Exploring Canyons of Southwest: A Travel Itinerary for Adventurers

For European travelers, stepping off the plane in Arizona heralds the beginning of an exhilarating journey into the American Southwest. The diverse landscapes, iconic red rocks, and expansive skies are just glimpses of what awaits at the Grand Canyon and beyond. As one arrives, the first task is navigating through the airport logistics, which can be straightforward with proper planning.

Upon landing at major airports such as Phoenix Sky Harbor International or Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, travelers will find a range of car rental options readily available. For those keen to explore the rugged terrains surrounding the Grand Canyon, renting a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. This vehicle will offer enhanced capability for off-road explorations and ensure access to more remote locations that standard cars simply cannot reach. Be prepared for rental agreements that may require a valid international driving permit, and familiarize yourself with the local driving regulations.

As excitement builds, it is important to consider the adjustment to the local environment. Arizona operates in Mountain Standard Time, which may present a challenge for those coming from Europe due to the time difference. Allowing a day or two for acclimatization is wise, both to adapt to the time zone and to adjust to the typically arid climate. Drink plenty of water, especially when venturing outdoors, as hydration is vital in higher elevations.

Roadtripping Begins from Arizona: Scenic Routes and Stops

You start your trip going towards Sedona. A route with spectacular landscapes and a great opportunity to acclimatise before your hikes.

Day 1 – Phoenix → Sedona

• Distance: about 115 miles / 2 hrs.

• Overnight: Sedona

• What to do: Explore the town and check in in hotel

Day 2 – Sedona Red Rock Day

• Morning hike: Cathedral Rock - 1 to 2 hours roundtrip. Steep trail - moderate to hard towards the end.

• Alternatively, you could walk the trail along the Red Rock Crossing and the Crescent Moon Day Use Site

• Optional: Drive to Soldier Pass Trailhead → Hike to Devil’s Kitchen → Seven Sacred Pools (~2 miles total)

• Stop for food and leisure: Indian Gardens Cafe & Market

• Evening and Overnight: Oak Creek Canyon - Explore and stay near the south side.

Day 3 – Slide Rock → Grand Canyon South Rim

• Morning – Slide Rock State Park - Enjoy the natural rock slides and swimming holes for a couple of hours.

• Change clothes before you leave — it’s about a 3–3.5 hr drive to the canyon.

• Scenic Drive through Oak Creek Canyon

• Stop at Oak Creek Vista for one last canyon view.

• Lunch Stop: Flagstaff

• From Flagstaff, take US-180 → AZ-64 to enter through the South Entrance of Grand Canyon

• Stop at Desert View Watchtower first if you come via the East Entrance — it gives you your first wow moment.

• Overnight inside the park: El Tovar, Yavapai Lodge, or Bright Angel Lodge or nearby in Tusayan.

Day 4 (&5) - Grand Canyon South Rim: East & Central

• Sunrise at Mather Point (easy walk from Visitor Center).

• Walk a section of the Rim Trail toward Yavapai Point — great geology exhibits at the museum.

• Take a hike: Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail. !! Hikes in Grand Canyon are all moderate to hard!!

• Drive to the Desert View Drive section (east side of the South Rim).

• Key stops:

  1. Grandview Point

  2. Lipan Point

  3. Navajo Point

  4. Desert View Watchtower

• Lunch: Pack a picnic or eat at Desert View Market.

• Overnight: inside the park or Tusayan.

Find all information about the Park, including booking accomodation, checking weather conditions and other information on the official website: https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/index.htm

Grand Canyon is big and if you have enough time it is worth spending one more day to explore more hiking trails ans sceneic views.

Day 6 – Grand Canyon South Rim to Page

• Morning: Exit Grand Canyon via East Entrance and stop at Desert View Watchtower

• Drive east on US-89 toward Cameron,

• Optional stop: Cameron Trading Post

• Glen Canyon Dam Overlook in Page

• Lunch: in Page

• Optional: Lone Rock Beach or explore Lake Powell viewpoints

• Sunset at Horseshoe Bend

• Overnight stay in Page

Day 7 - Explore more from Page

• Antelope Canyon (Upper or Lower): Better to go with guided Tour as it is dangerous tp go alone

• Wahweap Overlook: for Lake Powell views

• Lunch: in Page or pack a picnic

• Explore Lake Powell: boat tour, kayaking, paddleboarding, or hike to Skylight Arch / Stud Horse Point

• Overnight stay in Page

Day 8 – Monument Valley

• Drive from Page to Monument Valley (approx. 2–2.5 hours)

• Navajo-guided tour: Explore iconic formations like Totem Pole, Ear of the Wind

• Optional: short hike on Wildcat Trail (loop around West Mitten Butte)

• Sunset at: John Ford’s Point or other scenic overlooks

• Overnight: Near Monument Valley or in Kayenta, AZ

Day 9 – Monument Valley Extra Day

• Viewpoint stops: John Ford’s Point or/and Artist’s Point

• Navajo National Monument: scenic viewpoints

• Optional: Kayenta

• Key stops:

  1. Totem Pole

  2. Three Sisters

  3. Ear of the Wind

  4. Sky Window Arch

• Start your journey back: Take the US-160 W and N 89 to go to Flagstaff (about 3 hours)

Day 10 - Return to Basis

• Have breakfast and a short exploration in Flagstaff

• Drive back to Sedona through the Oak Creek Valley (1-1.5 hour)

• Lunch: Sedona at a local restaurant

• Continue drive south to Phoenix (approx. 2 hours)