TRACY SEES STUFF 👀

Tag: Featured

  • Holidays in Santa Fe, New Mexico

    Holidays in Santa Fe, New Mexico

    Things To Do for the Holidays in Santa Fe New Mexico

    The cool Minnesota air has me thinking about winter travels.

    Santa Fe, New Mexico is magical over the holidays. We had a blast celebrating the new year in this unique and historic city! Imagine seeing twinkling lights adorning the trees on Santa Fe Plaza, the comforting aroma of local cuisine in the air, creamy hot chocolate to warm your hands, and the sound of live local music on the streets.

    Before the New Year celebration, we enjoyed walking around town, learning about Santa Fe history, shopping, and eating. The historic buildings and churches are absolutely gorgeous.

    I toured the Loretto Chapel which was built in 1873 and learned about the legend of the “miraculous” spiral staircase. The chapel is a peaceful, special, place. It’s a must-visit.

    We stayed at The Sage Hotel, a dreamy bohemian retreat. It’s a spacious, comfortable, dog-friendly hotel. There is a park right across the street which was perfect for quick walks and dog potty breaks. Our girl, Utah, gave the bed two paws up. 🙂 She was a little tired after the long drive.

    Where to Eat in Santa Fe, New Mexico

    For authentic Northern Mexican cuisine, we went to Tomasita’s for lunch before walking around the Santa Fe Railyard (see more about the Railyard below). This was the best Mexican food that I’ve had in a long time. Hit the spot!

    For breakfast and coffee, you have to stop at The French Pastry Shop. Amazing French food! The quiche serving is huge and melts in your mouth. The service was above and beyond and we enjoyed the cozy atmosphere.

    For dinner, we loved the romantic Luminaria located at the Inn & Spa at Loretto. Delicious, innovative, Southwestern food with impeccable service.

    The Santa Fe Railyard is such a cool urban space. There are restaurants, shopping, art, events, and we loved watching the trains. What a fantastic idea to transform this historic area into an inviting space for the public to enjoy!

    If you’re REI addicts like us, you’ll love the REI in Santa Fe. 🙂

    We spent New Year’s Eve at the La Fonda on the Plaza. It was decorated with tons of balloons and looked so festive. One of the best things about traveling is the people that you meet. On this night, we met new friends and celebrated bringing in a new year with them. The following day, there was a snowstorm and all of us were getting back on the road. We had exchanged phone numbers, so as we all traveled, we texted each other giving weather updates. It was very helpful knowing we were there to help each other.

    Happy holidays and cheers to the new year!

    If you’re in the southwest, make sure to visit Sedona. Read more HERE and use the search bar to find all of our Sedona blog posts.

    ©What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Zion National Park – Dog Friendly Trail

    Zion National Park – Dog Friendly Trail

    Zion National Park’s Dog-Friendly Trail

    Most National Parks are not dog-friendly and for good reason. It’s important to remember that when traveling with dogs it will be a different type of trip. We always research and get creative knowing that the trip won’t be as flexible but traveling with our dog is worth it! Learn more about our experience at the stunning dog-friendly, Pa’rus trail, at Zion National Park below.

    Zion National Park offers one hiking trail that is dog-friendly (dogs must be kept on a leash). It is an easy, flat, trail that follows the Virgin River in the lower Zion canyon and is surrounded by beautiful views. The Pa’rus Trail is a 3.5 mile out and back trail. It’s very popular so it can get crowded. To try and beat the crowds, go in the morning, and beat the heat for your dog too.

    *Make sure to bring plenty of water for you AND your dog. The dry heat can sneak up on you and it’s so important to stay hydrated.

    Zion National Park dog friendly trail

    Utah’s first National Park

    Zion National Park is Utah’s first National Park. As you walk, the rocks, colors, and sky continuously change. Every step that I took, I wanted to take another picture to capture this grand landscape.

    Zion National Park

    Tips while traveling with your dog in the National Parks

    She was so happy that we found some shade!

    A few other tips while traveling with dog to recreating responsibly:

    • Bag your pet’s waste (we always pack extra poop bags in our backpack!)
    • Always keep your pet on a leash – always
    • Stay away from the wildlife – keep a good boundary
    • Know where you can go before you go – it will save you and your pet a lot of stress
    Pa'rus Trail Zion National Park

    We were fortunate on our way out to see the bighorn sheep. How cute is that baby?!

    Bighorn sheep Zion National Park

    Happy traveling!

    ©what stirs your soul media

  • Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Favorite Restaurants

    Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Favorite Restaurants

    Best Restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

    Driving Teton Pass towards Jackson from Idaho at sunrise is breathtaking. For the last few years, we have made it a priority to get up early and catch the sunrise at 8,432 feet. Then it’s off to Nora’s Fish Creek Inn for breakfast! Don’t miss any of the best restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

    Teton Pass Wyoming

    Our Favorite Breakfast Jackson Hole Wyoming

    Nora’s has rustic charm with outstanding service. The food always tastes like home. You can tell it’s cooked with love. ❤️

    Nora's Fish Creek Inn Jackson Hole Wyoming
    Best Restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

    To keep us going throughout the day, we stop for one more cup at Cowboy Coffee Co. They are located right across from Jackson’s quaint town square. Jackson Hole has that magic that makes you want to slow down and soak it all in. The town square is lovely to walk around, shop, and enjoy the scenery.

    Cowboy Coffee Co Jackson Wyoming
    Jackson Hole, Wyoming
    Jackson Hole, Wyoming

    The first time we went to Snake River Brewery, we were surprised. We knew that we loved their beer but we were not expecting the food to be so amazing! They make the best french onion soup and homemade pretzels. My husband loves their burgers and pizza.

    Snake River Brewing Jackson Hole Wyoming
    Snake River Brewing Jackson Hole Wyoming
    Snake River Brewing
    Snake River Brewery Jackson Hole Wyoming

    Best Eats Grand Teton National Park

    For beautiful mountain views, visit the Blue Heron Lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge for lunch or dinner to see the sunset. If you decide to stay at Jackson Lake Lodge, make sure to sign up for their Jackson Lake Scenic Breakfast Cruise! One of our all time best experiences, you can read about it here.

    Jackson Lake Lodge Grand Teton National Park
    Jackson Lake Lodge Grand Teton National Park

    Hand Fire Pizza located in the historic Teton Theater offers a fun location with delicious pizza. We were impressed with the level of service. We sat at the bar and enjoyed conversations with the manager and bartender. It’s always nice to get tips and ideas from the locals!

    Hand Fire Pizza Jackson Hole Wyoming
    Hand Fire Pizza Jackson Hole Wyoming

    For dessert, stop by the Jackson Drug for an ice cream cone. The first Jackson Drug opened in 1919 and closed its doors in 2001. In 2016, Nikki and Jessica Gill reopened bringing back a piece of Jackson’s past. You can read all about the history and their story here.

    Jackson Drug Co Jackson Wyoming

    While in Jackson, you have to stop at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. You can literally saddle up at the bar. Check out amazing live music and hit the dance floor.

    Cowboy Bar Jackson Wyoming
    Cowboy Bar Jackson Wyoming

    Other mentions that I didn’t get pictures because we were too busy enjoying ourselves. 🙂 Cafe Genevieve is our favorite! Every meal has been delicious, it’s cozy and quaint, with excellent service. You can sit outside on the porch with your dog too.

    We also always have a great time at the Silver Dollar Bar at the Wort Hotel. If you’re there on a Tuesday, make sure to stop in and enjoy the locals two stepping around the dance floor.

    Happy Traveling!

    ©What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Sedona, Arizona

    Sedona, Arizona

    Sedona, Arizona was on my bucket list and we finally made it happen!

    To say I fell in love is an understatement.

    The moment we got home, we booked our return trip. ❤️

    We arrived in the evening and we were welcomed by one of the famous Sedona sunsets. We stayed at Alma De Sedona Inn in West Sedona and we were so impressed with their level of service. I tend to shy away from bed & breakfast lodging but this was a wonderful experience. Here are a few highlights…

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    Mornings at Alma De Sedona Inn start with their famous breakfasts. Again, not being a “bed and breakfast” person and a bit of an introvert, I was skeptical BUT it was amazing! We had our own table and the moment we sat down, they served freshly brewed coffee along with juice and warm homemade muffins and scones. You can smell them baking when you wake up! Next is the main course which is different every day and made from scratch.

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    If you are seeking spirituality or alone time to connect with yourself and nature, Alma De Sedona Inn offers a Labyrinth and Medicine Wheel. I took full advantage of both…it’s so serene in their gardens and such a nice amenity.

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    Medicine Wheel Stones

    The property is so peaceful and quiet tucked back in a neighborhood but still walking distance to shopping, restaurants, and hiking trails. We loved the convenience of everything!

    A lot of people say to stay in Uptown but we really enjoyed West Sedona.

    Uptown is much busier and touristy.

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    Our favorite activity was going for hikes every day. We mostly did easy hikes because we were both fighting awful colds. They say Sedona has healing powers so we tried to get as much fresh air as possible. 😉 Here are a few of our favorite spots…

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    Cathedral Rock

    Our first hike was to the Cathedral Rock Vortex. I could have laid on the red rocks all day. Such an incredible view and when the sun hits the red rocks, it feels like heaven.

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    Chapel of the Holy Cross

    Chapel of the Holy Cross was breathtaking. We were told that it gets very busy so we arrived right when they opened which worked out great. I would definitely recommend getting there early!

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    Lighting a candle for prayer intentions.
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    We also really liked the variety and different trails in the Bell Rock area. 

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    Last but not least, the Aiport Loop Trail! The views at sunset are crazy gorgeous, there is a scenic lookout and a fantastic restaurant called Mesa Grill. 

    sedona-7416Other restaurant recommendations:

    Creekside Coffee and Bakery (perfect spot to catch up on work and enjoy a yummy cup of coffee), The Secret Garden and Cafe (best rueben and coleslaw EVER), The Hudson (wonderful views, service, and the pork chop was out of this world – definitely need a reservation).

    We also did a day trip to Jerome, Arizona and ate at The Mine for breakfast. Jerome is an artsy, old town with so much character and the drive up is something to see! 

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    We also loved going for a walk by the river at L’Auberge Restaurant. We had an incredible hamburger and bloody mary’s for lunch. It’s a treat to sit outside and enjoy the gorgeous views and comfy couches!

    My last recommendation is the Myofascial Release Treatment Center. This therapy was my saving grace after being diagnosed with Dystonia. Whether you are battling health issues or just tired after a hike…this is the perfect place to heal. 

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    I can’t wait to go back and explore because I know we barely scratched the surface!

    Please let me know if you have any questions or if you have recommendations.

    Happy traveling!

    This post was originally created in 2018. We’ve been back to Sedona each year since this original trip. See blog for more posts about Sedona.

    Hiking: https://tracyseesstuff.com/2020/07/26/hiking-in-sedona-arizona/

    Favorite Restaurants: https://tracyseesstuff.com/2020/08/01/top-restaurants-sedona-arizona/

    ©What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Southwest Utah

    Southwest Utah

    Exploring Southwest Utah – Monument Valley

    Navajo Nation’s Monument Valley Park is located on the Arizona/Utah border. These grand, mysterious, sandstone monuments formed over millions of years and show us what happens when Mother Nature is left alone to do her thing. It’s always an honor to explore Southwest Utah and Monument Valley.

    Goosenecks State Park Southwest Utah

    Our first stop as we headed towards Monument Valley from Durango, Colorado was Goosenecks State Park in Mexican Hat, Utah. It was mesmerizing looking at 300 million years of history in the layers and watching the San Juan River flow through the gooseneck on its way to Lake Powell. We highly recommend stopping here! It’s just as incredible as Horseshoe Bend with WAY fewer people. You can read more about Horseshoe Bend, HERE.

    We didn’t stop due to time restrictions but traveling this way, you will pass the Four Corners Monument. Stop in and stand in four states at once…Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona. Plus you can learn more about the Native Americans way of life at the Visitor Center.

    Monument Valley Southwest Utah
    Monument Valley Southwest Utah
    Goosenecks State Park Southwest Utah
    Goosenecks State Park

    Don’t Miss Mexican Hat, Utah

    Mexican Hat, Utah is a very small village named after this 60 ft rock that resembles an overturned sombrero. This area is remote so make sure you’re prepared before traveling with water, food, gas, etc.

    Mexican Hat, Utah

    Explore Southwest Utah and Monument Valley Backcountry

    Side note: If you want to hike and explore some of the scenic backcountry without having to get a permit, check out Valley of the Gods in Bluff, Utah right by Mexican Hat before arriving in Monument Valley. This area is on BLM land and the entrance is free. It might not be quite as grand as Monument Valley but it’s still gorgeous and wild. There is a 17-mile unpaved loop that you can drive to enjoy the scenery.

    Monument Valley Southwest Utah
    Monument Valley Southwest Utah

    Forrest Gump Point at Monument Valley

    As you near Monument Valley, you will pass Forrest Gump Point. (Remember when Forrest stopped running in the movie) Tons of people stop here to take the same photo from the movie. You’ll know when you arrive by all the cars that are pulled over.

    Forrest Gump Point Monument Valley

    The monuments stand 400-1000 feet. Mother Nature’s art.

    Monument Valley Southwest Utah
    Monument Valley Southwest Utah
    Monument Valley Southwest Utah

    See rates and hours for Monument Valley here: Navajo Nations Parks & Recreation.

    We also found a great beach at Lake Powell while we explored Southwest Utah.

    Enjoy the road!

    A reminder, some of this information may have changed due to COVID. Make sure you know before you go.

    © What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Sedona, Arizona – Hiking – Broken Arrow Trail

    Sedona, Arizona – Hiking – Broken Arrow Trail

    Broken Arrow is a new trail for us this year. We were hesitant to hike here because the trail runs parallel to the jeep path and we thought it would be disruptive. The jeeps didn’t bother us at all and it was fun to watch them cruising over the red rocks.

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    The hiking distance for Broken Arrow Trail is approximately 3 miles out and back. There are 12 parking spaces at the trailhead. The road to the parking lot is dirt for a short distance and very bumpy. There’s only room for one vehicle at a time on the dirt road to and from the lot so prepare to back up if another vehicle is coming. The trail is worth the little scramble of parking. This hike takes about 2 hours.

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    The 360° views are beautiful of the canyons and red rock spires.

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    Not far into the hike (at about 1/2 mile) you will come to Devil’s Dining Room. Devil’s Dining Room is a 50-foot wide and 90-foot deep sinkhole! The area is fenced off so you don’t miss it or accidentally fall in. 🙂 There are informative signs as you walk up explaining how the sinkhole was created and more about the bat colony that lives here.

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    Hello down there!

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    As you work your way up and you will see more signs for Chicken Point which is the top or you can take a side trail to Submarine Rock. Submarine Rock is a nice flat area to enjoy a picnic and the views. If you continue up to Chicken Point, you will also be connected to Little Horse trail to make this a longer hike.

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    When you see these views you will understand why so many old westerns were filmed in this area. You couldn’t create a better backdrop. I love the way the rock formations look in the shadow of the sun.

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    Almost all the trails in Sedona are pet-friendly as long as your dog is on a leash. Our little guy is having a blast hiking these red rock trails.

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    We always meet the nicest people hiking the trails. We met a professional photographer who offered to take our picture. So great to have a photo of the three of us on the trail.

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    Enjoy and keep on exploring!

    #WhatStirsYourSoul #RoadTrippinTheUS

    ©Tracy Blowers

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