Sedona is famous for its red rocks, wonderful hiking and energetic vortices. As some of you know, our family lived in the area for about 15 years before moving to Prescott. During our time in Sedona we did a good amount of hiking and, of course, experienced the choice places for shopping and dining. So, for our return anniversary trip we were looking specifically for a place where we could just nestle in and drop off the grid for some peace and calm.

We sure found it. The Orchard Canyon on Oak Creek was just what we were looking for and more. And what was really amazing is how gorgeous the creek was during the tail end of our monsoon season.

We drove up to the area around noon following a long morning of rain. We were familiar with the fact that the access road to the resort could have some water covering it – but, there was a lot more than we bargained for…

…one quick call to inquire about crossing it had the manager driving his Subaru over the creek demonstrating to us that it was no big deal. Certainly our 4 wheel drive could do it too.

After unloading and settling in, we went for a walk through the orchards and were amazed by the amount of apple trees growing in the fields. We appreciated how welcoming the entire estate was for us to meander around. There were gardens of flowers and vegetables, a large chicken coop and several more fruit trees running through the property. We also discovered a rough trail which gave us closer access to the creek.

It was so pleasant to be in nature without distraction for an extended period of time – walking on the green grasses and smelling the rain. We gave ourselves the luxury of encountering one thing at a time…reveling in the simplicity. It was a refreshing change for our minds.

The grounds have a total of 17 separate cabins – all fairly rustic and privately situated. We chose the one closest to the creekside (#4) and enjoyed the roar of the water as it thrust its way down the canyon. We didn’t hear any traffic from the road that parallels the creek but in a different season we might have. Our particular cabin was wonderful with a comfortable king size bed and a nice table with bench seating that cantilevered over the 50 foot drop to the water. We sat on our front porch taking in the sights and sounds until it was time for dinner to arrive.

The fare at Orchard Canyon is farm to table and usually served in the dining room at the main lodge. But, the pandemic granted us with room service which we were happy to receive in order to stay in our secluded setting. Salmon with an apricot glaze, fresh greens and peach cobbler were the highlights. Breakfast the next morning was equally fresh and hot – delivered, once again, straight to our door.

Orchard Canyon would make a wonderful getaway for a honeymoon or anniversary (in our case) but would also be a great place for a family reunion or small wedding party.

We hope to revisit soon and maybe bring our clan to get some quality family time without distractions (no tvs on the premises). It’s right near the West Fork Trailhead and Slide Rock Area – so hiking would be an easy excursion from the site.

By the way, nestled in the trees we spotted a pavilion that would make for a great practice studio. Maybe a yoga retreat could be something to plan in 2022…

Sending peace to you!

Namasté, Kim