Hiking Adventure Session | Sedona | Michael+Todd Part I

Michael and Todd visited from Chicago in April, which in the midwest is a month that feels like it should be gearing up towards summer but always somehow winds up more like winter. They requested epic views and fun hikes so, jamming as much into the experience we drove north to Sedona and then later to Page (check out next week’s blog for part II!). This is part I: Micheal and Todd’s Hiking Adventure Session in Sedona Arizona.

So. I talk a lot about Peak Existence here at Aimee Flynn Photo. My mantra is, yes there will be epic photos but more than that you will have a frickin blast. 

And oh, boy, did we all have a blast. These two were up for absolutely everything and had a time and half doing it all, whether we were driving to our hiking spots and belting out show tunes, butt-scooting down a VERY steep trail, or snorting into a very protein forward lasagna.  Michael and Todd were pretty unfamiliar with the desert landscape, which I took as a sort of personal challenge to blow their minds as much as possible and it was SO FUN watching them experience my favorite places with fresh eyes.

We started the day off with one of my favorite hikes (which I took a very photojournalism approach too- this was Michael and Todd’s first introduction to Sedona so my goal was just to capture their authentic wonder and fun at the crazy new landscape). Antics ensued, which honestly turned into a theme of the trip.

Our second spot is where the true hiking adventure session began. It’s one of my favorites in Sedona but the hike up is not for the faint of heart…but Michael and Todd scampered up the smooth red rocks with total and complete ease. We reached the summit, stoked on the hike and blown away by the view. The sun was a tiny bit blocked by some clouds but we grabbed some photos off the vista before settling in to watch sunset. I had my eye on the clouds and was pretty sure the sun would make an appearance but you never know for sure with these things.

And then Arizona showed off. Hoooooooo boy did she show off. 

The sun slipped out from under the cloud cover and bathed the valley below in dreamy, golden light, and, speaking and moving very quickly, urged Michael and Todd back out at the vista. And I tried very hard not to scream behind my camera at the INSANE light. 

I did not succeed in this endeavor. 

I mean, can you even with that sunset? Gah, I love this state so much. Part II of Michael and Todd’s amazing adventures can be seen here. And if you want to see more of Sedona’s awesomeness, check out this vow-renewal! I also have a Sedona Elopement Planning Guide for more info on Sedona as an elopement location!