Northern Arizona, Seventeen Things
Everyone’s favorite is Antelope Canyon.
Don’t think you can complete a road trip from Sedona to Page to the Grand Canyon in 4-5 days. Too much driving combined with outdoor activity becomes less and less of a vacation.
There are hotels right in Page and Grand Canyon Village, The Squire at Grand Canyon being the most affordable 4-star near the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim is more woodsy and open for the summer and fall.
Do not visit the Grand Canyon in July. That heat…
Plan to get up early to see the sunrise and fewer people.
A helicopter over the Canyon is recommended by people who have and have not taken one.
HIKING
The Red Rock Pass is $5/day, $15/week, or $20/yr. Parking can be tight for many hikes. See visitor’s centers for maps & trail rules.
Download AllTrails.
Among, if not the most popular hike in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. Begin at Cathedral Rock Trailhead. Rated difficult, but only 1.2 miles roundtrip. You’ll need a Red Rock Pass. Almost 750 ft. elevation.
Devil’s Bridge is through the Coconino National Forest. From the Devil’s Bridge Trail Parking Lot 4.2 miles roundtrip. You’ll need a Red Rock pass for the lot. You’ll have an indescribable view from the bridge, just make sure you stay on top of it.
Fay Canyon is rated Easy. 2.6 miles roundtrip, under 400ft elevation, decent parking, no park fee, and a bathroom. Another one through Coconino.
There’s plenty more…
NOT HIKING
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is the best way to see the red rocks through the comfort of your own car. Simply get on State Route 179 and drive until there’s no more 179 left. For those of us who forgot our hiking shoes at the sporting goods store.
Pink Jeep Tours are 2-3 hours and around $100 per person. You can experience the Broken Arrow Trail w/ a Pink Jeep Tours tour guide. Book well in advance. The meeting point is not far from the city center.
if you hand over $700 for a piece of artwork at Tlaquepaque Village you’re not alone. Someone related to me was immediately sold on the backstory.
Feliz Navidad Sedona sells Christmas ornaments made out of Arizona Clay.
Elote Cafe is popular, so it can have up to a 2-hour wait on a regular day, but you can leave and go back.
Sedona has its own wine region named The Verde Valley. Places like DA Ranch and Chateau Tumbleweed Winery are a 20-30 minute drive. Flights at DA Ranch are $15-$25, and $8-$13 at Chateau Tumbleweed.
Cover Photo: True Sojourn
