Discover the Ultimate 7-Day Arizona Road Trip: National Parks, Canyons & Scenic Beauty
7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary: National Parks, Canyons & Scenic Drives
Explore the rugged beauty and vibrant culture of Arizona with this carefully crafted 7-day itinerary designed for families, nature lovers, and road trip enthusiasts. This unforgettable journey takes you through iconic national parks, breathtaking canyons, and some of the Southwest's most scenic drives.
Begin your adventure in Phoenix, then make your way through legendary landscapes including Sedona's red rock country, the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, and the mystical formations of Monument Valley. Each day offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural stops, family-friendly activities, and must-see photo ops.
Arrive in Phoenix & Explore
Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Top Things to Do in Phoenix
- Hike at Papago Park & Hole-in-the-RockA quick, scenic desert hike.
- Visit the Desert Botanical GardenSee stunning cacti and desert plants.
- Explore the Heard MuseumLearn about Native American history and culture.
- Dinner in Old Town ScottsdaleGreat food, shopping, and nightlife.
Overnight in Phoenix or Scottsdale.
Sedona - Red Rock Country
Drive from Phoenix to Sedona (2 hrs)
Top Things to Do in Sedona
- Hike Devil's Bridge or Cathedral RockTwo of Sedona's most famous hikes.
- Take the Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179)Incredible views!
- Relax with a Spa or Energy Vortex ExperienceSedona is known for its healing energy.
- Watch the Sunset at Airport Mesa OverlookOne of the best viewpoints.
Spend the night in Sedona.
Grand Canyon National Park
Drive from Sedona to Grand Canyon South Rim (2 hrs 15 mins)
Top Things to Do in the Grand Canyon
- Drive Desert View DriveStop at famous overlooks like Mather Point & Lipan Point.
- Hike the South Kaibab Trail (Ooh Aah Point)A short but stunning canyon hike.
- Optional: Take a Helicopter TourAn unforgettable way to see the canyon!
- Watch the Sunset at Hopi PointOne of the best sunset spots in the park.
Overnight at a Grand Canyon lodge or nearby in Tusayan.
Page - Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon
Drive from Grand Canyon to Page (2 hrs 15 mins)
Top Things to Do in Page
- Visit Horseshoe BendA short hike to one of Arizona's most iconic views!
- Tour Antelope CanyonA must-see slot canyon (advance reservations required).
- Take a Boat Tour on Lake PowellExplore the stunning Glen Canyon.
- Catch Sunset at Wahweap OverlookGorgeous views over Lake Powell.
Overnight in Page.
Monument Valley & The Navajo Nation
Drive from Page to Monument Valley (2 hrs 15 mins)
Top Things to Do in Monument Valley
- Take the Monument Valley Scenic DriveIncredible red rock formations!
- Visit John Ford's PointA famous Hollywood filming location.
Optional: Take a Guided Navajo Jeep Tour - Learn about Navajo culture & hidden spots.
Spend the night in Monument Valley or back in Page.
Petrified Forest National Park & Route 66
Drive from Monument Valley to Petrified Forest (3 hrs 45 mins)
Top Things to Do in Petrified Forest National Park
- See the Painted DesertA surreal landscape of colorful badlands.
- Explore the Crystal Forest TrailWalk among ancient petrified trees.
- Stop at Historic Route 66 Landmarks Like the Painted Desert Inn.
Drive to Flagstaff (1 hr 45 mins) & Overnight.
Overnight in Flagstaff.
Back to Phoenix - Final Adventures
Drive from Flagstaff to Phoenix (2 hrs 15 mins)
Optional Stops Along the Way
- Meteor CraterOne of the best-preserved meteor impact sites in the world.
- Tonto Natural Bridge State ParkA beautiful hidden gem near Payson.
- Sunset Hike at Camelback MountainA perfect way to end your trip!
Fly home from Phoenix.
This itinerary covers stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and unique desert experiences.
Ready to plan your Arizona trip?
Dave will build a custom itinerary and find the best options for your budget and travel style.
Tell Me About Your TripHeader photo: Luca Galuzzi (Lucag), CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons.