Day by Day Southwest Road Trip from Phoenix USA
Day 1: Phoenix → Sedona
Kick off your adventure right in the heart of Arizona. Leave Phoenix in the morning and hit the road for a scenic 2-hour drive north to Sedona. As soon as the red rock cliffs come into view, you’ll know you’re in for something magical.
Spend your afternoon exploring Red Rock State Park ($7 per adult). If you’re into spiritual vibes, don’t miss the Chapel of the Holy Cross (free entry, parking $10). At sunset, head to Airport Mesa for panoramic views that will take your breath away. Overnight in Sedona—cozy motels start around $120/night.
Day 2: Sedona → Grand Canyon (South Rim)
After a hearty breakfast, drive 2.5 hours north to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Nothing prepares you for that first glimpse over the edge—it’s just endless. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle (good for 7 days). Spend your day walking the Rim Trail or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hike down part of the Bright Angel Trail. Catch sunset at Hopi Point, one of the most stunning viewpoints in the park. Overnight near Tusayan or inside the park (lodges start around $180).
Day 3: Grand Canyon → Page (Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend)
Leave early for Page (approx. 4 hours). Once there, join a guided tour of Antelope Canyon—a surreal slot canyon famous for its waves of sandstone. Tours are $55–$85 per person, depending on the section. Later in the evening, walk to Horseshoe Bend (parking $10 per car). Watching the Colorado River curve around the cliffs at sunset is unforgettable. Overnight in Page ($100–$150).
Day 4: Page → Monument Valley
This is pure Wild West country. Drive about 2.5 hours to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The entrance fee is $8 per person. Take the 17-mile Valley Drive (you’ll need your own vehicle or hire a Navajo guide if you don’t want to drive the dirt roads). The iconic sandstone buttes look like something out of an old cowboy movie. Stay the night at The View Hotel if you want a room overlooking the monuments (rooms start at $200) or find budget lodging in Kayenta.
Day 5: Monument Valley → Moab (Arches National Park)
A 3-hour drive will land you in Moab, Utah—basecamp for adventurers. Head straight to Arches National Park ($30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days). Marvel at iconic rock formations like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. Sunset at Delicate Arch is one for the books (allow 2–3 hours for the hike). Overnight in Moab ($140 average for motels).
Day 6: Moab → Canyonlands National Park → Back to Moab
Spend the day exploring Canyonlands National Park ($30 per vehicle). Stick to the Island in the Sky District—it’s closest to Moab and has dramatic viewpoints like Mesa Arch (amazing sunrise spot). Pack snacks and water since food options in the park are minimal. In the evening, stroll around downtown Moab—grab a local beer and unwind. Overnight again in Moab.
Day 7: Moab → Phoenix (or optional detour via Monument Valley/Flagstaff)
It’s a long drive back to Phoenix (about 7–8 hours). If you’d like to break it up, you can stop overnight in Flagstaff or revisit Monument Valley. Otherwise, push through and wrap up your epic loop back where you started
👉 Total entrance/permit costs per adult (approx.):
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Red Rock State Park: $7
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Grand Canyon: $35 (per car)
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Antelope Canyon: $55–$85
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Horseshoe Bend: $10 (per car)
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Monument Valley: $8 per person
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Arches: $30 (per car)
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Canyonlands: $30 (per car)
That’s roughly $115–$130 per person for entrances, plus gas, food, and lodging.