Sedona's unique geology has attracted tourists and photographers for decades. Formed from ancient deposits of limestone, mudstone and sandstone, the towering formations are now named after the objects they resemble: Coffeepot, Cathedral and Bell Rock. Early Native Americans traveled to these formations because they were considered sacred. They honored Cathedral Rock as the birthplace of the first man and woman because it resembles a couple standing back to back.

We have enjoyed our five visits to Sedona, but each year it becomes more difficult to find the solitude that originally attracted us. We constantly heard traffic and construction noise and often hiked trails that ended in someone's back yard. Along the trails, we met wondering merchants selling Indian jewelry or T shirts. In town, time-share agencies disguise themselves as tourist information centers. When you ask them for information, they try to sell you a condo. Although Sedona has now become the home of more enterprising Gods, much of its natural beauty remains.