Monday, April 2, 2012


 Captain's Log: Respite and Rejuvenation - Stardate 66163.3 (2012)


Prologue:
Following an extended period in the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness, the traveler seeks respite and rejuvenation at a local retreat.

Main Entry:

After a month spent immersed in the rugged beauty of the wilderness, particularly the demanding exploration around Warrior's Wall and Loy Canyon, a change of pace was in order. The constant carrying of a backpack and navigating the elements took its toll. A comfortable room and a chance to freshen up were greatly needed.

Serendipitously, a local retreat proved to be the perfect sanctuary. A fortunate encounter with a fellow traveler, a homeless girl in need of shelter, led to a shared accommodation. The honeymoon suite, surprisingly available and secured with a $147 discount, provided luxurious comfort for a one-week stay from Monday, April 2nd through Sunday, April 8th, 2012, at the remarkably low cost of $189.

The suite's amenities were extensive and contributed greatly to the much-needed rest and relaxation. It featured a Full Kitchen equipped with a Dishwasher, Stove, Refrigerator, And All Appliances, allowing for convenient meal preparation. The Lovely Comfortable Bedroom boasted a King Bed and a Large Window with Incredible Views of the Scenic Red Rock landscape. These breathtaking Views From the Large Bedroom Window provided a constant connection to the beauty of Sedona, even while indoors.

The suite also included a comfortable Living room, perfect for unwinding. The Beautiful Tile and Talavera Sink in the Bathroom added a touch of local charm. Stepping onto the patio or relaxing in the living room offered even more stunning vistas, with a Thunder Mountain View From the Patio And Living Room and a captivating Chimney Rock View from the Patio and Living Room. The traveler even noted Another View of Chimney Rock and Thunder Mountain from a different vantage point within the suite. The emphasis on these gorgeous red rock panoramas underscores the immersive experience of being in Sedona, even during a period of rest.

However, the primary focus of this log entry remains on rest and recuperation, and the unexpected companionship. The traveler explicitly states, "Sorry no photos as we just settled in for the week and enjoyed each other's company in more ways than one." This suggests a period of intense relaxation and personal connection, a deliberate withdrawal from the rigors of exploration.

This interlude of rest was, however, not the end of the journey. The traveler hints at a new adventure, stating, "Then we set off for another adventure hiking A Rainbow Graces of Thunder Mountain's Beauty in and around Secret mountain Wilderness where we found a cave and nestled down in! But that's another story." This suggests a continued exploration of the Sedona area, albeit perhaps with a renewed vigor after the week of respite. The mention of a "cave" hints at a return to a more rugged, less conventional form of accommodation.

Conclusion: This log entry marks a temporary shift in the traveler's journey, from demanding wilderness exploration to a period of much-needed rest and personal connection in a well-appointed honeymoon suite with stunning red rock views, from April 2nd to April 8th, 2012. The amenities provided a luxurious respite, allowing the traveler to recharge before embarking on yet another adventure in the Sedona landscape.

Epilogue: The USS Urland Universe notes the traveler's transition from intense wilderness exploration to a period of rest and rejuvenation in a comfortable suite with exceptional views, from April 2nd to April 8th, 2012. The subsequent mention of Thunder Mountain and a cave suggests a continuation of the Sedona incursion, albeit with a renewed focus and a new companion. Further logs will be required to detail this next phase of the journey.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

 Supplemental Log: The Sedona Traveler Revelation - Stardate 66151.1 (2012)


Prologue:
Following the detailed "2012 Incursion" logs, the USS Urland Universe has uncovered a latent resonance within the data,

has identified a compelling anomaly: the distinct focus and meticulous documentation of the traveler's journey through Sedona suggest motivations extending beyond mere sightseeing. This combined log synthesizes our analysis, drawing parallels with the enigmatic beings known as Travelers from future Starfleet records to explore the potential deeper significance of the Sedona traveler's incursion.

(Image: A conceptual AI image depicting a humanoid being, the Traveler, with eyes shimmering with galaxies, surrounded by a soft, ethereal glow and subtle spacetime distortions.)


Caption: A conceptualization of the Traveler, a being of immense power and enigmatic purpose, whose characteristics resonate with the observed actions of the Sedona traveler.

(Image: The provided picture of Montezuma Well, with a captioned below)



Caption: Montezuma Well: Could this serene location have held a key to the traveler's deeper understanding of this reality in 2012?Cliff Dwellings around the crest of Montezuma's well below!



Main Entry:



As the New USS Urland Universe meticulously reviewed the logs of the "2012 Incursion," subtle patterns and echoes began to emerge, hinting at a connection beyond simple curiosity during that period. The traveler's focused exploration of specific sites – Palatki's ancient pictographs, Honanki's cliff dwellings, the unique ecosystem of Montezuma Well, the historical significance of Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot, and finally, the secluded power of Warrior's Wall and Loy Canyon – suggests a deliberate seeking, a piecing together of a larger narrative in 2012.

The intensity of the traveler's engagement, the dedication to reaching even the most remote locations, resonates with the accounts of the being known as "The Traveler" encountered by the USS Enterprise-D in their future. That Traveler, driven by a stated curiosity to experience "your reality," often seemed to possess an underlying awareness, a sensitivity to the currents of time and the significance of individuals and places.

Could the Sedona traveler's journey in 2012 have been similarly motivated by something beyond surface-level exploration? Was there an awareness of the ancient energies, the historical weight, or perhaps even the latent future possibilities held within these sites at that time? The meticulous nature of the incursion suggests a significance beyond a typical tourist experience from that year.

Consider the parallels, even as we observe from our temporal vantage point: The Starfleet Traveler's ability to act as a "lens focusing thought" might be mirrored in the traveler's focused engagement with the Sedona landscape. The mystery surrounding the Starfleet Traveler's origins and understanding of time could also apply to the deeper motivations behind the Sedona traveler's specific incursion in 2012.

The intense focus on locations tied to ancient cultures, the reverence shown for the ruins and rock art in 2012, hints at a potential connection to the past, a seeking of knowledge or understanding from those who came before. The final journey into the secluded wilderness, to sites imbued with a sense of timelessness in that year, could represent a culmination, a moment of profound connection.

Conclusion: The evidence suggests that the Sedona traveler's "2012 Incursion" may have been more than a simple exploration of historical sites at that time. The deliberate selection of locations, the depth of engagement, and the detailed nature of the recorded experience point towards a deeper purpose, a seeking of understanding or connection with the ancient echoes of Sedona in 2012. Perhaps, like their namesake from the future, this traveler was on a unique journey to experience and comprehend a particular facet of reality as it existed then.

Epilogue: The New USS Urland Universe will continue to hold these intriguing possibilities in its databanks, recognizing that some journeys transcend mere observation and may hold revelations yet to be fully understood, even as we continue our temporal monitoring.




Saturday, March 31, 2012

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 7

 Part Part 7: Warrior's Wall and Loy Canyon Ruins Incursion (via Mescal Trail Dwellings) - Stardate 66162.2 & 66162.6 (2012) (Combined)


Prologue: The USS Urland Universe concludes its "2012 Incursion" series, documenting the traveler's exploration of the more remote and challenging sites within the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness: Warrior's Wall and Loy Canyon Ruins, accessed via the Mescal Trail Dwellings, during the week of March 26th through March 31st, 2012.



By documenting the traveler's exploration of the more remote and challenging sites within the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness: Warrior's Wall and Loy Canyon Ruins, accessed via the Mescal Trail Dwellings.

Main Entry:

The traveler's exploration of the more secluded ancient sites began with the Mescal Trail Dwellings (easiest cave access: 34.906116, -111.841041; parking at Boynton Canyon Trailhead: 34.907356, -111.848582, $5 fee). The hike along this trail offered relatively easy access to several cliff dwellings nestled within the red rock formations, providing a taste of the hidden history within the wilderness.


The journey then extended towards Loy Canyon, leading to Warrior's Wall and its significant ancient rock art (coordinates: 34.941757, -111.918899) and the Loy Canyon Ruins (34.946721, -111.927306). Parking for this section was free at the Loy Canyon Trailhead (34.932065, -111.925126). The traveler's log described this as a more challenging endeavor, involving trail finding and navigating a "sketchy ledge," highlighting the adventurous spirit required to reach these well-preserved remnants of the past.


The Loy Canyon Trail itself, a sandy path winding deep into a canyon with towering walls, offered breathtaking scenery, a stark contrast to the more accessible and populated heritage sites. The discovery of the intact cliff dwellings and the wall adorned with hundreds of ancient rock art paintings provided a profound connection to the people who once called this rugged landscape home. The traveler noted the sense of solitude and tranquility in Loy Canyon, a welcome escape from the more frequented areas of Sedona.


The Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness, encompassing these hidden treasures, spans over 50,000 acres of dramatic landscapes, sculpted by millennia of wind and water. The traveler's exploration underscored the vastness and the enduring mystery held within this protected area. Respect for these fragile and significant sites was paramount throughout the traveler's journey: "Visit these places with respect, and do not mark on or take anything from these sites."



Here is an image of the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, the starting point for accessing the Mescal Trail:



Here is a map of the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness area, illustrating the location of Boynton Canyon, Fay Canyon, Long Canyon, and other trails explored:



Here is an image of the cliff dwellings along the Mescal Trail:



The traveler's log noted that the trail into Loy Canyon is rarely used, likely due to its nearly 10-mile roundtrip distance and the "difficult" rating for the full rim ascent. However, as the traveler discovered, those who choose the shorter routes to the rock art (rated easy at 1 mile one way) and the ruins (rated moderate at 1.26 miles one way) are rewarded with significant historical and cultural treasures.


Here is an image of the Loy Canyon Trail, showcasing the trail sign:


Here is an image of the Warrior's Wall rock art:


The ancient Sinagua, ancestors of the modern Hopi, clearly recognized the value of this area, building their largest cliff dwellings in Red Rock Country – Honanki and Palatki – near Loy Butte and creating their most impressive rock art panels here, including the "Wall of the Ancients" across the canyon, which spans almost 100 yards and is thought to contain images from every culture to ever occupy the Verde Valley. Interestingly, the traveler noted that while many New Age beliefs center around Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, the Sinagua primarily did not inhabit the immediate Sedona area, evidenced by the few small cliff dwellings and the absence of rock art panels there.


The trail into Loy Canyon, initially working its way around the privately-owned Hancock Ranch, eventually drops down next to a dry creek bed, leading to the turnoff for the Wall of the Ancients just beyond the private property line (marked by a "No Trespassing" sign). The turnoff to Warrior's Wall is approximately 0.3 miles further. The traveler's log mentioned the importance of careful route finding, noting that many visitors mistakenly turn off too soon, leading to difficult and fruitless climbs.


The famous "Warrior's Wall," an unforgettable defensive structure built on a narrow ledge to protect a valuable water source, showcased the ingenuity of its builders. The traveler recognized that while often photographed for its defensive aspect, it is part of a larger cliff dwelling complex.


The traveler's exploration of Loy Canyon, with its rarely used trail and significant archaeological sites, provided a profound connection to the ancient Sinagua and the rich history held within the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness. The traveler was mindful of the need to "tread lightly," aware of potential monitoring and the importance of reporting any illegal activity or vandalism to the Coconino National Forest.


Conclusion: The exploration of Warrior's Wall and Loy Canyon Ruins, accessed through the Mescal Trail and the Loy Canyon Trail, marked a fitting conclusion to the traveler's "2012 Incursion" during the week of March 26th to 31st, revealing the significant and well-preserved ancient heritage within the stunning and less-trafficked Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness.


Epilogue: The USS Urland Universe concludes its "2012 Incursion" series, having documented the traveler's comprehensive exploration of Sedona's established heritage sites and its more hidden historical treasures from March 26th to 31st, 2012. The detailed information about the Loy Canyon area further enriches our understanding of this significant archaeological landscape.

Saturday, March 24, 2012

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 6

 Part 6: Tuzigoot National Monument Incursion - Stardate 66149.5 (2012)

Prologue: The USS Urland Universe continues its "2012 Incursion" series, documenting the traveler's exploration of Tuzigoot National Monument.



Main Entry:

Tuzigoot National Monument (34.770215, -112.026229), located just east of Clarkdale, Arizona, charged a $10 parking fee (same coordinates). Here is an image of the Tuzigoot ruins:

The name "Tuzigoot," an Apache word meaning "crooked water," refers to the remnant of a significant Sinaguan village built atop a limestone and sandstone ridge, approximately 120 feet above the Verde River floodplain, about 1,000 years ago. The Tuzigoot monument comprises 110 stone masonry rooms, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.


Ruins in Tuzigoot National Monument - GETTY



Archaeologists consider the Verde Valley an aboriginal melting pot where at least four prehistoric cultures intermingled. Tuzigoot is the vestige of a Sinagua village erected between 1125 and 1400 AD. The Sinagua people, whose name is Spanish for "without water," initially lived in pithouses and practiced dry farming around 600 AD. By 1125, they began constructing above-ground masonry structures and large pueblos on hilltops or in cliff alcoves, with Tuzigoot being a prime example of these later settlements. The original pueblo consisted of 77 ground floor rooms and at least 15 rooms on the second floor, totaling 92 excavated rooms. With few exterior doors, residents likely used wood-pole ladders to access the interior through roof hatchways.

It is believed that the population growth at Tuzigoot, and the subsequent building of additional rooms, was partly due to farmers migrating from drought-stricken outlying areas. Visitors are invited to walk in and around Tuzigoot, imagining the daily lives of the Sinagua who farmed, hunted, and created pottery and artwork in this area centuries ago.

Tuzigoot National Monument by Robert West - GETTY.



The Verde Valley itself owes its name (Spanish for "green") to the copper mineral malachite, although legend suggests Spanish explorers discovered gold near the Verde Fault in 1583. The region's true treasure was chalcopyrite, mined near Jerome from 1876 to 1953, with Clarkdale serving as the site of the smelting mill.



The preservation of Tuzigoot was aided by its location on land owned by the United Verde Company after white settlement. In 1933, local and federal support enabled Louis Caywood and Edward Spicer to begin clearing the site. By 1935, they had excavated the main block of rooms and numerous surrounding units, uncovering 86 rooms and several hundred burials. Floors and masonry walls were preserved, and some rooms were restored for public display. A museum was constructed nearby to house the artifacts discovered at the ruins. Thanks to the efforts of public-spirited local citizens, the entire ridge with Tuzigoot, the museum, and its collection was donated to the federal government. President Franklin Roosevelt proclaimed it Tuzigoot National Monument in 1939.

The abundant water in the Verde Valley provides a rich habitat for various plants and animals, including deer, antelope, rabbits, and numerous bird species. The valley was formed by the Verde Fault, which uplifted the Black Hills and impounded the Verde River, creating a series of lakes and the deposition of the thick Verde Formation.

Conclusion: Tuzigoot National Monument stands as a significant testament to the Sinagua culture, offering insights into their architecture, way of life, and adaptation to the unique environment of the Verde Valley. Its preservation as a National Monument underscores its importance in understanding the region's rich prehistory.

Epilogue: The USS Urland Universe has documented the traveler's exploration of Tuzigoot National Monument, highlighting its historical and cultural significance, as well as the geological context of the Verde Valley. The series continues with the traveler's exploration of the more remote sites.

Friday, March 23, 2012

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 5

 Part 5: Montezuma Well Heritage Site Incursion - Stardate 66148.7 (2012)


Prologue: The USS Urland Universe continues its "2012 Incursion" series, documenting the traveler's exploration of Montezuma Well Heritage Site.




Main Entry:

Montezuma Well Heritage Site (34.649152, -111.752286) stood out as a free site with free parking (34.648637, -111.754407) for the traveler. Located off I-17, outside of Sedona, the well impressed the traveler with its "amazing desert oasis views" alongside the ruins. Here's a view of Montezuma Well:



The land around Montezuma Well has been inhabited by various prehistoric groups since approximately 11,000 CE. The first historical groups arrived in the Verde Valley after Arizona became a territory in 1863. While some accounts suggest Spanish settlers passed through the area in the 1500s, they did not establish settlements.

The first Anglo-Americans to settle at Montezuma Well were Wales and Jennie Arnold in 1870. They operated a mail station and utilized the prehistoric irrigation canal to water their land. Ownership of the land then changed hands among ranchers, farmers, and business individuals until William and Marjorie Back claimed it. They managed a ranch, farm, and orchard. Legend has it that Abraham Lincoln “Link” Smith acquired the land around the Well in 1887 for a single horse, later selling it to the Backs in 1889 for a team of horses, thus "doubling his profit".

The Backs transformed Montezuma Well into a tourist attraction, charging for tours, displaying artifacts from nearby archaeological sites, and eventually operating campgrounds, picnic areas, and a resort. Popular attractions included boat tours of the Well. The family even made an unsuccessful attempt to stock the Well with fish for visitors to catch, but the fish did not survive. The Backs owned and maintained the land surrounding the Well for over 60 years.

In 1943, the Backs agreed to sell the land to the US government, and Congress approved the legislation. However, due to funding delays, Montezuma Well did not become part of the National Park Service until 1947. Montezuma Well now functions as a separate unit within Montezuma Castle National Monument. The National Park Service utilized the Back house and other structures until the Mission 66 initiative of the 1950s, which led to their removal. However, many of the original structures remain and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, visitors can still observe the irrigation canal, picnic areas, and the historic Back ranch house at Montezuma Well. The traveler was encouraged to explore the trails at Montezuma Well, noting its tranquility and its continued significance to local tribes. The shaded forest near the swallet ruin and the outlet provides a welcome respite from the Arizona sun, with temperature differences of up to 20 degrees cooler than the rim of the Well. The traveler imagined the Sinagua people spending hot summer days in this peaceful setting.

Conclusion: Montezuma Well offers a unique experience, blending natural beauty with a rich history spanning millennia. From its ancient inhabitants to its transformation into a tourist destination and its eventual incorporation into the National Park Service, Montezuma Well holds a significant place in the narrative of the Verde Valley. The well impressed the traveler with its "amazing desert oasis views" alongside the ruins. Notably, cliff dwellings are also perched along the rim of Montezuma Well, offering further evidence of ancient habitation. Here is a view of these cliff dwellings:



Epilogue: The USS Urland Universe has documented the traveler's exploration of Montezuma Well, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. The series continues with the traveler's exploration of Tuzigoot Heritage Site.

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 4

 Part 4: Montezuma Castle Heritage Site - Stardate 66149.1

Prologue: The "2012 Incursion" series continues with the traveler's visit to the iconic Montezuma Castle Heritage Site, as monitored by the USS Urland Universe.


View of the Red Rocks in Sedona Arizona



Main Entry:

Montezuma Castle Heritage Site (34.613187, -111.836616), located off I-17, required a $10 parking fee (same coordinates). Established December 8, 1906, Montezuma Castle holds the distinction of being the third National Monument dedicated to preserving Native American culture. This remarkable 20-room high-rise apartment, nestled into a towering limestone cliff, tells a compelling story of ingenuity, survival, and ultimate prosperity in an unforgiving desert landscape.

The traveler approached this site with a sense of historical reverence, recognizing its importance in understanding the ancient people who inhabited this region. While direct access inside the castle was prohibited, the sheer architectural marvel of the cliff dwelling, built centuries ago, was a striking sight. The surrounding area contained additional ruins, offering further glimpses into this ancient civilization, along with a visitor center and museum providing valuable context.

The traveler noted significant crowd variations depending on the time of year. Respect for this significant cultural site was paramount: "Visit these places with respect, and do not mark on or take anything from these sites." The traveler also explored information provided by the National Park Service about the ancient people of Montezuma Castle, the unique geology and natural resources of the area, and their ongoing efforts in Native American Heritage Month.

Conclusion: Montezuma Castle Heritage Site offers a profound connection to the past, showcasing the remarkable ingenuity of the ancient people who built this cliff dwelling. Its historical significance as one of the earliest National Monuments dedicated to Native American culture underscores its importance.

Epilogue: The traveler's experience at Montezuma Castle has been recorded by the USS Urland Universe, highlighting the site's historical and cultural significance. The series moves on to the penultimate established site visited by the traveler.

Friday, March 16, 2012

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 3

 Part 3: Montezuma Well Heritage Site - Stardate 66148.5 (2012)

Prologue: The "2012 Incursion" series progresses with the traveler's exploration of Montezuma Well Heritage Site, a location offering a blend of ruins and natural beauty, as observed by the USS Urland Universe.


View of Sedona Arizona



Main Entry:

Montezuma Well Heritage Site (34.649152, -111.752286) stood out as a free site with free parking (34.648637, -111.754407), according to the traveler's data. Located off I-17, outside of Sedona, the well impressed the traveler with its "amazing desert oasis views" alongside the ruins, a sentiment echoed in our environmental scans. The traveler recommended hiking down into the well and exploring the outflow irrigation channels. Respect for the site was consistently observed.

Conclusion: Montezuma Well offers a unique and accessible experience, combining history and natural beauty without an entry fee, as documented by the USS Urland Universe.

Epilogue: The traveler's visit to Montezuma Well has been documented by the USS Urland Universe. Our series continues with the next heritage site.

Monday, March 12, 2012

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 2

Part 2: Honanki Heritage Site - Stardate 66147.3 (2012)

Prologue: Our "2012 Incursion" continues with the traveler's visit to Honanki Heritage Site, a location presenting unique accessibility challenges, as monitored by the USS Urland Universe.


View of Sedona Red Rocks



Main Entry:

Honanki Heritage Site (34.939391, -111.933265) offered a glimpse into cliff dwellings and further examples of ancient pictographs, as recorded by our observation team. However, the traveler's log emphasized the treacherous and rough road leading to the parking area (34.936783, -111.934413; $5 fee). A vehicle with mid to high clearance and 4WD was deemed essential based on our analysis of the terrain. Once at the site, the ruins were accessible via a walking path. The traveler recommended consulting a guide for a deeper understanding, a suggestion supported by our cultural data. The principle of respect remained: "Visit these places with respect, and do not mark on or take anything from these sites."

Conclusion: Honanki rewards the determined traveler with historical insights, but requires careful consideration of vehicle capabilities, as noted by the USS Urland Universe.

Epilogue: The traveler's journey to and exploration of Honanki has been recorded by the USS Urland Universe. Our series will proceed to the next location.

Saturday, March 3, 2012

2012 Incursion: A Seven-Part Series - Captain's Log Part 1

Part 1: Canyon Villa Incursion - Stardate 66147.1 (2012)

Prologue: The USS Urland Universe initiates its "2012 Incursion" series, beginning with the establishment of the traveler's base of operations at Canyon Villa Bed & Breakfast in Sedona, Arizona.



Main Entry:

Our traveler arrived at Canyon Villa (40 Canyon Circle Drive, Village of Oak Creek) on March 3rd, 2012, an award-winning Bed & Breakfast Inn nestled in the heart of the region. Its unique design showcases breathtaking panoramas of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, two iconic Red Rock landmarks that immediately captivated the traveler. Here's a view from the pool patio, which the traveler also used in their original blog post:



Canyon Villa, a world-renowned private Sedona Bed and Breakfast recognized in Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards and even securing a top 25 World Ranking back in 2012, was strategically chosen for its proximity to key hiking trails and its comfortable amenities. The inn catered perfectly to the traveler's adventurous spirit. The proud owners and resident innkeepers were incredibly welcoming and dedicated to ensuring a memorable vacation for the traveler.

Each day began with a delightful gourmet breakfast, fueling the traveler's early morning explorations. The inn's location in the Village of Oak Creek offered a serene atmosphere with easy access to the Bell Rock Pathway and Courthouse Butte Loop Trail, both reachable within minutes. The spectacular views from the property itself were a constant source of inspiration for the traveler.

Throughout the week of March 3rd to 10th, the weather was generally fair, with mild daytime temperatures ideal for hiking. Canyon Villa's exceptional cleanliness, comfortable rooms, and attentive service provided a welcome respite after long days on the trails for the traveler. The innkeepers also offered valuable local knowledge and assistance to the traveler.

Conclusion: Canyon Villa served as the ideal foundation for the traveler's "2012 Incursion" into Sedona, offering both comfort and convenient access to the region's renowned hiking trails.

Epilogue: With the traveler's base established at Canyon Villa, the USS Urland Universe will now document the subsequent explorations of the ancient heritage sites in the Sedona region in the following entries of this series.