road trip la to arizona

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Arizona , California , Road Trip Itineraries , United States

9 incredible california to arizona road trip stops (+ 3 itineraries).

Road trips are my favorite way to travel and discover new areas, and I’ve taken many road trips in California and Arizona. Whether I’m driving down the Pacific Coast Highway or going on a road trip to the Grand Canyon , I always have a blast stopping off at small towns or random attractions around the way. However, the ultimate way to see all these places is by doing a California to Arizona road trip.

There’s plenty for everyone on this trip, from larger cities to historical landmarks to stunning national parks. You’ll get to explore some of my favorite areas, such as the quirky Pioneertown, the beautiful Joshua Tree National Park, and the bustling city of Phoenix. I’ve included all my recommended stops in each area so you won’t run out of things to do.

In this article, I’ll give you some of my personal tips on the best way to plan a road trip from California to Arizona, places to stop, and three different itineraries you can follow depending on how much time you have.

Table of Contents

Tips for a California to Arizona Road Trip

Here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about taking a road trip from California to Arizona.

How Long Is the Drive to Arizona From California?

There are three main routes you can use to get from California to Arizona, and each of them varies in length. Let’s say you’re going from Los Angeles to Tucson for the sake of this itinerary. 

You can choose to go via the I-8 E . This is the longest route you can take, covering a whopping 518 miles and nearly eight hours of driving. It is a scenic route, which makes up for the lengthy drive. You’ll pass by stunning beaches along the Pacific Ocean coast and in San Diego before heading to Tucson.

The second route you can take is via the I-10 E . It is the shortest distance you’ll travel, at 483 miles. This route takes about seven and a half hours of driving from L.A. to Tucson. You’ll drive past major tourist hubs like Joshua Tree National Park , Palm Springs, and Phoenix.

The last route you can take on your road trip to Arizona from California travels along both the I-8 E and I-10 E. It’s 506 miles and will take you just under eight hours to get to your destination. This route is quite underwhelming when it comes to scenic towns along the way, so I wouldn’t recommend it.

Can You Do the California to Arizona Drive in a Day?

A road trip from Los Angeles to Tucson is a seven to eight-hour drive , and that’s not including the time you’ll spend at the must-see attractions along the way. So, while it is possible to complete this journey in a day, you’d be doing yourself a great disservice. 

Not only will you arrive exhausted, but you will also have missed out on some fantastic stops along the way. That’s why I suggest you drive down to Arizona from California over three to five days. This gives you enough time to see some breathtaking parts of these two states. You can always do a separate California road trip in the future, such as a San Francisco to San Diego drive .

Where To Fly Into and Out of for Your California to Arizona Road Trip

The great thing about road trips is that they can be done in either direction. If you’re closer to California, you can fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , which is about 18 miles from the city center. Similarly, if you’re from the east coast, you’ll fly into Tucson International Airport (TUS) , roughly 10 miles from downtown.

Need another trip idea? You’ll love going on a drive from LA to San Francisco .

California to Arizona Road Trip Map

Here are the places you’ll be stopping during this California to Arizona drive.

9 Stops on a California to Arizona Road Trip

Make your road trip from California to Arizona an unforgettable one by adding these spots and their must-see attractions to your itinerary.

1. Riverside, CA

About 55 miles (1 hour and 10 minutes) inland from Los Angeles is Riverside, known for its thriving citrus industry. Its sweet and zesty orange fruit is largely responsible for the empire that was built here and led to Riverside being one of the wealthiest areas in California that you’ll want to see on your drive from California to Arizona.

There are more than 100 landmarks all over the city of Riverside, as well as 24 national historic sites to see on your Los Angeles to Arizona road trip. Stop by the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa to admire its stunning Spanish Mission Style architecture . The historic hotel also houses the award-winning Duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood, where you can sit for a delectable lunch.  

Other things you can do in Riverside include hiking up to the Peace Tower at Mount Rubidoux Park and strolling through the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens . Visit the California Citrus State Historic Park , an open-air museum dedicated to the juicy fruit, for a quick history lesson.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

2. Pioneertown, CA

From Riverside, you’ll drive about 73 miles (1 hour and 20 minutes) to Pioneertown. This is a historical town in San Bernardino’s High Desert that’s full of Western charm and has lots of interesting things to discover. 

Hollywood actors who wanted to build a remarkable Old West set that served as a functioning community founded the town. Pioneertown has charming false-front buildings that look like they were built in the 1800s. These buildings are actually salons, jails, ice cream shops, motels, and bowling alleys.

Many of these establishments are not operational because they are just movie sets, but Pioneertown still has something to offer. The Pioneertown Motel provides you with much-needed reprieve in its 19 guestrooms and 24-hour canteen, The Red Dog. 

3. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

After exploring the wild west in Pioneertown, drive 17 miles (25 minutes) to Joshua Tree National Park’s north entrance in Twentynine Palms for your next stop on the California to Arizona road trip. This national park in southern California is well known for its desert landscape and strange rock formations.

Spend the day on a driving tour of Joshua Tree National Park. You’ll find several hiking trails and scenic overlooks that you should explore. The Cholla Cactus Garden Trail is one of the famous hikes in the park, taking you past thousands of densely concentrated cholla cacti .

Other hikes with incredible views include the Keys View Trail . This two-mile loop trail ends with sweeping views of the Coachella Valley, the San Jacinto Mountains, and the San Andreas Fault. The park has uniquely-shaped rocks you should see, like Arch, Skull, and Split, to name a few.

Make sure to buy your America the Beautiful pass ahead of time so you can easily enter all the national parks for a low price.

4. Chiriaco Summit, CA

Head out of Joshua Tree National Park using the south entrance. After leaving the park, you’ll drive towards Chiriaco Summit, a small town about 17 miles (25 minutes) from the park’s Cottonwood Visitor Center.

At Chiriaco Summit, you’ll find a lovely family-run coffee shop and restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat and fuel up for the trip ahead. Take some time to visit the Southwest Travel Information Center, where you can pick up tourist brochures for over 220 attractions in the Southwest. You’ll also have access to the Internet and information about road conditions and closures. 

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

5. Quartzsite, AZ

The next spot on your road trip is Quartzsite, a popular RV stop for many cross-country road trippers. Oddly enough, Quartzite is a wonderful place to visit in winter, thanks to its average temperatures hovering in the 70s. 

This small town goes from a furnace in summer to a mild and sun-drenched winter oasis with plenty of things to do. From January to February, thousands of sellers come to the Quartzsite Annual Mineral Shows and Swapmeets to show off their rocks, minerals, gems, jewelry, and even clothes.

Other things you can explore nearby include hiking through Palm Canyon and visiting the Castle Dome Mine Museum , both of which you’ll find inside the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

6. Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix is 219 miles (about 2 hours) away from Quartzite (and a fun drive from LA to Phoenix as well). It’s the state capital of Arizona and a must-see on any road trip. Known as the “Valley of the Sun,” Phoenix boasts world-class resorts, high-end golf courses, and an incredible urbanscape with lots of outdoor adventure.

A great way to see this magical city is by taking a morning hot air balloon ride over Phoenix. If you’re not there early enough, you can take this tour in the evening for stunning sunset views. Outdoor activities like hiking and strolling in the Desert Botanical Garden are also worth trying.

If you’d like to explore nearby attractions, Scottsdale and Tempe are great places to visit. You can even take a three cities and nature tour showing you the best Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe attractions in just six hours.

Phoenix is also the perfect place to restock your family road trip packing list or road trip snacks for kids if you’ve run out of a few items.

7. Casa Grande, AZ

You’ll take a 47-mile (49-minute) drive from Phoenix to Casa Grande. It is situated halfway between Phoenix and Tucson and is a great place to fully immerse yourself in Arizona’s desert while on your California to Arizona road trip. 

The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument in Coolidge is where you’ll find several preserved Hohokam structures that date back to the Classical Period. If you want something fun and unique, visit the Casa Grande Neon Sign Park for an out-of-the-box and impromptu photoshoot. 

8. Picacho Peak State Park, AZ

Picacho Peak State Park is 31 miles (35 minutes) from Casa Grande and is a fantastic place to end the day. The state park is home to Picacho Peak , which is the most famous summit in the Sonoran Desert. 

You’ll find plenty of things to do here, like hiking, having a picnic, and camping, where you can enjoy gazing at the star-studded Arizonian sky. A must-do is trekking the four-mile round-trip Hunter Trail to the top of Picacho Peak.

Another exciting drive is the Las Vegas road trip from San Francisco .

9. Saguaro National Park, AZ

Last but not least, you’ll stop at Saguaro National Park, about 31 miles (37 minutes) from Picacho Peak State Park. The park boasts a large population of saguaro cacti and hiking trails with epic views of the desert landscape.

Saguaro National Park is divided into two distinct areas, each sitting on either side of Tucson. The Signal Hill Trail , which is in the western area, will take you to prehistoric petroglyphs that the Hohokam people left behind. The east side of the park boasts the Cactus Forest Drive , a scenic loop that gives you sweeping views of the park and surrounding areas.

Want another fun road trip idea? You’ll love going on a Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe drive .

5-Day Itinerary for a California to Arizona Road Trip

Taking the I-10 E route from Los Angeles to Tucson may be the fastest way to get through this road trip, but it’s also the most scenic. So here’s a 5-day itinerary you can use to make sure you see all the top attractions along the way. You can also do this backwards and go on a Arizona to California road trip.

Day 1: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park

Mileage : 131 miles

Driving time : 2 hours 15 minutes

The first day of your LA to Arizona road trip itinerary takes you from bustling L.A. to the rugged Joshua Tree National Park. You can start your day with a sunrise hike. The 1.2-mile Arch Rock Trail is easy and suitable for most hikers. If you want a bit of a challenge, you can take the Ryan Mountain Trail .

Other great things to do in Joshua Tree National Park include taking an off-road tour , rock climbing, and going on a scavenger hunt in the desert. You’ll also find great ranger programs, horseback riding, and bridging excursions available.

If you want to take a detour and extend your trip, you can go on a LA to Yosemite drive to see yet another beautiful park.

Where to Stay:

• Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Located in a lush country club in Palm Desert. (rates start at around $116 per night)  
• Raintree’s Cimarron Golf Resort Palm Springs – A golfing resort located in Palm Springs. (rates start at around $157 per night)  
• Camping at Joshua Tree National Park – There are five camping sites to choose from, but these are only available on reservation. You can reserve a spot on recreation.gov .

Day 2: Joshua Tree National Park to Quartzsite

Mileage : 94.7 miles

Driving time : 1 hour 29 minutes

You may wonder, “Why should I stay in Quartzsite overnight?” Let me explain. While it is a small town, Quartzsite has lots to offer. On a quick trip to Dripping Springs or the Tyson Wash, you can discover ancient Native American petroglyphs and pictographs.

Quartzsite is also a convenient place to stay if you want to explore the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. This is where you can spot numerous desert wildlife like badgers, foxes, ground squirrels, pocket mice, and even kangaroo rats. 

• Hampton Inn & Suites – Great for exploring attractions between Blythe and Quartzsite. (rates start at around $149 per night)
• Super 8 by Wyndham – Get access to free parking and a full American breakfast every morning. (rates start at around $115 per night)  

Day 3: Quartzsite to Phoenix

Mileage : 129 miles

Driving time : 2 hours and 10 minutes

I recommend driving from Quartzsite to Phoenix very early in the morning on your LA to Arizona drive. This will give you enough time to explore the fifth largest city in the U.S. Take this RoRo street art tour to immerse yourself in the city’s art and culture scene. 

You can spend time at the Phoenix Zoo admiring its nearly 3,000 animals, from Asian elephants to Sumatran tigers and Komodo dragons. Other great things to add to your list include strolling in the Japanese Friendship Garden and visiting the Musical Instrument Museum.

• Hyatt Place Tempe, Phoenix University – Modern amenities and a rooftop pool with views of the city to top it off. (rates start at around $245 per night)
• The Azure Hotel – Only a short distance from attractions like Mesa Arts Center and the Arizona Museum of Natural History. (rates start at around $210 per night)  

Day 4: Phoenix to Saguaro National Park

Mileage : 104 miles

Driving time : 1 hour 40 minutes

On top of the densely populated saguaro cacti, this national park has 1,162 species of plants and desert vegetation across its 91,445 acres. A great way to see these wildflowers is by taking a Saguaro e-bike tour in the east district.

You can also stop by the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, where you can join animal theater programs, visit the aquarium, and browse through the permanent museum exhibits.

• La Quinta by Wyndham – Great amenities like an outdoor heated pool and hot tub. It’s also less than a 20-minute drive from the Tucson Convention Center. (rates start at around $121 per night)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Tucson, Marana — Enjoy an outdoor swimming pool and American buffet breakfast each morning. ( rates start at around $145 per night)

Day 5: Saguaro National Park to Tucson

Mileage : 12.7 miles

Driving time : 25 minutes

Tucson is your final destination on this road trip from California to Arizona. This vibrant desert city is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network , thanks to its centuries-old culture and incredible gastronomy.

There are a lot of things to do here, like hiking, biking, horseback riding, and driving the 27-mile Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway to see the city from a different angle. You can also visit Reid Park Zoo and Trail Dust Town, a western-themed shopping center in Tucson.

• Hotel Congress – Located in downtown Tucson, it has an onsite bar, restaurant, and coffee shop where you can get a delicious breakfast. ( rates start at around $218 per night)
• Hilton Tucson East – Full-service onsite restaurant, fitness center, and great views of the Rincon Mountains. ( rates start at around $202 per night)

3 Day and 7 Day California to Arizona Road Trip Itineraries

The above road trip itinerary from California to Arizona can be compressed into three days but can also be expanded over a full week. Here are suggested itineraries for a 3-day or 7-day adventure from L.A. to Tucson.

3-Day Road Trip Itinerary

From L.A., you’ll take the I-10 E to Joshua Tree National Park. You have the option of staying in one of the park’s campsites or in nearby areas such as Palm Springs and Palm Desert. 

Next, you’ll head over to Phoenix, where you can spend a full day exploring the city’s best attractions and nearby towns like Scottsdale and Tempe. After having a blast in Phoenix, you’ll drive down to Tucson for your final day.

7-Day Road Trip Itinerary

A full-week itinerary includes all the stops I covered in the 5-day itinerary, but, of course, with more great places to visit. From Los Angeles, you’ll drive to San Bernardino before heading to Riverside and Temecula, where you’ll find award-winning wineries.

From Temecula, head over to Pioneertown for a wild west experience before wrapping up the day at Joshua Tree National Park. The next day takes you to Quartzsite, where you’ll take a detour to Kofa National Wildlife Refuge.

After Quartzsite, you’ll head to Phoenix for great outdoor and indoor adventures. From here, you’ll head down to Casa Grande, where you’ll find quirky attractions to explore. You’ll continue down to Tucson, but first, make stops at Picacho Peak State Park and Saguaro National Park.

No matter how long you’re there for, you’ll love going on a California to Arizona road trip!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

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Road Trip Guide: Driving From Los Angeles To Phoenix

The drive from Los Angeles to Phoenix packs epic scenery into a manageable one-day road trip. Along the way, you’ll traverse the Mojave Desert’s rugged mountains, pass by Palm Springs’ retro-chic vibes, and arrive in Phoenix to enjoy its thriving arts and culinary scenes. This guide provides everything you need to know to plan the perfect LA to Phoenix road trip, whether you seek the fastest route or the most scenic journey.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The drive from LA to Phoenix covers around 375 miles and takes 5-6 hours depending on traffic and stops .

Drive Time and Distance from LA to Phoenix

The most direct route from la to phoenix covers roughly 375 miles. with ideal conditions, you can drive it in about 5-6 hours nonstop..

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Los Angeles to Phoenix? Buckle up and get ready to hit the road! The distance between these two vibrant cities is approximately 375 miles. If you’re a seasoned driver and the traffic gods are on your side, you can complete this journey in about 5-6 hours without any major stops along the way.

Keep in mind that driving conditions can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather and traffic conditions before you embark on your adventure. Planning your departure time strategically can help you avoid rush hour traffic and make the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

To make the most of your road trip, consider taking advantage of the scenic route options. While the most direct path will get you to Phoenix faster, taking some detours for sightseeing can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip.

Explore the stunning landscapes, charming towns, and iconic attractions along the way. You might find hidden gems that you never knew existed!

Adding in rest breaks, meal stops, and sightseeing detours will extend the drive time to 6-8 hours or more.

Of course, it’s important to take breaks during your road trip to rest, refuel, and recharge. Adding in rest stops, meal breaks, and sightseeing detours will naturally extend the drive time. Plan for additional hours to explore the sights, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and stretch your legs.

Consider making a pit stop in Palm Springs, a desert oasis known for its luxurious resorts, hot springs, and stunning mountain views. Or, take a detour to Joshua Tree National Park and immerse yourself in its otherworldly landscapes.

These side trips will add extra hours to your travel time, but the experiences will be well worth it.

Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Embrace the adventure, enjoy the ride, and create unforgettable memories along the way. Safe travels!

Route Options Driving from Los Angeles to Phoenix

Interstate 10 is the most popular and fastest route. it runs straight east from la through the desert to phoenix..

When it comes to driving from Los Angeles to Phoenix, the most popular and fastest route is Interstate 10. This route takes you straight east from LA, cutting through the vast desert landscapes and leading you directly to Phoenix.

With well-maintained roads and plenty of gas stations along the way, Interstate 10 offers a convenient and efficient journey for road trippers.

For a more scenic drive, take Highway 62/Twentynine Palms Highway. It runs northeast from Joshua Tree through desert landscapes.

If you’re looking for a more scenic and picturesque drive, consider taking Highway 62, also known as Twentynine Palms Highway. This route offers breathtaking views of the desert landscapes and takes you through the stunning Joshua Tree National Park.

As you drive northeast, you’ll be treated to the beauty of the desert, with its unique flora and fauna, making for a truly memorable road trip experience.

Palm Springs makes a nice pitstop, about halfway between the two cities. Combining I-10 and Highway 62 lets you pass through.

About halfway between Los Angeles and Phoenix lies the charming city of Palm Springs. This desert oasis serves as an excellent pit stop for road trippers, offering a wide range of attractions and amenities.

From exploring the city’s vibrant downtown area to taking a relaxing dip in one of the many luxurious pools, Palm Springs provides a great opportunity to stretch your legs and recharge before continuing your journey.

If you want to make the most of your road trip and experience both the speed of Interstate 10 and the scenic beauty of Highway 62, consider combining these two routes. By taking a slight detour, you can pass through Palm Springs on your way from Los Angeles to Phoenix, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Sightseeing Stops Between Los Angeles and Phoenix

Break up the drive with interesting attractions along the way:.

Driving from Los Angeles to Phoenix can be a long journey, but it doesn’t have to be boring. There are several sightseeing stops along the route that are worth exploring. By taking breaks at these attractions, you can make your road trip more enjoyable and create lasting memories.

Joshua Tree National Park – Iconic desert scenery with unique twisted Joshua trees.

One of the must-see stops on your road trip is Joshua Tree National Park. Located just east of Palm Springs, this national park is known for its unique desert landscape and iconic Joshua trees. Take a hike or drive through the park to admire the twisted and spiky trees, rugged rock formations, and stunning panoramic views.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this natural wonder.

Palm Springs – Relax in a retro-chic resort or check out the Palm Springs Art Museum.

After exploring Joshua Tree National Park, make a stop in Palm Springs. This desert oasis is famous for its retro-chic resorts, hot springs, and vibrant arts scene. Take a dip in a pool, relax under the palm trees, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment.

If you’re interested in art, visit the Palm Springs Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. You can also explore the trendy downtown area, filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Indio – Stop at festivals like Coachella or explore date farm tours.

If you happen to be traveling during the festival season, make sure to stop in Indio. This city is home to the famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, a multi-day event that attracts music lovers from all over the world.

Even if you’re not attending the festival, you can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and explore the nearby date farms. Take a tour and learn about the cultivation and harvesting of this sweet fruit, and don’t forget to sample some delicious date treats.

Blythe – Stretch your legs at roadside parks along the Colorado River.

As you continue your journey towards Phoenix, take a break in Blythe. This small town is located along the scenic Colorado River and offers several roadside parks where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful views.

Take a walk along the riverbank, have a picnic, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Blythe is also a popular spot for boating and fishing, so if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, make sure to bring your gear.

Quartzsite – Browse open-air flea markets and view ancient petroglyphs.

Before reaching your final destination, make a stop in Quartzsite. This quirky town is known for its open-air flea markets, where you can find everything from antiques to handmade crafts. Browse through the stalls, hunt for hidden treasures, and strike up a conversation with the friendly vendors.

If you’re interested in history, visit the nearby petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings made by Native Americans thousands of years ago. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the past and a great way to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Tips for Driving from LA to Phoenix

Follow these tips for a smooth and enjoyable la to phoenix drive:.

If you’re planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Phoenix, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make your journey as pleasant and hassle-free as possible. Here are some handy tips to help you along the way:

Leave early to avoid heavy traffic exiting the LA metro area.

Los Angeles is known for its notorious traffic, and it’s no different when it comes to leaving the city. To avoid getting stuck in a sea of cars, it’s best to leave early in the morning or during non-peak hours. This way, you can beat the rush and enjoy a smoother drive out of the LA metro area.

Bring sun protection for desert conditions.

As you make your way from LA to Phoenix, you’ll be driving through the desert, where the sun can be scorching hot. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense UV rays.

It’s also a good idea to have plenty of water on hand to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Get gas when you see stations, they are spaced far apart.

One thing you’ll notice as you drive through the desert is that gas stations can be few and far between. To avoid running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere, it’s important to fill up whenever you see a gas station.

Don’t assume that the next one will be just around the corner – play it safe and top up your tank whenever you have the chance.

Watch out for high winds that can impact driving, especially trucks and RVs.

The desert can be a windy place, and this can have a significant impact on your driving experience. Strong gusts of wind can make it difficult to maintain control of your vehicle, particularly if you’re driving a large truck or RV.

Be sure to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and be prepared for sudden gusts that may push your vehicle off course.

Obey speed limits, police monitor highway routes.

While it may be tempting to put your foot down and enjoy the open road, it’s important to remember that speed limits are in place for a reason. Police regularly monitor the highway routes between LA and Phoenix, and exceeding the speed limit can result in hefty fines or even a suspended license.

So, obey the speed limits and enjoy a safe and stress-free journey.

Consider staying over in Phoenix on the return to break up the long drive.

If you’re planning on driving back from Phoenix to Los Angeles, you might want to consider breaking up the long drive by staying overnight in Phoenix. This will not only give you a chance to rest and recharge but also allow you to explore the vibrant city of Phoenix and all it has to offer.

It’s a great way to make your return journey more enjoyable and memorable.

Remember, a road trip from LA to Phoenix can be an exciting adventure if you plan ahead and follow these tips. So, buckle up, turn up the music, and enjoy the scenic drive through the desert!

What to Do in Phoenix

Phoenix offers plenty of great attractions and activities after the scenic desert drive:.

When visiting Phoenix, one must not miss the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Desert Botanical Garden. This unique garden showcases a wide variety of Southwestern plants and cacti, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the desert landscape.

Take a leisurely stroll through the garden’s trails and be amazed by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of these fascinating desert plants. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning sights!

If you have a passion for art and culture, Phoenix has you covered. The city is home to renowned museums like the Heard Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum. The Heard Museum is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Native American art and culture, showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts, jewelry, and traditional artwork.

The Phoenix Art Museum, on the other hand, offers a diverse range of exhibits, including contemporary art, modern photography, and European classics. Art enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the rich cultural experiences these museums have to offer.

After a day of exploring, it’s time to satisfy your taste buds with the diverse food scene in Phoenix. The city boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants and eateries serving up Southwest and Mexican cuisine.

From mouthwatering tacos and burritos to flavorful chili and enchiladas, you’ll find it all in Phoenix. Be sure to try some traditional dishes like the Sonoran hot dog or the famous chimichanga. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to indulge in delicious flavors, Phoenix will leave you wanting more.

For more information on the attractions and activities in Phoenix, visit www.visitphoenix.com .

The scenic drive from LA to Phoenix traverses about 375 miles through iconic Mojave Desert landscapes. Plan for a 5-6 hour drive time plus extra time for stops. Take routes like I-10 and Highway 62 for fast travel or sightseeing detours. Enjoy art, culture, and cuisine upon arriving in lively Phoenix after your Southwestern road trip adventure.

Hi there, I'm Jessica, the solo traveler behind the travel blog Eye & Pen. I launched my site in 2020 to share over a decade of adventurous stories and vivid photography from my expeditions across 30+ countries. When I'm not wandering, you can find me freelance writing from my home base in Denver, hiking Colorado's peaks with my rescue pup Belle, or enjoying local craft beers with friends.

I specialize in budget tips, unique lodging spotlights, road trip routes, travel hacking guides, and female solo travel for publications like Travel+Leisure and Matador Network. Through my photography and writing, I hope to immerse readers in new cultures and compelling destinations not found in most guidebooks. I'd love for you to join me on my lifelong journey of visual storytelling!

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Ultimate Arizona Road Trip: Complete 7 Day Itinerary with 50+ Stops

If you are looking for the ultimate Arizona itinerary look no further. This post is the complete itinerary that we used for the most recent YouTube video. You can see the video above or at this link if you want to watch it. In the video, we spend about a week road tripping across Arizona, from the very top at Page, all the way down to the bottom at Bisbee. Hopefully the video and post help you to do your own road trip and to see this amazing state yourself. If you want all of the places we stopped at on a map, head over the Patreon . Lets jump into it and let me know what your favorite spot is in Arizona in the comments.

Where to Begin

If you are wanting to fly in, the best bet is probably Phoenix . It is centrally located and easy to access the start and the end of the road trip. If you fly into Phoenix , the drive to Page to start what we did is about 4 hours though. Alternatively, you could fly into Las Vegas , but it is a much longer drive to get back to Las Vegas after the road trips is over. If you did fly into Las Vegas , it may be best to fly out of Phoenix to make the most of your time.

If you live close enough to drive, then just head to Page first and drive down the state and leave from Tucson to head back. This is what we did, we drove in from Southern California to Page and then drove through the state and back out through Yuma to Southern California when the trip was over.

After deciding where to come in, here is the full itinerary for what we did in our road trip video.

We drove from Southern California to Page, which is about 8.5 hours. We actually got in the day before and then did the Rainbow Bridge tour before starting our road trip. You can read more about that tour, if you have time to do it, in this post .

• Start – Page, AZ
• End – Grand Canyon South Rim
• Drive time – 2.5 hours (130 Miles)
• Hotel in Page – Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell
• Hotel in Grand Canyon – El Tovar
• Main Stops – Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Cameron Trading Post, Grand Canyon South Rim

We started the day early by taking the first tour of Upper Antelope Canyon. While this did not have the light rays the canyon is known for, it was a small tour and an amazing way to experience the canyon. From there we headed to the Glen Canyon Overlook, Horseshoe Bend and then started driving to the Grand Canyon. On the way we stopped for lunch at Cameron Trading Post (get the Navajo Tacos).

We spent the rest of the day in the Grand Canyon. Be sure to stop at the Desert View Watchtower, and many of the other lookouts along the drive to Grand Canyon Village. In the village, you can walk the south rim, go on a few hikes or just enjoy the views from Mather Point.

We ended the night at the historic El Tovar Hotel, which was built in 1905 and is one of the most historic hotels in the national park system.

• Start – Grand Canyon Village
• End – Camp Verde (could end in Jerome or Sedona though)
• Drive time – 3.5 hours (165 Miles)
• Hotel in Camp Verde – Cliff Castle
• Main Stops – Flagstaff, Sedona, Jerome

We left the Grand Canyon early and headed south. On the way we stopped at Bedrock City to explore the fun Flintstones inspired park and then we headed past Flagstaff to Sedona. In Sedona, we hiked Cathedral Rock, went to the Chapel of Holy Cross, got lunch at Wildflower and then took in the views at Airport Mesa.

Leaving Sedona, we drove an hour to Jerome and toured the historic mining city on the hill. Some highlights here include the state park, the sliding jail and Haunted Burgers for dinner.

We ended the night at Camp Verde so we could be closer to our first location for day 3.

• Start – Camp Verde (could end in Jerome or Sedona though)
• End – Tucson
• Drive time – 3.5 hours (214 Miles)
• Hotel in Tucson – Hotel Congress
• Main Stops – Musical Instrument Museum, Hole in the Rock Hike, Casa Grande Ruins

Since we stayed in Camp Verde, we were right next to our first stop, Montezuma Castle National Monument. This beautiful cliff dwelling is something you do not want to miss! From there we headed south and stopped for pie at Rock Springs before heading into Phoenix. The original plan was to go to Taliesin West but it was closed for flooding, so we ended up going to a bunch of museums.

First up was the Musical Instrument Museum, one of the best I have ever been to. From there we got lunch at Spiritual Gangster and then did a short hike in Papago Park before heading over to the Hall of Flame Museum (the largest firefighting museum in the world).

We grabbed coffee at Cartel before heading south towards Tucson and getting off the freeway to go to Casa Grande National Monument. This building is almost 700 years old and is well worth seeing!

We ended the day at Tucson, staying at the historic Hotel Congress and getting dinner at El Charro Cafe, which is one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in the USA.

• Start – Tucson
• End – Tombstone
• Drive time – 2 hours (120 Miles)
• Hotel in Tombstone – Tombstone Grand Hotel
• Main Stops – Copper Queen Mine, OK Corral, Birdcage Theater

Leaving Tucson early, we headed 1.5 hours down to the small town of Bisbee, close to the Mexican border. Here we did the Copper Queen Mine tour, which allowed you to ride a mine cart into the mine itself. From there we walked historic Bisbee, went to a few museums and then continued on to Tombstone.

We spent the rest of the day in Tombstone, walking the dirt streets and stopping to see the Oriental Saloon, OK Corral, Birdcage Theater, Good Enough Mine Tour, Rose Tree Museum and the Tombstone Courthouse. It was a blast exploring this fun town and we ended the night with dinner at Big Nose Kate’s Saloon (get the cowboy cheesesteak).

• Start – Tombstone
• End – Yuma (or just back to Phoenix)
• Drive time – 4.5 hours to Yuma, 3 hours to Phoenix
• Main Stops – The Thing, Mission San Xavier Del Bac, Gates Pass, Rooster Cogburns

On the way out of Tombstone, we stopped at the historic Boothill Cemetery, since we had missed it the previous day. From there, we drove 30 minutes back to Benson and took a 15 minute detour over to The Thing, a fun roadside attraction.

Next, we drove back to Tucson and visited Mission San Xavier Del Bac, before getting Sonoran Hot Dogs at El Guero Canelo and getting an Eegee’s slushy for the road. Leaving Tucson, we headed towards Saguaro National Park with a stop at Gates Pass (my favorite desert view in Tucson) and a visit to the Sonoran Desert Museum. The museum is easily a place you could spend a half day, and be sure to see the rare crested saguaro right near the entrance.

Leaving the museum, we drove through Saguaro National Park (find more stops in the park here) and then made it back to the freeway. Our next stop brought us to Rooster Cogburn, which is a silly roadside attraction where you can feed all sorts of animals, from goats to stingrays.

From there, you will probably want to head back to Phoenix, but for us we headed to Yuma on the way back to Southern Califronia.

Optional Day 6 in Yuma

If you go to Yuma, be sure to stop by Cafecito for breakfast, it was a great spot! Then go to the Yuma Territorial Prison and to the Colorado River State Historic Park. If you are up for another silly roadside attraction, head ten minutes over the California border and go to the Center of the World in Felicity.

So there you have it, our one week road trip through Arizona. This is only a small portion of what the state has to offer and be sure to let us know what we left off in the comments!

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Hello, my name is Josh and I am a photographer and traveler. Come with me as I find new and unique places to explore all over the world.

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Lost In Phoenix

From City Lights to Arizona Skies – A Drive from Los Angeles to Phoenix with 8 Great Stops!

Carol Bastian

Updated on: December 28, 2023

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip between two iconic cities in the US? Join us as we explore the best of Los Angeles and Phoenix with a journey along the famous I-10 highway. On this thrilling route, you’ll experience stunning natural views, take advantage of unique attractions, and visit some must-see sites. From historic roadside landmarks to jaw-dropping national parks, here are some unmissable stops on your LA – Phoenix road trip adventure!

Table of Contents

Ready to hit the open road? Buckle up your seatbelts, and let’s get started! The first stop on our journey is:

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA

951-784-0300

https://www.missioninn.com/

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a National Historic Landmark member of the renowned Historic Hotels of America. It draws inspiration from Europe’s castles with a design masterminded by some of California’s most popular architects. If you find yourself in Riverside, stay overnight to get the full experience; or if you’re passing through, make sure to sightsee this hotel–you’ll feel like you’re really in Spain!

Cabazon Outlet

48750 Seminole Dr Ste 100, Cabazon, CA

951-922-3000

https://www.cabazonoutlets.com/

Hours: Daily 10 AM-8 PM, Thursdays Closed

If you’re looking for a fun shopping experience during your road trip from LA to Phoenix, then make sure to add Cabazon Outlet to your itinerary. Located halfway between Los Angeles and Phoenix off Interstate 10, this outlet mall has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for apparel items, accessories, or home décor, something here will surely spark your interest. Plus, since it’s an outlet center, you can find great discounts on top brands all year round.

After taking advantage of the amazing deals at Cabazon Outlet, don’t forget to treat yourself to some delicious food at one of the various eateries located within the mall. With its wide selection of stores and restaurants, Cabazon Outlet will surely provide a fun shopping experience that will make your LA to Phoenix road trip one to remember!

Cabazon Dinosaurs

50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA

951-272-8167

https://www.cabazondinosaurs.com/

Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM, Saturdays & Sundays till 8 PM

This fun roadside attraction is a must-see on your road trip from LA to Phoenix. Along the way, you can explore two larger-than-life dinosaurs – Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex – at Cabazon Dinosaurs in Cabazon, California, with no entrance fee. Inside their mouths are great gift shops full of exciting dinosaur memorabilia, such as tees, toys, and books. Enjoy this cool spot along the road!

Palm Springs Tram

1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA

760-325-1391

https://pstramway.com/

Hours: Daily 10 AM-8 PM, Saturdays & Sundays 8 AM-8 PM

Make sure to add the Palm Springs Tram to your list of must-see sites on your journey from LA to Phoenix. This popular attraction in Palm Springs, California, offers breathtaking views of the beautiful Coachella Valley and Mount San Jacinto in the San Bernardino National Forest. Hop on board one of the two rotating trams for a 10-minute ride up 8,516 feet into the mountains.

Once you reach the top, marvel at awe-inspiring panoramic views while having lunch or dinner at Peaks Restaurant before heading back down. Whether you visit during the day or night, you’ll be captivated by an unforgettable experience that can only be achieved with a ride on the world’s largest rotating tramcar! So take advantage of this incredible opportunity and make sure to add the Palm Springs Tram to your road trip from LA to Phoenix.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see if you’re looking for a spectacular experience on your road trip from LA to Phoenix. This stunning desert park is home to the iconic Joshua tree, which earned its name from Mormon settlers who thought the twisted branches of these trees resembled the outstretched arms of Joshua leading them into the Promised Land.

You can explore over 800,000 acres of desert terrain filled with mountains and valleys, sprawling cholla cactus gardens, and incredible rock formations that are a haven for climbers. Take a hike to Keys View or Ryan Mountain for stunning views of the park. Or take advantage of the star gazing opportunities this park offers – you can easily spot constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way in the clear night sky. Don’t let Joshua Tree National Park pass you on your road trip – it’s an unforgettable experience worth all your time!

Although the national park is now open for everyone to enjoy, we recommend that visitors look at the alerts and conditions before coming. All the information can be found here .

Salton Sea State Park

100225 State Park Rd, Mecca, CA

760-393-3059

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=639

Hours: Open 24 hours

This picturesque park, situated on the shores of the Salton Sea, is a great place for a picnic or to take a walk along the beach and admire its bird-filled waters. In addition to its stunning views, visitors can enjoy fishing and camping in this tranquil setting. The nearby trails are perfect for biking , hiking , and horseback riding. After exploring this dreamy destination, you’ll be ready to continue your road trip with lasting memories.

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

9300 E. 28th Street Yuma, AZ

928-783-7861

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/kofa

To reach the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, you will have to take a detour, but it is worth your time. An impressive 600,000 acres of this refuge remain untouched by man. The region includes attractions such as the Castle Dome Mine Museum and the Kofa Mountains in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. The Castle Dome Mine Museum replicates an old mining town from 1878. You can camp anywhere in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, as long as it’s not too close to a waterhole.

While there, keep your eyes peeled for some of the rarest flora and fauna species – or enjoy the more common palm trees scattered across the landscape. You might even encounter desert bighorn sheep and other wildlife while camping here.

Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open to the public, we encourage visitors to take the precautions outlined  here .

Skyline Regional Park

2600 N Watson Rd, Buckeye, AZ

623-349-6350

https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/community/skyline-regional-park

Hours: Daily 5 AM-10 PM

Skyline Regional Park is the perfect spot to end your road trip from LA to Phoenix. Situated in Buckeye, AZ, this sprawling park offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape and a variety of activities for everyone. Skyline Regional Park also offers rock climbing areas and mountain biking trails for those looking for adventure.

No matter what activity you choose, make sure to take in the views of the Sonoran Desert . With 360-degree views, it provides a grand finale to your road trip from LA to Phoenix that you won’t soon forget!

Remember to check alerts and conditions before visiting. You can find the information on their  website .

To wrap up, a road trip from LA to Phoenix is the perfect way to explore all that this part of the country has to offer. From majestic national parks and wildlife refuges to picturesque beaches, you’ll find some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Make sure to check alerts and conditions before visiting each destination along the way. Have an incredible journey!

Happy travels! Enjoy your journey and all of these amazing sights!

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The Best California to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

The California to Arizona Road Trip is definitely a bucket list drive. It’s scenic and easy, with plenty of unique stops to break up the drive. You’ll see incredible landscapes from canyons to desert lands, enjoy amazing foods, and have memories to last a lifetime. This itinerary includes two iconic National Parks (Joshua Tree & Grand Canyon), the famous Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, and more! 

This itinerary is driving intensive, but manageable if split amongst two or more people. I designed this California to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary for 5 days, but you can tweak and modify however you see fit!! Feel free to skip what you want, but I promise everything is WORTH IT. Here is a general overview– 

First Day : Los Angeles to Joshua Tree & Palm Springs  Second Day : Palm Springs to Scottsdale, dinner and drinks, drive to Sedona Third Day : Sedona Devil’s Bridge, 1 more optional hike, sunset at Grand Canyon, Drive to Page Fourth Day : Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Las Vegas Fifth Day : Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Home

Both California and Arizona, in all their beauty, continues to take me by surprise every time. Hope you love this Road Trip as much as I do!!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Best Time to Visit:  My personal recommendations would be spring or fall, as summer is too hot to be enjoyable in the desert landscape (both Joshua Tree & pretty much all of Arizona!) We did this road trip towards the tail end of March and it was wonderful.  Weather : The weather in both CA and AZ are both pretty clear year round. Scorching hot and sweltering summers in the Arizona desert, but mild and enjoyable evenings during the spring and winter time. Palm Springs & Joshua Tree are about the same. Getting Around & Transportation: If you have your own car for the drive, that’s perfect! But if need to rent a car and can budget for an upgrade, I highly recommend renting a 4 Wheel Drive with high clearance. You’ll find this advantageous when driving around Sedona (especially the Devil’s Bridge hike)!. Plus, it’ll be more comfortable on a driving intensive road trip.  We ended up getting a Jeep for the trip, and it was perfect!! So much fun to drive, and think of the photo opportunities!!  Airport : So many different airports to choose from, but LAX is the major international airport. Otherwise, you can fly into Orange County (SNA), Palm Springs (PSP), or Burbank/ Ontario (BUR). Tickets : Buy your tickets to Antelope Canyon as soon as you know what date you’ll be going! Because both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyons are located on Navajo land, you’ll need an authorized tour guide to enter. We bought our tickets a week in advance for a Tuesday, and almost all of the time slots were booked. Thankfully, there are multiple tour companies and we found one that still had times available.  Food : Food is a little scarce once you get towards Page (Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon), so if you are a vegetarian or vegan, just know that you’ll be looking at a lot of fast food restaurants. (For example, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, might be your only option on certain days/hours.) Stock up on snacks and groceries in big cities like Los Angeles or Scottsdale, before you head out towards the Grand Canyon and Page! Currency & Language : USD & all major credit cards accepted — English speaking

Now that we’ve got all the details and logistics out of the way, let’s move straight into the CA to AZ Road Trip Itinerary! I’ll be leaving hotel recommendations at the end of each day 🙂

Day 1 of the CA to AZ Road Trip

Day one overview.

Start in Los Angeles Drive to Joshua Tree | Drive Time: 2 Hours, 30 Minutes | 150 Miles Stops: Cap Rock, Cholla Cactus. Optional: Skull Rock and Key Point Drive to Palm Springs | Drive Time: 50 Minutes | 40 Miles Overnight in Palm Springs Total Drive Time: Rough Estimate 4 Hours

Day One is always the most exciting for me, for any road trip. I like to stop by a Trader Joe’s before we hit the road– get a little cooler of all my favorite snacks and coffees for the drive. Once the car is locked and loaded, it’s time to head out! There’s no rush on the first day because Joshua Tree & Palm Springs are in the desert. Unless you get there in the early hours of the morning (like before 9AM), it’ll be hot regardless. For me personally, I know I would rather spend the hottest hours of the day driving in the car! Depending on where you start, I would aim to get to the park closer to 3PM.

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

You can drive the entirety of Joshua Tree National Park in under 2 hours. To be honest, a lot of the park looks the same, so I don’t think you should feel the need to explore every corner or hike every trail. Here are my top 3 spots that are worth a photo opportunity!

1. WINDING ROAD ENTRANCE

Outfit Details: REVOLVE x Lover’s and Friends White Crop Top HERE , Levi’s Wedgie Fit HERE , Snake Skin Booties HERE

I don’t know the exact location of this spot, but it’s about 15 minutes into the drive when the road starts to get windy. I love this spot so much because it has the two massive Joshua Tree’s framing the road. Almost like nature’s own welcome sign!

2. CAP ROCK

Outfit Details: REVOLVE x NBD Sweater HERE , Black High Waisted Straight Leg Denim HERE , Snake Skin Booties HERE , Lack of Colours Wide Brim HERE

To me, Cap Rock is a hidden gem in Joshua Tree. It’s a super quiet, super scenic half mile trail. There’s even picnic benches out front and so you can enjoy some food there. Don’t forget, no waste gets left behind!! Please pick up after yourself. The trail is filled with jumbo rocks and beautiful Joshua Tree’s. And because it’s such a short hike, it never gets too crowded. (Perfect photo opportunity, if you ask me!)

3. CHOLLA CACTUS GARDENS

I don’t LOVE the Cholla Cactus Garden, because the cholla’s are jumping cactus, which means they’ll jump out and stick to your skin. AWFUL feeling. Make sure you don’t get too close to the cactus and stay on the trail! However, the gardens are beautiful to enjoy and a nice scenic walk. It’s also a pretty iconic part of Joshua Tree. I’ve never been during sunset, but I’ve heard that it’s beautiful here.

OTHER NOTE WORTHY STOPS

Another notable mention is the Arch Rock and Skull Rock. Both locations, however, are just SO busy at all times because they’re the tourist hot spots. Just know you’ll be seeing dozens of people waiting in line for a photo if you trek to either rock. At this point in the itinerary, you can either stay in Joshua Tree for sunset, or head to Palm Springs. I will say, the pink and orange hues in Joshua Tree are absolutely incredible!

Outfit Details: REVOLVE x Majorelle One Shoulder Sweater HERE , Nasty Gal Straight Leg White Jean HERE

My all time favorite place to stay in Joshua Tree is the Lazy Sky Retreat. It’s a super unique glamping experience to spend the night in a teepee, but they also have very modern & clean amenities for comfort! If you can spare the expense, or feel like you want a unique experience, check out my blog below!

LAZY SKY RETREAT GLAMPING

WHERE TO STAY IN PALM SPRINGS

$$$$ – The Colony Palms Hotel & Bungalow | L’Horizon Resorts & Spa $$$ – Parker Palm Springs | Korakia Pensione (a DREAM of a stay!) $$ – Ace Hotel & Swim CLub | The Saguaro Palm Springs $ – Skylark Hotel | Vagabond Motor Hotel

These photos are from Sonder V Palm Springs , which is very clean, new, and quite affordable ($)– unfortunately at this time, it’s a 2 night stay minimum. If you’re planning on staying in Palm Springs or Joshua Tree longer, I would highly recommend this hotel for a budget-but-feels-luxurious stay!

Day 2 of the CA to AZ Road Trip

Day two overview.

Wake Up in Palm Springs Grab Coffee & Pastries at Cartel Coffee Lab Stops at the famous Palm Springs Houses & Moorten’s Botanical Garden Drive to Scottsdale | 4 Hours, 20 Minutes | 280 Miles Stops: Enjoy Dinner at the Scott Resort, Explore Scottsdale, Old Town Area Drive to Sedona | 2 Hours | 125 Miles Total Drive Time: Rough Estimate 6.5 Hours

Today is a VERY driving intensive day, so just keep that in mind and plan accordingly to what is best for you! I would stop by my favorite little coffee shop, Cartel Coffee Lab. I love their oat milk lattes! They also have delicious pastries and scones too so grab some for the road.

PALM SPRINGS NEIGHBORHOOD

Swing by some of the famous Palm Spring Houses for some amazing photo opportunities once you’ve got your coffee fix!! I like to visit the houses early in the morning because I don’t want to disrupt the people who are living in the neighborhood. And PLEASE, keep in mind that these are people’s homes. If they have a no photography sign, respect their request! To navigate to this neighborhood, you can type in “That Pink Door” into your GPS or go to 1100 East Sierra Way . The Pink Door owners are examples of homeowners who do not want their home photographed. Once you get here, you’ll be able to freely wander and explore some of the beautiful architecture!

Outfit Details: Song of Style Blueberry Slip Dress HERE Photo Courtesy on right side : Cherrie Almonte @cherrielynn

MOORTEN BOTANICAL GARDENS

Next up is the Moorton Botanical Garden which opens at 9AM. Admission is $5 per person. Their hours have been drastically effected due to Covid, so double check with their website. It’s pretty small and you can walk through it within 30 minutes. If you are visiting, I highly recommend supporting by purchasing a small succulent or a knick knack on your way out!

Outfit Details: Shop my Black Jumpsuit HERE or HERE

Once you wrap up with Moorton’s, grab a quick bite to eat and begin heading to Scottsdale! Elmer’s and Cheeky’s are both great and quick options. Stopping by the windmills on your way out of Palm Springs is definitely an option if you’re keen, but not a must-see in my opinion. Now it’s time to blast some of your favorite songs, grab your favorite chips, and enjoy the 4 hour drive ahead. (I would try to head out of Palm Springs around noon, latest!)

Looking for the best way to make the road trip fun? Click here for my favorite Road Trip Game!!

Once you arrive into Scottsdale, I’m sure you’ll be ready for a late lunch/early dinner! I love eating dinner at the Canal Club at the Scott Resort & Spa. It’s the dreamiest little hotel with amazing boho and beach inspired decor. The food and drinks are also delicious and you can explore the property while you’re there! 

From Scottsdale, you can either stay the night, or head another 2 hours up north to Sedona. It really depends on how tired you are and where you want to spend sunrise. If you are more into exploring the city, Scottsdale night life is super fun and you can go to Old Town Scottsdale and bar hop! Some of my Scottsdale recommendations for good eats include–

• Henry’s — upscale brunch
• Farm and Craft — upscale brunch
• Anhelo’s — contemporary American
• Teaspressa — cute cafe with matcha + coffee
• Diego Pops — yummy tacos and margaritas

WHERE TO STAY IN SCOTTSDALE

$$$ – Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale | Fairmont Scottsdale Princess $$ – The Scott Resort & Spa | The Andaz Scottsdale $ – Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas

However, if you can make the drive safely, I personally would recommend going to Sedona so you can begin hiking in the morning and get all the amazing views in ASAP! The most affordable area to stay overnight in Sedona would be the Cottonwood area. It’s only a quick 15 minute drive into the heart of Sedona. But if you find good deals on hotels in Sedona though, I would pick one of those!

WHERE TO STAY IN SEDONA

$$$$ – Enchantment Resort | L’Auberge de Sedona $$ – Hilton Sedona Resort Bell Rock | Amara Resort $ – Courtyard by Marriott Sedona

Day 3 of the CA to AZ Road Trip

Day three overview.

Drive to or Wake Up in Sedona Stops: Devil’s Bridge, Seven Sacred Pools, Cathedral Rock Drive to South Rim Grand Canyon National Park | Drive Time: 2 Hours, 10 Minutes | 115 Miles Stops: Mather’s Point, Moran Point Drive to Page | Drive Time: 2 Hours, 20 Minutes | 130 Miles Total Drive Time: Rough Estimate 5 Hours

DEVIL’S BRIDGE, SEDONA

If you managed to make your way over to Sedona the night before, definitely head over to Devil’s Bridge in the morning for sunrise. If you didn’t, drive over to Sedona and enjoy a slow and easy hike when you can. Devil’s Bridge is an easy hike but can be time consuming, so this is where the 4 Wheel Drive comes in handy. With a 4WD, you can drive straight to the foot of Devil’s Bridge and walk right up to the iconic view point. Super great for those short on time! If you don’t have a 4 wheel drive, it’s a 2 mile trek (very easy though– pretty flat until the end!) 

To be honest, the hike itself is much easier than what I originally thought in my head considering how insane the view of Devil’s Bridge is. The hardest part is the mud, and my feet just kept slipping and sloshing all over the place. After about 1.5 miles of flat terrain, you’ll hit a small uphill scramble, and then the view opens up to the Bridge. You’ll still be able to get clean shots without people in it no matter what time of day you visit, because a line typically forms at the end of the bridge! (One is the many reasons why I love the hiking culture, everyone is just so nice!!).

SEVEN SACRED POOLS & CATHEDRAL ROCK

Unfortunately, we didn’t make it out to the Seven Sacred Pools or Cathedral Rock on our trip due to poor weather conditions. But if you have time and great weather, I would definitely add these to the list. I don’t believe they are challenging hikes, either!

Photo Credit: Left of Cathedral Rock by the Mandegies , Right of Seven Sacred Pools by Alex of the Wayfaress

GRAND CANYON

Up next, it’s time to visit the Grand Canyon! It’s about a 2 hour drive from Sedona, so try to head out at a decent time to catch sunset. I’d suggest being there at least 2 hours before sunset begins. Take your time with the drive though, as there are so many beautiful scenic overlooks along the way!

MORAN POINT, GRAND CANYON

If you’re tight on time, visiting Moran Point and Mather’s Point will be great to get a feel for the Grand Canyon. Both are so beautiful and dreamy during sunset.

FUN FACT: Trey and I met through Instagram, and the first time he ever FaceTimed me was from Moran Point. He was hiking during sunset and thought it was something I would want to see. So he called me for the first time hehe. Another sweet and serendipitous moment for us to return to this spot together!

MATHER’S POINT

From Moren Point, make your way to Mather’s Point! It is significantly more popular and touristy, but the layers of the Grand Canyon there are just unreal. Mather’s Point is almost entirely fenced in, but if you keep hiking down, it gets more quiet and open. (No need to trespass, there is a trail of rocks to go down!)

LAKE POWEL VIEW HOUSE

Once the sun sets, begin heading to Page. It’s a 2 hour drive, and the best place to stay is hands down, the Lake Powell View House. We loved staying here because it’s only 15 minutes from Antelope Canyon AND Horseshoe Bend, with miles and miles of endless views!

Lake Powell View House

Day 4 of the CA to AZ Road Trip

Day four overview.

Wake Up at Lake Powell View House Horseshoe Bend | Drive Time: 20 Minutes | 10 Miles Antelope Canyon | Drive Time: 20 Minutes | 10 Miles Lake Powell | Drive Time: 20 Minutes | 10 Minutes Begin Heading Home– Stopover in Vegas | Drive Time: 4 Hours, 30 Mins | 270 Miles Drive Time: Rough Estimate 5 Hours Total

HORSESHOE BEND

Horseshoe bend is ICONIC and lives up to the hype. I designed this road trip so you go for sunrise, and I promise sunrise is better than sunset here. This is a graphic that will help you decide when you want to visit, but I think the pre-dawn pink hues are simply the best.

We allocated ourselves from 6AM to 9AM to enjoy sunrise. It’s a 15 minute walk from the parking lot to the Bend, and now there’s a trailhead which makes the walk significantly easier. If you have the option, visiting early in the morning is another way to beat the crowds and find a parking spot. Even if you don’t make it in the morning, Horseshoe Bend is so big that you’ll be able to get a dreamy solo shot.

Outfit Details : Shop White Booties HERE , my Lack of Colors Hat HERE

UPPER ANTELOPE CANYON

Next on the list is the infamous Antelope Canyon! Upper Antelope Canyon is more known for the light beams and thus, the more popular canyon of the two to visit. Because the Canyon is Navajo Land, you cannot enter either canyon unless you are part of a tour group led by a guide. Each tour group averages about 15 people, and YES, they are always full and almost always sold out. Plenty of tours are operating though, so make sure you look around!

The earlier you go, the less crowded it will be, but you won’t have ideal light beam conditions. The sun needs to be pretty high up and strong for bright light beams to peep through the canyon. We chose to visit the Upper Slot at 10:30AM for those dreamy light beams. We figured that the sun would be high enough to get good light conditions within the canyon! It’s also important to check the conditions for the corresponding month you’re going. The first time slot of the day is around 7AM. If you go at this time, you’ll most likely have an emptier canyon, but you’ll also most likely be looking at a much darker canyon.

Outfit Details: ASTR the Label Wide Leg Jumpsuit HERE , Leather Birkenstocks HERE

It’s about a 20 minute drive from the tour location to foot of the Canyon. When we arrived, there were dozens of SUVs/small tour buses parked outside the canyon with a line to enter —which was incredibly intimidating. I thought, no way would we get any photos without people in it. But if you’re fast, you’ll have lots of empty pockets and 10 second windows to get a shot. Be prepared to quickly adjust your camera settings!

THE TOUR EXPERIENCE

To be honest, the tour guide’s job is to shuffle you in, point out all the amazing formations, and shuffle you out. We asked to stay at one spot to take a couple more photos (I specifically said “can I just take two more photos here”) in which I was aggressively denied. It’s hard to blame the tour guide–I’m sure it’s his job to keep the traffic moving so there aren’t too many people in the Canyon at one time. Even so, it’s frustrating to be paying almost $100 to not get an extra second in there. If you book a photography tour, I was told they’ll stop traffic for you and give you the chance to take the photos you want with clear shots!

All the tour guides also know a great deal about photography and iPhone photography and will help you capture all the colors of the Canyon, which is a nice bonus. But what ends up happening is, you get in line, and he takes your phone or camera, and tells you exactly where to snap your pictures. There’s no freedom or flexibility, and for sure no wandering on your own.

The Tour Company we used was Antelope Slot Canyon Tours. There are a ton of great companies out there so if the time and date you’re looking for isn’t available, look at other groups! Prices do vary, and they go up based on peak hours! But definitely buy tickets as soon as you can!

LAKE POWELL

Finally, it’s time to visit the Lake!! If you spend about 10AM to 1PM on the Lake, you’ll be able to still enjoy much cooler weather before it gets too hot. Lake Powell is perfect for anyone who wants to dip their toes in the water and relax on the lake, but it’s even better for those who love water sports. You can rent kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and even boats to jump in the water! From as low as $30 a day for kayaks, and SUP for $45, Kayak Lake Powell has got you covered!

Click Here to Book Kayaks | Click Here to Book Boat Rentals

Photo Details: Kayaking by Anastasia Chansen (@anastasiachansen) on left and SUP Sabrina Tan (@gypsytan) on right

DRIVE TO LAS VEGAS

Depending on how tired you are by the end of a day at the lake, you can wrap up and spend another night in Lake Powell to prepare for an extra long drive the following day, or break it up by heading to Las Vegas!

I personally recommend heading to Vegas. Realistically, you should be wrapping up Lake Powell in the early afternoon. By the time you get coffee, lunch, and head to Vegas, you’d still make it there by dinner. Plus, you can also squeeze in Valley of Fire the following day, if you decide to head out of Arizona!

If you’ve never been to Las Vegas before, then it’s definitely worth hitting the strip, grabbing a Fat Tuesday, and enjoying all the craziness the strip has to offer. And if you’ve already been, then it can be a chill night in of hitting the casino and going for fine dining. We personally always love to stay with the MGM Grand hotel group.

BOOK PARK MGM HERE

*Also, please note that you can swap the order of Valley of Fire State Park with a visit to Las Vegas, as I know it’s back tracking by 30-45 minutes. I only have Vegas as a stop first because by the time you get to Valley of Fire, it might already be dark and you’ll miss daylight & sunset. If you can make it by 3-4PM, then I would advise going to Valley of Fire first, then wrapping up in Vegas!!

Day 5 of the CA to AZ Road Trip

Day five overview.

Go Home Day! Drive from Lake Powell to or already be in Las Vegas Visit Valley of Fire State Park Las Vegas back to Los Angeles | Drive time: 4 Hours, 10 Minutes | 270 Miles Total Drive Time: Rough Estimate 4 Hours

VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK

I LOVE Valley of Fire State Park! I feel like it’s very underrated but so incredibly beautiful. My favorite is the iconic Mouse Tank Road, from both the road and from the boulders at the end.

Other notable locations in Valley of Fire include the Beehive, the Wave, and Atlatl Rock!

Time to wrap up the entire trip and head home! From Las Vegas, it’ll be another 4 hours back to Los Angeles. I know, I know– this itinerary has got you DRIVING. But I’ve done it myself and it is WELL WORTH the drives. Every stop is breathtaking and so much fun. If you get the chance to take this road trip, please let me know! I want to hear all about your trip, from what your favorite was to what you decided to skip, or how I can make it better!

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Oh wow! I love this itinerary (I’m pining it 😉 ) It would be so nice to visit Arizona and go to the Grand Canyon… I hope I can do it at some point! I hope you’re safe and fine 🙂 xx

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Yay, thank you so much Eli!! I hope you get the opportunity to drive through AZ and go on this road trip, it’s so much fun! Let me know if you have any more questions! x jules

Hey, was wondering if you would recommend reversing the itinerary? I.e starting in AZ? Or any issues with that?

No issues, the reverse totally works! xx

An Adaptable California To Arizona Road Trip Itinerary: 3-5 Days

If you do one thing in the United States, make it a California to Arizona road trip. 

I’ve travelled both of these states extensively in the past few years, and they have SO much to offer. 

Whether you’re from the US or travelling there from another corner of the world, you won’t be disappointed on a road trip from Arizona to California. 

Here’s how to road trip California to Arizona, including what to see along the way, where to stop and how to extend your trip (because you’ll no doubt want to!). 

Why you should take a road trip from California to Arizona

When to plan your california to arizona road trip, an adaptable 3-5 day california to arizona road trip itinerary, adapting this itinerary, planning your california to arizona road trip.

Just to let you know… This post contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links. I may receive a small commission from them at no extra cost to you.

If I had to choose my favourite US state, I’d have a hard time choosing between California and Arizona. 

On this road trip, you get to see the best of both!

Southern California is just a short drive from some of the best sights in Arizona, so it only makes sense to see both at once if you can. 

This road trip itinerary covers the unmissable spots that nobody should miss, no matter what your usual travel style. They’ll give you a deeper insight into this corner of of the most diverse countries in the world.

If you’re interested in hiking, historical sites, camping or city exploring, there’s also plenty of ways to add more of your passions into this trip – but we’ll get to that. 

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California – and Southern California in particular – is blessed with great weather all year round. 

Like Arizona, though, it can get pretty hot in the summer. If you want a comfortable road trip, avoid the scorching summer heat and visit at a different time of year. 

If you don’t mind the odd rainy day, the winter is a great time to visit this part of the USA. It’s off season so you won’t have to worry about and prices will be at their most affordable.

RELATED READ: More reasons why you should visit California in December .

Spring and autumn are also great times to visit both states. 

At this time of year, the heat is bearable enough to spend extended time outside and enjoy the states’ national parks. You’ll also be able to enjoy the California beaches, too.

There are so many wonderful places to visit on a road trip to California or Arizona, but for this one, I’ve chosen the best and most accessible spots. 

This itinerary assumes you only have 3-5 days to explore, but can easily be extended if you have more time to road trip California to Arizona. 

If you have more time than this, I’ve added some other places to add on below. These can simply be added to the original road trip itinerary if you have longer to explore Arizona.

If you have more than 5 days to road trip from California to Arizona, I’ve also added some ideas for extending your trip to the US South West at the end of this post. 

Road trip overview 

Total drive time:  14.5-18 hours.

Distance:  816-1,063 miles.

Where to begin and end your road trip 

 To make things as simple as possible, you have a couple of options when it comes to start and end points for this road trip. 

In California, you can easily start from either Los Angeles or San Diego . If you have time, I’d recommend visiting both – but that’s a blog post for another day!

Of course, you can also enjoy this road trip in reverse, beginning in Arizona and ending in California!

Day 1: Drive to Joshua Tree

Whether you begin your road trip in LA or San Diego, the drive to Joshua Tree National Park will take around 2-3 hours.

That means you’ll have the best part of the day to explore this unique park. 

When you arrive, you won’t be able to miss the otherworldly trees that give this California park its name. While you could easily spend all day admiring them, there are plenty of other things to do here .

Spend some time hiking one of the many trails or visiting the most famous photography spots. As sunset approaches, head to Keys View – the highest point in the whole park – for the best sunset view.

There are several restaurants inside the park, but I’d recommend packing a picnic lunch instead. Choose a beautiful spot, throw down and blanket and dig in to a humble lunch with a view!

Where to stay in Joshua Tree

The only way to stay inside Joshua Tree is to camp – and it’s something I definitely recommend!

If you don’t want to pack a tent, there are also lots of hotel options on the periphery of the park. Check out Sacred Sands for a nature-fuelled night or, if budget is a concern, check into the High Desert Motel .

If you want the full California experience, there are also plenty of cute and quirky cabins that you can book through Airbnb.  Click here to see the best options.

Day 2: Joshua Tree to Flagstaff

Today is going to be the longest driving day, so wake up early if you can. Plus, you won’t want to miss the Joshua Tree sunrise!

Stop in Oatman, AZ

Our first stop of the day is Oatman, an historical town that’s just over 2.5 hours from Joshua Tree. Cross the border and get ready to be thrown back in time.

Oatman is best known for its burros , feral donkeys that were brought to the town when it was a thriving gold mining spot.

Today, the donkeys roam the streets and are the main attraction in the town. 

Spend around an hour here meeting the four-legged residents, indulging in ice-cream at Olive and photographing the historical buildings. 

Head to Kingman for lunch

Another historical town along Route 66, Kingman is less than an hour’s drive from Oatman. The 29-mile stretch will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in Arizona.

When you arrive, head to Mr D’Z Diner for lunch. This old school diner will transport you straight back to the mid-20th century. 

If you have room, try one of the homemade milkshakes. There are dozens of flavours to choose from and you can also make your own concoction. I had orange and cacao! 

After lunch, check out the Arizona Route 66 museum . Just across the road from Mr D’Z, this museum will walk you back in time through the area’s intriguing history.  

Explore Flagstaff

You’ll need at least an hour to explore the museum, and even longer if you’re a real history buff. 

There’s no rush to leave, though, because our next stop, will be our resting place for the night. And that place is Flagstaff.

The drive from Kingman to Flagstaff takes around 2.5 hours. Depending on how much time you have when you arrive, spend the evening exploring this vibrant town. 

Where to stay in Flagstaff 

Flagstaff is a popular town to visit in Arizona. Sitting in the heart of the state, it has no shortage of hotels to accommodate the many travellers passing through.

For a no-frills budget stay , check into the comfortable yet modest Days Inn & Suites .

If you’re a nature lover and don’t mind spending a little more, the Little America hotel is located on 500 acres of beautiful pine forest.

Day 3: Flagstaff to Grand Canyon

Today’s journey isn’t quite as long as yesterday’s, so enjoy a filling breakfast in Downtown Flagstaff before heading off. Check out La Bella Via for perfect eggs or Tourist Home for freshly baked goods.

Once you’ve fueled your body and vehicle, it’s time to drive two hours to one of the most stunning sights in the whole of the US: the Grand Canyon. 

Follow directions to the south rim and enjoy stops at several of the viewing points along the stretch of road. I guarantee you’ll still be impressed by the final one!

If you only have time to stop at a couple of points, don’t miss Moran Point and Grandview Point. If you have a little more time, the Yavapai Museum of Geology is well worth a visit, too. 

And, if you want the ultimate Grand Canyon tour, a helicopter flight is a bucket list experience.

Ending your California to Arizona road trip

If you only have three days for this road trip, sadly it will end here. You can head to Vegas or Phoenix to catch a flight out, or begin the drive back to your starting point. 

If you have more time, however, there’s still plenty to explore. Here’s how you can extend your road trip from California to Arizona… 

I’ve designed this itinerary to not only covers the best places in Arizona and California, but also to be easily adaptable. 

If you have more time to enjoy your California-Arizona road trip, here’s what I would recommend adding to it. 

If you have 4 days for this road trip

Page is a little too far out of the way for a 3-day road trip – unless you don’t mind some seriously long drives! – but it’s a must visit if you have an extra 24 hours. 

From Page, you can visit some of Arizona’s most uniquely beautiful spots, including Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. 

While you can visit Horseshoed Bend independently – just pay the entry fee – you’ll need to book a tour at Antelope Canyon . They book up fast, so try to get your tickets as early as possible.

If you’re short on time, you can see both on this double tour.

If you have 5 days or more

If you have even more time to take a road trip from California to Arizona, you’ll want to use that time! 

There’s no shortage of things to do in both states, so you can extend your trip at either end. 

If you want to explore more of California, you can combine this road trip with a trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

This iconic stretch of road will show you a totally different side to the Golden State. If you want to drive the whole stretch, Portland , Oregon, is another of my favourite places in the USA.

READ NEXT: How Portland is leading ecotourism in the USA.

If you want to explore more of the US South West, there’s plenty to see in both Arizona and Nevada too. 

Monument Valley is a fascinating short trip from Page , Scottsdale has fun desert bike trails and the Phoenix Valley is one of the best spots for a hot air balloon ride .

Hiking enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Havasupai Hike , a challenging trail that ends in a beautiful reward.  Here’s how to get there from the South Rim .

Or, if you’d prefer something more relaxed, there are plenty of short hikes in Arizona. Consider spending a few days in Sedona for some of the best ones – often with a wellness theme. 

Of course, there’s always Vegas , too – somewhere that might surprise you!

Before you set off on your road trip from California to Arizona, there are some important things to know. 

Here are some things to check before you go.

While some countries can travel to the United States visa-free, most nationalities need a visa to visit. You can check if you need a visa to visit the United States on this page .

The exception to this is if your country is part of the ESTA visa waiver scheme. If this is the case, you will still need to apply for your ESTA before you go.

Stay connected throughout your trip with   SkyRoam pocket WiFi .

This handy little device will give you unlimited data so you’ll never be without maps, emails and a way to contact home.

Driving in the USA

If you’re not from the USA or are visiting from out of state, make sure you’re aware of local driving laws in California and Arizona (and yes, they’re different!). 

Wherever you’re visiting from, you’ll need to be 25 years or older to hire a car in the United States. 

If you are renting a car, I recommend using RentalCars.com because they search and compare the most reputable companies.

Travel insurance for the USA

Nobody wants to get sick when travelling, but with some of the most expensive healthcare in the world, that’s especially true in the USA.

When choosing travel insurance, make sure it covers you for your entire trip and all scenarios. 

Not all travel insurance is created equal and many insurers won’t cover activities such as hiking, watersports or other outdoors activities, so it’s important to know what you’re buying. 

I use and recommend Heymondo .

Their coverage is much more comprehensive than most and they will cover activities, circumstances and people that other policies won’t.

As a partner of Alajode, they’re offering 5% extra off for my readers. Click here to find out more, get an instant quote and save even more!

California and Arizona are two of the most naturally stunning states in the whole of the USA. 

There are endless road trips that you could take in both, but I hope this has given you some ideas and an idea of how to make the most of your own trip. 

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About Jodie Marie Dewberry

Jodie has been travelling the world full time since 2017, sharing the most unique places in the world along with tips for living as a digital nomad. She is a passionate wildlife photographer and has worked with a number of prominent travel brands, including airlines, tourism boards, hotels and tour operators.

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An Epic Road Trip From California to Arizona

California , Arizona , Blog , Nevada , North America , USA / December 30, 2022 by Monica / Leave a Comment

A road trip from California to Arizona is one of the most epic and beautiful routes you could choose. Beginning in Los Angeles, your California and Arizona desert road trip will take you through some of the most pristine and untouched landscapes that the United States has to offer. Let’s dive into your unforgettable road trip from California to Arizona now!

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A road trip from California to Arizona is one of the most beautiful drives you could choose. In fact, if you only do one big USA road trip in your entire life, it should be across the American Southwest.

Here you will see everything from desert parks filled with cacti and yucca, abandoned ghost towns, towering red rock formations, and even sprawling cities shooting up from the desert floor.

I have lived in both states during my life, so I know a bit about the best California and Arizona road trip attractions that are worth your time. Whether you are interested in nature, hiking, camping, historical sites, or city breaks, there are so many ways to customize this trip – but we’ll get to that. 

This California to Arizona road trip itinerary below starts in Los Angeles, CA. If you don’t live in LA, LAX generally offers cheaper flights than Phoenix airport – but you could always reverse the order and start in Arizona, or start elsewhere in California like San Diego.

Good to know: Rental cars are plentiful from LAX (I always get the best prices here ), and this itinerary is a circular drive – meaning you will end at the same place you started. This helps to keep car costs down rather than dropping the vehicle off at a location other than you rented it from.

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Road Trip From California and Arizona?

With 284 sunny days per year on average, Southern California is beautiful all year round. However, since this road trip through California and Arizona primarily runs through desert climates, summer can get HOT.

If you are flexible, fall and spring are the best seasons to choose. Winter is also very nice, though it is possible to experience rain or even snow in California and snow in Arizona . Bet you didn’t expect that!

Note that I have taken this trip many times during the summer months, and if you are on a summer break and this is the only time-frame you have, worry not. You will survive the desert heat!

My biggest tip for anyone interested in outdoor hikes or activities in the summer is to follow the detailed suggestions in my post about desert hiking essentials for the American Southwest. This will set you up for a fun and safe time in the summer heat.

Now, onto the Arizona and California road trip!

The Epic CA to AZ Road Trip Route

The Overview: Los Angeles –> Joshua Tree National Park –> Phoenix –> Montezuma Castle National Monument –> Sedona –> The Grand Canyon –> Lake Havasu –> Mojave National Preserve –> Death Valley National Park –> Red Rock Canyon State Park –> Los Angeles.

CA to AZ Road Trip Route Total Miles (as listed with no modifications) : 1,455

CA to AZ Road Trip Hours Behind the Wheel: 23h 6m

So obviously, that’s a lot. And believe it or not, these are only a selection of my favorite spots in CA and AZ, so there is still way more to see. I will add in some optional modifications below in case you want to explore any of these further. Let’s Begin!

Day 1: Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles has so much to offer that it’s difficult to condense it to a small section. Feel free to peruse my Southern California Bucket List if either option below is not quite your style.

For the beach lovers, no doubt you picture sun and sand when you think of California. I recommend spending a full day in Malibu over the other highly touristic beaches in LA. It’s much more quiet and calm, and honestly more beautiful, with cliffs and rocks and sea creatures.

Check out my guide to the perfect one day in Malibu , covering where to eat, what beaches to visit, where to hike, and even some art or winery options. This is probably the best all around choice, if you ask me.

For the hikers, you have a lot of trails to choose from. One of my personal favorites is Los Liones trail , but the ever-popular Runyon Canyon is always a good choice as well.

If you have more time in Southern California and love to hike, you may want to check out my 52 Hikes in Southern California guide.

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For art lovers, Los Angeles is full of possibilities. Check out The Broad or look into what is currently featured at LACMA (The Los Angeles County Museum of Art).

The great thing about LA is that there are literally endless things to do here. The drawback is that LA is so sprawling, it’s hard to fit a lot in unless it is all in the same general area.

Be flexible, realize that you will run into traffic, and try to choose options that are within the same general vicinity.

For sleeping, I always recommend using this site as they consistently give me the best hotel deals.

Days 2 & 3: Joshua Tree National Park

In the morning of Day 2, start your drive as early as possible toward Joshua Tree National Park. The drive will take roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on where your exact starting point is.

Joshua Tree National Park is one of my favorite places on the planet . Meaning, not just one of my favorite places in California, but on the entire earth. So this is not a spot to miss during your road trip from California to Arizona.

So what makes it so special?

First of all, the landscape has a truly alien-like feeling; from the crazy spindly Joshua Trees to the bulbous and bloated rock formations, this park is truly special.

It also contains not one but two deserts inside of the park boundaries – the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. These two differing elevations make one half of the park’s landscape completely different from the other. It’s fascinating!

Also, this park offers everything from hiking , camping, stargazing, and plenty of strange and unusual photo opportunities that you cannot miss.

Check out my in-depth guide to visiting Joshua Tree National Park in one day. This guide contains details about every aspect of the park, from costs to enter, where to hike, how to camp, and what to do with limited time here.

I say it again: DO. NOT. SKIP. JOSHUA TREE.

More Joshua Tree National Park Resources:

• One Day in Joshua Tree National Park
• The Best Joshua Tree Sunrise Hikes and Locations
• The Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
• A Joshua Tree Photography Guide
• All About the Joshua Tree: A Mojave Desert Staple
• Five Drawbacks of Joshua Tree – and How to Beat Them
• 10 Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• A Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park Road Trip
• National Parks Near Los Angeles
• Desert Wear and Hiking Essentials for the American Southwest
• Ten Desert Hiking Safety Tips

For sleeping, camping under the stars is unbelievable (see the above guide on how to reserve). If camping is not your style, you’ll find some unique accommodations in this desert area. Check for hotels within Twentynine Palms as well as in Yucca Valley or Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs.

Good to know: if you are in the mood for some relaxation or want to extend your trip, Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs resorts offer mineral water baths (think hot tubs of varying temperatures that leave your skin extra soft!) It’s a very cool experience.

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do in Palm Springs

Day 4: Phoenix, AZ

On Day 4 you will cross state lines into Arizona and it will take about three hours to get into the city of Phoenix. Along the way you will see some pretty awesome landscapes, as barrel cacti and tall Saguaro Cacti begin to dot the hillsides.

Like LA, there is a lot to see in only one day in Phoenix , but let me point out some personal favorites.

For the nature lovers , you have got to hike the Hole in the Rock hiking trail at sunrise. It is short and sweet, but offers a sweeping view of Papago Park below. Another option is the iconic Camelback Mountain, if you are looking for something a bit more strenuous. If you visit in summer, a friendly reminder – read the desert hiking essentials post to stay safe!

You will have plenty of great outdoors options. Check out all of the things to do in Phoenix for even more suggestions.

For the art lovers , Downtown Phoenix hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month from 6pm-11pm. I have seen some really cool artworks on these nights, so if you happen to be there on the right day, keep this in mind. Otherwise the Phoenix Art Museum is always a hit!

More Phoenix Resources:

• Where to See the Saguaro Cactus in Phoenix
• A One Day in Phoenix Itinerary
• Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona
• The Best Day Trips from Phoenix
• Hole in the Rock Hike in Papago Park, Phoenix

Day 5: On the Road to Sedona via Montezuma Castle

On Day 5, I highly recommend leaving as early as humanly possible. Though the drive to Sedona is pretty short if you drive straight there, that would be a mistake. There are a lot of things to see between Phoenix and Sedona , as well as great photo stops as you drive.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

First, head to Camp Verde, home of Montezuma Castle National Monument . Somewhat under the radar, Montezuma Castle is an incredibly preserved cliffside dwelling of the Anasazi tribe, discovered in the 1860’s. Many of the Hopi tribe can trace their ancestry to the very people who lived in this spot.

After exploring Montezuma, the next place worth a visit is the Sunset Crater National Monument near Flagstaff . The crunchy lava beds and the black ash hillside are beautiful, created by a volcano that erupted some 900 years ago.

On the opposite end of the same park are the Wupatki Ruins, which previously housed members of the Anasazi tribes.

Once you have your fill of pitstops, continue on from Flagstaff to Sedona . You will spend the bulk of your day in Sedona, so hopefully you woke up early!

Sedona is the kind of place that has something for everyone. From scenic hikes to massage and reiki to epic Jeep Tours , Sedona is so fun. Check out all of the noteworthy things to do in Sedona and pick your top three.

Or, if you’d rather spend one full day in Sedona , feel free to skip the pit stops and enjoy the red-drenched town to the fullest!

More Sedona Resources:

• One Day in Sedona Itinerary
• A Phoenix to Sedona Drive: What to See on Your Trip
• Easy Hikes in Sedona
• A Sedona 3 Day Itinerary
• The Best Things to Do in Sedona
• A Flagstaff to Sedona Drive

Day 6: The Grand Canyon

Sure to be one of the highlights of your road trip from California to Arizona is the world famous Grand Canyon National Park. Just a two hour drive from Sedona , enter the park as early as possible, before the crowds, so you can enjoy this natural wonder in silence.

I vividly remember the first time I saw the Grand Canyon. One of my good friends and I spent New Years Day here on a trip where exactly zero things went as planned. Actually, we wouldn’t have seen the Grand Canyon on the original itinerary, so we were not sad that everything went haywire.

Looking across the deep chasm at the canyon cliffs and folds in the distance is just unreal – I remember commenting that it looked like a movie green screen or a painting; it was just so hard to fathom the vastness. What a memorable New Years Day that was.

Be sure to stop in the Visitor’s Center, because they will list the day’s programs. These can include history, astronomy, you name it. A ranger will speak on any variety of interesting topics and these can be fascinating.

Walk the Rim Trail, visit the Grand Canyon Village, and just take everything in. It’s just so incredible that you need to see it to believe it. This is a good place to spend an extra day if you want to do any of the more strenuous hikes or exploration.

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Day 7: Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu will literally be your oasis after all of the desert days. Particularly in summer months, this will be a well appreciated day. Lake Havasu will take approximately 3.5 hours to drive from the Grand Canyon. Once again, start fairly early so you can enjoy all day on the lake.

Fun Fact: the bridge you see over Lake Havasu is actually the rebuilt London Bride. The bricks were bought from London in 1967 when the bridge in England got a facelift, so now this unassuming location holds a piece of history!

London Bridge Beach is a great place to hang out for the day, with grassy fields, sandy shores, playgrounds and canoe rentals. Tons of interesting restaurants and breweries are nearby, so it’s a great spot to take a day to relax if you’ve been hiking and driving for days.

Day 8: Mojave National Preserve

In less than 1.5 hours, you will cross from Arizona to California on your road trip, with your first destination being the Mojave National Preserve . This often overlooked park is a hidden gem!

Once again, you have traded your saguaros for Joshua Trees, with their spindly arms reaching for the sky. But compared to Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve is much less sparsely visited. But that doesn’t’ mean that there is nothing to see.

My favorite spot in the whole park is probably Kelso Dunes. The dunes begin a short hike from the parking area, but once you cross the first peak and lose site of your car, you’ll feel like you’re in another world. Not quite as majestic as my beloved Arabian Desert , Kelso Dunes is still a great site to see.

Mojave National Preserve has a ton of hiking options and they do allow camping (check current details on camping information .)

Day 9: On the Road to Death Valley (With an Optional Nevada Stop)

If you drive straight from the Mojave National Park to the nearest Death Valley National Park entrance, it will only take around 1.5 hours. If you’re up for a quick trip across the Nevada border, I have a colorful suggestion to add to your itinerary!

Seven Magic Mountains is a public art installation by artist Ugo Rondinone. It sits in the middle of the Nevada desert and is simply breathtaking to observe, contrasting greatly against the dry desert background.

I’ve compiled a detailed post about this work of art, linked above, in case you’re interested in adding it to the road trip itinerary. Visiting this exhibit will add another hour to your driving time, but in my opinion it’s worth it.

After that stop, continue towards Death Valley National Park through Pahrump . Depending on the time of day, you can either begin exploring Death Valley immediately or you can grab some food and check into your hotel or set your campsite for the evening.

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Day 10: Exploring Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is pretty amazing. It is the largest National Park in all of the contiguous United States and the mix of landscapes covering this vast park is stunning.

Some Highlights:

Artist’s Palette. A 9 mile road to drive or bike with various pulloffs and photo points. The peaks are various colors due to natural minerals – yep! This formed in nature.

Badwater Basin. The lowest point in North America at a jaw-dropping 282 feet below sea level. Salt deposits make this picturesque location look almost snow-covered, but it’s actually one of the hottest spots on the planet.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. If you liked Kelso Dunes, here’s another treat for you. These dunes are equally as gorgeous and very fun to climb (though not at midday in the summer months!).

Zabreskie Point. The coolest spot for sunset. Watch the suns rays disappear over the numerous peaks as a reward at the end of your day.

As far as accommodations, Death Valley National Park offers everything from campsites to luxury lodges if you want to stay inside of the park boundaries.

Day 11: Red Rock Canyon State Park

I’m willing to bet that this under-the-radar park is another place you probably never heard about. It will take just under 2 hours to reach if you exit Death Valley at the Panamint Springs exit, and it sits in the quiet town of Cantil.

I was blown away by this park. It’s not huge, but it offers some pretty impressive and unexpected towering red cliffs that are quite a sight! I’ve now been there many times and it’s another park that seems to be nearly empty on most days.

Here are all of the details about hiking and camping in Red Rock Canyon State Park , It’s the perfect “last stop” on your trip.

Good to know: The nearby Jawbone Canyon offers ATV rentals if you are looking for adventure.

Day 12: Back to Los Angeles

Just because Day 12 is the official end of your road trip from California to Arizona (and back again) doesn’t mean you can’t explore along the way.

Take a quick stop at the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park along the way or tack on the Malibu option mentioned on Day 1 if you haven’t done it already. Savor your last day.

If you drive straight, it will take under 2 hours to get to Los Angeles. If you have time to spare, explore the famous Hollywood sign lookout or Old Muscle Beach in Santa Monica.

Then, return your car, or catch your flight, or lay your head down at your hotel to end the adventure.

Whatever you choose, I hope that this road trip through California and Arizona is one to remember – in fact I’m sure it will be! And by the end, I believe you will agree with me that the American Southwest is truly breathtaking.

Let me know how it goes below!

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About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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Epic 7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary: From Phoenix to Page

This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.

Looking for an unforgettable adventure in the American Southwest? You’re going to love this epic 7 day Arizona road trip itinerary! This state is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, from the red rocks of Sedona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. And what better way to experience all of the beauty and diversity of Arizona than with a week-long road trip?

In this post I take you on a journey from Phoenix to Page, highlighting the best stops and sights along the way. So buckle up , hit the road, and get ready for a week of adventure you’ll never forget!

Table of Contents

7-day Arizona road trip itinerary

Day 1-3: phoenix and scottsdale.

Scottsdale and Phoenix are pretty close driving distance to each other, so we kind of went back and forth between the two. We made Phoenix our home base and stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix . I love Kimpton hotels, and I knew our stay would be nothing short of delightful. I have the IHG credit card ( check out my travel credit card guide! ) so 9 times out of 10 those are the hotels we stay at since they typically give us free upgrades, or we book with points ( book through IHG directly here ).

The Kimpton has public bikes available for use, a lovely pool, and daily wine hour from 5-6 PM. Yes, free wine! Feel free to check out other Phoenix and Scottsdale hotel options in the booking widget below.

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Phoenix and Scottsdale very much gave me Tampa and St. Pete vibes. There was plenty to do in both of these towns, so get ready to have your hands full!

Phoenix, Arizona sits at an elevation of 1,028 feet and is the capital city of Arizona. It’s also one of the most populous cities in the U.S., with more than 1.6 million residents! Great hikes, mouthwatering restaurants, interesting museums, and historic areas like Old Town Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix are just a few of Phoenix’s top attractions.

Things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale

Changing hands bookstore.

First, we stopped at Changing Hands Bookstore . If you don’t know this by now, I have an obsession with speakeasies, bookstores, and libraries. So when I read about Changing Hands Bookstore, I knew we had to go.

It had an awesome variety of book genres, a great area to read or get work done, and it even had a book bar. And get this, it’s called First Draft . I’m sorry but I died at how clever that was! Okay, now that I’m done geeking out…just know that it’s a great stop if you’re looking for a new read or just want to experience a cool vibe and grab a drink!

Desert Botanical Garden

Another must on your list of things to do in Phoenix is the Desert Botanical Garden . The Desert Botanical Garden is a great place to explore, get some steps in, and see some beautiful flora.

It’s open daily from 7 AM – 8 PM and general admission costs $24.95-29.95 (active military personnel gets in free with a valid ID). The garden sits on 40 acres and has over 50,000 plant displays which include over 4,000 different species. In addition to having several cacti and other sorts of desert plants, they also feature several trails , a butterfly pavilion, and greenhouses where you can observe various tree and plant species.

Camelback Mountain

Ahhh Camelback Mountain …my old friend. Okay, more like a foe, but whatever. It’s still a must! We made the mistake of going midday, you know when the scorching Arizona sun was beating on us.

Camelback Mountain is one of the most popular and well-known hikes in Phoenix. It’s a 2.4-mile challenging hike with an elevation gain of 1,322 ft. It offers amazing views of Phoenix once you reach the top. Learn from my rookie mistake and go early in the morning. Also, be sure to take plenty of water!

Dobbins Lookout at sunset

Dobbins Lookout is a moderately challenging 4-mile out and back hike in Phoenix. It’s one of the most stunning views in Phoenix, especially around sunset. You have the option to make the hike or drive to the summit. The road is open for vehicles to drive here most days between 5 AM – 7 PM.

Hot air balloon ride

Take in stunning vistas of the Sonoran Desert on a thrilling hot air balloon ride . You’ll have the ideal morning feeling like you’re floating on a cloud followed by a Champagne breakfast. Each flight lasts around an hour, and hotel transportation is available.

I have done a hot air balloon ride in Tampa , and it was so magical! It’s truly a surreal experience that you can’t really explain.

Enjoy some of the amazing restaurants and eateries Phoenix has to offer

In between all of these fun things, you’re of course going to be working up an appetite. Check out this list of great restaurants in Scottsdale and Phoenix . It also includes two of my favorite coffee shops, one of those being Dutch Bros of course!

Day 3-4: Sedona

You’ll know you hit Sedona when you begin to see all of the gorgeous red rocks. Sedona is a resort town, as well as a popular tourist destination. There are many red rock formations, hiking trails, art galleries, wineries, and vortexes for you to explore! This fun mix of activities made Sedona one of my favorite Arizona road trip stops. Below I’ve compiled my top picks for things to do in Sedona.

We ended up staying at the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek . What I love about Holiday Inn Expresses is that they include breakfast (always thinking of little ways to save during my trips). This stay came equipped with everything we needed, and the location was perfect.

Book the Holiday Inn Express Sedona directly with IHG here , or check out other hotel options for your stay here !

Things to do in Sedona

Winery hopping.

You certainly can’t leave Sedona without checking out a winery or two! Lucky for you several areas have multiple wineries just a hop, skip, and jump away from each other! We did DA Winery, Javelina Winery, and Oak Creek Winery and loved each one of them.

Several areas with groups of wineries are all a part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail. Check out the full map here . If you don’t want to worry about driving, book this all-inclusive wine tasting tour ! The tour includes a souvenir wine glass, 5-6 tastings at each of the three vineyards, a picnic lunch, and round-trip transportation from Sedona.

If you want to mix wine with adventure, check out this water-to-wine kayak trip . Taste wines from Arizona’s top wine-growing region, the Verde Valley, while taking a leisurely paddle down the Verde River. You’ll also get a $20 credit to use on tastings, snacks, or gifts at the winery.

Experience a vortex

For those unfamiliar, a vortex is a location where the earth seems to be particularly buzzing with energy. They are said to be beneficial for meditation, self-discovery, and healing.

Many individuals experience inspiration, refueling, or a boost after going to a vortex. I suggest taking a journal, or just taking some time to meditate while you’re in the vortex.

The four most well-known Sedona vortexes are located in Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Airport Mesa, and Bell Rock. Each emits its own distinctive energy. Some are supposed to create energy that spirals downward and into the earth, while others are thought to produce energy that flows upward.

Enjoy a hike

We hiked Cathedral Rock at sunset, and just wow . Not to mention you’re killing two birds with one stone here as it’s also a vortex! This Sedona activity should be a part of anyone’s Arizona itinerary!

It’s a somewhat challenging 1.2-mile out-and-back trail with epic views at the summit. There is some nearly vertical climbing and hiking involved at one part of the trail so good hiking shoes with traction are important.

At one point we were following people and realized we were off the trail, so be sure to download the All Trails map when you do trails! This helped us navigate back to the proper path.

Devil’s Bridge and Birthing Cave are also popular hikes. Devil’s Bridge is a 3.9-mile trail that’s recommended for sunrise. It typically takes around 2 hours to complete. Birthing Cave is 2 miles long and usually takes less than an hour.

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a Roman Catholic church erected into the red rock buttes of Sedona. It’s a must-see as it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in all of Sedona. The chapel’s most prominent feature is a 90-foot-tall iron cross that serves both decorative and structural functions.

Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a local rancher and artist, was the one who came up with the idea for and commissioned the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Her first efforts were to construct it in Budapest Hungary, however, the start of World War II forced her to abandon the endeavor and bring it to her homeland, Sedona.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is open seven days a week from 9 AM-5 PM.

Eat at The Hudson

I didn’t get to check out too many restaurants in Sedona, but our experience at The Hudson was so good I can only assume it’s one of the best restaurants in Sedona.

The Hudson is perched on a hillside with a view of Sedona’s picturesque red rocks. They offer lunch and dinner which showcases seasonal American cuisine with inventive takes on tried-and-true comfort foods. Their cocktails and wine selection were also lovely.

They have a fantastic patio, open dining area, and a central bar with an industrial-chic atmosphere overall. Check them out for their daily happy hour at the lounge and bar for special pricing on select apps, wine, cocktails, and draft beer.

If you plan ahead, make reservations. We went here without them, but enjoyed some of the happy hour prices at the bar while we waited for a table on the patio!

Grab Firecreek Coffee on your way out

We just really enjoyed our stop here on the way out! Delicious coffee and some yummy baked goods you can snag for the road!

Slide Rock State Park

This was the one thing on our Sedona list we, unfortunately, didn’t get to check out, but I wished we did! Slide Rock State Park has a few short nature trails and a swimming hole where you can cool off after a long day roaming through the town. It has even been named one of America’s top 10 swimming holes.

The park gets its name from the 80-foot-long slippery chute that is worn into sandstone visitors get to enjoy. It’s vehicle admission only and there are no walk-ins or drop-offs.

Hours and prices vary depending on the season, so check those out here .

Day 4-5: Flagstaff and Page

Things to do in flagstaff, sunset crater volcano national monument.

One of the most popular places in Flagstaff is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument . This national monument is one of the best places to see the effects of volcanic eruptions in Arizona. It features several hiking trails including a 1-mile loop trail located at the base of Sunset Crater. Hiking to the summit is not permitted. Be sure to come with good shoes or boots on hand if you’re planning on exploring on foot!

It costs $25 per vehicle unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass which I recommend getting, especially if you’re heading to Utah after your Arizona road trip. The pass costs $80 and covers the entrance to over 2,000 parks across the US and is valid for 1 year!

Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory was established in 1894, making it one of the oldest observatories in the US. Discover planets, faraway gas clouds, and distant galaxies at night with the Giovale Open Deck Observatory’s six cutting-edge telescopes and Flagstaff’s renowned dark sky.

Admission is $25 for adults, aside from Tuesdays when it is $18.

Grand Falls

Grand Falls is a chain of natural waterfalls in the Painted Desert on the Navajo Nation, 30 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona. It’s also known as Chocolate Falls due to its hue. It is higher than Niagara Falls at 185 feet. It empties seasonal rain or snow melt into the Little Colorado River beneath.

The view trail is 1.1 miles out and back and is considered to be easy with a small amount of elevation gain. Be sure to check the conditions before going. There are certain months when the falls don’t have much flow and may not be worth the stop. March and April are the best times to visit because of the melting snowfall.

Grab a cocktail at a fun bar

We, unfortunately, had left Flagstaff before it got into the evening, but if you’re still around Hotel Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge and Annex Cocktail Lounge were both spots on my list that looked super cool with some fun specialty cocktails.

Annex Cocktail Loung is a modern club with a speakeasy feel that also has a rustic patio, and Hotel Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge is an old-fashioned, bi-level hotel cocktail lounge featuring karaoke and live music nights.

Page, Arizona

We ended the day in Page, Arizona where we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Page – Lake Powell . Page is a small town located in northern Arizona. It’s known for its hiking and camping opportunities, scenic views, and wildlife. The town also has several shops and restaurants where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

If you’re looking for something to do other than hike then there are many places to visit including Antelope Canyon which is well known for its beautiful scenery! Another must-see place is Horseshoe Bend which was formed by the Colorado River thousands of years ago when it carved out this beautiful valley over time. It’s one of America’s most spectacular natural wonders!

There are so many beautiful views in Page , you’d be amazed!

Day 5-6: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon

We certainly crammed a lot in here, but it was so worth it (that’s what she said)! Right we woke up we headed to Horseshoe Bend. Luckily it was just a short 10-minute drive from our hotel . We arrived around 6:30 AM and then left by around 7:30 AM to head to our Antelope Canyon tour .

We decided not to spend too much time at the Grand Canyon doing hiking trails, but instead drove through and stopped at some of the viewpoints.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a unique geological formation. It’s literally a horseshoe-shaped incised meander carved out in the Colorado River. From the parking lot to Horseshoe Bend is about a 0.6-mile walk.

The cost is $10 per vehicle. Despite it being a National Park, you will still have to pay this fee even if you have a National Parks Pass . The parking lot belongs to the city of Page, and the fee is charged by them.

The timing of visiting can be tricky. We visited for sunrise. While the shots we got were okay, there was a shadow on the bend or river that we couldn’t avoid. The most ideal time to visit is late morning or midday when the sun is more directly overhead so you can avoid shadows.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon was the most unique experience and my favorite activity of the entire Arizona road trip! It is a slot canyon located on Navajo land and is protected by the Navajo Parks and Recreation. The only way you can visit and experience the canyon is through an authorized tour company.

While the tours are a little costly, I can assure you they are so worth it! Going with a tour group was actually great though. They were so informative, took dozens of photos for us, and even gave us some good laughs.

The canyon formed from water running through Navajo Sandstone over the course of hundreds of years. The walls of the canyon are so smooth it’s really wild to see!

You can choose to take a tour with either the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon . The size of the canyon itself is the main distinction between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. The iconic light beams that fill the canyon are caused by the fact that the upper canyon is broader at the bottom than the top.

Lower Antelope is formed like a “V” and is considerably smaller towards the bottom. There is also a little bit of price difference. Lower Antelope Canyon is a little bit cheaper (almost half the price), which is the tour we decided on. While it doesn’t have all of the light beams that the upper canyon has it was nothing short of amazing! There’s really no bad choice.

Be sure to book your tour for Upper Antelope Canyon , or for Lower Antelope Canyon in advance.

If time allows, kayaking Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend is a super cool way to explore the areas!

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. Formed by erosion from flowing water over millions of years—its shear walls are almost vertical at some points. Today visitors come from all over the world to see this marvel firsthand so make sure not to miss visiting during your road trip through Arizona!

The Grand Canyon is actually the second most visited National Park in the US. You can explore the North or South Rim. 90% of visitors explore the South Rim, as the North Rim is harder to get to and more secluded.

We chose to do the South Rim. You can drive, hike, or take the free shuttle around the park. Check out this guide for how to spend a day visiting the Grand Canyon !

After all of these adventures, we headed back to Sedona to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek for one more night. We planned on heading back to Scottsdale in the morning so we figured it was best to begin making our way back that way after the Grand Canyon.

Day 6-7: Scottsdale

The great thing about Scottsdale is it is right next to Phoenix, so anything you didn’t have time for in this area at the beginning of your Arizona road trip, you can check it out here! If you’re looking for more Scottsdale recs check out this guide .

I’m not going to lie, we didn’t get to experience too much of Scottsdale. This was the last day of our 3-week road trip so we were pretty beat. We had friends we were visiting with so on this last day we just relaxed by the pool and then went out for a night on the town. It was so fun, but I definitely need to make an Arizona trip just to spend a few days in Scottsdale.

We did enjoy Old Town Scottsdale which definitely has some charm to it, and the bars were a blast! The Old Town district has tons of shopping options, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and more.

Some of my favorite coffee shops, bars, and restaurants:

• Luci’s at the Orchard — for brunch
• Toca Madera — for dinner
• Fat Ox — for dinner

• Culinary Dropout — for lunch or dinner
• Hash Kitchen — for brunch
• AZ/88 — for drinks

• Dutch Bros — for coffee
• Sip Coffee and Beer — for coffee
• The Beverly on Main — for drinks
• Sugar Bowl — I didn’t get to check this spot out, but it looks like such a fun spot for ice cream and a little photoshoot

If you want to spend some time outdoors sunrise at Papago Park and hiking Tom’s Thumb Trail are two of the most popular outdoor activities in Scottsdale.

Sunrise at Papago Park is a good choice if you want to see Phoenix from above without having to climb any mountains yourself! This park offers beautiful views of downtown Phoenix as well as South Mountain Park where all those big red rocks are located.

Whether you choose to hike along the East Side Trails or the West Side Trails at Papago Park , you’ll have a grand start to your morning enjoying the sunrise here. You will need to enter the park on your own because the parking lot doesn’t open until sunrise and the gated roads don’t open until 6 AM.

One of the most visited trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is Tom’s Thumb Trail. Due to how steep it is and how many twists and turns you must navigate in order to reach the peak, this 4-mile climb is moderately challenging. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy some breathtaking vistas of Phoenix and the McDowell Mountains.

Bring lots of water and be sure to wear sunscreen. Check out this awesome tour if you prefer to experience this iconic hike with a guide!

The next time you’re thinking about taking a road trip, I hope you consider this Arizona itinerary. It’s a beautiful state with many exciting places to visit and see, from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. You may even want to stop in Sedona or Page for some great sights!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other West Coast blog posts:

Joshua Tree day trip

One day in Palm Springs

LA to Joshua Tree road trip itinerary

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

My husband and I are wanting to take a trip like this and this itinerary is perfect! Hoping to see Arizona this year or next!

Yay! You’re going to love it! SO much to see and do

A great guide to follow with much to see and experience. Having visited Sedona and the Grand Canyon this post brought back wonderful memories.

Wow Arizona has been on my list but this post makes me want to go even more now!! Your pictures are beautiful. Saving this to use for my own road trip in the future, thanks for sharing!

Arizona looks so beautiful! I am planning a long US road trip soon and there really is so much to see! Thank you for sharing your itinerary!

Love Arizona, been there twice on a road trip and it’s a beautiful state. Somehow I have in my mind that we could still hike up Sunset Crater. It could be that it has changed since 2008 or that I’m mixing things up.

If you don’t mind me asking how much did this entire trip cost you. Planning one in October-December.

I honestly wish I would’ve kept track because you’re not the first to ask, but I don’t recall

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How to Plan an Amazing Arizona Road Trip (7-14 Days)

How were we so late to the Arizona party? Despite both having been to Arizona MULTIPLE TIMES before, we were radically unprepared for the sheer beauty that we experienced over the course of our Arizona road trip. We spent around two weeks in Arizona, and already started making plans for our return. Because there is SO MUCH to do and see in Arizona that it’s honestly a little overwhelming.

We originally had plans to go all over the state, but ended up having to cut our trip a little short. Which turned out to be a good thing, because it forced us to focus in on the things we really wanted to do and see while we were in Arizona.

We used our experience road tripping in Arizona – along with the hours of research that went into planning our own trip – to put together this guide to planning an amazing Arizona adventure.

In it, you’ll find the logistics – when to go, where to fly in, etc etc – along with our favorite stops in Arizona and exactly what to do and see while you’re there.

We think that you should spend your time going deep (or, as deep as you can go with 2-3 days) in each of the stops you make rather than trying to see everything in one trip. The latter approach means you’re spending 4-5 hours a day in the car, which, honestly, sucks.

Instead, spend your time exploring hiking trails, stuffing your face with food and drinks, and seeing some of Arizona’s most spectacular landscapes.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days in Arizona?

Arizona is huge, and if you’re trying to hit all of the different corners of the state, you’ll need at least two weeks .

If you have less than that, we’d strongly recommend focusing your Arizona road trip itinerary on three main areas : Phoenix and the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, and Grand Canyon National Park.

You will need at least seven days – more would be better – to do Phoenix, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon.

We’ve written the road trip itinerary below for seven days, but have suggestions for what to do with extra time that are equally as detailed as the 7 day itinerary below – you can find them at the end of this guide.

• With a few extra days – 10 or so – you can add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park.
• With 14 days, add the southern loop through Tucson , plus Page and Zion National Park , ending your time by flying out of Vegas. 

Monument Valley, which is spectacular, is FAR from most of the places on this itinerary. For example, it’ll take you three to four hours to get there from the Grand Canyon.

Other than the drive, which is beautiful, there’s nothing else to really do there, so we don’t think it really makes sense to take a huge detour to get there . In fact, it would be a better addition to a broader Arizona / Utah road trip on your way to Moab .

Instead, we’d STRONGLY recommend focusing your time on the corridor between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, immersing yourself in the spectacular landscapes along the way rather than spending all day in the car.

Where to Start and End Your Arizona Road Trip

For most people, a loop that starts and ends in Phoenix, Arizona is going to be the best way to do this road trip.

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which generally has a good selection of flights from around the country (and even the world, in some cases). Click here to check flight prices into Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport for your dates.

The benefit of doing this as a loop is that you won’t have to pay a one-way rental car fee.

From the furthest points on the itinerary below – either Page or the Grand Canyon South Rim – it’s about a four hour drive back to the airport.

Plan on booking the earliest possible flight into Phoenix, and the latest possible flight out to maximize your time.

Note : The exception to doing this as a loop is if you have 14 days and decide to add on Zion National Park at the end. Then, it would actually be better to end in Las Vegas – about two and a half hours or 172 miles from Zion.

Do You Need to Rent a Car for this Road Trip?

In short, yes. You’ll need to rent a car for the entirety of this itinerary. We’d recommend picking up and dropping off at the same place – Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix – to avoid a one-way rental car fee if you can. 

We like using Kayak for booking rental cars because they aggregate all the different car rental sites to help you find the best price. Make sure to rent from a reputable company – Hertz, Enterprise, National, or Avis, which you can do by using Kayak’s helpful filters.  Cl i ck here to check prices for rental cars in Phoenix.

A Complete 7 Day Itinerary for a Road Trip in Arizona

Now that we’ve got all the logistics out of the way, time to get into the exact itinerary we’d recommend. 

Day 1: Fly in and Explore Phoenix

A lot of people pick up their rental car and head straight for either Sedona or Tucson, depending on what route you’re taking.

However, we think there are a few things to do in Phoenix that are well worth a day of your time.

We’d spend your first day, night, and second day in the Phoenix area, focusing on the many outdoor activities nearby, most notably the Superstition Mountains, which were a highlight of our Arizona trip. Then, on your second night, head up to Sedona and sleep there so you can get an early start the next morning.

What to Do in Phoenix

There are a couple of things worth doing in Phoenix itself on your first day in Arizona – we’ll cover the Superstition Mountains on day 2 of this itinerary.

• The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is worth a stop to see all sorts of desert flora – over 50,000 different kinds! There are multiple loops that take you on a journey through the plant life of the Sonoran desert, which will give you a great foundation for the rest of your trip (“Hey Alysha! It’s a teddy bear cholla cactus!”).
• Speaking of Papago Park, Hole in the Wall is a short climb that takes you to a perfect spot to take in your first Arizona sunset! Unlike places on the west coast, there’s no marine layer or clouds in the sky to ruin the evening glow – sunsets in Arizona are spectacular.
• There are a surprising number of great hikes within 45 minutes of Phoenix. Camelback Mountain is seemingly right in the middle of town, and gives you sweeping views of the surrounding area from the summit, which is reached with a 2.5 mile out-and-back trail that is basically straight up. Tom’s Thumb is another great hike that takes you to a saddle with panoramic views – it’s a little further out to the north of town, but is worth the journey in our opinion.
• Get coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab , who has the best coffee in Phoenix (in our opinion, anyway) and has created a mini empire in southern Arizona.

Where to Stay in Phoenix

We were walking through Uptown Phoenix on our way to Cartel Coffee – some of the best coffee in Phoenix – when we found ourselves in the courtyard of a hip-looking hotel.

That hotel was Rise Uptown , and we wish we would have stayed there. It’s a great location for exploring Phoenix, and the rooms are spacious and beautiful. Plus, there’s a nice pool, and Cartel Coffee is essentially in the lobby. 

In general, we’d recommend staying somewhere between Downtown and uptown, between the two highways that run north-south (51 and 17).

Here are a couple of other good choices in Phoenix.

• Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix : Great value with bright-colored rooms and charming décor. Plus, it’s super affordable! It’s also near the freeway that you’ll take out to the Superstitions, which puts you in a great location for exploring.
• Aloft Phoenix Airport : Location is nothing special, but it’s convenient for the airport, and it’s an affordable choice with nice rooms and a pool.
• The AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore : A little more on the boutique end of the spectrum, this hotel is beautiful, and is well-located in the Biltmore area of Phoenix, which is a perfect home base for exploring the city and surrounding area.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Superstition Mountains

Stay in Phoenix for the night, and head out early to the east, where you’ll find the Superstition Wilderness, a highlight of our time in Arizona. You can explore most of the main part of the western end of the park in a morning, which is exactly what you’re going to do here.

Head to Lost Dutchman State Park , which will be your base for exploring, and park at either the Treasure Loop or Siphon Draw Trailheads . There’s a day use fee of $10 to enter the park.

There are a couple of established hikes in the park, but we created our own by putting together multiple hikes into one big loop.

Start with the eastern part of the Treasure Loop Trail , which winds its way up to the ridge. From there, rather than heading back down via the Treasure Loop Trail, take the Prospector’s Ridge Trail to the west until it intersects with the Siphon Draw Trail . From that intersection, take the Jacob’s Crosscut trail back to the trailhead.

All-in, it’ll be around four miles, and you’ll see the Superstition Mountains and a ton of desert flora and fauna along the way.

On your way back into Phoenix, stop in Mesa, Arizona for a couple of our favorite spots in the Phoenix Metro Area. 

• Get coffee at Mythical Coffee , which is actually in Gilbert, but is roughly on the way. This is the best coffee in the Phoenix area, we think. An alternative would be Peixoto Coffee , which we like because they own a coffee farm in Brazil (or more accurately, are owned by a family who also owns a coffee farm in Brazil) and highlight the coffees from their farm in their shop. 
• Need to refuel post-hike? There are two great gluten free spots in Mesa, which we’d recommend whether you have Celiac Disease (like me) or not. First is Spooky Swirls , a cupcake shop (they make all sorts of baked goods) that makes fun, themed cupcakes that are not only beautiful, but they’re also delicious. We got a Baby Yoda cupcake (see below), that didn’t quite survive the Arizona heat, but was delicious either way. The second spot is Intentional Foods Cafe , which is a 100% gluten free restaurant that is also free of eight other allergens, so it’s perfect if you or any of your traveling companions have food sensitivities. Get the donuts and the fries. 
• Last, but certainly not least, head up to Cider Corps , a veteran-owned cidery in Mesa to try some local cider. I believe (I could be wrong) that they are Phoenix’s only cider bar! They have a nice outdoor patio if it’s cool enough, otherwise they have a high-ceilinged, light-filled indoor space. Plus, CIDER SLUSHIES! You can bring outside food, so we’d recommend grabbing lunch and heading here to eat and sip on some cider. 

Days 3 & 4: Sedona

Drive Time from Phoenix: 2 hours / 115 miles

Sedona is gorgeous. We did Sedona and Zion on the same trip (see our recommendations for 14 days below to see how we did it), and in a lot of ways, they’re very similar. You’ll find red rock walls and towering buttes with lush greenery in the canyons below.

Another thing that makes them similar? The crowds.

We were in Sedona in April, and it was a zoo. Think hundreds of cars parked at the most popular trailheads, and roads to trailheads closed because the trailhead is full.

Still, it’s a beautiful place, and as long as you know what you’re getting into before you get there, you’ll enjoy your visit.

What to Do in Sedona

Sedona, like Bend, Oregon, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There’s all sorts of fantastic hikes (psst! We have a guide to our favorite hikes in Sedona ), 4×4 offroading, areas to spend a summer day lounging at the river, and more. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Sedona.

Crescent Moon Picnic Area : At this park on the south side of town, you’ll have some of the best views of Cathedral Rock that you’ll find anywhere in Sedona. Plus, there’s a river, so bring a picnic, a blanket and some towels, your swimsuit, and make an afternoon of it. 

Drink Mind-blowing Chai at the Chai Spot : This was unexpected. As I was scrolling Google Maps getting myself oriented, I realized that there was a chai shop in Sedona called the Chai Spot . Not only do they make INCREDIBLE chai (get the butter chai, it’s creamy and rich and delicious), but their story is worth looking into as well. It’s a social project that focuses on economic empowerment of women and education of children in Pakistan. The inside of the shop is colorful and vibrant, and the outdoor patio is a welcome refuge from the heat – it’s the perfect spot for chai lovers (like Alysha) to relax in Sedona. 

Hiking in Sedona: There are an incredible number of great hikes in Sedona. So many, that we have a whole separate post highlighting the best hikes in Sedona – if you want to spend most of your time on the hiking trails, you should absolutely go read that. We really enjoyed the West Fork of Oak Creek , which is a beautiful meander through a lush canyon with towering red rock walls. You cross the river 13 times, but none of the crossings are particularly hard, especially if you have waterproof shoes on. The Boynton Canyon Trail and Soldier Pass Trail were our next two picks, though you need to read our hiking guide to figure out the parking situation for Soldier Pass, which is a bonafide nightmare. Devils Bridge is cool, but you’ll probably have to wait in line at the top for a picture, which isn’t our cup of tea. 

Sunset Spots: Arizona sunsets are amazing. Catch sunset at Airport Mesa , which is one of the most popular spots (there were literally hundreds of people there when we were there) or the top of Cathedral Rock , which requires a steep hike to reach. Another good option that should be less crowded is Bell Rock . Make the climb about halfway up the south side of the towering rock formation and find a nice spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’ll light up the red rocks of the valley in front of you as it does. 

Wine Tasting: I bet you didn’t expect to see wine tasting on an itinerary for Arizona, did you? The Verde Valley Wine Trail is just outside of Sedona, in nearby Cottonwood and Corndale (~30 minutes from Sedona by car) and a trip out there would make for a great afternoon activity after a morning hike. Head to Oak Creek Vineyards for wine flights and small plates (also dog + kid friendly!), or Arizona Stronghold Vineyards (no reservations, tables are first-come-first-served) for a delightfully rustic tasting experience just outside of Cottonwood. If you don’t want to make the journey out of town, head to Art of Wine in Sedona and get a flight of the Arizona reds or whites, depending on what you’re into. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are a couple of options in Sedona in terms of style and budget. You could stay in a hotel or resort, which will give you a nice refuge from the heat if you’re visiting in the summertime (or the cold if it’s winter or early spring). Or, you could camp at one of the campgrounds along 89A just north of Sedona. 

Hotels in Sedona

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, you’ve got a pretty impressive number of options. 

We like Sky Ranch Lodge , which is walkable to the best sunset spot in the area at Airport Mesa. It’s where we’d stay if we were planning a trip to Sedona and weren’t living in our van.

They have a beautiful, lush property that has a patio with a great view of Sedona, and rooms are spacious. Plus, they’re certified sustainable by the Sustainability Alliance of Arizona!

Plus, a free shuttle to areas within five miles of the hotel means you won’t have to deal with parking at some of the most popular trailheads like the Soldier Pass Trail (though you should be careful, because cell-service is nonexistent in some parts of Sedona). It’s also walkable from the airport, which is a nice bonus if you’re flying in. 

The other spot we’d recommend looking at is Junipine Resort , which is along 89A north of town and offers a quieter, more private place to stay. We drove past it on our way to our campground and were intrigued. Sure enough, it looks like an amazing place to stay!

It’s along the banks of Oak Creek, they’re certified sustainable, and they have “Creekhomes” that have plenty of space and a full kitchen. It’s only 10-15 minutes outside of Sedona, and is perfect if you’re in search of a bit of tranquility, which you might not find if you’re staying in downtown Sedona. 

Camping in Sedona

If you want to camp, there are a bunch of campgrounds north of Sedona along Highway 89A. We’ll cover three of them, starting with the closest to Sedona and ending with one that’s about 15-20 minutes outside of town that we stayed at and really liked. 

Manzanita Campground : Right along the creek in a nice shady spot, this is the closest campground to town, which also means it’s the most competitive. There are only 18 sites, 11 of which are reservable in advance. Seven sites are first-come-first-served, so plan on getting there early in the day to secure a spot. More info here . 

Cave Springs Campground: With 84 sites, this is the biggest campground in the area. You must make reservations in advance (at least three days before you show up), and there’s usually availability (though we’d recommend grabbing a spot well in advance for the month of April, which is high season in Sedona). More info here .  

Pine Flat Campground : This is the one we stayed at, and 18 of the 54 sites here are reservable in advance. It’s a nice campground, though it is right along the road (though all of them are, really). Try to get a site on the side of the campground that’s along Oak Creek – that’s on the west side of the road, and the west side of the campground (look at a map and you’ll see what I mean). More info here . 

Days 5 & 6: The Grand Canyon

Drive Time from Sedona: 2 hours / 115 miles

We think 2 days in the Grand Canyon is the perfect amount of time to explore the rim, take the scenic drive out to the East Entrance of the park and Desert View, and do one of the difficult but spectacular hikes that take you below the rim.

There’s plenty to do and see to fill a few more days if you have extra time on this road trip and you’re particularly interested in the Grand Canyon – like the North Rim, or backpacking to the floor of the canyon – but we think your time is actually better spent elsewhere unless you’re up for a long drive around to the North Rim, or a long overnight backpacking trip.

So spend a couple of days exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is plenty of time to see the highlights.

What to Do in Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

Like we mentioned above, there are three things we think are “must-do” at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

• Hike the Rim Trail : All along the Rim Trail, you’ll have spectacular and ever-changing views of the vastness of the canyon below. We like the stretch from Mather Point to the Bright Angel Trailhead, which is a 3.1 mile hike that is mostly flat with plenty of viewpoints along the way. Don’t miss Mather Point , Yavapai Point , and the Yavapai Geology Museum . This hike is best done in the early morning before 10am, which is when the crowds start to show up, or within an hour of sunset for stunning light on the canyon.
• Scenic Drive out to Desert View : This drive is amazing, with about a half-dozen viewpoints that are worth stopping at along the way. You’ll have a different perspective on the canyon from the eastern end, and it’s the only part of the rim road that you can drive in a private vehicle (except between December and February, when the road out to Hermit’s Rest is open to private vehicles). Start two hours before sunset, stopping at the viewpoints along the way, and ending at Desert View to take in the usually-stunning Arizona sunset.
• Get below the Canyon Rim : Like Bryce Canyon , one of our favorite national parks in the United States, the best way to really get a feel for the Grand Canyon is to hike down into it. You’re sure to appreciate the scale of the canyon if you have to make the climb up the canyon walls, gaining several thousand feet over the course of your journey! The two most popular trails are the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail. The Bright Angel Trail is more of a way to get all the way to the canyon floor, which you won’t be able to do in a day hike. We’d recommend taking the South Kaibab Trail out to Skeleton Point , which is 6 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet on the way back. Shorten it to 3 miles / 1,100 feet by turning around at Cedar Point instead.

The hikes below the rim are not for the faint of heart – you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and salty snacks.

The interior of the canyon is often 20+ degrees hotter than the rim, which means you’re going to be at risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, particularly in the summer months. Do not underestimate the difficulty of these hikes.

It’s probably better to underestimate your abilities rather than overestimating them, in this case.

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

There are three places we’d recommend staying on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, and it largely depends on your budget and style.

If you’re camping, stay at Mather Campground , which is within walking distance (~1 mile one-way) of the main Visitors Center and the Marketplace. We stayed here and although it’s a massive campground, it’s relatively nice with flush toilets, shaded sites, and good water. Honestly, we were surprised at how nice it was.

Staying inside the park on the Rim is a great option, but like most national parks, you’re going to pay a little extra for the convenience of having the Grand Canyon literally out your front door (in most cases). Along the rim, the best options are going to be El Tovar Hotel , the Bright Angel Lodge , and the Maswik Lodge .

Staying outside of the south entrance of the park (which is the best place to stay outside the park), is going to be cheaper, but means a little bit of a journey to get to the rim of the canyon, and often a line at the park entrance (though, not if you get there early enough!).

We’d recommend looking in the town of Tusayan (15 minutes from the rim), which is just outside the South Entrance, or Grand Canyon Junction (30 minutes to the rim), which has a better selection of places to stay, but is a little further out. Here are three places to check out:

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon Junction): Bucket list-worthy glamping! If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, check out their safari tents in the desert.
• Red Feather Lodge (Tusayan): Located a few minutes from the entrance to the park, this is a solid value with simple rooms in a perfect location. Plus, relatively affordable!
• Holiday Inn Express or Best Western Premier (Tusayan): Two well-rated, good value hotels just outside the south entrance. Not a whole lot of bells and whistles here, but a pleasant place to use as a home base for exploring the Grand Canyon.

Williams and Flagstaff will have you driving for an hour (or more) each way to and from the rim of the Grand Canyon, and we wouldn’t recommend staying there if you can avoid it.

Day 7: Drive to Phoenix & Fly Home

The drive back to Phoenix is going to take you about four hours from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Plan on booking an afternoon / evening flight to give yourself plenty of time for the drive back.

Longer Itinerary Options (10 & 14 Days)

If you have a full 10 days or even two weeks, you’ll unlock more possibilities for your trip.

Here’s how we would spend 10 days and 14 days in Arizona.

How to Spend 10 Days in Arizona

With 10 days, we think you should add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park on the front end of your road trip, and Page, Arizona on the tail end after the Grand Canyon.

For this version of the itinerary, pick up your rental car in Phoenix and head south to Tucson, where you’ll spend the first 2-3 days. Then, continue on the road trip above as written. On the second-to-last day, head up to Page.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, drive to Tucson
• Day 2: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 4: Drive to Phoenix, afternoon in Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains, drive to Sedona
• Day 6: Sedona
• Day 7: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon
• Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park + Drive to Page
• Day 10: Page + Drive to Phoenix + Head Home

Tucson and Saguaro National Park

Southern Arizona is a vastly different landscape than northern Arizona, which is what the 7 day itinerary above focuses on. With more time, you’ll be able to dip your toes in the southern Arizona water (just kidding, this is the desert!), but you won’t be able to see it all.

For your introduction to southern Arizona, we think you should focus on the area around Tucson.

What to Do in Tucson

There are two main focuses for your time in Tucson – Saguaro National Park (there are two parts!) and Mt. Lemmon .

Saguaro National Park

First, you should know that there are two parts of Saguaro National Park that straddle Tucson, one on either side. They are the Rincon Mountain District , which is on the east side of Tucson, and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. 

Stop at the Visitor Center in each part of the park to grab a map, fill up your water, and get ready to explore. There is nowhere to get food or drinks other than water within the park, so you’ll want to pack a lunch and plenty of snacks. 

Here are some things to do in each region of the park. 

In the Tucson Mountain District, which is smaller in area but has a higher density of cacti and is therefore more popular: 

• Drive the 5 mile Bajada Loop scenic drive , which is a loop consisting of Golden Gate Road and Hohokam Road. It’s unpaved, but is passable by all vehicles. Drive it counterclockwise, starting with Hohokam road and ending on Golden Gate. This is a great way to explore the park, especially if you make stops at the Valley View Overlook Trail (extend it a bit by combining it with the Wild Dog Trail ) to get up close and personal with a ton of cacti, and the Signal Hill area, where you’ll find petroglyphs at the top of the hill. 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike , do the hike up to Wasson Peak either from the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead (7.5 miles / 1,600 feet of elevation) or via the Hugh Norris Trailhead (8.9 miles / 2,400 feet of elevation gain). 
• Stop at the Red Hills Visitor Center to walk the short loop through the cactus garden and pick up some maps and park information. 
• The Desert Discovery Center , which is outside the park’s southern boundary, is worth a stop either on the way in or out to learn about all the flora and fauna in the desert. 

In the Rincon Mountain District, which is the bigger but less popular part of the park on the east side of Tucson (If you only have time for one, we’d recommend the Tucson Mountain District. However, if you have time for both, this section of the park makes for a nice combination with Mt. Lemmon, since there’s only really about a half day worth of things to do and see here.):

• The number one thing you should do is drive Cactus Forest Loop Drive , which is a huge loop that takes you through the majority of the park. It is paved, and well worth the time. Stop at the Freeman Homestead Nature Trail , the Loma Verde Trail (do a loop with the Squeeze Pen Trail for a nice stroll through the desert), and the Cactus Forest Overlook . 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike, there are a bunch of great options leaving from the Broadway Trailhead at the northwest corner of the park and the Douglas Spring Trailhead along the northern boundary. 

Then, head to Mt. Lemmon for a completely different perspective on Tucson and the surrounding area. 

At 9,159 feet above sea level, Mt. Lemmon is a completely different place than Tucson. It’s likely going to be 20-30 degrees cooler, which means different ecosystems thrive here on the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

To put it in perspective, the average high temperature in July in Tucson is 100 degrees F. On Mt. Lemmon, it’s 76 degrees. 

Would you believe me if I told you there’s a SKI RESORT on Mt. Lemmon?

You should definitely drive all the way to the top – Summerhaven. It’s 26 miles, and the landscape gradually shifts over the course of the journey. At the top, you’ll be in the woods. In Arizona. Which is an odd feeling when just an hour or two ago you were driving through Saguaro National Park, home of a bazillion cacti. 

Stop by Windy Point Vista and San Pedro Vista on the way up for great views of the surrounding area. 

There’s a bunch of things to do and see in the town of Summerhaven at the top, whether you want to hike or just peruse shops, but we think the drive itself is by far the best part about Mt. Lemmon.

If you’re looking for a great, relatively easy hike, head out to the Mt. Lemmon Fire Lookout Station. It’s 2.1 miles round trip with 360 feet of elevation gain, and you can make a nice loop of it by returning via the Meadow trail. 

Where to Stay in Tucson

There are exactly zero campgrounds to stay at in Tucson, so your only options are going to be hotels and vacation rentals. Since you have two nights, you have your choice between staying in a hotel, which will provide more convenience and flexibility but less space, and vacation rentals, which give you more space and usually a kitchen, but less flexibility.

If you’re looking for a hotel, stay at Hotel McCoy , a cool hotel on the outskirts of town that’s perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park, or the Tuxon or the Graduate Hotel , which are both closer in to town and the amenities in Tucson.

Page, Arizona: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Page is a good home base for exploring two now Insta-famous sights in Arizona: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend .

I know Page as the jumping off point for renting a houseboat on Lake Powell, which my family has done twice now. Other than those three things, there’s not a whole lot going on, which makes it a perfect half-day addition after the Grand Canyon.

We’d recommend leaving the Grand Canyon on the afternoon of your last day to make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset. Keep in mind, you’ll be with hundreds of your new closest friends – it’s a popular spot. You’ll need to get there early if you want a prime location.

Then, the next morning, get up early and head to Antelope Canyon . It’s on Navajo land, and is only accessible via guided tours, which take between one and a half to two hours. Grab an early 8am departure, which will give you plenty of time to head back to Phoenix afterwards and catch your flight home (or start the drive home, if you drove).

Where to Stay in Page

Stay at the Desert Canyon Inn , which is where we had booked a room before we had to cut our trip a bit short. They have basic apartments – complete with kitchens! – in a perfect location in downtown Page.

What to Do in Arizona With 14 Days

With a full two weeks, you’ve got options. At a high level, you could either make a big loop, including Monument Valley and Page, or you could tack on Zion National Park at the end of your trip, and fly out of Vegas.

For this itinerary, head south to Tucson first, then spend two days in Phoenix before heading up to Sedona, on to the Grand Canyon, then to Page for a night before heading to Zion National Park, which is technically in Utah, but close enough, right?

Note that we’re skipping Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley. It’s not that they aren’t cool and worth seeing. It’s that we think you’re better served focusing on western Arizona here, and making a return trip to explore eastern Arizona. 

Otherwise, you’ll spend WAY too much time driving – and those drives are not particularly scenic, though there are some nice spots along the way – and not enough time actually exploring. 

For reference, it’s going to take you four and a half hours to go from Tucson to Petrified Forest National Park, another three or more hours to go from there to Monument Valley, and another two hours to get to Page. All in the span of about 36 hours, because there’s really not that much to do along that route. 

We think your time is better spent immersing yourself in Tucson, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon (and Zion). Some might disagree, but that’s our perspective. 

Here’s what that itinerary looks like:

• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park + Mt. Lemmon
• Day 4: Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains (sleep in Phoenix)
• Day 7: Sedona
• Day 8: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon in evening
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 10: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 11: Page (Antelope Canyon morning + Horseshoe Bend sunset)
• Day 12: Drive to Zion
• Day 13: Zion 
• Day 14: Drive to Vegas and Fly Home (stop at Valley of Fire if you have time)

Wondering what to do in Zion National Park? We’ve got you covered. 

• How to Plan a Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary
• Where to Stay at Zion National Park

The Best Time to Road Trip in Arizona

Essentially, we’d say “anytime other than the summer.” But ideally spring and fall – March and April, and September and October being the best months.

We spent three weeks on this road trip in the spring in April, and it was very, very pleasant. In Phoenix, it’s still going to be warm, but not unbearable just yet – think 80’s and 90’s during the day. In higher elevation Sedona and the Grand Canyon, it’ll be slightly cooler, even downright cold in the Grand Canyon at night.

In the fall , it’s going to be similar, with relatively warm temperatures in Phoenix and southern Arizona that start to cool off as you head north into the higher elevation parts of the state.

The winter is also a decent time to visit, particularly in southern Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson). However, you could run into snow in Sedona and the Grand Canyon, which can put a damper on your trip.

Summer in Arizona is going to be borderline unbearable, with temperatures regularly over 100 degrees, and huge crowds of people – particularly families with kids out of school – flocking to places like the Grand Canyon. You’ll need to book things well in advance if you visit during the summer, and be prepared for incredibly hot weather.

More Arizona + Utah Travel Guides

If you liked this guide, you’re going to love our other Arizona and Utah travel guides.

Phoenix : Plan a perfect weekend in Phoenix , and figure out where to stay in Phoenix.

The Grand Canyon : Planning a trip that includes the Grand Canyon? We’ve got you covered with a guide on exactly how to plan an amazing Grand Canyon itinerary and how to find the perfect place to stay .

Sedona : Plan the perfect weekend getaway to Sedona , and learn everything you need to know to go hiking in Sedona .

If you’re making your way into Utah , you’ll want to read our guides to:

• Zion ( 2 day itinerary and where to stay )
• Bryce Canyon (the best hikes and how to spend one day in Bryce Canyon )
• Moab ( a perfect itinerary , the best hikes in Arches , and the best places to stay and things to do )

Plus, our 10 day Utah National Parks road trip is a super detailed guide to exploring Utah, if you’ve got the time. Otherwise, save it for later.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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Few things beat the thrill of a road trip.

While snacks, playlists and, in some cases, fur babies are essential ingredients for your next outing in the family truckster (Clark Griswold, anyone?), we recommend adding a few stops to explore some of the top hidden gems along the way.

The six-hour jaunt from the LA area to Phoenix is nearly a straight shot that takes you from coast to cactus, with plenty of historic landmarks and stunning scenery and explore in between — as long as you know where to look. Here are six stops to make your next journey just as exciting as the destination.

Before hitting the open road, be sure to check out these fall deals at Greater Phoenix hotels and resorts.

1. the cabazon dinosaurs.

Some roadside attractions can really withstand the test of time — which, in this case, is about 65 million years. No, seriously, the “world’s biggest outdoor display of prehistoric animals” debuted in 1975 and travelers of a certain age (though, not nearly as old) might recognize the super-sized tyrannosaurus rex and brontosaurus from such cult classics as “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure” and “The Wizard.”

While Mr. Rex's Dinosaur Adventure and the gift shop may be closed in accordance with CDC guidelines, the outdoor dinosaur trail and the photo ops are available seven days a week. Bonus: Stop by Friday through Sunday and treat yourself to a prehistoric-themed ice cream treat from the Wafflesaurus Truck, which is open from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Hours: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. ­– 7:30 p.m. Saturday & Sunday

Admission:  Adults, $13; children, $11; seniors and military, $10

Address: 50770 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, CA

Contact: 951-922-8700

If you like the Cabazon Dinosaurs, you'll love  Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs  at Arizona Boardwalk .

2. salton sea state park.

Just about 30 minutes off of I-10 sits the Salton Sea. While the history of this Basin dates back to ancient times, the lake was accidentally created by Colorado River runoff in 1905. The result was considered a "miracle in the desert." In the ’50 and ’60s it's warm water and sandy beaches drew droves of visitors – including Rock Hudson, Frank Sinatra, Jerry Lewis and other Hollywood elites – for a wide variety of recreation and relaxation activities. Hotels, motels, casinos and yacht clubs popped up along the lake’s 116-mile shoreline. But, in the '70s, heavy rain from a series of tropical storms caused the to flood its banks and devastated shoreline businesses and surrounding towns. 

While it's nothing like the resort town of decades past, the lake is an important stopover point for migrating birds, it's also the stage for spectacular sunsets and a variety of ever-changing public art ( t hink: small-scale Burning Man set against a post-apocalyptic landscape). Of course, at this point you're asking why would this spot make our list, and the answer is simple: one-of-a-kind photo ops. Just check out Instagram .

Hours: Day use and campground open 24 hours.

Admission: Day use area, $7; campground, $20; boat launch, $5

Address: 100-225 State Park Road, Mecca, CA   (north shore)

Contact:  760-393-3059

If you like the views and recreation of this state park, you'll love these  Greater Phoenix lakes .

3. joshua tree national park.

Although the national park has reopened for the public to enjoy, visitors are encouraged to review the alerts and conditions  here .

This national park has the distinction of encompassing two desert ecosystems: the Mojave and the Colorado. The result is a fascinating variety of desert plants, including the park's unmistakeable namesake, and animals — ranging from large herds of desert bighorn sheep and black-tailed jack rabbits to coyotes and kangaroo rats — make their homes in a land sculpted heat, strong winds and occasional torrents of rain.

Visitors can explore 800,000 acres of "dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness," and the park welcomes camping, backpacking, horseback riding, biking, birding, climbing, slacklining, hiking and stargazing. Leashed pets are welcome within 100 feet of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

Additionally, the park is home to significant prehistoric and historic sites and artifacts, including art, shelters, pottery sherds and flaked stone from tool making. The earliest known inhabitants of the park was the Pinto Culture, more than 8,000 years ago.

Hours:  Open 24 hours a day, year-round. The visitor centers are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Admission: $30 per vehicle

Address: The Joshua Tree Visitor Center is located at  6554 Park Blvd., Joshua Tree, CA . The Oasis Visitor Center is located at  74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA .

Contact:  Joshua Tree Visitor Center: 760-366-1855 | Oasis Visitor Center: 760-367-5500

If you like the views and recreation of this state park, you'll love Phoenix's Papago Park .

4. general patton memorial museum.

If you find yourself asking what a museum dedicated to General Patton is doing out in the middle of the desert, we have the answer for you: In 1942, the War Department ordered Patton to create a desert training center in California to ready American combat troops for battle in North Africa during World War II. 

Today, the museum promotes peace by honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans while educating the public on modern U.S. military history through the preservation and interpretation of artifacts from the major conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries. Exhibits include a large collection of tanks used in World War II and the Korean War, as well as memorabilia from Patton's life and career, and a Remembrance Wall, memorializing those who have protected our freedom — past and present.

Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4: 30 p.m. daily

Admission: Adults, $11; seniors and prior military, $9; ages 7-12, $6; ages 6 and under & active duty military, free.

Address:   62-510 Chiriaco Road, Chiriaco Summit, CA

Contact:  760-507-4143

If you like this museum, you'll love the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens at Salt River  in Phoenix.

5. kofa national wildlife refuge.

Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, visitors are encouraged to take the precautions outlined here .

Just over 30 minutes south off I-10, this refuge is a walk on the wild side that’s worth the drive. As the second-largest wilderness area in Arizona (666,640 total acres), 80% of refuge was designated as wilderness under the Arizona Desert Wilderness Act of 1990. This designation plays an important role in ensuring this desert landscape and its inhabitants are protected for future generations.

The refuge — named after the King of Arizona gold mine, which was active from 1897 to 1910 – is home to numerous amphibians and reptiles, a variety of birds and desert mammals – is a sanctuary for such activities as wildlife watching and photography, hiking, camping and limited hunting.

Archaeological research has found remnants, including petroglyphs, of people inhabiting the area as early as 9,000 B.C. And a hike to Palm Canyon, one of the park's most popular areas, reveals scattered clusters of California fan palms — the only native species of palm tree in Arizona — that can be traced back to the last periods of North American glaciation.

Please note: The Visitor Center, open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, is located more than 20 minutes south of the refuge itself. 

Admission: Free

Directions: I-10 passes within a few miles of the north edge of the refuge , and the northeast corner is accessed by Vicksburg Road (exit 45), but most approaches are from the west, via side tracks off US 95 between Quartzsite and Yuma. 

Contact: 928-783-7861

If you like the natural landscapes and hiking of this refuge, you'll love Phoenix's  South Mountain Park and Preserve , one of the largest municipal parks in the country.

6. el dorado hot springs, tonopah.

El Dorado Hot Springs check all the boxes of both a roadside attraction and a hidden gem. Take exit 94 off I-10 and within half a mile, you'll find yourself in the midst of desert oasis. This rustic operation is hidden behind overgrown palms, other flora, fences and weathered decor. But once inside, check-in is low key: You'll likely be greeted by any combination of the peacocks, ducks, chickens and quail, make your payment, get directions to the private soaking pool you reserved (yes, reservations are required) and from there you can pull your car right up to that area. 

There are five distinctly different pools to choose from, depending on whether your in the mood for the shady Duck Pond or the sunny Desert Vista. Each area is usually quiet, private, accommodates four to six people and offers chairs for lounging while your not soaking. Less ideal, but still an option, is the common area that hosts variety of smaller tubs in a secluded, but shared space (people are coming and going at their leisure and in whatever attire they deem appropriate for soaking).

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Admission:  Private soaking areas, $15 per person (ages 16 and under are free) Overnight camping, $50 per person ($100 minimum for overnight stay) from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. Bunkhouse rentals, $50 per person or $70 per pair from 3 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Address: 41225 Indian School Road, Tonopah

Contact: 623-386-5412

If you like a relaxing soak in a serene scene, you'll love these desert-inspired spa treatments .

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3-Day California to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

Escape with this 3-day california to arizona road trip itinerary.

Looking for the perfect California to Arizona road trip itinerary? Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and return refreshed in just 3 days.

Road trips are a super fun way to unwind at the last minute without hopping on a plane. Imagine the feeling of letting go of all your worries and city-based stress while you take to the road. 

Your Arizona Road Trip Itinerary Starts in Los Angeles

How about a trip that takes you through the elements and helps you to find your way back to your true self, and in only 3 days? This is precisely what this California to Arizona road trip itinerary has to offer.

But how far is Los Angeles from Phoenix? It’s about 370 miles which would be about a 6-hour drive with no stops. Make sure to plan accordingly to make your stops along the way. 

As your road trip journey unfolds, you can use this time as a path to feeling more peaceful. Explore and enjoy your temporary freedom away from work, responsibilities, and any other barriers to mindfulness. For a few days, you’re free from all of the things that  stop you in your everyday life. This is the perfect opportunity to reboot your stressful life into a mindful path.

Are you ready for the journey?  

Day 1: Break the Barriers to Mindfulness by Being Free Like a Bird in LA

How about starting your California to Arizona road trip along the water? When you embark on a mindful path, you can’t ignore the natural peacefulness that emanates from the ocean.

If you’re a confident sailor with a pair of sturdy sea legs, you should check the boat sharing option in the local boat clubs of Los Angeles.

You’ll love being free with a day out on the water, letting the wind be your lead, and smelling the salt in the air. There is a sense of liberation and escapism on the water.

It’s the ideal beginning for the dive into a world of mindfulness. Your day of sailing in LA will allow your mind to begin to relax.

Hike To Havasu Falls

Day 2: embrace your inner thelma and louise .

You might not be ready for quite a dramatic road trip as Thelma and Louise, but there is a story of friendship, freedom, and escapism in the film that we can all relate with.

As I said, the California to Arizona road trip will probably take about 6 hours. You’ll have a quiet day of driving and stopping along the road. Take your time, listen to some music, and you’ll uncover some precious little shops and restaurants on the way. There’s no need to race.

Stop in Indio, a Spanish-inspired town, for a tasty date shake. If you’re looking for a healthy and nourishing drink, this one will rock your taste buds!

Things to do in Indio

Day 3: reborn from the ashes in phoenix.

Finally, as you get closer to Arizona, the landscape changes and the weather gets a bit drier. But at the same time, there is a different richness you get from your surroundings. Phoenix is a hot place, and its vegetation and wildlife have adapted.

From the cactus surviving in desert conditions to the lively ranches, Phoenix gives you insight into adaptability. If you’re struggling with a stressful job in a busy town, you’ll appreciate the lesson you can learn from the creative solutions that the Phoenix wildlife have created to adapt to their challenging environment.

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Could you spare three days to chill out and reset?

Then this California to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary will be perfect for you. 🙂

Enjoy the journey!

Phoenix Adventures: Your Guide to Fun in Arizona

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Arizona to Los Angeles drive

Arizona to los angeles road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Arizona to Los Angeles. If you're planning a road trip to Los Angeles, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start at Arizona drive for about 1.5 hours

11:39 am   Globe (Arizona) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:39 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:15 pm   Phoenix stay for about 4 hours and leave at 6:15 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 1 driving ≈ 4.5 hours

9:00 am  leave from Vulture Mine drive for about 2 hours

11:07 am   Blythe stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:07 pm drive for about 45 minutes

12:52 pm   Desert Center stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:52 pm drive for about 1 hour

3:01 pm   Palm Springs stay for about 1.5 hours and leave at 4:31 pm drive for about 2 hours

6:21 pm   Big Bear Lake stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:21 pm drive for about 2 hours

9:16 pm  arrive in Los Angeles stay at Shutters On the Beach

day 2 driving ≈ 8 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Globe (Arizona)   (3 answers) Phoenix   (164 answers)     Piestewa Peak   (3 mentions)     Dreamy Draw Recreation Area   (2 mentions)     Phoenix Art Museum   (2 mentions)     Bunky Boutique   (2 mentions)     Frances   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Phoenix:         Chelsea's Kitchen         SunUp Brewing Co         The Parlor Pizzeria         The Clever Koi         Crudo     questions about Phoenix:         What is your favorite restaurant in Phoenix?         Food and things to see in Phoenix and Tucson         Best restaurants in Phoenix?         Popular neighborhoods to stay in Phoenix?         Best hiking around Phoenix? Vulture Mine Blythe   (4 answers) Desert Center Palm Springs   (67 answers)     Palm Springs Art Museum   (4 mentions)     Indian Canyons   (4 mentions)     Palm Springs Aerial Tramway   (3 mentions)     Trina Turk   (3 mentions)     Palm Springs Aerial Tramway   (3 mentions)     restaurants around Palm Springs:         Cheeky's         Trio Restaurant         Jake's         Workshop Kitchen + Bar         Bar         Le Parker Meridien Palm Springs     questions about Palm Springs:         Best hotel pools in Palm Springs?         Cheap eats/activities         Quick weekend gataway this winter         What to do in palm springs in November?         Moderately priced restaurants Big Bear Lake   (10 answers)     Snow Summit   (3 mentions)     Big Bear Mountain   (2 mentions)     Big Bear Mountain Brewery   (2 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Los Angeles?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Los Angeles .

You can also see most people recommend as the best amount of time to visit. Find out how many days in Los Angeles to stay.

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Shutters On the Beach , which was mentioned 36 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Los Angeles? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Los Angeles?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Gjelina , which was mentioned 44 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Los Angeles? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Los Angeles?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Los Angeles. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Los Angeles.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Los Angeles to Arizona drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Arizona to Los Angeles . Or get a full Arizona to Los Angeles flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Arizona well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Arizona!

More info on this route:

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7 Scenic Canyon Road Trips To Add To Your Arizona Bucket List

• There are many scenic road trips in Arizona to canyons, like Marble and Sycamore, as well as the Grand Canyon.
• Flagstaff to Marble Canyon boasts ancestral sites, natural springs, and limestone gorge views.
• Tucson to Sabino Canyon leads to lush desert landscapes, ideal for hiking and tram tours.

The United States, with its wide array of landscapes and historical monuments, provides an ideal backdrop for land travel in any direction, whether aboard a tiny vehicle or a luxurious RV. There are exciting Texas day trips only three hours from Dallas , for instance; iconic landmarks along the various sections of Route 66 ; or simply charming small towns in the Hudson Valley to explore .

However, the Grand Canyon State is particularly a traveler's favorite; in fact, 40.19 million people visited Arizona in 2022 , perhaps drawn by some of the most iconic landmarks in the USA, including the Grand Canyon, commonly said to be the top tourist attraction in the United States .

While this natural wonder gets most of the attention, there are actually a number of other canyons in Arizona in addition to the Grand Canyon , and what better way to explore them (as well as many of the state's other noteworthy landscapes, towns, and cities) on a road trip?

There's already a myriad of Arizona road trips to the Grand Canyon , but this list will expand on those, including scenic drives to its South Rim as well as other canyons in the state. The following Arizona canyon road trips also take adventurers through picturesque and interesting stops on their way to majestic canyons like Marble, Sabino, and the Grand Canyon's South Rim.

What To Know Before Visiting The Three Indian Canyons Of Palm Springs

Flagstaff to marble canyon, 130 miles via wupatki national monument and antelope pass.

The spring weather in Flagstaff is ideal for outdoor activities , although it's great to visit year-round, given its proximity to many natural wonders, such as the Wupatki National Monument , which is only 36 minutes away and features many ancestral Puebloan sites, three natural springs, ripple-marked sandstone, several blow holes, and evergreen trees like the One-seed Juniper and Mormon Tea.

The next photo stop after heading northwest is Antelope Pass Vista , a viewpoint of canyons and red rock formations at 6151 feet, via the hills and narrow curves of State Route 89A, just outside Bitter Springs.

As for the ultimate destination, Marble Canyon , it sits at 3,573 feet and is partially located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Grand Canyon National Park. This impressive, free-access gorge features limestone rocks and cliff walls perched above the Colorado River, and it attracts whitewater rafters, trout-fishing lovers, picnickers, and photographers alike, especially in the early morning and at sunset.

• Total Drive Time: 2 hours 8 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Wupatki National Monument (sunrise to sunset; from $15 ); Glen Canyon National Recreation Area ($15/person); Marble Canyon Lodge (rooms from $170)
• Easy Trail: Old Navajo Bridge (0.5 mile; 10 minutes)

Tucson To Sabino Canyon

51.9 miles via gates pass.

Once visitors are done with the city of Tucson’s unique activities and attractions , like the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum, it’s time to explore the area’s natural marvel: the 20,000-acre Tucson Mountain Park , which is popular for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, rifle shooting, horseback riding, bird watching, and archery hunting. For the best panoramic desert and mountain views around, one must head to the Gates Pass Scenic Overlook, named after Thomas Gates, a pioneer and rancher.

From there, it will take an hour and 15 minutes to reach Sabino Canyon Recreation Area , located in the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Coronado National Forest and which can be explored on the emission-free, English and Spanish-narrated, and open-air Sabino Canyon Crawler tram. Common plants and animals include saguaro and barrel cacti, palo verde and mesquite trees, rattlesnakes, jackrabbits, roadrunners, mountain lions, and hummingbirds.

• Total Drive Time: 1 hour 34 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Tucson Mountain Park ( dusk to dawn; free ); Sabino Canyon ($8/vehicle/day; shuttle: from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm; $15/adult); Sabino Creek
• Easy Trails: Prickly Pear Gates Pass (1.9 miles; 40 minutes); Sabino Walkway Loop (2.3 miles; 48 minutes)

Pets and camping are not allowed in Sabino Canyon.

7 Scenic Yet Casual Hikes In Arizona

Phoenix to sycamore canyon, 149 miles via cave creek and montezuma castle.

Another one of the scenic canyon road trips in Arizona is the route from Phoenix to Sycamore Canyon. Driving only 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Phoenix’s downtown, which can be explored for just $100 over an entire weekend , will take road trippers to Phoenix Mountain Preserve , which features several parks combining small mountains, foothills, and deserts and offers many scenic hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking opportunities.

The next stop is the 2,922-acre Cave Creek Regional Park , a desert oasis popular among hikers, equestrians, and picnickers, followed by a visit to the historic Montezuma Castle National Monumen in Camp Verde, once the dwelling of the Sinagua people.

The final destination, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness , is 1 hour 18 minutes away; it is 21 miles long and 7 miles wide, spans pinnacles, red rocks, buttes, and arches, and is home to spy black bears, mountain lions, ringtail cats, canyon wrens, and hermit thrushes.

• Total Drive Time: 3 hours 22 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Phoenix Mountains Preserve (8 am to 12 pm; free; scenic spots: Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain); Cave Creek Regional Park (November to April, daily, 6 am to 8 pm; May to October, 5 am to 9 pm; $7/vehicle); Montezuma Castle National Monument (8 am to 4:45 pm; $10/person ); Sycamore Canyon Wilderness (24/7; $5/day pass )
• Great Trails: Three Hill Loop (easy; 1.2 miles; 28 minutes); Parsons Trail (moderate; 7.3 miles; 2 hours 57 minutes)

Sycamore Canyon is the second-largest canyon in Arizona, after Oak Creek Canyon.

10 Affordable Small Towns In Arizona For A Vacation

Flagstaff to boynton canyon, 49.2 miles via kachina wetlands and munds park.

Explore another one of the many scenic Arizona canyon road trip itineraries: the the picturesque route from Flagstaff to Boynton Canyon. The first beautiful stop on this journey is the free-access Kachina Wetlands Preserve , an amalgamation of ponds, marshes, grasslands, and pine forests boasting 247 bird species, including the rare American and Least Bittern, Sabine’s Gull, and Greater White-fronted Goose.

Up next is the unincorporated town of Munds Park , a hidden gem founded in 1876 and providing ample outdoor activities among the pines of Coconino National Forest.

Then, on the way to the city of Sedona and its great art galleries, restaurants, and cowboy and New Age shops, a photo stop at the Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook is recommended for stunning views of red-rock landscapes all around.

As for the ultimate destination, Boynton Canyon , it is considered one of Sedona’s energy vortexes and is sacred to the Yavapai people. It will undoubtedly fill visitors with a sense of awe and peace as they admire the striking crimson cliffs, high buttes, and desert plants.

• Total Drive Time: 2 hours 19 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Odell Lake in Munds Park; Sedona’s Main Street ; Boynton Canyon ( 6 am to 11 pm ; $5/Red Rock Pass )
• Great Trails: Kachina Wetlands Loop (easy; 1.6 miles; 29 minutes); Boynton Vista Trail (moderate; 1.1 miles; 28 minutes)

The best months to complete the Boynton Vortex Trail is between January and May.

Wahweap To Antelope Canyon

19.9 miles via lake powell and glen canyon dam.

Nestled in Coconino County, on the border with Utah, Wahweap boasts an overlook with a 360-degree panorama of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area that is especially colorful at sunrise and sunset.

It can be accessed freely by those who don’t want to go through the Recreation Area’s entrance; otherwise, there is plenty to see and do in the vicinity, including Lake Powell and its boating, photography, fishing, and paddleboarding activities, and the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, perched at 1,000 feet and offering impressive views of the Colorado River, the canyon, and the dam.

On the way to Antelope Canyon , one of Arizona’s seven natural wonders to see on a road trip with its gold, red, and orange hues, a stop at the city of Page and its wellness and shopping venues may be warranted. Antelope Canyon looks like another planet, with Martian landscapes that are home to some of the most otherworldly hiking trails on Earth . Accessing the canyon is only possible via a guided tour, departing from 22 South Lake Powell Boulevard, and prior reservation is required.

• Total Drive Time: 40 minutes
• Great Attractions: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area ($15/person); Upper Antelope Canyon Tour (year-round; from $85/adult)
• Easy Trail: Dam Overlook Trail (940 feet)

7 Arizona National Park Road Trips With Scenic Stops

Williams to oak creek canyon, 66.3 miles via bellemont and rogers lake county natural area.

The town of Williams is known for being a major stop along Route 66 and a trip to the Grand Canyon, but it’s also charming in and of itself with its historic buildings, hearty restaurants, and fishing, camping, and equestrian activities. The nearby community of Bellemont is also worth checking out for the Pine Breeze Inn, which was featured in the 1969 movie Easy Rider , as well as its WWII Army camp.

Up next is Rogers Lake County Natural Area , which includes high-elevation wetland and forested uplands that are home to many wildlife species, such as elks, black bears, prairie dogs, mule deer, pronghorns, and bald eagles.

The following stop, Slide Rock State Park , is 1 hour and 4 minutes away and technically within Oak Creek Canyon . It is considered a prime swimming and hiking destination, featuring rustic cabins that date back to the 1930s. As for the canyon, it is a 12-mile-long, red-rock river gorge with depths that range from 800 to 2000 feet and many hiking, picnicking, camping, swimming, and fishing opportunities.

• Total Drive Time: 2 hours 3 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Grand Canyon Deer Farm ( March 16 to October 15, 9 am to 5 or 6 pm; October 16 to March 15, 10 am to 5 pm; $16/adult ); Rogers Lake County Natural Area (6 am to 10 pm; free); Slide Rock State Park (8 am to 6 pm; from $20/vehicle)
• Moderate Trail: Two-Spot Loop (2.4 miles; 47 minutes)

10 Underrated Arizona State Parks

Seligman to grand canyon south rim, 112 miles via mcclelland lake and kaibab national forest.

This drive starts from the quaint town of Seligman, known as the birthplace of Route 66, and first stops at McClelland Lake, a serene fishing location for the Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Yellow Perch.

Up next is Buckskinner Park , a municipal park in Williams with hiking trails, picnic tables, volleyball and basketball courts, and a fishing Reservoir.

As for Kaibab National Forest , it is located 1 hour 27 minutes away and offers a wide tapestry of canyons, prairies, mountains, and plateaus. Better still, it borders the Grand Canyon, whose South Rim is easier to access but is particularly crowded during spring break and in summer. Fortunately, there is a free shuttle bus system and dozens of viewpoints with fantastic panoramic vistas to conclude this bucket-list Arizona road trip itinerary.

• Total Drive Time: 3 hours 7 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Angel & Vilma Delgadillo's Original Route 66 Gift Shop (daily from 9 am to 5 pm); Buckskinner Park (7 am to 7 pm; free); Kaibab National Forest (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm; free); Grand Canyon South Rim (24/7; $20/person; $35/vehicle; overlooks include Powell Point, Mohave Point, and Pima Point)
• Easy Trail: Dogtown Lake Trail (2.2 miles; 39 minutes)

Planning a road trip? Stop at one of these 18 uniquely Arizona roadside attractions

While the nearest rest stop or fast-food chain restaurant may be the most convenient place for tired travelers searching for a reprieve from the open road, it would be remiss of road trippers to ignore the unusual roadside attractions scattered along the Arizona highways.

If life-sized cartoon characters near the Grand Canyon or exotic animals on the way to Tucson sound like better pit stops than the local gas station, you're in luck when driving in Arizona.

Here are some of the most notable Arizona roadside attractions you can check out the next time you cross the Grand Canyon state.

Bedrock City at Raptor Ranch

As if Fred Flintstone's prehistoric town had always been set in Arizona, visiting Bedrock City at Raptor Ranch will make baby boomers (and anyone else who watched reruns of the popular '60s cartoon) nostalgic for their childhood. Colorful statues of familiar characters and the iconic brontosaurus slide have been essential roadside attractions off State Route 64 in Valle.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Details: 332 S. State Route 64, Valle. 928-635-3072. www.raptor-ranch.com .

Four Corners Monument Navajo Tribal Park

Less of a roadside attraction and more of a cool fun fact you can share, the Four Corners Monument Navajo Tribal Park recognizes the only place in the U.S. where the borders of four states meet. After visiting, you can finally join many Southwestern residents in saying you have been in Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona all at the same time.

Details: 597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos. 928-206-2540.  www.navajonationparks.org.

Meteor Crater

Over 50,000 years ago, an iron-nickel meteorite approximately 150 feet wide collided with what is now northern Arizona. According to the site's website, the impact hit the Earth with a force 150 times greater than an atomic bomb. The crater this meteor left is now the best-preserved meteorite site on Earth and a historic landmark to visit if you are driving near Flagstaff.

Details: Interstate 40, Exit 233, Winslow. 928-289-5898. www.meteorcrater.com .

Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch

If you are heading south near Picacho Peak, it is hard to miss the billboards advertising Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch. Seemingly the only place you can find stingrays, donkeys, deer, parrots and dozens of ostriches in the middle of nowhere, this roadside attraction is a great spot for adults and children to make memories.

Details: 17599 E Peak Lane, Picacho. 520-466-3658.  www.roostercogburn.com .

Take the scenic route: This stunning Arizona roadway was ranked most scenic drive in the US. See why

Standin' on the Corner Park

You don't have to be an Eagles groupie to be familiar with the nod to this Arizona town in one of their most popular songs, "Take it Easy." "Standin' on the corner in Winslow, Arizona ..." is a line memorialized by Winslow residents at Standin' on the Corner Park. A bronze statue of a young musician is a salute to the troubadours who put Winslow on the classic rock map.

Details: Corner of Kinsley Avenue and Second Street in Winslow. 928-289-2434.  www.visitwinslow.com .

Without spoiling the enigma that can be uncovered in Benson, The Thing is a worthy roadside attraction to consider as you head down the I-10. The various billboards that line the highway are hard to miss as you get closer to the "Mystery of the Desert." Located next to a Dairy Queen and a Shell gas station, you can take care of your hunger, gas tank and curiosity at the same time.

Details: 2631 N. Johnson Road, Benson. 520-586-2581. www.bowlinsthething.com .

Arizona's 'world's largest' roadside wonders

According to a map created by  blog.batchgeo.com , more than 195 roadside attractions in the U.S. consider themselves the “world’s largest” something. These are Arizona's "world's largest" wonders and where they are located.

• World's Largest Cow Skull, Amado.
• World's Largest Petrified Tree, Holbrook.
• World's Largest Map of Old Route 66, Meteor City.
• World's Largest Kokopelli, Camp Verde.
• World's Largest Kachina, Carefree.

Find out more: Arizona is home to 5 of the 'World's Largest' things — do you know what they are?

Giganticus Headicus

Art is completely subjective. To Kingman residents, Giganticus Headicus is one of the most iconic art pieces off Route 66. Created by local artist Gregg Arnold, the tiki-style head is 14 feet tall and bright green. If taking a picture isn't enough, you can further memorialize your time with the head with a miniature from the local gift shop.

Details: 9855 AZ-66, Kingman. www.antaersvisitorcenter.com .

Wigwam Village Motel

Need a place to stay overnight? Have you considered a wigwam? This quaint village off Mother Road may be just the eccentric place to spend a night while traveling through the state. Constructed in the 1950s, a night in a wigwam will make you forget why you would want to sleep anywhere else.

Details: 811 W. Hopi Drive, Holbrook. 928-524-3048. sleepinawigwam.com .

Lumberjack muffler man

A familiar face to Northern Arizona University students, the 25-foot-tall muffler man resembles the school's mascot, Louie the Lumberjack. Before being moved outside of the Skydome, the lumberjack was located outside the Lumberjack Cafe and appeared in the background of the 1969 movie "Easy Rider."

Details: 1701 S. San Francisco St., Flagstaff.

Rainbow Rock Shop Dinosaurs

If you're in search of more prehistoric creatures to gape at, stop at the Rainbow Rock Shop as you drive along Route 66. Fans of geodes and other pretty rocks will be able to admire the variety of concrete dinosaurs while searching for their next gem.

Details: 101 Navajo Blvd., Holbrook.

Located near the Mexico border, Dateland is a necessary stop on Interstate 8. A major producer of the Medjool dates, the dry heat provides the perfect climate for cultivating the fruit. Dates are fiber-rich, sweet as candy and contain more potassium than a banana. Try Dateland's world-famous date shake when you visit.

Details: 1737 Ave. 64 E., Dateland. 928-454-2772. www.dateland.com .

London Bridge

You don't need to travel across the world to experience a little European history. As a result of a strange series of events, the London Bridge , which once crossed the River Thames, was broken down and rebuilt in Lake Havasu City by Robert P. McCulloch. This British import attracts tens of thousands of travelers every year.

Details: 1340 McCulloch Blvd. N., Lake Havasu City. 928-453-3444. www.golakehavasu.com .

Take a break from speeding down the highway by cruising through the ponderosa pine forest. An attraction you don't need to get out of your car to enjoy, Bearizona has over three miles of road surrounded by picturesque nature and North American animals. If your legs need a break from sitting in a cramped car, the park also has a 20-acre walk-through area.

Details: 1500 E Route 66, Williams. 928-635-2289. www.bearizona.com .

Best Road Trips From Phoenix

Top road trip destinations from phoenix.

Grand Canyon National Park

🚗 225 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 30 minutes

There are only a few places on earth as awe-inspiring as the majestic Grand Canyon. A bucket list destination for its jaw-dropping views and epic hikes, the Grand Canyon is perfect for any adventurer.

Not only your destination but the drive itself is incredibly scenic, with beautiful Sedona and Flagstaff just off the route.

Los Angeles

🚗 370 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

For a change of pace, take a road trip to Los Angeles, where you can walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, visit iconic museums, and experience the booming culinary scene of this sprawling metropolis.

As you make your way to the beautiful Pacific Coast, you can also make stops at Joshua Tree National Park and glamorous Palm Springs .

🚗 120 miles ⏱️ 2 hours

You might recognize Sedona's stunning red rock scenery from postcards or movies—it is just stunning! Whether you're hiking, taking a jeep tour, or browsing art galleries, there's plenty to keep you busy here.

As you make your way to Sedona, you will get to make a detour to Agua Fria National Monument and drive on the Red Rock Scenic Byway .

Yosemite National Park

🚗 670 miles ⏱️ 11 hours, 20 minutes

Yosemite National Park is home to the magical landscape of giant sequoias, towering waterfalls, and iconic granite cliffs. It's a nature lover's paradise with endless opportunities for hiking and rock climbing.

This drive to Yosemite will take you past the glitzy Los Angeles and Mammoth Lakes before you reach your destination.

🚗 510 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 45 minutes

Nestled in a beautiful box canyon, Telluride is famous for its ski slopes and historic charm. It's a great spot for winter sports and summer hiking, with a lively festival scene to boot.

On the way, you can also visit red rock scene of Sedona , stop by Flagstaff and make a much-recommended detour to the Grand Canyon .

Monument Valley

🚗 400 miles ⏱️ 7 hours

Monument Valley's iconic sandstone buttes make it a photographer's paradise. Here, you can explore the desert landscape as far as the eye can see and learn more about Navajo culture while doing so.

En route to Monument Valley, you can also explore Flagstaff and admire the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon .

🚗 420 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

If you're looking for a beachy getaway, San Diego is the spot. With gorgeous beaches, a world-famous zoo, and the lively Gaslamp Quarter, you can unwind, explore, and enjoy some top-notch food and nightlife.

Instead of driving directly to San Diego, we recommend spending more time on this trip to also visit Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park .

Bryce Canyon National Park

🚗 560 miles ⏱️ 11 hours

Bryce Canyon is known for its crimson-colored hoodoos and beautiful starry night skies. It's a hiker's dream with colorful rock formations that make every trail an adventure.

This epic drive will take you through Grand Canyon , and you will get to make detours to Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and Zion National Park .

🚗 345 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 40 minutes

If you are looking for an all-day and all-night kind of excitement, Las Vegas is the place to be. With world-famous casinos, amazing shows featuring celebrities, and luxury shopping, the fun never ends in Sin City.

On the way to Las Vegas, we recommend booking a short getaway at Lake Havasu if you have the time.

Zion National Park

🚗 600 miles ⏱️ 10 hours, 30 minutes

Zion's dramatic cliffs and stunning canyons offer some of the best hiking around. It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for both easy walks and challenging hikes.

A few amazing places you can visit on this drive include Grand Canyon National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument .

🚗 550 miles ⏱️ 9 hours

If you are an adventurer, a photographer or a nature-lover, Moab is an amazing place to visit from Phoenix. Think red rock landscapes, mountain biking, off-roading, and awesome hiking trails.

Instead of driving directly to Moab, we recommend making stops at Grand Canyon and Zion National Parks to make the best of your road trip.

Canyonlands National Park

🚗 460 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 45 minutes

Near Moab, Canyonlands National Park's dramatic desert landscape is carved by the Colorado River, offering amazing hikes, camping spots, and off-road adventures.

On the way, you can also visit Flagstaff to see the Lowell Observatory and explore Bears Ears National Monument .

Arches National Park

🚗 480 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 50 minutes

Another natural wonder near Moab, Arches National Park is breathtaking with over 2,000 stunning natural arches. Don't miss the iconic Delicate Arch and enjoy some fantastic hiking.

If you have a little more time, you can add the Grand Canyon to your itinerary but even following this route directly, you will see amazing places like Bears Ears National Monument .

🚗 530 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

Santa Fe's unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures makes it a fascinating place to visit for any curious mind. Here you can see Pueblo-style architecture, colorful artisan crafts, and delicious cuisine.

En route, you can relax at Pinetop-Lakeside and spend some time exploring Albuquerque .

Palm Springs

🚗 270 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 20 minutes

Palm Springs is famous for its stylish mid-century modern architecture, luxurious resorts and poolside fun. It's a perfect spot for some R&R, with great golf courses and hiking trails too.

On the way, don't forget to add the amazing Joshua Tree National Park to your itinerary, this is a must-see on this route.

San Francisco

🚗 775 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 10 minutes

San Francisco is the perfect blend of coastal beauty and some iconic sighs like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. It is also home to the Fisherman's Wharf and a fantastic farm-to-fork food scene.

Some of the great cities you can stop by and explore on this drive are Palm Springs and Bakersfield .

Death Valley National Park

🚗 400 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 40 minutes

Visit the hottest, driest and lowest national park in the country! Death Valley is home to dramatic landscapes of sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful rock formations that will leave you awe-struck.

En route to Death Valley, you can learn about the Route 66 legacy of Kingman and then try your luck at the tables in Las Vegas .

Salt Lake City

🚗 830 miles ⏱️ 15 hours, 50 minutes

With a stunning mountain backdrop and historic Temple Square, Salt Lake City is a great place for history buffs and outdoor lovers, with activities like skiing and hiking.

Some of the incredible places you can explore on this drive include Flagstaff , the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park .

Albuquerque

🚗 700 miles ⏱️ 10 hours, 20 minutes

Albuquerque is home to a famous hot air balloon festival, and there is so much more to discover. Here, you can also explore Old Town, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful Sandia Mountains.

This road trip will take you past great new places you can discover, such as Tucson and then El Paso in the South.

Joshua Tree National Park

🚗 240 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 20 minutes

See the quirky, twisted Joshua trees and rugged rock formations close up in Joshua Tree National Park, which is also an amazing place to visit for camping and star-gazing.

This drive into California will first take you to the eerier landscapes of the Salton Sea before you reach Joshua Tree National Park.

🚗 115 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 50 minutes

Tuscon is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and is home to the University of Arizona, so you can expect to find a hip and young atmosphere. Admire the saguaro cacti that dot the scenery and enjoy a laid-back getaway.

This short drive will take you past Picacho Peak State Park and Saguaro National Park before reaching Tucson.

Lake Havasu

🚗 195 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

Lake Havasu is all about fun on the water. Known for its transplanted London Bridge (parts of it coming from the UK), it's a great spot for boating, fishing, and simply relaxing by the lake.

If you have time, you can also visit the cute towns of Tonopah , Quartzsite and Parker as well as Cattail Cove State Park en route.

🚗 265 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 15 minutes

Salton Sea was once a thriving resort area, but has been long abandoned today. This unique landscape, a reminder of its golden years, is perfect if you are looking for unique photo ops and to learn more about ecology.

This drive is dotted with beautiful scenery, such as the landscapes of Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and Cibola National Wildlife Refuge .

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

🚗 310 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 15 minutes

This majestic monument boasts stunning geological formations and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. It's perfect for hiking, exploring slot canyons, and snapping incredible photos.

On the way, you can make a detour to Sedona to admire the stunning landscape, visit Flagstaff and spend some time at the majestic Grand Canyon .

Longer road trips from Phoenix

🚗 1,110 miles ⏱️ 16 hours, 20 minutes

Austin is all about live music, eclectic arts, and tasty food. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, it has countless venues and festivals to enjoy.

🚗 1,210 miles ⏱️ 18 hours, 30 minutes

Visit Dallas for its history, like Dealey Plaza, upscale shopping, fine dining, and dynamic sports scene. You can also explore its museums and parks.

Yellowstone National Park

🚗 1,330 miles ⏱️ 21 hours

Yellowstone is famous for its geysers like Old Faithful and incredible wildlife. It offers stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor activities.

🚗 1,510 miles ⏱️ 24 hours

Seattle is known for its iconic Space Needle, busy Pike Place Market, and beautiful waterfront. Dive right into the city's coffee culture!

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