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With a nod to traditions of the past and an awareness of the pressures of the present, the Briar Patch Inn offers a most beautiful and peaceful escape.
By Linda & Dr. Dick Buscher Throughout history, those seeking peaceful refuge find it at the cabins at Oak Creek. As you enter your cabin at this little, secluded inn, you will find a small box with a card. On the card is a message that captures the spirit of the inn. It reads: | “There is a legend amongst the highland Indian village of Guatemala. If you have a problem, then share it with a Worry-doll. Before going to bed, tell one worry to each doll, then place them beneath your pillow. Whilst you sleep the dolls will take your worries away. Please have this small token from the Briar Patch Inn hoping you will leave your worries behind.” |
With a nod to traditions of the past and an awareness of the pressures of the present, the Briar Patch Inn, nestled along the banks of Oak Creek near Sedona, offers one of the most beautiful and peaceful escapes in all of Arizona.
It was here, by the trout-filled stream protected by canyon walls, that a German carpenter name Raacke would find peace and solace from the hustle of the 1930s lifestyle. His Oak Creek paradise was just three miles up the canyon from a small settlement that provided just enough human companionship. Among the few settlers scratching a living in this beautiful landscape were the town’s namesake, Sedona Schnebly and her husband, Theodore. But Mr. Raacke’s quiet world changed suddenly in 1940 when Hollywood discovered Sedona was a perfect backdrop to shoot Westerns. Actors, producers and all their Hollywood support staff flooded Sedona, but there was not one hotel in which they could stay. Mr. Raacke turned the situation into an opportunity by building a few cabins along his land to rent to those colorful folks from Hollywood. His cabins became known as “Rocky’s Cottages” and were full whenever a film crew came to town. In the 1960s, Ike and JoAnn Olson of Scottsdale, discovered their paradise escape from Scottsdale’s summers in the Oak Creek Canyon. They snagged two properties: Briar Patch and Rocky’s Cottages. Three other properties were soon added, resulting in the 8.6-acre, 19-cottage resort know as the Briar Patch Inn. Beautifully deco rated rustic cottages with crackling fireplaces warm the rooms and refresh heart and soul of guests. The sound of freshwater springs spilling into Oak Creek creates a refreshing, calming backdrop. Trout still fill the creek and guests still dip in the nearby swimming hole. Majestic bald eagles are often seen diving into the creek. A creekside breakfast, afternoon hot cider, tea, coffee and home-baked cookies are also part of the special experience at this quaint bed and breakfast. Even the grass caretakers—three, lovable sheep known as Wooly, Billy and Lilly—add peaceful charm. The Briar Patch Inn along Oak Creek is Arizona’s paradise found and waiting for you to leave your troubles to the Worry-dolls. io If You Go
Briar Patch Inn
3190 N. Highway 89A, Sedona Get There
Take I-17 North 80 miles to Exit 298. Travel 15 miles on AZ 179 North to the roundabout in downtown Sedona. Take AZ 89A North 3.3 miles, and right into the inn. The Briar Patch Inn is 99 miles from I-17 & Happy Valley Road. Price
Varies by cabin; see website for rates GPS Coordinates
N 34° 53.988’ W 111° 43.803’ Info
briarpatchinn.com Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher are Arizona educators who have toured, taught and written about the history of Arizona for over 35 years. Contact the Buschers at
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