5-Day Northern Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Phoenix to Lake Pleasant & Overnight at Cabin

Morning: Depart Phoenix early and head north to Lake Pleasant Regional Park, one of Arizona’s premier natural water spots. Enjoy a scenic morning walk along the lake’s shoreline or rent a kayak to explore the calm waters.

Afternoon: Have a lakeside picnic lunch, then relax by the water or swim in designated safe areas. Optional boat rental to enjoy more of the lake’s beauty.

Evening: Check into a cozy cabin near Lake Pleasant where you can unwind with peaceful views of the water surrounded by desert landscape.

Day 2: Lake Pleasant to Grand Canyon South Rim

Morning: Depart early for a 3.5-hour drive north to the iconic Grand Canyon South Rim. Spend the morning exploring easy viewpoints like Mather Point and the Rim Trail.

Afternoon: Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center for exhibits and tips, then hike part of the Bright Angel Trail or explore Hermit Road scenic stops by shuttle.

Evening: Stay overnight in a cabin or lodge near Grand Canyon Village to experience twilight views and possibly some stargazing at one of the world’s darkest night skies.

Day 3: Grand Canyon to Page (Antelope Canyon & Lake Powell)

Morning: Drive from the Grand Canyon to Page (~2.5 hours). Book a guided tour of Antelope Canyon, marveling at the famous light beams and swirling sandstone formations.

Afternoon: Head to Lake Powell for an afternoon boat tour or relaxing swim in this vast reservoir, surrounded by striking red rock scenery.

Evening: Check into a lakefront cabin or lodge near Lake Powell to enjoy sunset reflections on the water and a quiet evening by the shore.

Day 4: Exploring Natural Waters around Page

Morning: Visit Horseshoe Bend early for breathtaking views of the Colorado River’s spectacular curve. Follow with a visit to nearby Lagoons or Swimming Areas like Lone Rock Beach at Lake Powell.

Afternoon: Optional boat rental or water sports at Lake Powell, or venture out to the less crowded Lees Ferry area for swimming and picnicking.

Evening: Return to your cabin near Lake Powell for another relaxing night surrounded by water and desert vistas.

Day 5: Page to Prescott & Return to Phoenix

Morning: Depart Page and drive southwest to Watson Lake in Prescott (approx. 3 hours), known for its scenic granite dells and pristine swimming spots.

Afternoon: Enjoy kayaking, swimming, or hiking around Watson Lake. Grab lunch in Prescott’s charming downtown area.

Evening: Drive back to Phoenix (approx. 1.5 hours) in the late afternoon to complete your trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Lake Pleasant Regional Park: 3-4 hours, $15 parking/entry fee
• Grand Canyon South Rim: 6-8 hours, $35 per vehicle entrance fee
• Antelope Canyon Tour: 2 hours, $70-80 per person guided tour
• Lake Powell Boat Tour/Rental: 3-4 hours, $80-150 depending on rental or tour
• Horseshoe Bend: 1 hour, $10 parking fee
• Watson Lake, Prescott: 2-3 hours, $8 day-use fee
• Cabin Lodging (3 nights near lakes/Grand Canyon): Approx. $150-250 per night, totaling $450-750

Total Estimated Cost: $658 - $1,048 (depending on lodging and rentals)

Tips

• For travelers wanting a shorter trip, skip Prescott and lake activities on Day 5 to reduce travel and focus on major natural highlights.
• To extend your trip, consider adding a day hiking deeper into the Grand Canyon or visiting the lesser-known Verde River area with additional cabin lodging options.
• Book Antelope Canyon tours and Lake Powell rentals well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Consider packing swimwear, sturdy hiking shoes, and sun protection for optimal comfort in desert and water environments.