Baker Park | Frederick

Information

Landmark: Baker Park
City: Frederick
Country: USA Maryland
Continent: North America

Baker Park, Frederick, USA Maryland, North America

Airport Mesa is a prominent geological formation located in Sedona, Arizona, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The mesa is composed of red sandstone, exhibiting layered strata. Its summit is relatively flat, with exposed rock surfaces and sparse desert vegetation, including juniper and pinyon pine. The elevation provides panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations and the Verde Valley.

Location & Access Logistics

Airport Mesa is situated approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) west of Sedona's central business district. Access is via Airport Road, which leads directly to the mesa summit. A dedicated parking lot is available at the top, with capacity for approximately 50 vehicles. Parking is managed by the City of Sedona and may have associated fees during peak hours. Public transportation options to the base of Airport Road are limited; the Sedona Shuttle does not service this specific location directly, requiring a transfer or taxi from a main route.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Airport Mesa is part of the Permian Schnebly Hill Formation, primarily composed of sandstone deposited by ancient windblown sand dunes. Its current elevation and form are the result of millions of years of erosion by wind and water. The area has been utilized by indigenous peoples for centuries, and its name derives from the former Sedona Airport, which operated on the mesa's summit from 1950 to 1974.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the Airport Mesa Loop Trail, a 1.4-mile (2.3 km) paved path encircling the summit, offering unobstructed views. Observation points are situated along the trail. Photography is a primary activity, particularly during sunrise and sunset. The mesa is also recognized as a vortex site, attracting individuals for meditation and spiritual practices.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the summit parking area. Limited shade is provided by natural rock overhangs and a few strategically placed benches. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable across the mesa. No food vendors are present on the mesa itself; dining options are located in the city center.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting conditions for photography, visit during the hour following sunrise or the hour preceding sunset. The best months for comfortable weather are typically April, May, September, and October, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

Airport Mesa is known for its purported energy vortex, believed by some to enhance spiritual awareness and healing. A specific point on the mesa, known as the "Vortex Site," is a popular destination for those seeking this experience. The mesa's geological layers are also a significant point of interest for geologists studying ancient desert environments.