Sedona, Arizona: Red Rocks, Cold Days, and Accessible Family Adventure

 

Our 17th wedding anniversary took us to one of the most beautiful landscapes in the American Southwest—Sedona, Arizona. We expected sunshine and warm desert temperatures, but instead found crisp air and surprisingly cold conditions. Even bundled up in jackets, the cool weather couldn't diminish the incredible scenery surrounding us. Every direction revealed towering crimson cliffs, sculpted buttes, and massive sandstone formations glowing against brilliant blue skies.

This trip took place years before Kellisa's Path existed, so we weren't documenting every mile, trail name, or elevation gain like we do today. Looking back, that's one of my biggest regrets. What I do remember, though, is how much fun we had together and how determined we were to experience Sedona beyond the overlooks.

At the time, accessibility equipment was extremely limited compared to what exists today. Instead of specialized all-terrain wheelchairs, we relied on the largest off-the-shelf jogging stroller we could find. It wasn't designed for rugged hiking, but it opened far more possibilities than a standard wheelchair ever could.

The stroller allowed us to venture onto trails that would have otherwise been impossible for Kellisa. Some paths were smooth enough to roll comfortably, while others demanded teamwork, patience, and plenty of determination. Rocky terrain, loose sand, roots, and occasional creek crossings meant that every hike required us to constantly evaluate the route ahead.

One memory that stands out is navigating shallow washes and uneven creek beds. The oversized wheels of the jogging stroller handled obstacles surprisingly well, but there were still plenty of moments where lifting, pushing, and carefully guiding the stroller over rocks became part of the adventure. We weren't chasing mileage or checking destinations off a list—we were simply exploring together and seeing how far we could go.

The dramatic scenery made every effort worthwhile.

Towering cathedral-like red rock walls rose hundreds of feet overhead, their layered sandstone glowing in shades of deep red, orange, and gold. Massive buttes dominated the skyline while jagged rock spires seemed to reach toward the clouds. Even on colder days, the changing light transformed the landscape from hour to hour, creating an entirely new view every time we rounded another bend.

One of our favorite moments was simply finding open spaces where we could stop, take in the scenery, and appreciate how unique Sedona really is. The contrast between the evergreen junipers, cottonwood trees, and brilliant red cliffs created unforgettable views in every direction.

Looking back through our photos, I smile seeing Kellisa happily riding in the jogging stroller. She was always excited for the next adventure, and that enthusiasm encouraged us to keep pushing a little farther than we might have otherwise. Those early experiences taught us that accessibility often isn't about perfectly paved trails—it's about creativity, persistence, and finding ways to experience nature together.

Because we didn't keep detailed records, I honestly don't remember which trails we hiked or exactly how many miles we covered. I don't recall anything especially extreme, but I do know we enjoyed a healthy mix of easier walks and more challenging adventures. Some trails were relaxing strolls beneath towering cliffs, while others required considerably more effort as we pushed the stroller over rough terrain.

Although I wish we had taken more photographs and recorded more details, the memories remain vivid. Sedona became one of those places that reminded us why we loved traveling together. Every challenge was rewarded with another breathtaking vista, another incredible rock formation, and another shared accomplishment as a family.

In many ways, this anniversary trip represented the beginning of the adventures that would eventually become Kellisa's Path. Long before we ever imagined documenting accessible travel, we were already discovering that determination, teamwork, and a sturdy jogging stroller could take us much farther than anyone expected.

Sedona's red rocks challenged us, inspired us, and gave us memories that have lasted for decades. While the cold weather caught us by surprise, it never slowed us down. Together, we explored one of America's most iconic landscapes, proving once again that adventure isn't defined by perfect accessibility—it's defined by refusing to let obstacles keep you from experiencing extraordinary places together.

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