You have two days in Page, Arizona. Sweet! Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are definitely on your to-do list. We’re with you so far. Then what else are you going to do to occupy your time? Here’s a news flash for you: you’re going to find so much cool stuff to do here, you’ll wish you had three days to spend in the area! More on that later…
So, what’s the Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary in Page, Arizona? Well, like the Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary, it consists of touring Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell, but with a few twists.
Since a good majority of Page/Lake Powell visitors come to us from Grand Canyon South Rim, Flagstaff and points South, we’re going to assume that you are, too. If not, just take our suggested itinerary and shuffle it around a bit.
Day 1
Sunrise: Pack up the night before so you can get an early start on the drive to Page, Arizona. Depending on how often you stop, the drive from Grand Canyon South Rim or Flagstaff can take anywhere from 2.5- 4 hours. Enjoy breakfast at the Historic Cameron Trading Post. The Navajo Taco with an egg on top is amazing, but fair warning: unless you’re starving, get the “mini.” The regular is huge!
Mid-morning: Stop at the Horseshoe Bend Overlook just 5 miles South of Page, AZ, at Mile Marker 545 on US89. The new parking lot is well-signed, easy to find, and open from sunrise to sunset. After paying your entrance fee of $5 per motorcycle, $10 for standard passenger vehicles, or $35 for light commercial vehicles, hit the trail to the rim! The walk to the overlook is .7 miles each way and is manageable for most people in relatively good health. Along with the parking lot construction, grading and partial paving of the trail was done, making it a slightly longer, but less hilly walk than in years past. There are benches placed every few hundred yards if you or anyone in your party needs a breather, plus wheelchair access is also manageable with assistance. Other recent improvements include a raised platform with safety railings. However, the railings do not extend all the way around the overlook. For the most part, this remains an exposed overlook in a desert environment. Water and sun protection are a must, as are appropriate, preferably close-toed walking shoes. What To Bring to Horseshoe Bend Keep children and pets under control at all times; it’s a 500’+ drop to the river. Restrooms are available at the parking lot. Allow 60-90 minutes to enjoy the stunning view of this 270° turn (what geologists call an “entrenched meander”) of the Colorado River! Can’t make the walk? Here’s what to do.
Early afternoon: Tour Antelope Canyon. This world-famous slot canyon is on the photographic “bucket list” of every traveler to Northern Arizona, and deservedly so. Its surrealistic colors and shapes must be seen to be believed. You’ll need to decide ahead of time whether to tour Upper Antelope Canyon or Lower Antelope Canyon. The walk through Upper Antelope Canyon itself is 100 yards and flat pretty much the whole way. A newly constructed exit ramp consisting of a short staircase and a network of metal walkways back to the tour vehicle parking area adds approximately a one-half mile onto your adventure. Three (3) Antelope Canyon tour companies depart directly from to the Tribal Park Entrance on Highway 98. Two (2) meet at their respective offices in downtown Page, AZ. Lower Antelope Canyon is a bit more physical, requiring some stair climbing and simple boulder scrambling. For Lower, you must drive to the Tribal Park Entrance Gate directly. Whichever branch of Antelope Canyon you choose to tour, you’ll need to book a tour well in advance of your arrival. This attraction is becoming more popular – and crowded – every year. If the prospect of sharing a confined space with all those people doesn’t thrill you, or Antelope Canyon tours are already sold out, consider doing an Antelope Canyon Alternative Tour which will take you to slot canyons that are every bit as beautiful as Antelope, but far less populated OR check Antelope Canyon Now for last minute availability.
Depending on the time of year, your preference and Antelope Canyon tour availability, these activities can easily be done in reverse order as well. During the summer months, visiting Horseshoe Bend right at sunrise offers cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
Did we forget that you had to eat at some point? Not at all! Page, AZ has a diverse array of restaurants to choose from, both familiar franchises and independently owned. For those who choose to tour Antelope Canyon directly from the Tribal Park Entrance Gate on US98, grab a hearty, hand-made sandwich to go from the Deli at Big Lake Trading Post, or sit down to a relaxing lunch or dinner with a view that’s off the hook at the Sandbar Restaurant at Antelope Point Marina.
In the town of Page itself, you can take your pick of burgers to sushi and everything in between! The Grand Circle Grille, located in the historic Sanderson Building, offers up delicious American food, large portions, and reasonable prices for lunch or dinner, with occasional live music. For a totally different dining experience with an extra helping of local history, dig into a plate of sushi, a piping hot bowl of miso ramen, or a light traditional Japanese bento box at New York Teriyaki. This unique eatery happens to be built inside the Canyon King, a retired paddleboat that logged many tours on Lake Powell in its heyday.
What a day it’s been, and you’re just getting started. Go to your Page, Arizona hotel or vacation rental and get a good night’s sleep. Be sure to set your alarm. In Page, AZ, the fun starts early in the morning!
Day 2
Sunrise (optional): Many of you like to start your day back home with a brisk walk or jog to get the blood pumping. Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with your exercise routine, and do a little sightseeing to boot! The Page Rim View Trail is a 10-mile dirt track that encircles Manson Mesa (the site Page, AZ was originally built on). Popular with local walkers, runners and cyclists, it is manageable for adults and children who are at least moderately fit. It offers spectacular views of Lake Powell (though no lake access), and for those visiting in springtime, a radiant display of colorful wildflowers. Once on the trail, you are able to exit it at several points along the way. You are by no means obligated to do the full 10 miles! Also, it is completely exposed to the elements, so water and sun protection are a must, as is appropriate footwear.
Be sure to fuel up for your busy day with a good breakfast. Some Page, AZ hotels may include continental or cooked-to-order breakfast in their room rates. Those staying at vacation rentals or accommodations with full kitchens have the freedom to do their own cooking. Favorite breakfast spots in Page, AZ include the Ranch House Grille, Canyon Crepes Cafe, and Hot & Sweet Donut & Coffee Shop.
Option 1 – 6:15 AM: Check in at Wilderness River Adventures for the Horseshoe Bend Half Day Float Trip. This leisurely raft trip, which takes place on a silky-smooth 15-mile stretch of the Colorado River through the only remaining intact section of Glen Canyon, is safe for children as young as 4. Putting in at the base of the massive Glen Canyon Dam, you’ll coast through Horseshoe Bend (be sure to wave to the people gazing down at you from the overlook!), stop at Petroglyph Beach where you can take a cool dip in the river, marvel at centuries-old etchings in the canyon walls left by Ancestral Puebloan people, or munch on a bag lunch purchased at one of the local grocery stores or restaurants. After pulling off the river at Historic Lees Ferry, you’ll board a motorcoach and be dropped off back in Page at approximately 11:30 AM.**
Grab lunch if you desire, then head over to the Glen Canyon Conservancy Information Center (formerly the John Wesley Powell Memorial Museum) to learn more Glen Canyon, the Colorado River, Lake Powell, and the ongoing controversies about land and water conservation that continue to this day. You can also examine relief maps of Lake Powell, and shop for mementos of your visit for the folks back home.
Option 2 – 6:30 AM: Meet at the Public Launch Ramp of Antelope Point Marina for Hidden Canyon Kayak’s Antelope Canyon Waterside tour. This 4-hour land and water combination tour will immerse you in the beauty of Lake Powell and the complexity of Antelope Canyon in a way that can only be experienced by small watercraft. Your certified tour guide will guide you through towering sandstone cliffs until you reach the northernmost portion of Antelope Canyon. From there, you’ll begin an incredible hike through the section of the slot canyon just before it joins Lower Antelope Canyon. This tour is suitable for those of all levels of physical fitness, including those who have never kayaked before! Tour price includes all kayak equipment and dry bags to store valuables. After your tour, enjoy lunch or an early dinner at Antelope Point Marina, or at your choice of chain or independent restaurants in Page, AZ.
Next, it’s time to hit the wave. Not The Wave, the one that everybody and their sibling wants a permit for – we’re talking about The “New” Wave! Located a short drive past the Western flank of the Glen Canyon Dam, this easy-to-follow cairned trail, which doesn’t require a permit to enjoy, will take you into a small but interesting cluster of rock formations, some bearing a resemblance to that Wave, others not so much. Radio Tower Rock is one of many unique sandstone features you’ll encounter. Just be sure you’re not accidentally parking in someone’s campsite. Beehive Campground is right next door to the trailhead.
In the mood for more fun and exploration? Go back across the Glen Canyon Dam and take another easy but fun hike to the Hanging Gardens. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a stalwart colony of ferns, mosses, and flowers, surviving on the precious drops of water that trickle through a crack in the sandstone walls in an isolated alcove. Time/desire permitting, you can also walk across the Glen Canyon Dam and Steel Arch Bridge for an unobstructed view of the 700′ chasm and the Colorado River below!
Head back to your hotel, kick back, and reflect on your day’s adventures, or discover a new place for dinner. If you’re still feeling perky towards the day’s end, take the short drive off the mesa to the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, also known as the “White House” to enjoy sunset. Or, kick up your feet to some live music at State 48 Tavern, Gone West Family Restaurant (formerly Ken’s Old West), Big John’s Texas BBQ, or the Dam Bar.
Hit the sack, sleep in if you want. You deserve it!
A few last notes: this suggested trip plan is designed for Page, Arizona’s peak travel season of late spring through early fall. Due to extreme heat typical of this time period, you don’t want to be out on the water in the blazing afternoon sun if you can possibly avoid it. If you happen to be traveling in early spring or late fall, you can flip the order of these activities around and still be comfortable, for example, on Day 2, maybe hit Horseshoe Bend or Antelope Canyon in the morning, then do the Horseshoe Bend Raft Trip or Kayak Horseshoe Bend in the afternoon. Keep in mind, also, that many of these activities are offered seasonally. If you’re visiting in the winter months, water-based activities most likely won’t be running at all, or would require a certain number of passengers to guarantee operation. Last but not least, any tour, food & beverage, lodging, or retail establishment in Page, AZ, may require masks or face coverings to enter, or operate at reduced capacity to facilitate social distancing should COVID-19 remain a concern.
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So here it is, Day 3, and time to head to your next destination, like Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, or maybe back to Phoenix, AZ, or Las Vegas, NV. We hope you’ve had fun! If you’ve followed these suggestions, and maybe done a little “mixing and matching,” the last 48 hours will have certainly been memorable ones. But, that doesn’t mean the fun is over until you hit your next park. Here are just a few ideas for some “bonus activities” to add on to your list as you leave Page, AZ for the next phase of your vacation:
On US89 as you head toward Bryce, Zion or St. George:
- The Big Water Visitor Center: located 15 miles Northwest of Page, AZ over the Utah border on US89, this small but impressive facility features locally-excavated dinosaur bones, a topographical relief map of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and award-winning paleontology and geology displays.
- The Paria Rimrocks-Toadstools Trail: at mile marker 19 between Page, AZ and Kanab, UT on US89 you’ll find a moderate 1.5 mile round-trip trail leading to a Mars-like landscape of whimsical hoodoos, balanced rocks and other geological oddities. Don’t be fooled by what looks like the end of the trail; a short rock scramble leads to the main hoodoo garden.
- Kanab, Utah: once the on-location darling of Western movie producers, Kanab, Utah is a charming small town with plentiful shopping and dining opportunities. Locals and visitors alike are partial to the Rocking V Cafe and Houston’s Trail’s End Restaurant.
On US89 heading toward Flagstaff, Sedona or Phoenix:
- The Gap Trading Post: if you’re into Old West trading posts, but prefer those that are more “real” trading post than tourist trap, pop into The Gap Trading Post just 45 miles South of Page on US89. Still an active commerce center, albeit a low-key one, you can purchase Navajo textiles, jewelry and pottery, or a cool beverage to refresh you for the drive ahead.
- Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks: 20 miles South of the Gap Trading Post, take a slight Eastern detour off US89 to AZ160. A few miles before you get to Tuba City, you’ll find an unassuming sign advertising free parking. Here you can see fossilized dinosaur tracks, eggs and dung. The jury is still out on the latter two; the former, though, is obviously the real deal. This area is located on Navajo Indian Tribal Land, so you must have an authorized representative escort you to the track site. There is no charge, technically, but gratuities are appreciated.
- Wupatki/Sunset Crater National Monuments: Double your pleasure, double your fun, two cool monuments are better than one! Just North of Flagstaff, Arizona, these are actually two separate monuments connected by a convenient loop drive. Wupatki showcases the remains of an ancient, and surprisingly expansive Ancestral Puebloan Village with some unusual features, including a multi-story complex and a ball court. Sunset Crater is a dormant cinder cone that last erupted approximately 800 years ago, which, according to geologists, seemed like yesterday.
Do you have anything to add to this list? We’d love to hear about it! Feel free to write us in the comments, or visit our companion sites:
‘Til next time, good luck and happy traveling!
227 Responses
Hi. Thank you so much for your post! I need some additional advice and hope you can help. My family and I will be visiting Sedona and Scottsdale for the first time next April arriving on March 30 and leaving on April 6. I’m struggling with our itinerary because it seems there is so much to do and see. We are staying in Sedona from 3/30 to 4/3 and then spending 4/3 -4/5 in Scottsdale.
I already booked the Pink Jeep tour for Sunday march 31, leaving from Sedona. Other than that our itinerary is open, and we want to do the following things, if possible:
1. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
2. maybe see the south rim of the Grand Canyon
3. Easy trail bike ride in the sedona area (would need bike rental)
4. is there something called splippery rock falls in sedona?
5. is there anything else in sedona that’s a “must do”?
Would you help me plan an itinerary? Are there any tour tix that I need to purchase in advance?
Finally, are there any ” Must Do’s” in Scottsdale?
Thank you so so so much in advance for your advice. My friend said you were a tremendous help when she was planning her trip out west.
Hi Donna and thank you for visiting our site!
My first question would be are you locked into your hotel reservations in Sedona and/or Scottsdale? If not, you might want to rethink your plans a bit so you can spend the night at the Grand Canyon, and also at Page, AZ (gateway city for Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend). The main reason I suggest this is because of the driving distances involved. The drive from Sedona, AZ to Grand Canyon South Rim takes ~2.5 hours each way; similarly, the drive from Sedona, AZ to Page, AZ takes ~3 hours. However, these figures rarely materialize IRL as they are wheels turning, no stops. Both drives are very scenic and you’ll no doubt find yourself stopping to take photos.
Another consideration: sunset and/or sunrise at the Grand Canyon really shouldn’t be missed, and you don’t want to be driving back to Sedona or Scottsdale at night. Ambient/artificial lighting is kept to a bare minimum in Northern Arizona. What’s more, wildlife like deer, elk, coyotes, and such have a tendency to hang around the roadsides after dusk, ratcheting up your risk of getting into a car accident.
If possible, get a hotel room at the Grand Canyon and at Page, AZ as well.
As for “Slippery Rock,” I think you’re actually thinking of Slide Rock State Park. This is a natural waterslide that is one of Sedona’s most popular attractions. Unfortunately, at the time of year you’re visiting, it might be a bit too cold to get into the water. Therefore, you might want to plan doing some other things, which, fortunately, are in no short supply in Sedona! If you’re interested in a bike rental, there are several companies in town who can supply the equipment, and suggest good, easy trails for your family. For other recommendations, go to http://www.VisitSedona.com
For Scottsdale/Phoenix, popular activities and attractions include but certainly aren’t limited to, Old Town Scottsdale, Taliesin West, the Commemorative Air Force Museum, and the Desert Botanical Garden.
As for tour tickets to purchase in advance, Antelope Canyon is definitely one to have lined out before you arrive. In the event you find Antelope Canyon tours sold out, there are numerous slot canyons in Page, AZ that are just as beautiful and a lot less crowded.
Hope the helps – have a safe trip and a happy Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years!
Alley 🙂
We are committed to our place in Sedona however we could re-think Scottsdale and maybe book a night in one or both of the other places you mentioned. Thanks for the advice!!!
Donna,
Good call – spending the night at one or both destinations will certainly make for a more relaxed and IMO enjoyable experience for your family.
Take care,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
Thanks for the awesome post ! My wife and I are planning to travel to AZ for 2.5 days (3 days, 2 night), starting and ending in Phoenix.
We plan to stay in Page for both nights so the first day will be driving from
Phoenix for 1st day. We are definitely going to the Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks and the Wupatki/Sunset Crater, maybe include the Antelope Canyon Boat Tour as well.
On second day we plan to go West to try our luck in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor center, on the way back visiting The Paria Rimrocks-Toadstools Trail. In the afternoon visit the lower antelope canyon and if time permit, drive to the famous Forrest Gump Point and go back to page.
Day 3 we will be going to horseshoe bend again for sunrise and tour canyon X before heading back to Phoenix for a night flight (or 1% going for The Wave if we won).
Do you think our plan is too aggressive? or a “better question” to ask is, if driving all the way to the Mexican Hat, Utah is worth it.
Thanks!
Matt
Hi Matt, and thank you for visiting our site.
Yes, I think your plan is a bit too aggressive. I think you’re underestimating drive times between attractions, plus you’re assuming that your flight to Phoenix will arrive on time and that your rental car check in will go smoothly.
First off, on day 1, you’re looking at a 4.5 hour drive minimum from Phoenix to Page. However, that rarely materializes as the drive is very scenic, and you’ll no doubt find ample photo opportunities that warrant a stop, not counting Wupatki/Sunset Crater and Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks! You should allow 90 minutes-2 hours to tour Wupatki/Sunset Crater. Although the detour to Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks isn’t very long, you could very well see a 4.5 hour drive turn into a ~6+ hour trip. I don’t recall seeing when you were planning to visit, but if your trip is planned for the fall or winter months, keep in mind that daylength is rapidly shortening and you want to be sure that you’ve reached your destination well before sunset. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged in this part of the country due to the lack of artificial lighting on local roadways, and the possible presence of deer, elk and other nocturnal wildlife that pose a very real hazard to drivers unfamiliar with the area.
On Day 2, your plan to go all the way to Mexican Hat and back after the Wave lottery is unrealistic. It takes 1 hour each way to drive from Page to Kanab, UT. The lottery process takes anywhere from 1-2 hours. It then takes ~2.5 hours – each way – to drive from Page, AZ to “Forest Gump Point” (Mexican Hat). Besides, it would be a shame to go all that way and not make time to stop at Goosenecks State Park. It’s like seeing not one but two Horseshoe Bends side by side! So, unless you can free up the time to spend another night, I’d save the Monument Valley area for another trip.
Good luck and hope that helps,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
Thanks for that super quick reply! We did revise our plan based on your suggestion. We decided to remove The Wave all together in the trip. We are going in a month! Being in the late twenties, we are really hoping to find the best place to get that photo to share to friends/family. Here’s the revised Day 2 and Day 3 plans, can you let me know if this is better (or worse)?
Day 2:
Sunrise in Horseshoe bend
Photo Tour in Canyon X (10am Tour)
Drive to Goosenecks State Park by 3:30pm! (Thanks to your idea, its right next to parking right ?)
Forrest Gump Point (Yes …we are huge movie fans and don’t want to miss that)
Back to Page (With sunset time around 6pm in Oct), leaving Forrest Gump Point by 5:00 to 5:30 should safely get us back in 2 hours. (Nautical Twilight will end around 6:45pm)
Day 3:
Lower Antelope Canyon
Glen Canyon Dam
Drive back to Phoenix
How do you feel about the plan if we really want to visit the Forrest Gump Point? We don’t mind getting in and out just to capture that picture.
In addition, could you provide a guide as to where to pay those park parking with the above plan? There’s so many guides online as to where to go but we are confused as to whether we should pay individual parking for each place.
Thanks in advance!
Matt
Hi again, Matt!
If you have your heart set on going to Forrest Gump Point and the Goosenecks, then I would advise against doing any other tours that day. It is not necessary to do both Lower Antelope Canyon and Antelope Canyon X. They bear enough of a resemblance to one another that they would probably seem somewhat redundant, and your schedule has no margin for redundancy. Therefore, I would suggest doing just the day trip to Mexican Hat on Day 2, then visiting Horseshoe Bend, slot canyon tour and Glen Canyon Dam tour on Day 3.
As for which parks require a fee, Antelope X and Lower Antelope Canyon are Native American Tribal Parks, so your tribal park fee will be included in the cost of your tour. Hang onto that receipt in case you want to do part of the Monument Valley drive (although you shouldn’t in a rental car). Goosenecks State Park requires a $5.00/vehicle entrance fee. The Glen Canyon Dam Tour is $5.00/person. Although there is no “formal” charge for visiting the Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks, the guides do appreciate gratuities. Parking at Horseshoe Bend is, at the present time, free of charge.
If you choose to enter Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, there is a $25/vehicle entrance fee. It is not necessary to enter that area unless you’re wanting to explore or walk around down by Lake Powell. Wupatki/Sunset Crater National Monument also takes a $25/vehicle entry fee. If you think you might be visiting additional National Parks, Monuments or Federal Fee areas within a year’s time, you might consider purchasing the “America The Beautiful Federal Lands Access Pass.” For $80, this card grants you access to ALL National Parks and Monuments in the US for 1 year.
Good luck!
Alley 🙂
Hi again Alley!
Advice taken! What would you recommend in terms of general outfit in Early – Mid October?
Weather forecast predicts a daily range between 50 to 75 degrees, which seems pretty cool to me (I’m from LA). With the slot canyon photo-tour and Mexican hat, would you say we should pack shorts/hiking hats/sun protection…etc? Or would it be more of a winter outfit with long sleeves and jackets.
It would be really awesome if you can briefly talk about recommended outfits for us!
Thanks!
Matt
Hey again, Matt!
October is a wonderful time to be here. Weather is usually stable and pleasant, so the typical daytime hiking outfit of shorts, t-shirt, etc. usually suffices in more exposed areas like Horseshoe Bend and inner Grand Canyon trails. However, a cool snap or even an early season storm (which is rare) can move through at any time, so stash some warmer clothing in your pack in the event the temperature suddenly drops.
Inside Antelope Canyon, the temperature remains constantly cool, so the long sleeved shirt and long pants would probably come in handy.
Thanks again and happy traveling,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
Looks like this trip might turn into a big mess with the rain coming up in this week.
How likely would you say places like Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe bend would look in rainy weather. Or, is there any places you would recommend going if the weather is really bad?
Thank you!
Matt
Hey Matt,
Yeah, we were caught by surprise by Rosa, too! Normally, by this time of year, flash flood season would be pretty much over.
Horseshoe Bend should not be closed at all, but you’ll still need to exercise caution if strong winds or rain occur during your visit. You might catch some neat temporary waterfalls in Glen Canyon!
If there is any threat of flooding at all, slot canyon tours will not operate. If this occurs when you are scheduled to tour, your tour operator will give you the option to reschedule. If this is not possible, you’ll receive a refund.
If bad weather puts the kabosh on outdoor activities, there are some options for indoor fun you might consider, such as Gunfighter Canyon (indoor shooting range), the John Wesley Powell Memorial Museum, Into the Grand Dance & Dinner Show, the Carl Hayden Visitors Center at Glen Canyon Dam, the dinosaur exhibits at the Big Water Visitors Center … just to name a few.
Good luck and let us know how you get on!
Alley 🙂
Hey Alley,
Thought I should reply and let you know about the trip!
We were there last weekend and the thunderstorm and rain was horrifying but still didn’t stop us from taking good photos in Horseshoe Bend. Despite the clouds, we managed to do a little bit of star gazing and astrophotography there when we stay through the night, we even saw the SpaceX rocket!
We also spent a day in Monument Valley, which we are so glad we went because that was almost the only sunny day we got. Those breathtaking scenes, epic landscapes, and even the road for Forrest Gump Point was fun!
Admittedly, we were a little disappointed by weather and our slot canyon tour got cancelled , but we caught rainbow in the Horseshoe Bend, and double rainbow later in the day too!
Thanks for providing all the useful information for our plans. We will be back!
Thanks,
Matt
Hi Matt, and thanks for taking the time to let us know how your trip went! So sorry to hear that your slot canyon tour got cancelled, but believe me, it was for everyone’s safety. As you saw first-hand, conditions were horrible. Glad you made it to Monument Valley and that the weather at least cooperated for that part of your trip. Hope you do get a chance to come back when you have more time to spend! https://horseshoebend.com/grand-canyon-zion-moab-14-days-grand-circle/
Take care and thank you again for visiting our site,
Alley 🙂
Hey Annie!
It’s been a while, happy holiday!
I just got the lottery for The Wave for next February and thought I should ask your opinions. I know it might be very cold at that time but I think I should really take the chance and visit AZ again!
Since I wasn’t able to check out the slot canyon, I am planning to visit page as well during my 3 day trip. Do you have any recommendation? I read that the wave would require a 4WD/AWD to enter? Does that mean I am better off staying in Kanab the night before and Page the other night?
Thanks in advance as always!
Matt
Hey again, Matt, and congrats on winning the Wave lottery! Yes, February will be cold, but if at all possible, bundle up and go for it.
All slot canyon tours will be running in the month of February, and the likelihood of torrential rain, like what you encountered if I recall correctly, is low. As for which one you visit, I’d recommend either Lower Antelope, Antelope X, or Cathedral Slot Canyon. There are plenty of good options around Kanab, UT, too, including Buckskin Gulch, Willis Creek, Zebra, Peek-A-Boo, Whichever you choose, just be sure you have an advance reservation. Though February is a slower time here, it can still be busy and tours can and do sell out.
As for where to stay prior to hiking The Wave, Kanab, UT, is a good option, but then again, so is Page, AZ. Either town is ~45 miles from the Wire Pass Trailhead, where you start your hike to The Wave. The general recommendation is that your wheels should be turning down the House Rock Valley Road just as the sun is beginning to come up. As for requiring 4WD/AWD, that might be handy to have since the House Rock Valley Road could be slick from prior storm activity. Best case scenario, it’s still an unpaved road, so caution should be exercised. Better yet, hire a local guide service to take you out there. Their vehicles are equipped with beefier suspensions than standard passenger vehicles, plus the guides know all the cool sites around the Wave that you might miss if you’re not familiar with the area.
For more tips on getting the most out of your visit to The Wave, visit our companion site, http://www.TheWaveAZ.com
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and please let us know how your trip went!
Alley 🙂
Alley, I have poured through much of your information here and it has been very helpful. You seem to be the go-to for trip planning in Arizona/Utah! Amazingly, we won the lottery to hike The Wave this October (dream come true!), which prompted my research of the area. The more I read, the more things ended up on my “must do” list, and so I have planned a trip for next May. Below is my proposed itinerary. We plan to do a separate trip of Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce. I would be so grateful for any hints or advice before I make all the hotel reservations.
About us: We are mid-30’s, husband and wife pair, going without the kids. We enjoy active things (hiking, swimming, etc.) and photography. I enjoy art but shopping isn’t really my thing. We like wine 🙂
May 2019 Arizona Itinerary
May 21: Flight to Flagstaff. 5p.m. meeting with trip leaders.
May 22: Havasupai hike into canyon (4-day Wildland Trekking Backpacking Tour)
May 23-24: Havasupai day hiking
May 25: Havasupai hike out. Transport back to Flagstaff. End around 5 p.m.
Hotel stay in Flagstaff.
(***Find a wine bar or something funky to do at night to unwind after 4 days of grubby hiking…suggestions?)
May 26: Rent car and drive to Sedona (1 hour drive, still on MST)
Things to do on Sedona days: Slide Rock State Park, Chapel of Holy Cross, Oak Creek Canyon, Vortexes, get a massage somewhere
(Need to research Sedona more. Any suggestions are welcome!)
May 27-28: Sedona
May 29: Early check out and drive to Page (3-3.5 hours, still on MST)
Horseshoe Bend
Lake Powell & Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour: 12:30-7:00
May 30:
Morning photography tour of Upper Antelope Canyon (~2 hours in duration, company is on MST)
Afternoon Canyon X tour: 2 or 3pm? (~2 hours)
(Can these two be done in one day? We wanted the chance to experience the less crowded one as well.)
Sunset at Glen Canyon Dam Overlook if we are not too tired
May 31: Drive to Kanab (1.5 hours, LOSE an hour crossing over to Kanab, so leave 2.5 hours before tour starts)
Kanab 7-8hr tour of White Pocket
Drive back to Page and stay the night (Gain the hour back)
June 1: Early am check out and drive to Monument Valley (~2.5 hours)
Check in to The View Hotel and enjoy the scenery
June 2: Travel home
Drive back to Flagstaff (~4hours)
Fly out in the evening
Dear Alyse,
Wow, congratulations on winning a Wave permit! Not surprised that planning the trip led you down the inevitable “rabbit hole” of other cool stuff to see and do in the Grand Circle area.
Your itinerary looks pretty fun, but still might warrant a few modifications in order to avoid backtracking. To that end, I would suggest going to Monument Valley before hitting Page. That way you can tour Lower Antelope Canyon or Canyon X (no need to do both) on your way into town since you’ll be passing right by them as you travel on US98. By the way, Monument Valley is another one of those “lose an hour/gain it back” situations since the Navajo Reservation DOES observe Daylight Savings Time, while the rest of Arizona (including Antelope Canyon tour operators) doesn’t. Horseshoe Bend may be visited whenever you wish — in theory, anyway. Parking and traffic congestion are real problems during the peak visitation hours between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. In order to avoid all that craziness, you might plan your visit there first thing in the morning, and I do mean first thing, as in just after sunrise. If not, maybe consider some alternate means of seeing it, such as an airplane or helicopter tour, shuttle, or horseback ride.
The tour of White Pocket is amazing, but there’s no need to drive all the way over to Kanab in order to take one. There are several tour operators out of Page, AZ who are authorized to visit that area, including:
Grand Circle Tours 928-691-0166 http://www.VermilionCliffs.net
Vermilion Adventures (a division of Roger Ekis’ Antelope Canyon Tours) 928-645-9102 https://www.antelopecanyon.com/vermilion-adventures/
Grand Staircase Discovery Tours 928-614-2199 http://www.GrandStaircaseDiscoveryTours.com
Paria Outpost & Outfitters (located between Page and Kanab) 928-691-1047 http://www.Paria.com
If you do opt to to to Kanab to pick up a White Pocket tour, then consider returning to Page via Marble Canyon and Lees Ferry in order to avoid traveling the same road twice. Whatever you do, just make sure you time your driving so you are “back to base” before sunset. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged in this part of the US.
Regarding Sedona, you might want to see if you can free up another day to spend in that area. Aside from the “usual suspects,” like Slide Rock State Park, Chapel of Holy Cross, Oak Creek Canyon, Vortexes, etc., Sedona boasts a number of fine wineries you might wish to visit and sample their wares. Several local tour companies offer wine tours, so you don’t have to worry about driving! For more suggestions, check out http://www.VisitSedona.com
In Flagstaff, you’ll find that microbreweries are the hip spots in the downtown area, so plan on hitting one, or two, or more. Fortunately, many are within walking distance of one another, or inquire about guided tours on FlagstaffAleTrail.com
So, your “revised” itinerary would look something like this:
Good luck and hope that helps – have fun at The Wave!
Alley 🙂
Alley,
Thank you very much for your help! I am so glad I asked you before I booked everything. Question- I have heard of a local spot that has Rainbow Mountains/hills. Saw it on this blog (below) and in another youtube video. https://globalgirltravels.com/they-really-exist-the-rainbow-mountains-of-arizona/
My husband and I would be so grateful to experience this gorgeous place. The blog above listed a tour company she used, but I noticed on their website they don’t mention the rainbow mountains or show any pictures of it as part of the White Pocket Tour. Seems like this might be a secret spot a local might take you to if they like you (since nobody is advertising it). Is there any chance any of those White Pocket tour operators would be willing to take us there as part of the tour? I promise not to disclose the location.
Best,
Alyse
Hey Alyse!
This spot is indeed one of the many “hidden gems” you’ll find on the White Pocket tour, and elsewhere throughout the Grand Staircase-Escalante, Vermillion Cliffs, and other scenic “pockets” (ha ha ha) in Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. If you do decide to take a tour to White Pocket, you should be aware that Grand Staircase Discovery Tours is one of several tour companies licensed to travel to that area. Which one you choose will probably come down to where you’re staying, and which company offers the most convenient pick-up location and competitive pricing. For a complete list of authorized outfitters, visit this link on our sister site, http://www.TheWaveAZ.com: Hire A Guide
Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
Hi alyse! Did you book those dates? I find it funny while reading it as Ive got thoae exact days in May. I would love to hear about your schedule as I am still in the planning phase around those dates. I wanted to see how far havasu and antelope is. I’ll be arriving Vegas around the 18th and I’m looking to explore as much as possible.
Hey Steph,
Maybe you and Alyse will run into each other! BTW, Havasu Falls is a difficult place to get to, and if you don’t already have reservations for either a campsite or motel room, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to visit it this time around. For more information on Havasu Canyon and the falls, visit our companion site, http://www.Havasupai.AZ
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
First of all, please know that we love all of your posts – they are very detailed, amazingly-awesome and so helpful for people like us who do not know much about these parks. 🙂
Secondly, I would like to get your opinion/suggestion, if that is possible of course. We are planning to come to Grand Canyon during the 1st week of November and are thinking to cover either both Grand Canyon & Zion National Park/Bryce Canyon combo or Grand Canyon & Antelope Canyon.
As our group will have four adults & 2 kids (one 18-month toddler and one 5-year old), we are thinking to rent a house or a cottage. One option we are discussing is to stay somewhere close to Grand Canyon for the first night, and then check-out the next day. After covering Grand Canyon the first day, check-in to a different lodge/rental home for the remaining two nights. But we are very confused because we do not want to change lodges during our whole trip (specially with 2 small kids). Below is our current plan:
1. 7th November (Wednesday): Drive to Grand Canyon from Los Angeles
2. 8th November (Thursday): Cover Grand Canyon
3. 9th November (Friday): Either cover both Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon or just Antelope Canyon
4. 10th November (Saturday): Drive back to Los Angeles with few hours stay in Las Vegas
Please advise which of these do you think is a better option during November: Antelope Canyon or Zion National Park/Bryce Canyon combo. Grand Canyon is a must and we think one-whole day would be sufficient. But we want to make use of another day of stay there by covering the other parks there.
I will really appreciate your valuable advise and hope that will help us finalize our plan. 🙂
Best Regards!
Dear Hammad,
Hello and thank you for your compliments!
Due to the time of year you’re visiting, the fact that you have a toddler in your party, and the driving distances involved, I would suggest taking Bryce Canyon off the table and saving it for another trip. Regarding Zion, it’s one of those parks that requires at least 3 days time to really explore, but you can still do a “drive through” in order to get a taste of it. Trust me, you’ll want to come back when you can spend more time, maybe when your little one is older.
The drive from LA to the Grand Canyon will take ~ 8 hours. For lodging, your best bet will be to stay inside the park, or at least in Tusayan/GC Village South, which is ~7 miles South of the park entrance. There are no rental homes in this area, plus state fire codes prohibit more than 5 people staying in a single room, so you’ll need to get 2 rooms. Despite the potential inconvenience and cost, you’ll be glad to be close to the canyon rim in order to experience sunset and/or sunrise there! Grand Canyon hotels
The drive to Page, AZ will take ~3.5-4 hours. I know Google maps gives the drive time as 2.5 hours, but that’s wheels turning, no stops. That rarely happens as there are a lot of photo opportunities on the trip, especially on the Desert View/East Rim Drive of the Grand Canyon that will no doubt warrant a stop. In Page, AZ, you will find a fine selection of vacation rental homes that can accommodate your family. Page, AZ VRBO Homes
Because you are traveling with young children, you’ll need to consider carefully which branch of Antelope Canyon you wish to tour. Upper Antelope Canyon is the easier of the two main branches, 100m long, the trail is flat the whole way. Lower Antelope is longer (600m), and requires some stair climbing and simple boulder stepping. If you do choose to tour Lower, you’ll want to bring a baby carrier for the little one (they are allowed). Whichever you branch of the canyon you choose to tour, you’ll need to make reservations in advance of your arrival. Book A Tour For Antelope Canyon
The drive back to Los Angeles from Page, AZ will take 8.5+ hours. You may wish to break up the drive by spending the night in Las Vegas. Either way, you can easily make a slight detour through Zion National Park on the way to get a taste for how beautiful it is!
Getting back to the time of year, November is in the transitional period between fall and winter. It will be colder, plus higher elevations like the Grand Canyon might see snow, although this typically doesn’t occur until later in the month. Still, it’s a good idea to pack some warmer clothing and sturdy footwear, just in case.
Good luck and hope that helps,
Alley 🙂
Hello Alley,
Thank you so much for your wonderful site. It is very informative and helpful. I’d like you advise to finalize my trip intenary.
I’m going to have a photograph workshop in Zion Park and it will end on 11/01/18. I’m planing to extend my trip and here is the detail. I’m traveling solo and I guess no choice but rent a car.
– 11/1: heading to Bryce Canyon fm Springdale. Then drive to Page. Any recommendation for Lodging in Page?
11/2:Antelope Canyon- is there any photography tour?
Horseshoe Bend-both ground and helicopters tour if
available and possible.
11/3:Lake Powell & Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour.
11/4:heading to Grand Canyon South Rim. Any recommendations for attractions on the way and lodging in South Rim?
11/5: Grand Canyon South Rim
11/6:heading to LV airport. My flight is 4:30pm
Pls help to fine tune my intenary with your knowledge and expertise.
Thank you very much and your help is greatly appreciated
Grace
Hi Grace and thank you for visiting!
First off, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend driving from Springdale to Bryce, then driving from Bryce to Page in one day. You’re looking at ~2 hours to go from Springdale to Bryce, then another 2.5-3 hours to travel from Bryce to Page.
That’s ~5.5 hours driving in one day’s time. Another consideration is daylength, which, in November is rapidly shortening. Sunrise occurs at about 7:00 AM, and sunset is at about 5:15 PM. You must time any driving that you do in this part of the US so that you’re off the road by sunset. The reason for this is two-fold: one, the deliberate lack of artificial lighting – Bryce Canyon is quite proud of its “dark sky” park status; two, nocturnal wildlife such as deer and elk like to graze near local roadways at night and trust us, you don’t want to have a nighttime encounter with one!
Instead, we’d recommend taking one day off your Grand Canyon South Rim stay (more on that in a minute), and using it to stay overnight in Bryce Canyon or one of the the surrounding communities. That will make for a much more enjoyable visit, and one that allows for relaxation and exploration, which is what your vacation is all about anyway!
The next morning, head to Page, AZ, maybe take an Antelope Canyon tour upon your arrival (booked in advance, of course). If a photography tour is specifically what you’re wanting, these are only offered in Upper Antelope Canyon now. The Lower Antelope Canyon outfitters decided to discontinue them this year. However, there are other slot canyons you might consider touring for photography purposes simply because they purposely keep their group sizes smaller. These “alternate” slot canyons include, but aren’t limited to: Antelope Canyon X, Rattlesnake Canyon, Wind Pebble Canyon, Cathedral Canyon and Waterholes Canyon.
On the Lake Powell and Rainbow Bridge Boat tour, unfortunately, you may be arriving too late in the season to take part in that. They “officially” stop running for the season on October 31st, however, they may operate on an “on demand” basis with a minimum of 15 paying passengers and favorable weather. I would advise calling the concessionaire directly when you arrive in the area at 928-645-1111 about the possibility of this. The helicopter flights may also be on seasonal hiatus, but you can visit the Page Municipal Airport to see if one can be scheduled on a walk-up basis.
If you’re still wanting to do a water-based activity, you might consider doing the Glen Canyon Half-Day Float Trip instead. The concessioner that recently took over operation of this trip plans to run the tour through November. It does not take place on Lake Powell, but travels 15 miles on the Colorado River from the base of the Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry.
Regarding Page, AZ lodging, there are many options to choose from in a variety of price points and amenity classes. The main thing is to book something in advance of your arrival.
On the drive from Page, AZ to Grand Canyon South Rim, there are many stops you can make that will turn what’s normally a 2.5 hour trip (with wheels turning, no stops), into a leisurely 4-hour scenic drive. Sights that will no doubt pique your curiosity include, but aren’t limited to: The “Cut” overlook, the Gap Trading Post, Painted Desert-like rock formations, Chief Yellowhorse’s Curio Stand, the Cameron Trading Post — and that’s before you even hit the Grand Canyon! Once you enter the park at Desert View Point, you’ll have over half a dozen named viewpoints, all with differing features and perspectives of the canyon, beckoning to be photographed. Since a good chunk of your Grand Canyon sightseeing will occur on this drive, that’s why you can get away with just staying one night there and still having a satisfying visit. If possible try to get lodging inside the park, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s already booked up. Your next best bet would be Tusayan/GC Village South, just outside the park. Grand Canyon Hotels
So, your revised itinerary would look something like this:
11/1 – head to Bryce Canyon, overnight in Bryce Canyon
11/2 – head to Page, AZ, take Antelope Canyon Tour, overnight in Page, AZ
11/3 – 2nd day in Page, AZ, float trip or boat tour, overnight in Page, AZ
11/4 – head to Grand Canyon South Rim, overnight at South Rim
11/5 – spend 2nd day at South Rim or head back to Las Vegas
Whatever you decide to do, be sure to book ALL hotels and guided tours in advance of your arrival. Another suggestion: if the helicopter tours aren’t running in Page, they will be at Grand Canyon South Rim (they operate year-round, weather permitting). You might consider taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour instead.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley
Thank you so much for all th detail recommendations. I have changed my plan as per you suggested.
11/1: stay in Bryce Canyon county. The lodge in the park sold out. I booked Best Western in the county instead.
11/2: do you have tel# to book the photography tour in advance? Do you think if I shall still visit either upper or lower Antelope Canyon besides the “alternate slot canyons”?
11/3: after glen-canyon-float-trip, I should have enough time to visit Horseshoe Bend, right?
Now I’m trying my luck to book the rest of the hotels.
Thank you so much for your help.
Grace
Hi Grace,
Good call on staying overnight in Bryce. You won’t regret it, even though you’re outside the park.
If you’re referring to the “alternate” slot canyon tour companies, their telephone #’s are as follows:
Taadidiin Tours – Canyon X & Cardiac Canyon – (928) 660-8890
Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon Tours – Horseshoe Bend/Secret Canyon – (435) 275-4594
Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours – Mountain Sheep, Rattlesnake, Owl & Upper Antelope – (928)380-1874
Chief Tsosie’s Slot Canyon Tours – Cathedral & Upper Antelope – 928-645-5594
Waterhole Canyon Experience LLC – Waterholes Canyon – (928) 660-2031
Ligai Si’Anii Tours – Wind Pebble, Ram’s Head, Ligai Si’Anii Canyons – (928) 640-2594
If you do decide to tour one of the “alternate” slot canyons, there is no need to tour Upper and/or Lower as well in order to have a satisfying visit to Page. Use the extra time to explore other sights, visit one of the visitors centers and/or museums, or do one of many easy but scenic day hikes in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and around the Lake Powell Resort complex.
And yes, after the Glen Canyon Float Trip, you should have ample time to visit Horseshoe Bend. 🙂
Thanks again and have a wonderful trip!
Alley
Hi Alley
Thank you so much for all the detail info. You are the best!
Luckily I booked hotel in the Grand Canyon South Rim.
My last question: is there any monthly pass I can buy for entering all the parks ?
Thank you again for your help. Appreciate it.
Grace
Hi again, Grace,
Awesome on getting a hotel at the South Rim! You’ll be glad you did that, so you can see sunset and/or sunrise from the rim. Yes, there is a pass for all the parks, called the “America The Beautiful Federal Lands Access Pass.” For just $80, this card gets you into all the National Parks, Monuments and Federal Fee Areas in the US for 1 year’s time. It does not work in Native American Tribal Parks, of which Antelope Canyon is one, but it will still pay for itself on the trip you’re taking. Just pick it up at the first National Park Entrance Station you hit on your itinerary.
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
Your wealth of information and eagerness to share is truly a gift.
I hope to share our experience when my wife and I return from our weeklong trip to Arizona in mid-October.
Your thoughts on this itinerary would be truly appreciated!
Day 1
– Fly into Phoenix
– Drive to Flagstaff
– Museum of Northern Arizona
– Easy hike
– Sunset somewhere
– Lowell Observatory
Day 2
– Drive to Chinle
– Drive along Canyon de Chelly’s North and South rims
– Hike White House Ruins trail
Day 3
– Drive to Monument Valley
– Horseback riding tour
– Drive to Page
– Check into Lake Powell Resort
– Sunset at Horseshoe Bend
Day 4
– Lower Antelope Canyon tour
– Relax at resort
– Sunset boat tour to Rainbow Bridge
Day 5
– Drive to Grand Canyon
– Enter East entrance
– Drive and stop along the rim at points
– Check into El Tovar
– Hike Hermit Road to Hermits Rest
Day 6
– Catch sunrise
– Helicopter tour
– Hike / Shuttle Rim Trail to Talk Point
– Hike back and catch sunset
– Shuttle back to Village
Day 7
– Drive to Sedona via Oak Creek Canyon
– Hike Bell Rock & Courthouse Butte
– Check into Casa Sedona Inn
– Relax
– Sunset at Crescent Moon Rec. Area or Airport Mesa
Day 8
– Pink Jeep Tour
– Drive to Phoenix for late flight home
Hi Steve and thanks for your compliments!
Your itinerary looks pretty fun, but just a tad “overplanned.”
One observation I can make right off the bat is that you’re shorting Sedona the time it deserves. This is one area of the Southwest US that warrants at least 2 days, 3 is even better, to do it justice. You might consider dropping your 2nd night at the Grand Canyon, crazy as that sounds, and re-allocate it to Sedona. You’ll already have done a good chunk of your Grand Canyon sightseeing on the drive in from Page since the route takes you past over half a dozen viewpoints of the Grand Canyon, all with differing features and perspectives. Catch a Grand Canyon helicopter flight first thing in the morning, then you can head straight South to Sedona.
That’s awesome that you scored a room at El Tovar! Still, on the day you plan to drive from Page, AZ to Grand Canyon Village, IMO you’re being a little too ambitious as to what you want to accomplish. The Hermit’s Rest/West Rim Drive Road is 8 miles long, one way, from Grand Canyon Village. It’s doubtful you’re going to hike that whole thing after a 3.5-4 hour drive! Yes, I know Google maps gives the drive time from Page to GC as 2.5 hours, but that’s wheels up, no stopping. That rarely happens because you’re going to find a lot of sights that pique your curiosity and warrant a photo stop. With an early start out of Page, AZ — oh, and hit Horseshoe Bend at sunrise, sunset gets super-crowded — you can reasonably expect to arrive at Grand Canyon Village around noon-ish. Since you won’t be able to check into your hotel until 4:00 PM, you can use that time to ride the Hermit’s Rest shuttle to various viewpoints, hopping on and hopping off as you desire. You could still make it all the way out to Hermit’s Rest, but with a combination of riding and walking.
On Day 3, when you propose to drive from Chinle to Monument Valley to Page, AZ, bear in mind, you’re looking at about 4 hours of driving all totaled, but one factor that will work in your favor is time zone difference: the Navajo Reservation DOES observe Daylight Savings Time, whereas Page, AZ DOES NOT. That includes all Antelope Canyon Tour operators. They go by Page, AZ time. So — you will LOSE an hour as you drive from Flagstaff, AZ to Chinle, AZ, then GAIN it back as you drive from Monument Valley to Page. On the drive from Monument Valley to Page, you might pop into the Navajo Code Talkers Museum inside the Kayenta Burger King. Since Antelope Canyon is going to be right on your way, you might consider doing this activity “en route” from Monument Valley to Lake Powell Resort for optimal convenience.
On Day 2 (drive from Flagstaff to Chinle) here again, you might not be able to get everything in that you plan, but that’s OK. Canyon de Chelly is a beautiful park and whatever you’re able to accomplish, it’s all good. If possible, switch up your driving route a bit so you can visit the “Standin’ On The Corner In Winslow, Arizona” park. It won’t add much time to your drive, which will run ~3.5-4 hours.
On Day 4, you mention a “sunset boat tour to Rainbow Bridge.” Sorry, but there’s no such thing. Rainbow Bridge Boat Tours run ~7 hours in length due to the distance you have to travel, and the amount of walking you have to do to get to the Bridge from the dock. At present, with the lake level quite low, that’s about 3 miles round-trip. At the time of year you’re visiting, the only departure available is at 7:30 AM. If you do your Antelope Canyon tour on the drive in from Monument Valley on Day 3, you could still accommodate this activity, and enjoy some quality downtime at Lake Powell Resort, which is highly recommended!
Sorry I’ve been all over the place with commentary on your proposed itinerary. I hope it all makes sense!
Day 1 – Fly into Phoenix, drive to Flagstaff. Time permitting, visit Museum of Northern Arizona, Lowell Observatory, perhaps Wupatki/Sunset Crater National Monument, overnight in Flagstaff
Day 2 – Drive to Chinle, AZ and visit Canyon de Chelly, overnight in Chinle, AZ
Day 3 – Drive from Chinle, AZ to Monument Valley, UT, tour Monument Valley, drive to Page, AZ in afternoon, tour Antelope Canyon, check in at Lake Powell Resort
Day 4 – Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour, downtime at Lake Powell Resort
Day 5 – Visit Horseshoe Bend for sunrise, drive to Grand Canyon Village, ride Hermit’s Rest shuttle in afternoon, check in at El Tovar
Day 6 – Take AM Grand Canyon helicopter tour, drive to Sedona, AZ, and explore area until sunset, overnight in Sedona
Day 7 – More touring in Sedona, e.g., Pink Jeep Tour or a wine tour. For suggestions on other activities and attractions, go to http://www.VisitSedona.com. Spend 2nd night in Sedona
Day 8 – Check out of hotel, visit Tlaquepaque, drive back to Phoenix, visit the Phoenix Airport Museum Gallery (time permitting), fly home
Whatever you do, be sure to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions from comfortably balmy to near-freezing temperatures and pack accordingly.
Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
hi. I love reading about all your advise for visiting the area! We are planning a trip for next April and trying to finalize some plans.
While we’re in Page the plan is to stay for two nights at the Lake Powell Resort. On day one we will book Lower Antelope Canyon. Which tour group do you recommend? Are there any differences between Kens or Dixie? Day two we will do the 1/2 day float trip and maybe watch sunset somewhere (recommendations needed) Third day maybe see the dam or horseshoe bend (afraid of heights so worried about this stop) before heading to Sedona
would love your advise on must do things with 2 adults 3 children ages 7, 12, 14)
also dining options
itineraries as follows:
Las Vegas(Venetian)- 1 night
Grand Canyon western ranch-1 night
El tovar-2 nights
Lake Powell Resort-2 nights
Sedona (Renting house)- 4 nights
Phoenix (Arizona grand hotel)- 1 night fly out
thanks!!
Hi Lisa, and thank you for your inquiry.
Props to you for planning your travels well in advance. We wish everybody did it like you! Congrats on scoring a couple of nights at El Tovar, I used to work there, I love that hotel. Hopefully you guys got a suite, or two adjacent rooms in the deluxe category, the “standard” rooms are tiny and bound to be really cramped for a family of 5.
Regarding the tour company for Lower Antelope Canyon, it really doesn’t matter which one you use. For one, the proprietors are related, and secondly, the tours they offer are going to be virtually identical, right down to the footsteps, and the penny. Just find a departure time that works for you and book it. Mid-day is generally regarded as “prime time,” for which you’ll pay “prime price.” There’s really no such thing as a bad time to go.
As for Horseshoe Bend, there is a small fenced viewing platform that has been recently constructed, if that makes you feel safer, but the “money shot,” i.e., the straight-on view of the ‘Bend, remains unfenced, and rightfully so. If you opt to explore this area of Horseshoe Bend, just make sure your kids know the potential dangers, namely the 700’ drop to the river, and that they give it its due respect.
For ideas on other activities your kids might enjoy in the Page, AZ area, check out the National Park Service’s recommendations for day hikes in the area. One they don’t include is the “New” Wave, which is located across the Glen Canyon Dam Bridge near the turn-off to the Lake Powell Resort complex. Since you’re staying there, it would be an easy stop to make on the way to or from your hotel for the day.
On the drive from Grand Canyon Ranch to El Tovar, you might make the slight detour to Seligman, AZ, which was one of the towns that “Radiator Springs” in the movie “Cars” was loosely based on (the other one was Galena, Kansas). Maybe stop at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In for lunch and a good laugh.
As for Sedona, there’s no shortage of things to do there! Go to http://www.VisitSedona.com for suggestions.
Last but not least — keep in mind that April is in that “transitional” zone between winter and spring. In all likelihood, the weather will be nice, mostly sunny and brisk. But, a late-season storm could still move through. While Page, Sedona and Las Vegas would probably just get rained on, the Grand Canyon could see snow. I know, I lived there for 7 years. Be sure to pack a couple of items of warmer clothing just to be on the safe side.
Hope that helps!
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Thank you very much for your reply. I will definitely check out the New Wave and now possibly Horseshoe bend now that I know there is a fence. I did not know that. I will also check out your suggestion in Seliman. I was able to reserve a deluxe room at El Tovar. that is when my whole trip planning began. very excited! One last question for you. Do you recommend Lake Powell Resort? I’ve read some not so great reviews, but I really love that fact that on the water. The other option I was looking into is the Hyatt place Lake Powell.
Hi again, Lisa 🙂
So, you’ve discovered that Lake Powell Resort’s drawing cards come down to 3 words: location, location, location. And yes, it’s the only place in Page, AZ that’s right on the water, which is great. Another plus is that it has a variety of on-site restaurants, stores and tours that you can get without leaving the complex. The drawback(s)? It puts you anywhere from 20-30 minutes each way from the town of Page, and Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon, and the check-in point for the float trip, and anything else you might like to visit there.
As for the reviews, I think people go into National Park hotels with unrealistic expectations. The El Tovar at the Grand Canyon is no exception. Ultra-luxurious park hotels are few and far between, no matter what the advertising claims. Lake Powell Resort will probably be no different. On the other hand, staying at the Hyatt property would put you closer to all the activities you’ve got on your to-do list, howeverrrr… it’s a brand new hotel, so I have no idea what it’s like. The reviews tend to be pretty good, though.
Good luck, I know it’s a hard choice.
Alley 🙂
Thanks again for your response! I have one last question. I’ve seen your recommendations for stops on way from page too Sedona. I’m definitely interested in stopping at sunset crater. Just trying to decide if we’d rather see this or skip it and go straight to Sedona and start enjoying this area earlier. We’ll be in Sedona for 4 nights but there just seems to be so much to do in area. Is sunset crater worth the detour and time or do you think Sedona is worth just getting too. Thanks 😀
Hi again, Lisa!
Sunset Crater is interesting, to be sure, and a worthwhile stop on your way from Page to Sedona. What makes it even more worthwhile, however, is a second National Monument just adjacent to it: Wupatki. Wupatki is one of many typical examples of Ancestral Puebloan settlements in Arizona, that also boasts some unique features, such as a ball court and free-standing multi-story dwellings. You can walk to most of the ruins fairly easily, plus Wupatki is connected to Sunset Crater NM via a convenient loop drive.
Seeing as though you have 4 nights planned for Sedona, I’d definitely make a point of stopping there since it’s right on your way.
Best wishes for happy travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
Thank you so much for the insight you have in this post. You mention that the itinerary you listed is for peak tourist season, and I’d love some advice parsing out the bits good for a mid-November 2018 trip. I’m travelling with my adult family, 5 people total, and everyone is fairly active and unbothered by the cold–though my parents might opt out of the super long hikes.
I currently have two nights reserved for Page, AZ (with priorities on Horseshoe Bend, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Rainbow Bridge) but I’m wondering if there is enough to do at that time of year – specifically, can I do a rafting trip and see Antelope Canyon in 2 days, 1 night? If so, I would hope to book another night in Zion. I’m doing a similar trip as Gina, except in reverse (based on when I could get lodging in GCNP). My current itinerary is below.
Warm wishes, and thank you!
Faye
November 10 – arrive in Las Vegas in AM, drive to Zion National Park (2 nights, Desert Pearl Inn)
November 11 – Zion National Park
November 12 – Drive to Bryce Canyon (1 night, still need lodging)
November 13 – Drive to Page, AZ (2 nights, still need lodging)
November 14 – Activities near Page, AZ
November 15 – Drive to Grand Canyon (2 nights, Thunderbird Lodge)
Novmeber 16 – Grand Canyon
November 17 – Drive back to Las Vegas, redeye flight out
Hi Faye and thank you for visiting.
Your itinerary looks pretty fun. You just have to keep in mind that mid-November is in that transitional phase between fall and winter, so you could encounter days that are sunny but brisk, or you could have an early-season rain or snowstorm blow through. Snow is more of a concern in the higher-elevation parks like Grand Canyon South Rim and Bryce; Zion and Page are more likely to just get rained on. Obviously, it’s too soon to tell, but you should still have an enjoyable visit regardless.
The Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour “officially” wraps up for the season on October 31st, but may run on an “on-demand” basis with a minimum of 15 passengers booked. If this is something you’re truly interested in, I would recommend calling the boat tour company upon your arrival in the area. Their # is 928-645-1111. If the boat tour doesn’t run, you might be able to substitute a fixed-wing airplane flight over Rainbow Bridge. Flights typically take less than half an hour, if you can believe that. These also run on a “weather permitting” and “aircraft available” basis.
Since the concessionaire for the Glen Canyon Float Trip changed back to ARAMARK, they decided to offer the trip into December, so if you’re wanting to do a water-based activity, and the Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour isn’t possible, choosing this tour will by no means leave you feeling short-changed. It’s a very popular trip, and rightfully so, because it goes through some beautiful scenery and the guides are some of the most knowledgeable people in the area. I know a lot of them personally 😉
Push comes to shove, you might reduce your Grand Canyon stay to 1 night and add that 3rd night onto Zion by shifting your itinerary around a bit. The reason I say that is because a good chunk of your Grand Canyon sightseeing will occur on the drive in from Page since the route takes you along the East Rim/Desert View Drive of the park, where there are over half a dozen named viewpoints, all with differing features and perspectives on the canyon.
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
P.S. Be sure to pick up the America The Beautiful Federal Lands Access Pass. For just $80, this card grants you access to all the National Parks, Monuments and Federal Fee Areas in the US for 1 year’s time. The only places it doesn’t work are Native American Tribal Parks (of which Antelope Canyon is one), and State Parks. You can pick it up at the first National Park you visit. If anyone in your party is over the age of 62 and a U.S. citizen, they would qualify for a Lifetime Senior Pass.
Thank you, Alley – this is SO helpful! It sounds like we have plenty to do in Page, and maybe that will give us some wiggle room in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. I did center the trip around the Grand Canyon since that was the anchor park (parents specifically requested it), but I’ll definitely keep that in mind for an extra Zion night!
Faye,
You’re welcome! Start monitoring the weather about 2 weeks before you get ready to travel, that should give you the best idea of what to expect. Be prepared to pack a few extra pieces of warmer clothing and a pair of gloves, just in case.
Alley 🙂
Hi! Starting my planning for a trip next August. When would be the best time of day to visit Lower Antelope Canyon, as far as light on the walls go? Any time to absolutely avoid?
Hi Dan and thank you for visiting our site.
Kudos on planning your trip well ahead of time! One advantage to your advance planning is that you can probably still get on a prime-time Antelope Canyon tour, which would be mid-day. That’s when the sun is directly overhead and the canyon is best illuminated. Lower Canyon doesn’t experience as many “light beams” as Upper, but they do get a few during the peak touring hours. Unfortunately, that’s also the time when you’ll experience the highest visitation and congestion. If that doesn’t appeal to you, you may want to tour Antelope Canyon during the so-called “off-peak” times, e.g., earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Fortunately, there’s really no such thing as a bad time to go.
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
Hello again, Alley! Okay, I’ve looked at the Ken’s Tours website and you are right, people are starting to book up times already for next August. I was looking Aug. 13 and the 10:30 is already sold out! I’ll be driving up from GCNP that day, so I doubt I could make an early morning visit. The next day I’ll be doing the float trip in the morning, so no chance then, either. After reading some reviews, I see it can get super hot mid-day, so I may not be that interested in prime time after all. Plus I see that they might cancel tours if it gets to 105 degrees in the canyon. So I was thinking of catching the last tour of he day, at 5pm. Do you think it’s likely to be cool enough by that time of day? Also, since it’s the last tour of the day, do you think there might be less of a rush to move us out of the canyon, since there’s no one coming in after us?
Hey again, Dan!
Wow, that’s amazing that the 10:30 AM tour is already sold out. In August, 5:00 PM still tends to be quite hot here in the desert, and afternoon tours got cancelled quite often this summer. If doing an earlier departure isn’t a possibility, you might thing about doing something rather novel: a nighttime tour of Upper Antelope Canyon. These depart 2 hours after sunset, and the canyon’s interior is lit with LED lights, but from what I’ve heard, the temperatures are comfortable, and the group sizes are small. You can just a basic sightseeing tour, or a photographer’s tour (the latter being more expensive).
If that does not appeal, I’d recommend checking back periodically with Ken’s or Dixie Ellis’ tours for cancellations on a Lower canyon tour. This far out, they’re bound to happen.
Best of luck to you!
Alley 🙂
Hi!
My husband and I are flying out to Phoenix on Sept 2 and doing a road trip through the Grand Canyon. It felt like a daunting task to plan this trip out, but I think we have narrowed down where we want to go for the days we will be there. Your blog along with reddit helped us plan it out to the best of our abilities. However, based on this itinerary, we are not sure what activities to book. Our budget will allow us to do 2 max 3 activities. Could you help us decide?
Here is a short summary of our stay:
Sept 2: Fly in to Phoenix in the morning. Pick up our rental and drive to Sedona. Spend the night in Sedona.
Sept 3: Leave Early Morning from Sedona before sunrise, and drive to the South Rim. All day in the South Rim and spend the night in Grand Canyon Village.
Sept 4: Leave again before sunrise and Option A: Drive to Monument Valley, do the loop and see the Forest Gump Point and drive back to Page Spend the rest of the evening and night in Page. Option B: Drive along the East Rim to Page and see horseshoe Bend and maybe do an afternoon Antelope Canyon tour. We will spend the night in Page.
Sept 5: Do either a Kayak tour or boat cruise (Not sure which one yet) and do whatever we couldn’t do the previous day in Page. (I need help planning out these two days). Again spend the night in Page.
Sept 6: Leave early morning and drive to Bryce Canyon. Spend all day and night there.
Sept 7 & 8: Spend both these days hiking and sightseeing in Zion National Park.
Sept 9: Leave Zion and drive back to Sedona and spend the rest of the day there. Stay the night in Sedona.
Sept 10: Will spend all day in Sedona again, but drive to Phoenix in the overnight and spend the night.
Sept 11: Fly out to Toronto.
Now, based on the accommodations we booked, this is our itinerary. I need help planning out the 4th and 5th. So far this is what we have spent on. All prices in CAD:
Accommodation: $1000
Plane tickets: $700
Car Rental: $425
Park Pass: $104
Gas: ~$200
Food:
Activities:
Gratuities:
Total so far: $2429
We want to stay within $3500 but can stretch to $4000 if we absolutely have to. So based on these estimates, what activities can we do? I definitely want to do Antelope Canyon (~200 CAD) and a water activity in Lake Powell (Boat tour: $320, Kayak: $260 My husband and I have actually never did Kayaking before but we Canoe a lot). With our tight budget, what will you suggest?
Also do you think going to Monument Valley the morning of the 4th will be a good ide? I know it will be a lot of driving that day. Also we booked a sedan so no 4X4. Please help!!
Dear Maisha,
Hello and thank you for visiting our site.
Honestly, I think you might be challenged to remain within that budget exactly. One reason for this is that it’s peak season. You won’t find discounts of any kind, anywhere. I’ve seen hotel rates at Motel 6 type properties in Page, AZ, as high as $250 a night. Plus every vacation always incurs unexpected expenses, such as that one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry you can’t resist, or gas prices that ratchet up out of the blue. If money truly is an issue, you might consider pushing your vacation to off-season, namely, between December and March. Although temperatures are cooler, and water-based activities are on seasonal hiatus, you can find good deals on hotels, and the land-based tours (Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend) are still in full operational mode.
Regarding going to Monument Valley from Grand Canyon en route to Page, it can be done, but as you’ve deduced, it’s going to make for a long drive.
Although Google maps puts the drive time at 3 hours, that’s wheels turning, no stops. That rarely happens because there are lots of photo ops along the way. The route to Monument Valley takes you along the Desert View/East Rim Drive of the Grand Canyon, where there are over half-a-dozen named viewpoints, all with different features and differing perspectives on the canyon. Upon exiting the park and entering Navajo Indian Land, there are more sights that will pique your curiosity, such as the Little Colorado River Overlook, Chief Yellowhorses’ Souvenir Stand, the Cameron Trading Post, Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks, the Navajo Code Talkers’ Museum… just to name a few. So don’t be surprised if the drive ends up taking more along the lines of 4.5-5 hours. Then, you’re looking at a 2-2.5 hour drive to Page. As I said, it’s doable, but not ideal. Plus, you want to be sure that you do all of your driving during daylight hours. Artificial/supplemental lighting is kept to a bare minimum in this part of the country, so once the sun goes down, it gets really dark. In September, sunrise occurs at about 6:00 AM, sunset at about 6:45 PM. Keep in mind that Page, AZ is on Mountain STANDARD Time, but Monument Valley is on Mountain DAYLIGHT Time; you will “lose” an hour traveling from Grand Canyon to Monument Valley, then “gain” it back traveling from MV to Page, so if you opt to take part in a guided tour, you’ll have to factor this in.
If the prospect of doing all that driving doesn’t appeal, you might consider doing a fixed-wing airplane flight over Monument Valley from the Page Municipal Airport. These are offered by Westwind Air Service (you have to scroll a ways down the linked page to get to that exact tour). They typically go out first thing in the morning for better light and less wind.
As for kayak tours, no previous kayaking experience is required to take part in these. If you have canoeing experience, you’ll be more than a step ahead of anyone else in your group!
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
P.S. Be sure to pick up an “America The Beautiful Federal Lands Access Pass.” For $80, this card grants you access to all National Parks, Monuments and Federal Fee Areas in the US for 1 year’s time. The only areas it won’t work are Native American Tribal Parks (like Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley) and State Parks (many of Sedona’s more popular attractions are state parks). It will still pay for itself on the trip you’re planning to take as Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon and Lake Powell are all Federal Fee Areas. Just pick up the pass at the first National Park you hit on your trip.
Hi Alley!
I am so excited to have found your website. We are planning our travels to AZ and UT for next summer (early June) and have started to build a framework, but wanted to get your insights. I know in order to stay inside the parks early reservations are key. I was able to secure reservations in all three parks! I did have a few questions though… here is our itinerary so far.
Day 1: Arrive in Vegas
Day 2: Leave for the Grand Canyon (reservations at Thunderbird Lodge)
Day 3: Grand Canyon
Day 4: Leave for Page/Lake Powell (what hotel do you recommend?)
Day 5: Page/Lake Powell
Day 6: Leave for Zion (reservations at Zion Lodge)
Day 7: Zion
Day 8: Leave for Bryce (reservations Bryce Cannon Lodge)
Day 9: Head back to Vegas
Questions:
I had read that one night was plenty for Bryce, but now read in your blog that one night might be more than enough for the Grand Canyon? We just didn’t want to feel rushed, but should we add that day somewhere else?
Is the Mule Ride at the GC a must? What are other musts there?
I read about your musts for the Page/Lake Powell area! That is so incredibly helpful. Does it matter where you stay? On the lake? We are more interested in the canyons around there, versus lake amenities… should we stay in Page then? Without having been there, it is just so hard to know!
Any other feedback on our itinerary?
I can’t tell you enough how much I appreciate your insights. With these kind of trips, you want to soak up all that the area has to offer, without missing any must sees. 🙂
Have a great weekend!
Gina
Hey Gina and thank you for visiting!
Wow, you get the “blue ribbon” for an excellent itinerary, and for planning your trip well in advance. You’ve scored all the best hotel locations and have allowed enough time to really enjoy your trip. We wish all visitors were more like you!
On to your specific questions:
If you have two days to spend at the Grand Canyon, and have already booked lodging, go ahead and keep it as it is. The “one day is enough” recommendation is more like a “push comes to shove” for the many visitors who are pressed for time, yet want to see as much as they can. You are apparently not one of them. The only advice I’d give is to concentrate your South Rim sightseeing on the Grand Canyon Historic Village area and the Hermit’s Rest/West Rim Drive. You can utilize the free shuttles to see all of these areas. Save the viewpoints on the East Rim/Desert View Drive for the drive to Page, AZ, since you have to go that way anyway. Plan to stop at the Cameron Trading Post for “brunch” — the Navajo Tacos are awesome!
Regarding the mule ride, IMO, if you’re not doing the 2-day/1-night trip to Phantom Ranch, I wouldn’t bother with the Canyon Vista ride. It simply takes you through the forest up to a single viewpoint, which you can access via the free shuttle. The Phantom Ranch trips are already booked up for next year, and getting a cancellation via the in-person waiting list will throw a wrench into your whole trip plan. Instead of messing with all that, maybe take a short hike down the Bright Angel Trail. You don’t have to go too far, or spend too much time, to get a feel for how different it is below the rim. Just get an early start so you avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day. Another activity you might consider is a sightseeing flight by airplane or helicopter. These allow you to see inaccessible areas of the canyon, and get a sense of how big it really is. We’re partial to the Imperial Tour on the Eco-Star EC130. Mornings are the best time to fly for better light and less wind. You might also pop down to Tusayan to see the IMAX presentation, “Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets.”
Concerning lodging in Page, AZ, staying on the lake is great, but the one disadvantage is it situates you ~20 minutes from town, meaning you have to get in the car and deal with local traffic to tour Antelope Canyon, eat at local restaurants, etc. If you’re OK with that, go ahead and book at the Lake Powell Resort. If you prefer to be “where the action is,” then book lodging in Page. The town offers everything from Motel 6 to Marriott and everything in between in terms of prices and amenities.
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
P.S. Be sure to pick up an “America The Beautiful Federal Lands Access Pass.” For $80, this card grants you access to all the National Parks and Monuments in the US for 1 year’s time. The only areas it won’t work are Native American Tribal Parks (like Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon) and State Parks (like Kodachrome Basin or the Coral Pink Sand Dunes [near Kanab]), but it will still pay for itself on the trip you’re planning to take.
Wow, Alley! That additional insight is priceless. I truly can’t thank you enough for taking the time to respond back.
I am sure I will think of other questions along the way, but the only other question I have right now is timing re: booking tours. How far in advance should we do that?
Thank you! 🙂
Hey Gina,
Glad it helped. As far as booking tours, they’ll probably open up 2019 inventory in December of this year, or January of ’19 at the latest.
Alley 🙂