5 Day Arizona Road Trip: North from Phoenix to Natural Wonders

Day 1: Phoenix to Sedona & Oak Creek Canyon

Morning: Depart Phoenix early and drive north to Sedona. Explore the iconic red rock formations and visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross for breathtaking views.

Afternoon: Take a scenic drive or hike through Oak Creek Canyon, one of Arizona's best natural water and canyon wonders, with beautiful creekside spots to relax and picnic.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Sedona and catch sunset at Airport Mesa for panoramic views of the red rocks aglow in the evening light.

Day 2: Sedona to Grand Canyon South Rim

Morning: Drive from Sedona to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Stop at the Visitor Center for maps and information before taking a short walk along the Rim Trail.

Afternoon: Explore viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and hike a portion of the Bright Angel Trail for immersive canyon views.

Evening: Watch the sunset at Hopi Point. Optionally stay overnight at nearby lodges or campgrounds for a night under the stars.

Day 3: Grand Canyon to Page (Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend)

Morning: Depart early and drive to Page, AZ. Book a guided tour through Antelope Canyon, a must-see slot canyon known for its magical light beams and sculpted sandstone walls.

Afternoon: Head to Horseshoe Bend for a scenic 1.5-mile roundtrip hike to the famous Colorado River overlook shaped like a horseshoe.

Evening: Relax by Lake Powell and enjoy dinner overlooking the water or opt for a sunset boat tour on the lake.

Day 4: Lake Powell & Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Morning: Take a half-day boat tour on Lake Powell to visit slot canyons, hidden beaches, and Rainbow Bridge, one of the world's largest natural bridges.

Afternoon: Explore the Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center to learn about the dam’s history and engineering marvels.

Evening: Enjoy lakeside dining or stargaze in the dark skies of northern Arizona.

Day 5: Return to Phoenix via Slide Rock State Park and Fossil Creek

Morning: On your way south, stop at Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek Canyon for a natural water slide experience and swim in the cool creek waters.

Afternoon: Visit Fossil Creek, one of Arizona’s pristine spring-fed creeks well-loved for its turquoise pools and waterfalls—perfect for a refreshing hike and swim.

Evening: Continue the drive back to Phoenix, arriving by evening for the trip’s conclusion.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Sedona & Oak Creek Canyon – 5-6 hours, free to $30 (parking/parking permits)
• Grand Canyon South Rim – 6-8 hours, $35 per vehicle entrance fee
• Antelope Canyon Tour – 2 hours, approx. $60-$80 per person
• Horseshoe Bend – 1-2 hours, $10 parking fee
• Lake Powell Boat Tour – 4 hours, approx. $60-$90 per person
• Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center – 1 hour, free
• Slide Rock State Park – 2-3 hours, $20 entrance fee
• Fossil Creek Hike & Swim – 3-4 hours, free (permit required in peak months)

Total Estimated Cost: $195 - $265 per person (excluding lodging and meals)

Tips

• To extend your trip, consider a full day exploring the North Rim of the Grand Canyon or adding a day to hike and kayak around Lake Powell.
• For a shorter trip, skip the Fossil Creek stop and Slide Rock State Park, and focus on the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell areas only.
• Book Antelope Canyon tours well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as they often sell out quickly.
• Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes—Arizona’s natural wonders demand respect from the elements.