beautiful spot to chill for a while.
The walk back to the car was just as beautiful and the sounds of the water seemed more alive. There is just something about the sound of water that we enjoy. Listening to it on a beach in St John, a waterfall in North Carolina, or this creek in Arizona, a sense of peace and joy floods your mind.
Back in the parking lot we stopped to speak to a park volunteer. Driving a flagged golf cart, he took the time to give us a brief history on the area, the park, and some details about Cathedral Rock.
Then turning, he pointed up and told us if we wanted to see a great view of the park and Cathedral Rock, take a right out of the parking lot and drive around that mountain. He told us where to find the gravel parking lot and the trailhead to the ledge above.
Evidently the view is so stunning it is a prime choice for weddings in the area. Janet was all in… Tom was thinking about the trail. Did not look like there was any shade up there.
Finding the parking lot, we located the sign for the trailhead. Yep, as you can tell by the pictures, this is a Janet trail, and with the ominous name of Secret Slickrock Trail, Tom was concerned what lay ahead.
In actuality, it was a very short and beautiful walk with lots of cactus flowers and only a few slippery rocks. Albeit, Tom’s snake awareness was on heighten alert. Once again, no snakes were encountered and that was a good thing! Along the trail we encountered another biker who was managing to stay on and peddle through the rocks, sand, cracks and crevices.
Now on top, we found the biker that passed us taking a victory lap around the top before disappearing down the other side of the plateau.
The park volunteer had not lied – It was beautiful up here and well worth the walk! Not sure if where we were standing was one of the famous vortex locations, but if not, it sure should be.
The spot offered 360-degree views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains. We spent quite a bit time on top of the hill just taking it all in. We headed back down the trail reluctantly to our car.
Realizing our adventures were coming to an end, we drove back to the timeshare taking many turnoffs and back roads to ensure these amazing views would be stored in the depths of our memories.
Passing by many of the more popular trails that are highlighted in the brochures of the area, the magnitude of people and cars at the trailheads made us glad we had sought out the ones we enjoyed.
Returning to Highlands Ridge, Janet headed to the pool to chill and Tom went to Tumbleweed Winery to get another bottle of Graciano for dinner. Lamb on the grill for our final meal deserved a wine of such quality. A very relaxing end to our last day in Cornville. With our return flight not leaving until Saturday, it was decided that tomorrow we would take the backway over the mountain on 89A to Phoenix and see what new adventures we could enjoy.
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