Portland → Phoenix Road Trip Itinerary (Nov 19‑Nov 25, 2025)

Day 1 – November 19: Departure & Drive to Boise

Morning: Depart Portland early and head south on I‑84, stopping at the scenic Columbia River Gorge for breakfast and a quick waterfall view. The drive to the Oregon‑Idaho border takes about 2 hours.

Afternoon: Continue to Boise, Idaho, where you can stretch your legs at the Boise River Greenbelt and enjoy a light lunch at a downtown café. The stretch from the gorge to Boise is roughly 5 hours.

Evening: Check into a budget‑friendly hotel in Boise, then explore the lively 5th Street District for dinner and a relaxed evening before the next leg of the journey.

Day 2 – November 20: Arrival in Phoenix & Evening Stroll

Morning: Depart Boise and drive through Twin Falls, Idaho, with a brief stop at the impressive Shoshone Falls. The drive to the Utah border takes about 3 hours.

Afternoon: Cross into Utah and refuel in Salt Lake City, taking a quick walk around the historic Temple Square. Continue south on I‑15, reaching the Arizona border by late afternoon.

Evening: Arrive in Phoenix, check into your hotel, and unwind with a leisurely walk through the vibrant Downtown Phoenix Art Walk before dinner.

Day 3 – November 21: Phoenix City Highlights

Morning: Start at the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can explore desert flora on well‑marked trails. Allocate about 2 hours for the garden.

Afternoon: Visit the Heard Museum to discover Native American art and culture, followed by a lunch at the nearby Farm & Craft market.

Evening: Head to Papago Park for a sunset hike up to the iconic Hole‑in‑the‑Rock, then dine at a restaurant in the trendy Arcadia neighborhood.

Day 4 – November 22: Day Trip to Sedona

Morning: Drive north to Sedona (≈2 hours). Begin at the breathtaking Cathedral Rock trail for panoramic views of red rock formations.

Afternoon: Explore the artistic Chapel of the Holy Cross and have lunch at a local café with a view of the red cliffs.

Evening: Return to Phoenix, stopping at the Montezuma Castle National Monument for a quick photo stop before arriving back in the city for a relaxed evening.

Day 5 – November 23: Phoenix Leisure & Departure Prep

Morning: Take a leisurely stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden in Encanto Park, enjoying koi ponds and serene landscapes.

Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at the bustling Scottsdale Fashion Square and savor a final Southwestern lunch at a local eatery.

Evening: Pack up, enjoy a farewell dinner at the rooftop Top of the World restaurant, and rest up for the return drive.

Day 6 – November 24: Drive Back – Las Vegas Stopover

Morning: Leave Phoenix early and head north on I‑17, then I‑15 toward Las Vegas. Stop at the historic Hoover Dam for a quick tour.

Afternoon: Arrive in Las Vegas for lunch on the Strip and a brief walk past the famous Bellagio Fountains and Paris Las Vegas replica.

Evening: Continue the drive north, reaching the Reno area by night and checking into a comfortable motel for a short rest.

Day 7 – November 25: Final Leg to Portland

Morning: Depart Reno, crossing into Oregon via I‑5. Take a coffee break in Klamath Falls and enjoy the scenic Cascade foothills.

Afternoon: Arrive back in Portland, return the rental car (if applicable), and unwind at home with memories of the desert adventure.

Evening: Optional dinner at a favorite Portland restaurant to celebrate completing the road trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Columbia River Gorge – 1 hour – $0 (free)
• Boise River Greenbelt – 1 hour – $0 (free)
• Shoshone Falls – 1 hour – $0 (free)
• Temple Square (Salt Lake City) – 1 hour – $0 (free)
• Desert Botanical Garden – 2 hours – $30
• Heard Museum – 2 hours – $25
• Papago Park (Hole‑in‑the‑Rock) – 1 hour – $0 (free)
• Cathedral Rock (Sedona) – 2 hours – $0 (free)
• Chapel of the Holy Cross – 1 hour – $10
• Montezuma Castle – 30 min – $12
• Japanese Friendship Garden – 1 hour – $5
• Scottsdale Fashion Square (shopping) – 2 hours – $50 (optional)
• Top of the World restaurant (dinner) – 1.5 hours – $60
• Hoover Dam tour – 1 hour – $15
• Bellagio Fountains (view) – 30 min – $0 (free)
• Gas (round‑trip 2,200 mi @ $3.80/gal, 25 mpg) – – – $335
• Accommodation (7 nights average $110/night) – – – $770
• Meals (average $45/day × 7 days) – – – $315
• Park & attraction fees total – – – $147
• Miscellaneous (souvenirs, tolls) – – – $100
• Total Estimated Cost: $2,062

Tips

To shorten the trip, skip the Sedona day and drive straight back to Portland on November 23, which saves a full day and reduces lodging and fuel costs. If you have extra time, add a sunrise hike at South Mountain Park in Phoenix or a detour to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim for an unforgettable scenic experience, extending the return leg by one or two days.