10-Day Southwest Road Trip: Sedona, Page, Zion, Vegas
When I was considering where to book our first big vacation since the pandemic, choosing somewhere utterly magical was non-negotiable. We wanted to explore breathtaking landscapes, dig into A+ food and drinks, and find true relaxation and disconnection from the stressors of work, life, and the C-word. While driving, walking, and swimming through the lowest canyons and highest peaks of Arizona, Utah, and Nevada, all the things we hoped for were exactly what we found.
Here by popular request is a guide based on the best and most memorable moments of our June road trip to give you a starting point for your own adventure. Following a northwest route, this 10-day itinerary will take you through the where to stay, what to do, and where to eat questions of four destinations:
Sedona, Arizona and the Coconino National Forest
Page, Arizona and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Springdale, Utah and Zion National Park
Las Vegas, Nevada and Grand Canyon National Park
Let’s get to it.
Know Before You Go
Rent a car. You’ll need one to get around until you reach Las Vegas, and you’ll want to make it an SUV since some hiking areas require driving on unpaved roads. Try to book your rental as far in advance as possible to get the best deal. I found the most savings booking through Sixt with Rakuten.
Keep an eye on the weather and have a plan B. From forest fires to flash floods, the desert weather can change in an instant. During our end of June visit temperatures in northern Arizona reached upwards of 115 degrees and two huge fires sprung up in surrounding towns resulting in closures of popular recreation and hiking trails. Then shortly after we left Zion, the park experienced flash floods. Bottom line: go into your trip with a flexible mentality and have options in the event you need a backup plan.
Pack the essentials. These must-have items came in clutch throughout our trip. You can snag most of them in my Amazon store:
Tripod // You won’t always have kind strangers around to snap a photo, nor will you want to. This inexpensive tripod comes with a Bluetooth remote that connects to your phone, fits in a backpack, and assembles quickly making it easy to capture all the gram-able moments.
Powerbank // The last thing you want is a dead phone when you’re experiencing the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. At the end of our 10-day trip, after not being charged once, this powerful yet affordable battery pack still had some juice.
SPF sunscreen // The UV exposure out there is no joke. We went through 2.5 bottles of SPF 50 Sun Bum.
Small cooler // Spending a day near a beautiful creek or river is even more relaxing when you’re sipping on a few cold, hard seltzers. Look for something that’s collapsible and easy to pack. I found ours for $8 at Ocean State Job Lots, but you can probably find affordable options at a Christmas Tree Shop or even Amazon.
Reusable water bottle // You’ll be buying A LOT of water during the trip and bringing multiple bottles for hikes. But we still liked having our stainless steel bottles accessible on the sides of our backpacks while on the move (can be found at Target, HomeGoods, etc).
Backpack // Each person in your party should bring a sturdy travel backpack for hiking. Creates more room for extra waters, snacks, and the items mentioned above.
Hiking-friendly shoes // We survived with sneakers, but would definitely recommend investing in shoes better suited for hiking for good grip (I slipped a few times on some very smooth rock) and maximum comfort.
Dress for adventure. To the surprise of no one, the desert is a dry, dusty place. And since a lot of sand in the southwest is red, that’s what color will stick to the soles of your shoes. During the days we lived in our hiking clothes as we bounced between exploring and eating, and at night we wore nice but casual, breathable attire since temps stay high even after the sun goes down. Bring practical footwear and strive for comfort over fashion. Most places you’ll encounter are relaxed and casual, until you get to Vegas, of course, at which point anything goes.
Days 1-3: Sedona, Arizona
Getting to Sedona from Phoenix International Airport
First thing you’ll do when you land in Phoenix is shuttle over to the airport car rental center to pickup your rental. There was no line at Sixt so we were in and out in a jiff.
Speaking of In & Out, Phoenix has quite a few that you’ll pass en route to Sedona. If you haven’t tried this insanely popular west coast fast-food chain, now’s the time to cross it off of your foodie bucket list. Your next opportunity won’t be until Vegas.
Where to Stay in Sedona
Sedona has a ton of hotels, resorts, bed & breakfasts and Airbnbs for every budget and preference. After much searching around, we opted to book an Airbnb for the best value. Sedona Views Bed & Breakfast was well-priced, just outside of town, and convenient to all the things we wanted to do and see. Plus, visitors have access to the beautiful private creek across the street, which was a perfect bonus after a long, hot day of hiking.
What to do in Sedona
Hiking and Recreation. Home to the Red Rocks, getting out to the trails of the Coconino National Forest is hands down the most important activity you can do in Sedona. As you’re planning your hikes, remember to start early, especially if you’re visiting during the summer. The trails get busy and the sun grows unforgiving. We got to the trails around 5am each morning, which worked out perfectly for catching the sunrise over the surrounding mountains and missing heaps of tourists.
Here are the trails we covered:
Devil’s Bridge // Even at sunset this trail gets busy and there’s a line of people waiting to get a photo out on the bridge. Pro tip: find the trail that takes you under the bridge. Still a lesser known secret, we were the only people who ventured there and were able to leisurely soak in the beauty of the bridge and get some people-free shots.
Cathedral Rock // Only about 1.5 miles round trip, this hike feels more like a climb at times than a hike. When tackled at your own pace it’s a fairly easy, comfortable journey and you’re surrounded by views the whole way. When you get to the top, sneak out to the ledge for a pic that looks way scarier than it actually is.
Slide Rock // Unfortunately during our visit this popular watering hole was closed in an effort to prevent additional fires. However, it came highly recommended by every person we encountered so if you have the opportunity, check it out.
More trails to take on if time permits: Birthing Caves, Bell Rock
Where to Eat in Sedona
This part of the desert boasts an impressive food scene. Here were some of our favorite stops:
Pumphouse Station // This breakfast-only restaurant is a must. They’re first-come, first-serve and get busy early so try to head over straight from your morning hike.
Creekside // You can come here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—we chose breakfast. With everything from sweet to savory, it won’t take long to find a drool-worthy dish.
Mesa Grill // Located at the Sedona Airport atop a plateau, this place rewards you three times: first with incredible views during the drive, then with amazing food and drinks when you arrive, and if you’re lucky, a third time if a small plane takes off the runway during your meal.
Shorebird // A California-inspired restaurant, you’ll find plenty of surf ‘n turf menu items and creative dishes. Half of the restaurant overlooks the mountain scape, but request a view in your reservation, just in case.
Mole // Not sure which we enjoyed more at this Mexican restaurant—the sunset views over the mountains from their outdoor patio or their short rib enchiladas.
The Vault Uptown // Went here strictly on a recommendation that they make a mean espresso martini. We were not disappointed, and they have a deck with phenomenal mountain views if you opt to stay for dinner.
These additional dining spots came highly recommended and look well worth trying if you have time to check them out:
Enchantment Resort // multiple dining options overlooking the red rocks
Cress on Oak Creek // New American-French
Mariposa // Latin-American
Elote Cafe // Mexican
Tamaliza // Counter-serve Mexican
Days 3-5: Page, Arizona
While I knew Sedona was going to have mind-blowing scenery, I was definitely not prepared for the stunning naturescapes in Page and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. While the town of Page itself is small in size (we Googled it, only 7,500 residents), the beauty held in its surrounding areas make it a must-stop destination on the itinerary.
To get there, you’ll first have to drive through Flagstaff, a major recreation attraction about 45 minutes north of Sedona. We stopped here quickly to experience some of the foodie culture before the 2-hour drive to Page through mostly barren Indian reservation land—a friendly reminder of America’s less than noble coming-of-age story. Coffee lovers, check out Macy’s European Kitchen for dreamy drinks, one hell of a waffle, and a simple, yet stellar breakfast sandwich.
Where to Stay in Page
Since Page is so small, no matter where you stay you’re only about 5-10 minutes from the area’s best recreation. While they do have several budget-conscious hotels, we chose another AirBnb for this leg—a very adorable, well-stocked, and conveniently-designed tiny house.
What to Do in Page
Visit Horseshoe Bend // This is one of those landscapes you just have to see for yourself. With a flat, easy, half-mile walk there and back, you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like soaking in views from the cliffs.
Check out the Glen Canyon Damn Lookout // In the small town of Page, you’ll quickly find this easy-access vista point overlooking the second largest dam in the U.S.
Take on Lake Powell by Jet Ski // In order to fully experience the beauty that is Lake Powell within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, you need to get on the water. It’s possible to rent kayaks, but I simply don’t have that much stamina. If you just said “SAME, GIRL” then your best bet is to rent a jet ski. We found prices were better renting away from the marinas on the lake and instead booked a 2-person jet ski through Lake Powell Powersports (~$350 for a full day). Boat rentals are also an option, however jet skis make it easy to maneuver throughout the lake’s channels, especially if you have lower antelope canyon on your to-do list.
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you prepare for a day on Lake Powell:
You will use the full 8 hours. We didn’t think we could possibly explore from 9-5pm as the rental company suggested—so wrong. This lake is HUGE, spanning across two states, and there is tons to explore. Expect to spend a full day and grab a map from the rental company to help you find your way around.
Bring sunscreen. The lake offers next to no shade, and the last thing you want is to end the day roasted.
Grab your phone/camera. There will be a small storage area that stays dry (unless you flip the jet ski, which they say has a 1% chance of happening) where you can keep your phones, wallet, and other small items.
Pack a small cooler. We stopped at Safeway (a Southwest grocery chain) for subs, chips, water, and perhaps a few hard seltzers to take for the day. There’s a larger storage area on the front of the jetski that does leak a little, just make sure your sandwiches are wrapped in a leak proof bag or sitting on top of other items.
Must-see spots. While on the lake, use your map to navigate to these areas: Glen Canyon Dam, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Lone Rock. When you get to Lower Antelope Canyon, you’ll be able to dock your jet ski on a narrow strip of beach and walk to the famous narrows. We had sturdy, comfortable sandals and found them to be fine to walk in versus having to pack sneakers.
Where to Eat in Page
Full disclosure, Page is not a culinary mecca. The priority during this portion of the trip is for sure nature. However, we did find a few spots that offered some good drinks and comfort food options, and had some of the friendliest service you’ll ever experience:
Hot n Sweet Coffee and Donut Shop // Open at 6am, this is a great first stop before a day of exploring. The breakfast sandwich-homemade donut-coffee combo really hits the spot.
Big John’s Texas BBQ // Formerly a gas station, this well-known spot serves up classic bbq options and local brews. They also have live music most nights, if old-time country is your thing.
Mulligan’s Pub & Patio // Can’t speak to the food, but if you want to sip on a few adult beverages while admiring Grand Canyon views in the distance, this is the place to do it.
State 48 Tavern // Serving pub favorites and local brews, State 48 has a good mix of dinner options. Hit the darts if you’re feeling some friendly competition.
Days 5-7: Zion National Park
This stop has bucket list written all over it. And, the Zion National Park Visitor’s Center in Springdale, UT is only 2 hours and 15 minutes from Page, your previous destination if you choose this itinerary. Just remember, the park is a very busy place. In 2021, Zion has seen record-breaking visits each month and it shows with people-filled peaks and lengthy shuttle lines.
Here are some things to keep in mind before you go:
Prepare for lines. If you’re going in the warmer months you’ll want to hit the trails early to avoid the oppressively hot sun on Zion’s mostly unshaded trails. However, getting to the shuttle early is also every other visitor’s strategy. The shuttle starts running at 6am and people stand there much, much earlier resulting in waits up to 1.5 hours for a shuttle. If you manage to get a comfortable or overcast day, starting your hikes late morning is a safer bet to avoid morning lines. If not, grab some breakfast and a coffee to eat as you wait in line—helps ease the blow.
Pack for full days. There’s a lot to see in the park, so it’s best to plan for a full day of hiking with a backpack of essentials–plenty of water, sunscreen, light snacks, and so on. Good news is there are places to eat within and just outside of the park so you can regroup for a good meal midday or at the end of your excursions.
Where to Stay in Zion
Springdale is the town surrounding the main entrance of Zion National Park. If you book far enough in advance, you may be able to find a hotel or Airbnb for a good price. For us, this was not the case. Instead we chose an Airbnb in Toquerville about 25 minutes away from the park. And I have to say, there was something special and quaint about staying outside of the main drag. And it had a trampoline which we used to relive our childhood and to stargaze from at night. Toquerville also has it’s own beauty and recreation, which we surely would have explored if we had more time.
What to Do in Zion
Hiking. There is a surprising number of things to do in the park (horseback riding, rock climbing, visit a museum), however, our main focus was to emmerse ourselves in Zion’s Jurassic park-esque beauty through lots of hiking. If you start early, you can easily fit in two hikes per day:
Angel’s Landing // A steep incline, this was definitely the most difficult, but also the most fun and scenic trail we encountered at Zion. The last leg of the trail involves a chain-link lined, narrow path with steep cliffs on either side, so it’s not exactly for the faint of heart. For reference, I have a decent fear of heights and felt pretty comfortable easing through it. The peak delights with 360-degree views of the park, which makes it more than worth facing your fears for.
The Watchman // A much less steep trail, this was our second favorite in the park. At 3.1 miles round-trip it still offers a good workout and awesome mountain view’s at the trail’s end.
The Narrows // As a one-way-in and one-way-out, 16-mile-long trail, the narrows is really a choose-your-own-adventure journey. And if you decide to really go for it in this river canyon, you’ll be hiking in exactly that–a rocky river. Appropriate footwear and a walking stick are recommended. We opted to check out the Narrows, but stopped shy of having to get our feet wet. This is probably the most popular Zion trail so expect to encounter a lot of people, especially if you stay towards the beginning of the trail like we did.
The Emerald Pools // Taking you to the lower, middle, and upper pools, this trail is really three short hikes bundled into one. If you’re going during an exceptionally dry time of year, it isn’t a hike I’d recommend prioritizing. It was overcrowded and there was so little water that each pool experience was underwhelming.
Where to Eat Near Zion
Springdale has endless restaurants and cafes with every type of cuisine and locally-sourced ingredient. Since we stayed a little off the beaten path, we also got to experience some of the culinary culture outside of the main town. Here were some of our favorite stops:
Zion Canyon Brew Pub // With craft beers and pub classics, this was exactly the carb-loading the doctor ordered after a strenuous hike to Angel’s Landing.
FeelLove Coffee // Really great smoothies and avocado toast. Plus, they open at 6am. Pro tip: order this to-go so you have something to eat and drink while inevitably waiting in the park’s shuttle line.
Cafe Soleil // Stopped here early to grab sandwiches on a day we wanted to have lunch on the trail. They have tons of great healthy to-go options.
Balcony One // A little bit outside of Zion in Virgin, UT, this place is a must-eat. They have an elevated menu of dishes with a Mediterranean twist and A+ cocktails. Don’t leave without trying the bone-in bacon.
Other dining options to look into // Bit & Spur, King’s Landing Bistro, Zion Pizza & Noodle Co, Oscar’s Cafe
Day 7-10: Las Vegas
Picture this. You’ve just spent seven days ambitiously climbing to the top of mountain peaks and wading through high-walled, canyon waterways. You’ve sat silently surrounded by picturesque views your phone could hardly capture and the sights and sounds of undisturbed earth. Your body is tired, yet relaxed as you’ve become ~one with the nature~.
Now, you’re ready to party.
By day 7, I knew we’d be all hiked out from a week of recreation. So, I deliberately chose to end the trip in Vegas for some mindless fun, while also making sure to incorporate one of the biggest attractions of all, the Grand Canyon.
Where to Stay in Vegas
Vegas has a resort on every corner so there’s no shortage of options for stay. My preference, and the only place I’ve ever stayed, is The Cosmopolitan. They’re one of the very few hotels that has balconies, plus it’s clean, has top-notch restaurants and food options, and built-in day and night clubs. During our visit, my goal was actually to leave The Cosmopolitan as little as possible, and with the exception of some venturing on the strip, I damn near succeeded.
The Cosmopolitan pro tips:
Booking. They always have deals, so make sure to do your research. I was able to get a stellar deal using my JetBlue Plus Card on JetBlue Vacations. If that’s not an option for you, provide your email on The Cosmopolitan website to unlock deals and check AAA rates if you’re an AAA member.
Room request. The best views overlook the strip and face the Bellaggio for their famous water show. Definitely put in an ask for a room with a view.
Happy hours. The restaurants and bars within The Cosmo have a weekly happy hour schedule with food and drink specials. If you’re staying here, this is a great way to start a night.
What to Do in Vegas
As a four-time Sin City visitor, I can confirm Vegas has something for everyone–gambling, food, parties, spas, shows. And the best part is depending on where you stay, you can do pretty much everything without having to leave your hotel, or go very far. Having just turned 30-years old, this visit I went for under-control-fun. Here were some of our favorite ways to spend a day:
Helicopter into the Grand Canyon. If you wanted, you could drive to the Grand Canyon and get there in about three hours…but after a week of driving, we decided to explore by air. It was some of the most worthwhile money I’ve ever spent. We booked the sunset tour though Maverick Helicopters and the whole experience, from take off to landing in the canyon, was breathtaking. If you have the funds, don’t hesitate on this activity.
Hit a day party. Fact: Vegas has the best day parties in the U.S. and I’m willing to argue that they’re more fun than the nightclubs. Depending on where and when you go, they also get some big name DJ’s like Diplo, Alesso and DJ Snake. I always do some online searching to see who’s going where when, starting with Encore Beach Club and Marquee.
Indulge in the food scene. This city has so many dining and bar options that after four visits I’ve still barely scratched the surface. I can say The Cosmopolitan has some incredible restaurants and bars. If staying here, be sure to look into some of these spots: Beauty & Essex, Overlook Grill, Ghost Donkey, The Barbershop, Chandelier Bar, Secret Pizza, Eggslut, Scarpetta, STK.
Relax by a pool. Most hotels in Vegas have pools that, for the most part, are only accessible to hotel guests (this is new as of COVID). We spent plenty of time at the Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool, which overlooks the Vegas strip and has a full bar and food menu.
Gamble. At your own-risk, of course. Confession: I lost the gambling cash stash I brought with me so don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Day 10: Heading Back Home
While it’s always a bummer when vacation comes to an end, this was one of the few times I felt truly relaxed and reenergized after a trip, which is a feeling I hope to pass on to anyone planning their own. By going into it prepared and knowing your options for things to do and places to go, you’re able to really immerse yourself in the desert’s inconceivable beauty and opportunity. And, while no photo or video does any of it justice, you’ll also leave with an obscene amount of captured moments to remember it by.
If you follow the tips in this post, be sure to tag my account on Instagram or TikTok (@sceneoverheard) so I can follow your journey next.
