Answer: Camping at Monument Valley, especially at the View Campground with a direct view of the Mittens, can be an incredible experience, but there are a few factors to consider, particularly in June.

Answer: For seniors visiting the Grand Canyon in the second half of October, choosing a lodge that balances accessibility, proximity to amenities, and minimal walking is key. Your thinking about Yavapai Lodge is very reasonable, and it is often recommended for visitors looking for convenience and easier parking.

Answer: Sedona is renowned for its stunning red rock scenery, making it a popular destination for intimate outdoor weddings. For a small, private ceremony, you’ll want trails that are scenic, accessible, and provide a sense of seclusion. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the most beautiful options:

Answer: Grand Canyon West, located on the Hualapai Reservation, is a popular day trip destination from Las Vegas. Since it is not part of the National Park system, it has different facilities and access options compared to the South Rim.

Answer: Driving to the South Rim before sunrise is a popular choice for visitors wanting to catch the stunning morning views, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Answer: Visiting Sedona in the third week of March can indeed bring more crowds than during the quieter months, but it’s generally not overwhelming on the hiking trails if you plan carefully. March is a popular time because the weather is mild, with daytime temperatures often in the 60s–70s°F (15–24°C), making it ideal for hiking, and spring break for many schools can add to local traffic.

Answer: The walk to the Hoover Dam Observation Deck is relatively manageable compared to a full tour of the dam, but it does involve some incline. From the top of the dam roadway, there are paved walkways leading to the observation points, which offer excellent views of both the dam and the Colorado River below. With handicap parking and permits, your husband will have easier access and can minimize walking distances.

Answer: Regarding Grand Canyon West and the Skywalk, it depends largely on what you are seeking from the experience. Since you’ve already explored the South Rim extensively, including hikes and viewpoints, the Skywalk offers a very different experience but is primarily a commercialized attraction rather than a natural or hiking experience.

Answer: Scottsdale is a premier golf destination, known for its sunny weather, well-maintained courses, and variety of golfing experiences suitable for all skill levels. Planning a golf-focused trip here is a great idea, whether you’re looking for resort-style courses, championship courses, or scenic desert layouts.

Answer: Exploring Phoenix without a car is completely doable, especially if you plan to stay near a Valley Metro Light Rail station. The light rail and local bus system can get you to most major attractions, and mid-December weather is generally mild, making walking and outdoor activities very enjoyable.

Answer: Staying inside the Grand Canyon National Park in early December can be a quieter and more scenic experience compared to the busier summer months. When choosing between the lodges, consider what matters most: proximity to the rim, room quality, historical ambiance, and convenience for activities.

Answer: A January road trip starting from Phoenix is a fantastic way to explore central and northern Arizona while enjoying milder winter temperatures. Since you’ve already seen Tucson, you can focus on scenic drives, national parks, small towns, and iconic desert landscapes.

Answer: Your proposed itinerary is ambitious but doable, especially if your kids are excited about seeing multiple highlights in a short period. However, there are a few considerations to ensure the trip goes smoothly and safely.

Answer: Your itinerary for April 15 along the East Rim (Desert View, Lipan, Moran, Grandview, and Hopi House) is very doable in 2.5–3 hours if you keep the stops brief and focus on viewpoints rather than long hikes. Since you will finish around 5:00 pm, sunset at the Grand Canyon in mid-April is usually around 6:50–7:00 pm, giving you about 1.5–2 hours before sunset to find a good spot.

Answer: If you’re looking to watch the Wisconsin Badgers basketball game in Sedona on the night of March 4, there are a few spots that are known for showing college sports games and providing a good atmosphere. Sedona is a smaller town, so options are more limited than in a big city, but you can still find places that cater to sports fans.

Answer: If Bright Angel Trail is closed on the days you are visiting, your options for a rim-to-river-to-rim hike are limited but still doable, especially given that you and your friend are fit and experienced hikers. South Kaibab Trail is steeper and has fewer water stops, so careful planning is essential.

Answer: Good news — yes, your concerns are valid: the property originally known as  has been undergoing a full renovation and has been rebranded as .

Answer: E-biking along the South Rim from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest is a popular activity and a great way to see multiple viewpoints without the strain of traditional biking. With only a day at the South Rim, your plan is feasible but requires some timing considerations.

Answer: With only four days in Arizona and a teenager along for the trip, your main consideration should be balancing travel time with quality experiences. Both Sedona and the Grand Canyon are spectacular, but the logistics can make doing both in a short window a bit rushed.

Answer: Your June itinerary looks well-structured for seeing the highlights of northern Arizona while accommodating a multi-generational family. Here’s a detailed breakdown and suggestions for your plan.

Answer: Phoenix, Arizona, has a thriving tattoo scene with a number of highly skilled artists and reputable shops. The “best” tattoo artist often depends on your preferred style, whether it’s realism, traditional, neo-traditional, Japanese, blackwork, or portraiture. Here’s a detailed overview of some of the top-rated options in the Phoenix area:

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed Southern Arizona trip report. Even though you didn’t stop in Tucson itself, your itinerary provides a helpful template for day trips or short excursions from the city. For anyone planning a six-day journey in early March, your report highlights a mix of history, nature, and culture that makes Southern Arizona so appealing.

Answer: Visiting Sedona in late November is a wonderful experience, with cooler temperatures and stunning fall-to-winter colors. Both the hot air balloon ride and the Pink Jeep tour offer unique perspectives of the red rocks, but they provide very different experiences.

Answer: Late June in Page can be very hot, with daytime temperatures often reaching the high 90s to over 100°F (37–40°C). An 8am start for a Horseshoe Bend half-day rafting trip is actually ideal since you’ll be on the river during the coolest part of the morning, and the water will provide natural cooling.

Answer: The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is a stunning location, especially for flower and desert plant photography. However, temperatures approaching 97°F can make the visit challenging, particularly because much of the garden is exposed with limited shade in certain areas. That said, with proper planning, you can still enjoy a few hours without it being unbearable.

Answer: Your idea of a last-minute trip to ski at and base in Flagstaff for side-day trips to the Grand Canyon and Sedona is a very good fit for two fit adults plus tweens—assuming conditions cooperate. Here’s how things stand and what to watch for, plus some itinerary notes for you.

Answer: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offers several parking options for travelers, and choosing the right one depends on convenience, cost, and flight time. Since your son has a very early 6am flight from Terminal 3 on Delta, parking close to the terminal or using a reliable off-site lot with shuttle service will be important.

Answer: With just one day in Tucson, you’ll want to focus on a mix of iconic sights, cultural experiences, and easy access activities. Tucson is rich in desert scenery, history, and Southwestern charm, so you can have a memorable day even with limited time.

Answer: Visiting the Grand Canyon in October is a great time—fewer crowds and cooler weather. Regarding the Senior Pass and Mather Campground, here’s what you need to know.

Answer: Booking a tour for Upper Antelope Canyon requires caution, as all tours are operated under strict permits by Navajo Nation-authorized companies. Any website or company that is not listed on the official Navajo Parks website or otherwise verifiable can be a potential scam or unauthorized reseller.

Answer: The Tucson Bike Loop, often referred to as the Loop, is a network of more than 130 miles of mostly paved, multi-use paths that encircle Tucson and connect various parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. It is widely used by cyclists, runners, and walkers, and is considered one of the city’s premier recreational amenities.

Answer: Hi,

Answer: For a 7-night trip to Sedona and the Grand Canyon in mid-March, a well-paced itinerary would balance active sightseeing, short hikes, and scenic drives while allowing some relaxation. Since you are active but not serious hikers, this plan focuses on moderate activities and highlights.

Answer: Your May 2025 Sedona itinerary for a family of 5 looks well-balanced and thoughtfully planned, especially considering the dietary needs for gluten-free meals. You have a good mix of sightseeing, hiking, scenic drives, and local experiences, with time built in for rest and flexibility.

Answer: For a short trip from Sedona to Page (Antelope Canyon) and then the Grand Canyon, planning your route and accommodations carefully will maximize your time at each location.

Answer: For your Arizona and Southwest road trip, planning overnight stops in towns that are safe and offer at least some evening activity is key. Since your route covers a mix of national parks, small towns, and Route 66 stops, here are my detailed suggestions:

Answer: Your planned route from Las Vegas through Arizona and into Texas passes near several National Parks and recreation areas, so understanding the entrance fees, reservations, and passes can help make your trip smoother.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Wickenburg on Christmas Eve is generally manageable, but there are a few factors to keep in mind. This route is around 300 miles and takes approximately 5–6 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. While it’s not as heavily traveled as routes to major cities like Phoenix or Los Angeles during the holidays, there can still be congestion, particularly as you approach major junctions or the Phoenix metro area.

Answer: The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is currently closed due to the White Sage Fire near Jacob Lake. All visitors must evacuate immediately, and the situation is considered a high-severity alert. The closure affects both day-use areas and lodging at the North Rim, with employees sheltering in place for safety.

Answer: Mid-February in the Phoenix area can be a bit chilly for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), especially on rivers and lakes, but with wetsuits, you should be comfortable. There are several reputable rental options within a reasonable drive from Chandler, both on the Salt River and on nearby lakes.

Answer: Your itinerary is already a great starting point, and given the mobility concerns and preference for short drives, you can easily shape this into a very comfortable, scenic, and photography-friendly Arizona trip. Below is a detailed, relaxed-paced plan with suggestions for easy walks, scenic stops, great food, and lodging options that fit your goals.

Answer: The area around E. Broadway Blvd and S. Wilmot Road in Tucson is generally considered a mixed-use commercial and residential area. It is not the most upscale neighborhood, but it is not unusually dangerous either. Like many urban areas, safety can vary block by block, so general caution and common-sense precautions are recommended.

Answer: Both itineraries have their merits, but given your priorities—natural beauty, avoiding “seen-it-from-the-car” complaints, limited daylight in December, and travel with two college-age daughters—here’s a detailed comparison and recommendation.

Answer: Your planned road trip from Phoenix to Flagstaff, Page, Grand Canyon Village, and back to Phoenix is a classic Arizona itinerary with plenty of stunning sights. Since your group ranges from 19 to 80 but everyone can walk a mile, you can comfortably combine scenic drives, short hikes, and iconic stops. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of each leg of your journey.

Answer: Golfing in Sedona in late January can be a very pleasant experience, but there are some important considerations regarding weather, course conditions, and what to expect on your trip.

Answer: For a southern Arizona road trip from Phoenix to Tucson and beyond at the end of March, careful planning of overnight stops will make your trip smoother and minimize backtracking. Here’s a suggested itinerary and accommodation guidance based on your interests.

Answer: Visiting Sedona in mid-March means spring-like weather, which can fluctuate between cool mornings/evenings and warmer afternoons. Layering is key for comfort during outdoor activities like vortex hikes, canyon tours, and exploring Antelope Canyon.

Answer: The situation you’re describing with the Squire Resort in Grand Canyon Village is unfortunately not uncommon when a hotel changes management or brand affiliation. The property was formerly a Best Western, and as of recent months, it has transitioned to IHG management and is now operating as a Holiday Inn. During such transitions, reservations made through the old system sometimes do not automatically transfer to the new brand's system, which is why your booking might not appear in IHG's records.

Answer: Traveling to Arizona in the January–March timeframe is a great idea for a large family. The weather is generally mild in most areas, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the intense summer heat. For a group of 9, you'll want accommodations that provide space, convenience, and easy access to family-friendly attractions.

Answer: Your planned itinerary covering the South Rim, North Rim, Zion, and Bryce is ambitious but doable if you’re comfortable with long drives and want to maximize your first-time experience in the Grand Canyon and surrounding national parks. Here’s a detailed breakdown and some tips for making the most of your trip.

Answer: A 5-hour layover at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport gives you just enough time to leave the airport for a quick excursion, but it will be tight once you factor in security, traffic, and getting back for your flight. On a Saturday in August, the heat can be intense, so keep that in mind if you plan to go outside the airport.

Answer: Chandler is a surprisingly walkable and vibrant city, making it a great alternative to Scottsdale for a more relaxed, local experience. Staying at the Element Hotel puts you in an excellent spot to explore on foot, with the Chandler Fashion Center conveniently located across the street for shopping, entertainment, and dining.

Answer: Sedona is a relatively small town, but having a car is usually the easiest way to get around, especially if you want to explore the scenic red rock areas and trailheads. That said, it is possible to get around without a car, but there are some limitations you should be aware of.

Answer: The Desert View Drive along Highway 64 in Grand Canyon National Park is generally considered an easy to moderate scenic drive, especially for drivers with experience on western mountain roads. The road is paved, well-maintained, and typically two lanes with occasional pullouts for viewpoints. It is not particularly steep, but there are some gentle curves and elevation changes as you follow the rim toward the east entrance at Desert View.

Answer: Downtown Phoenix has been growing as a vibrant area for dining, nightlife, and cultural activities, so your stay at 44 Monroe puts you in a great spot to explore. Here’s a detailed guide to happy hours and things to do:

Answer: Traveling between Scottsdale and Tucson gives you a stretch of roughly 120-130 miles along I-10, so aiming for a midpoint town is a good strategy. The town of Casa Grande is almost perfectly midway and has a few local gems worth checking out.

Answer: Your trip from the Grand Canyon to Santa Fe can be a memorable mix of scenic drives, natural wonders, and cultural stops. Since you have April 28 for travel and sightseeing and want to arrive in Santa Fe by midday on April 29, here’s a suggested approach with must-see stops and practical overnight options.

Answer: Your planned round trip from Las Vegas through Page, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon is a fantastic itinerary for June, offering a mix of iconic scenery, photography opportunities, and cultural experiences. Here are some detailed tips and advice to help optimize your trip:

Answer: Returning a rental car at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) and getting to Terminal 4 for a noon flight can be done efficiently, but 30 minutes is cutting it close, especially on a Sunday when traffic may be lighter but not guaranteed. The airport has improved its transportation system since the older shuttle systems were in use.

Answer: Given your schedule of arriving in Phoenix on Friday night and returning Tuesday evening, you have roughly three full days for the loop covering the Grand Canyon South Rim, Page, and Monument Valley. The key is balancing driving time with sightseeing, as distances in northern Arizona can be significant.

Answer: Your road trip plan in mid-April covers some of the best highlights of northern and central Arizona, and it seems quite ambitious but doable if you stick to a clear itinerary. Here’s a detailed breakdown with suggestions and considerations for each leg.

Answer: Choosing between the and the for a December weekend stay in Tucson can come down to what kind of experience you’re seeking. Both have strong points and a few trade-offs, so I’ll compare them in detail to help you decide.

Answer: Antelope Canyon is one of Arizona’s most stunning natural attractions, and choosing between Upper and Lower Canyon depends on mobility, photography goals, and the type of experience you want.

Answer: Both Poco Diablo and Los Abrigados are well-regarded Sedona accommodations, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Since you’ll be traveling with your spouse and a 7-year-old, your choice should weigh factors like pool space, room layout, walkability, and overall atmosphere.

Answer: Within Grand Canyon National Park, El Tovar is the most well-known fine dining option and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. However, there are several other restaurants and dining options at the South Rim that visitors should consider regarding reservations.

Answer: Visiting Tucson in mid-February is a fantastic choice for a family getaway. The weather is usually mild and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities with kids. Since you enjoy vacation rentals, focusing on areas that are convenient to Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park will maximize your outdoor time.

Answer: Raymond, for a short January trip to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim with two athletic teens, you’ll want hikes that are scenic, moderately challenging, and safe in winter conditions. While rim-to-rim is off the table, there are several options that allow you to descend into the canyon for memorable experiences without committing to an overnight trek.

Answer: On Tripadvisor forums, posts can be removed by the original author or by staff for a variety of reasons, often related to forum guidelines. While the specific post about lodging in Mt. Lemmon versus Catalina Foothills was removed, understanding the general rules of the forum can help prevent future posts from being deleted.

Answer: Arriving at Grand Canyon via the East Entrance tomorrow morning after a snowy day can still offer good sightseeing opportunities, though conditions will depend on how much snow accumulates overnight and how quickly the park crews can clear roads and parking areas.

Answer: Good question. Based on the most recent reliable information, no, there does not appear to be ongoing major construction at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock currently—for the lobby or guest arrival areas—in 2025.

Answer: First, I want to acknowledge your thoughtfulness in planning this trip for your mother—it sounds like a very meaningful experience. With the schedule you’ve outlined, I think you can create a memorable yet comfortable pace for her, especially considering she isn’t a frequent traveler. Here’s a detailed suggestion for your itinerary with activity ideas, timing, and practical tips.

Answer: Happy early 50th birthday! Scottsdale offers a great mix of dining, nightlife, and outdoor activities, so you can definitely celebrate in style. Here’s a detailed set of recommendations for your group:

Answer: With just six hours at the Grand Canyon South Rim, you’ll want to prioritize viewpoints and manageable walks that are family-friendly. Here’s a detailed plan for your day:

Answer: The West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona is one of the most popular hikes in the area, known for its scenic creek crossings, red rock cliffs, and lush vegetation. Water levels in the creek vary depending on seasonal rainfall, snowmelt from higher elevations, and recent storms.

Answer: Buckskin Gulch and Antelope Canyon offer very different experiences, even though both are slot canyons in the Page area. If you are trying to decide between the two for a limited timeframe, here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose.

Answer: With only three hours at the Grand Canyon via the Grand Canyon Railway, you’ll want to maximize your time efficiently. Using the free park shuttle buses is the best way to see multiple viewpoints quickly without worrying about parking or driving.

Answer: With your current plan of two nights at the Grand Canyon and two nights in Sedona, you’ll have a relaxed pace, but given your arrival time on Friday around 11 am and the drive to the Grand Canyon, you may find that you only have part of Friday and all of Saturday to enjoy the canyon. This might feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to experience viewpoints and a short hike.

Answer: Given your itinerary, here’s a detailed assessment of fitting Horseshoe Bend and Lower Antelope Canyon into your trip while balancing your Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) priorities.

Answer: Both the Amara Resort and a King room at The Cliffs associated with L’Auberge Del Mar offer high-end accommodations, but they cater to slightly different experiences and atmospheres. Your choice depends largely on what kind of stay you are looking for in Sedona.

Answer: The Westin Kierland Villas in Scottsdale offer a variety of villa views, each with its own appeal depending on what you want from your stay. Choosing the right view can enhance your experience, whether you’re seeking desert scenery, golf course vistas, or poolside relaxation.

Answer: Your 4-night Sedona/Grand Canyon itinerary looks very well planned, balancing active outdoor experiences with sightseeing. Here’s a detailed review and some suggestions to help optimize your days.

Answer: Javelina, also known as collared peccaries, are fairly common in the desert and canyons around Sedona. While they are more often active at dawn and dusk, it is possible to encounter them during daytime hikes, especially in quieter or less-trafficked areas.

Answer: Visiting the major national parks you mentioned gives you incredible natural scenery, but there are some unique state parks along your route that offer different landscapes and experiences. These parks can provide less crowded, more intimate encounters with nature, and some have distinctive features that the national parks don’t emphasize.

Answer: Tucson is a great city for biking, with a mix of urban paths and scenic desert trails. E-bike rentals are becoming increasingly popular, and there are several options for renting near dedicated bike trails.

Answer: Yes — your plan is absolutely reasonable, and you can comfortably fit Horseshoe Bend into the same day as your 1:40 pm Antelope Canyon tour. With an early departure from Sedona, you’ll have plenty of flexibility on timing.

Answer: The Phoenician is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a luxurious setting to meet friends for a drink. Its lobby and surrounding areas offer elegant decor, comfortable seating, and beautiful views of the resort grounds. The resort also has multiple bars and lounges, including the Arrogant Butcher and the Lobby Lounge, where you can enjoy cocktails in a relaxed yet upscale environment. The resort grounds are lush and well-maintained, providing a pleasant atmosphere to spend a few hours.

Answer: Finding discounts for Pink Jeep tours in Sedona can be a bit tricky, especially during the busy summer months in August. While the company does not always offer widely publicized coupon codes, there are a few strategies you can use to potentially save money or get added perks.

Answer: Hi,

Answer: Your tentative itinerary looks well-paced for a first-time visit to the Grand Canyon with a 10-year-old. Here’s a detailed assessment and some suggestions to make the trip enjoyable for everyone, considering your family’s interests and the spring temperatures in April.

Answer: Tucson is known for its vibrant Southwestern and Mexican cuisine, making it a great destination for a festive New Year’s Eve dinner. Since you are traveling with your family and want a memorable meal with a nice atmosphere, here are some top recommendations that balance quality, ambiance, and authentic flavors.

Answer: Both Monument Valley and The Wave are iconic destinations near Page, AZ, but they offer very different experiences and logistics. Since you only have one day, the choice depends on your priorities, physical ability, and availability.

Answer: The drive from Phoenix to Page offers several opportunities to explore colorful desert landscapes, but access to areas with safe, open sand where kids can play can be limited due to private land or fragile ecosystems. Detouring to certain public lands is your best option.

Answer: Scottsdale in mid-July will be hot, but staying at Hotel Valley Ho puts you right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, which is perfect for brunch, dinner, shopping, and nightlife. Since you’ll be using Uber, you can easily explore nearby areas without worrying about parking or driving in the heat.

Answer: Spending 8 hours in downtown Phoenix can be quite enjoyable, as the city offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions. Since you have a full Thursday, you can plan a combination of sightseeing, dining, and relaxing activities depending on your interests.

Answer: Your proposed itinerary covers many of the iconic sights in Northern Arizona, Utah, and Southern Nevada, and is generally well-planned for a family road trip. There are, however, a few considerations and tips that can help optimize your trip and avoid common pitfalls.

Answer: Visiting Arizona and Utah in December can be very enjoyable, but temperatures and conditions vary widely depending on the region. Here’s a detailed overview to help you plan.

Answer: Staying at Maswik Lodge gives you good access to many viewpoints for sunrise and sunset photography along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Early October is a great time: the weather is cooler, the crowds are slightly smaller than in summer, and the light at sunrise and sunset can be very dramatic.

Answer: For a brief Sedona visit in late April, focusing on easy to moderate hikes (2–3 miles) and minimizing parking stress, here are some tailored suggestions based on your schedule and preferences.

Answer: Both Hilton Garden Inn options near Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport are solid, but they do have some key differences that may make one a better fit depending on what you value most — convenience, surroundings, or amenities. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose.

Answer: Late January to early February is generally a great time to visit Arizona, especially if your focus is hiking and national parks. Both Sedona and the Grand Canyon South Rim tend to be less crowded compared to the spring and fall peak seasons, and you’ll likely find better rates for accommodations.