ALASKA 7 DAYS + Extensions


Embark on an Alaskan adventure visiting the vibrant city of Anchorage, the charming historic village of Talkeetna, and the majestic landscapes of Denali National Park. Your journey continues with the awe-inspiring Kenai Fjords National Park, plus rugged Katmai National Park, and a visit to picturesque Juneau, nestled in the Alaskan Panhandle.

Alaska, the largest state in the United States, boasts a diverse economy fueled by fishing, natural resources, tourism, and oil. Over half of Alaska is federally owned public land, including expansive national forests, pristine parks, and protected wildlife refuges.

When it comes to scenery, visitors will be amazed by the glaciers and fjords, mountains, lakes, rivers and waterways. When it comes to wildlife, you will witness salmon, moose, caribou, bears, whales, puffins, and much more.


Tips:

  • Alaska Guidebooks: Fodor’s Alaska and Lonely Planet-Alaska and Moon Alaska, Denali and the Kenai Peninsula.

  • Travel Alaska website provides valuable insights.

  • What type of clothing should you pack?

    • The general rule is casual, comfortable clothing that can be worn in layers. Even during summer, make sure you bring clothing that protects you against rain and wind. Comfortable walking shoes or water repellent hiking boots are essential.

    • For day cruises we recommend an extra layer including a scarf, hat and gloves, as it can be chilly on the boats.

    • Mosquito repellent is a must. A face mosquito net will come in handy in the Denali area.

  • Buy Bear Spray when you arrive.

  • Mosquitoes-what you need to know in Alaska.

  • Download the All-trails app to your smartphone for finding the best hiking trails.

  • If your interest is the Northern Lights, the best time is from October to March.

    • The areas of Eklutna Tailrace, Girdwood, and the Knik River region are all popular spots close to Anchorage for viewing the shifting colors. <directions>

  • Flight time to Alaska from various cities: New York~7 hrs. / Chicago-5.5 hrs. / Dallas-6.5 hrs. / Los Angeles-5 hrs.

  • Car rental is the best option. It saves time and you discover more.

DAY 1

  • Arrive at Anchorage airport and transfer to your hotel.

  • Anchorage the largest city in Alaska, serves as the entry point to the vast wilderness and mountainous regions of the state.

  • If you have the time and energy, we recommend taking a stroll along the Anchorage Tony Knowles Coastal trail.

    • This trail is a paved path that stretches for eleven (11) miles in one direction, offering an ideal route for activities like biking, walking, and even wildlife observation. While on the trail, it's not uncommon to encounter majestic creatures such as eagles and  moose.

      The trail begins in downtown Anchorage and extends all the way to Kincaid Park. Along the way, it meanders alongside coastal marshes, providing breathtaking views of the scenic landscapes that surround Anchorage.

    • <Trail map> GPS coordinate: 61°13'04.2 N 149°54'29.8 W

      • Various Parking and Trail Access:

        • Elderberry Park (1297 W. Fifth Ave.)

        • Margaret Eagan Sullivan Park (1824 W. 15th Ave.)

        • Lyn Ary Park (2009 Foraker Drive)

        • Earthquake Park (5101 Point Woronzof Road)

        • Point Worzonof Overlook (9700 Point Woronzof Road)

        • Kincaid Park (9401 Raspberry Road)

  • Overnight: Anchorage


DAY 2

  • Embark on an exciting journey from Anchorage to Denali National Park.

    • The highlight of the park is Denali, (aka Mount McKinley), at an impressive height of 20,310 feet. It is the highest peak in North America.

    • The park is home to abundant wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou and Dall sheep.

  • Talkeetna - is a pleasant stop (located halfway between Anchorage and Denali) where you will find several quaint shops, restaurants and local breweries. Some of the most popular activities are Mt. McKinley flightseeing tours (only worth it on a clear day), historic riverboat tours & jet boat rides on a glacier-fed river.

  • Overnight: Denali National Park (3 nights)

    • Where to stay: Most park visitors stay somewhere outside of the park. The nearest towns are Healy, located about 11 miles north of the park entrance, and Cantwell, located about 30 miles south of the park entrance.

      • The highway leading to these towns is Highway 3 (George Parks Highway).

    • <Lodges outside the park> <Lodges inside the park - limited>

  • Distance:

    Anchorage —-> Talkeetna, 2 hrs.

    Talkeetna —-> Denali Park, 2.5 hrs.


Read more on Talkeetna activities

You can add an EXTRA DAY in the town of Talkeetna to enjoy all the activities it has to offer.

Denali Park Road Map

DAY 3 and 4

  • Explore Denali National Park. Denali peak (Mount McKinley) is at 20,310 feet, the highest peak in North America.

  • Please note: that only the first 15 miles of the Denali Park Road are accessible to public vehicles out of its total length of 92 miles. If you wish to travel beyond this point, you will need to use one of the park buses.

  • There are two (2) types of Park Buses:

    • Bus Tour shuttle. Preferred by most visitors.

    • Non-narrated buses, called Transit buses. Geared toward visitors interested in hiking and being independent.


    Type 1 : Denali Park Bus Tours:

    —If your biggest draw to Denali is the spectacular wildlife, take a bus tour into the park.

    —The buses travel along the Denali Park Road, a 92-mile stretch which is the only roadway in the entire park.

    —Wolves, bears, caribou are some of the sensational wildlife you may see from the bus, and if the weather is clear you might also see “Denali the mountain”. Because of the Alaska mountain range, Denali is often shrouded in clouds. (7 out of 10 days)

    —Three (3) bus itineraries are offered, taking visitors past scenic overlooks, mirror-like lakes and valleys of tundra flora.

    • The Natural History Tour focuses on Alaskan Native cultures and wildlife. <Tour is 4.5 hrs.>

    • The Tundra Wilderness Tour explores Denali's striking interior. <Tour is 8 hrs.>

    • The Kantishna Experience brings travels the entire 92-miles of the Park Road. <Tour is 12 hr.>

    • <Learn more which tour is right for you>


    Type 2 : Non-narrated Buses (Transit buses):

    —Unlike tour buses, you're not limited to staying on the bus in which you originally started. Thus, this is the type of bus you want to take if you're interested in a day hike, or just want to experience the park on your own terms rather than as part of a tour group.

    —Learn about Day Hikes.
    —If you get off your initial bus, you can flag down any other non-narrated bus going in your desired direction - i.e., farther into the park, or back towards the entrance.

Read more exploring Denali Park

  • Check into Park Ranger Programs and Field seminars.

    Flightseeing:

    • Several flightseeing companies operate from Talkeetna, Denali Park, Healy and Kantishna with offices just outside of the park.

    • While many companies offer fly-over tours, these companies have permission from the National Park Service to land on glaciers within the park: Fly Denali (866-733-7768), K2 Aviation (800-764-2291) and Talkeetna Air Taxi (800-533-2219).

      • Visitors on these tours land on a snowy strip inside the park.

      • These companies only fly on clear weather days.

  • Overnight: Denali.


DAY 5

  • Depart for a lengthy drive from Denali to Seward.

    • You will pass the scenic shorelines of  Turnagain Arm and the jutting peaks of the Chugach Mountains.

    • Bordered on one side by the scenic Seward Highway, Turnagain Arm is a spectacular setting for wildlife watching and nature photography.

  • Learn more about <Turnagain Arm> and <Chugach State Park>

  • Arrive in Seward. Known as the Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, it is a picturesque harbor town worth exploring before or after your park visit. Despite its small size, the town offers a range of dining, shopping, and lodging options, with a focus on local seafood. The main areas, Small Boat Harbor and Downtown, are connected by the scenic Seward Waterfront Trail, providing beautiful views of Resurrection Bay.

  • Overnight: Seward (2 nights)

  • Distance:

    • Denali ---> Seward, 7 hrs. 363 miles.


DAY 6

Visit Kenai Fjords National Park.

  • Why visit ? Kenai Fjords offers some of the best whale watching opportunities in Alaska.

    • Whales can be seen in the area year-round, but the best time for whale watching is March – October.

  • Kenai Fjords is known for its outflowing glaciers, coastal fjords and islands. It can be a challenging place to visit, with much of it only accessible from the water. The best way is take a tour. Reserve your seats on a boat cruise. During the summer season, park rangers provide narration on many of the cruises—offered by Major Marine Tours and Kenai Fjords Tours. 

  • Visit Exit Glacier. It is a glacier in the Kenai Mountains and is the only part of the park which is accessible by road.

    • You can park you car at the Exit Glacier Nature Center. The Glacier Overlook trail begins here.

      • Directions: Turn on to Herman Leirer Road (commonly called "Exit Glacier Road") off the Seward Hwy- AK-9. Drive 8.6 miles. The road will end at the parking lot for the Nature Center.

    • The Glacier Overlook Trail is a well maintained 2-mile trail which provides views of Exit Glacier. Follow the trail to the Exit Glacier Overlook and view the glacier in the carved valley. <Trail map>

  • Overnight: Seward.


DAY 7

  • Depart to Anchorage.

    Three (3) options to consider upon your arrival to Anchorage.

  1. End of trip and depart for your flight home.

  2. Diversion—journey to Katmai National Park. Add 2 days.

  3. Extend trip to Juneau, Alaska. Add 4 days.

  • Distance: Seward to Anchorage, 2.5 hrs. / 127 mi.

Diversion: Katmai National Park.

Famous for brown bears, volcanoes, pristine waterways with abundant fish, wilderness, and a rugged coastline.

Visiting Brooks

Fall

<Learn more>


Map of Brooks Fall area.

  • The main attraction is visiting Brooks Falls.

    • The falls are famous for watching salmon leap over the 6 foot (1.8 m) falls to get to their Brooks Lake spawning grounds. Hence, large populations of brown bears (grizzly bears), are attracted to feed on the spawning salmon. 

  • Remote and expensive to reach, with limited visitor facilities, once there you have Alaska to yourself. The price is certainly steep but guaranteed to buy the trip of a lifetime.

  • Read (▼) the important facts on Brooks Fall bear viewing.

    • Check out the Brooks Lodge website for services <click here>

  • Your best time is visiting in July and September.

    • The other months will NOT be ideal for bear sightings and since the cost is very high its best to make reservation well in advance.

  • Prices can vary—

    • Day tours from Anchorage run about $900 per person. <Learn more>

    • Overnight lodging is usually $500 per person plus airfare.

      ———————

  • Visit Valley of 10,000 Smoke. It is a valley within the Park filled with ash flow from the eruption of Novarupta in 1912. Following the eruption, thousands of fumaroles vented steam from the ash. <Read more>

  • You can choose either a day trip or a overnight stay.

    • Day trip “best bet” if time and money are a factor.

    • <Where to stay>

  • How to get to Katmai National Park:

Juneau, AK extension, 4 Days

Map of Glacier Bay day tour

  • Explore Glacier Bay National Preserve.

    • Rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords describe Glacier Bay National Park —one of the world’s largest international protected areas. 

    • A Glacier Bay Day Tour is a popular choice by visitors. <Learn more>

    1. Plan Your Visit — tips about things to do, places to go, and eating and sleeping.


  • Visit Admiralty Island.

    • No trip to Alaska is complete without bears. Just thirty (30) minutes from Juneau by floatplane is Admiralty Island, home to one of the world's highest density brown bear populations.

    • There are approximately 1,600 bears — one for every square mile of the island. The most popular place to see them on the island is Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary. Watch the bears feed on salmon during the peak viewing season which is the months of July through August. The island is also home to the world’s greatest concentration of nesting bald eagles.

    • Tour Operators are you best bet: <Pack Creek Bear Tours> <Above and Beyond Alaska> <Bear Creek Outfitters>

      • Permits are required and the guided tour operators can help provide them and arrange transportation.

    • Getting there: Just 40 miles from Juneau, Pack Creek makes for an ideal day-trip. There are NO roads or accommodations, so the only way to get to the area is by floatplane or boat.

      • A 30-minute floatplane ride provides the quickest method of transport from Juneau (versus a 3.5-hour boat ride).

A visit to Juneau is not complete without a whale watching tour.

  • Go Whale Watching.

    • Experience a classic Alaska whale watching adventure.

    • Many options are available for whale watching tours, from large catamarans to medium sized jet boats to smaller six-passenger vessels.

    • Most operators guarantee whale sightings, and tours generally last 3-4 hours and include transportation.




  • Discover Mendenhall Glacier.

    • The impressive Mendenhall Glacier spans half a mile in width and boasts ice that ranges from 300 to 1,800 feet deep.

    • If you have extra time, immerse yourself in the surrounding natural beauty. The best hike is the Nugget Falls trail, only 2-miles round trip. You'll be rewarded with stunning views of the glacier and its surroundings.

      • Getting there:

        By car: An easy drive from downtown Juneau. There is free parking at the Visitor Center.

        By shuttle: For a small fee, the Glacier Shuttle is quick and easy with one leaving from town every 30 minutes.

      • By boat: There are several day cruises which combine whale-watching and a visit to the glacier. They will drop you at the glacier following your tour, allowing you time to explore Mendenhall Glacier and its surrounding terrain on foot.


  • Explore stunning Tracy Arm Fjord.

    • Forty-five (45) miles outside of Juneau, this scenic destination has it all — mammoth glaciers, towering granite walls, breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife.

    • Tracy Arm is a 30-mile-long fjord — a narrow inlet created by glacial activity thousands of years ago. It winds its way past snow-capped mountains and floating icebergs. At the end of the fjord lies the stunning Sawyer Glaciers. <video>

    • Tracy Arm is also home to a large variety of wildlife including bald eagles, brown bears, goats, and whales.

    • You will have to take a boat tour, which can last an entire day. Adventure Bound Alaska and Allen Marine Tours operate well-reviewed excursions from May through September. Reserve your spot at least a week in advance; space is limited.

  • Walk through historic Juneau. <read more>

  • Depart from Juneau airport for your flight home.

Average cost:

(Excluding airfare and day trips)

$$$ USD for two (2) people

Budget: $3,300

Moderate: $4,000

Luxury: $5,000 +

Search for your hotel

  • Add-on cost: Prices per person vary from $150-200 for a day cruise, $275-350 for a flightseeing tour and $700-900 for a fly-in bear viewing or for guided fishing. These costs should be added to your total expenses.

Climate Guide:

  • Historical Weather Data.

  • The best time to visit Alaska is during the summer months. While our summer season is short, it is the driest, warmest time to visit.

  • Starting mid-May and ending mid-September you are sure to see the best the State of Alaska has to offer.

  • The driest months are April, May and June.

  • Chances of a sunny day: Mainland Alaska 40% probability of a sunny day and in the Juneau region, 31% chance of a sunny day.

  • Sunrise/Sunset time.

  • Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights map) visible from October to March.


Alaska

Back to the top

source: wikipedia.org

No copyright infringement is intended on this website by travelwildnow.com

Travel store

Travel apps

Disclaimer

Privacy Policy

SITE NAVIGATION

Destination Itineraries

Photo Gallery by Region

Videos by Region

Travel Links

Trip Ideas

About Us

Contact Us

Newsletter

Terms of Use

Careers

Learn more

 

Alaska Photo Gallery

 


 ARIZONA 14 DAYS


  • Arizona offers a variety of fascinating destinations. The most famous being the Grand Canyon, a breathtaking mile-deep chasm created by the Colorado River.

  • Flagstaff is a charming mountain town is covered in ponderosa pine forests and serves as a gateway to the San Francisco Peaks. These peaks include Arizona's tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak (elevation12,637 feet), and the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort.

  • Sedona situated in the desert, is surrounded by stunning red-rock buttes and steep canyon walls. Its Uptown area is filled with New Age shops, art galleries, and luxurious spas.

  • Phoenix is known as the Valley of the Sun, and a sprawling metropolitan area (pop. 5 million). It boasts high-end spa resorts, Jack Nicklaus–designed golf courses, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

  • Tucson is a resort-filled city renowned for Saguaro National Park, which preserves a scenic landscape of cactus-filled Sonoran Desert. Tucson is also home to the University of Arizona.

Tips:

Always hike with a buddy; if someone gets hurt, the other can go for help. Pack enough water and food in case you get lost while hiking. Wear the proper gear – good footwear and lightweight, layered clothes for varying weather.

DAY 1 and 2

  • Arrive at Phoenix airport and transfer to your hotel.

    • Renting a car is the best choice. The PHX Sky Train takes travelers from the airport terminals to the Car Rental Center.

  • Highlights around Phoenix:

    1. Explore the Heard Museum: Immerse yourself in Native American culture and art at the Heard Museum. It houses an impressive collection of artwork, jewelry, pottery, and artifacts that highlight the history and traditions of Native American tribes.

    2. Take a hike up Camelback Mountain: It offers breathtaking views of the Phoenix skyline and the surrounding desert. The Echo Canyon Trail (2.5 mi. out & back) and Cholla Trail (slightly easier, 2.6 mi. out & back)) are popular options, but please note that they can be challenging and require proper footwear and preparation.

      1. <Read more> about the trails at Camelback Mountain.

    3. Explore Old Town Scottsdale: Just outside of Phoenix, you'll find Old Town Scottsdale, known for its charming shops, art galleries, and southwestern ambiance. Take a leisurely walk along the streets, browse unique boutiques, and stop by the local restaurants and cafes. <map>

      1. <Where to eat in Scottsdale>

    4. Enjoy the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM): the Musical Instrument Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum that showcases musical instruments from around the world. You can explore different exhibits, listen to music samples, and even try playing some instruments yourself.

    5. Visit the Phoenix Zoo: If you're traveling with children or enjoy wildlife, head for the Zoo. It is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world and offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

    • Remember to plan your day carefully, considering travel times and opening hours, to make the most of your visit.

  • Things to do in Phoenix.

  • For Sports fans:

  • <Where to stay in Phoenix>

  • Overnight: Phoenix (2 nights)

  • Distance: Phoenix —-> Tucson, 2 hrs

  • Warning about Phoenix and Tucson summer heat.

  • Arizona Calendar of Events

  • Best Breweries in Phoenix

  • The Top Rodeos in Arizona

Signs and Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness

Where to shop in Tucson

DAY 3 and 4

  • Discover Tucson.

    • Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum - is Tucson’s number #1 attraction.

    • Visit Saguaro National Park. This park is dedicated to the largest cactus in the U.S., the saguaro. The park is divided into two (2) districts: The Rincon Mountain District, east of downtown, and the Tucson Mountain District, west of downtown. Each section features a visitor center, miles of hiking trails and hundreds of towering saguaro cacti.

      • No time to hike? The Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive is a paved road that features several trailheads, scenic vistas and pullouts in the Rincon Mountain District. If you're visiting the Tucson Mountain District, the unpaved Bajada Loop Drive offers photo-worthy lookouts and picnic areas. This park is the perfect place to come if you want to see some iconic southwestern landscapes. 

    • Take a scenic drive on the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway.

      • Regarded as one of the most scenic drives in southeast Arizona, the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway (a.k.a Catalina Highway Scenic Drive) is the only paved road to take travelers to the upper reaches of Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range.

    • Visit Old Tucson: Step back in time at Old Tucson, a movie studio turned theme park that recreates the Wild West. Enjoy live entertainment, watch stunt shows, and experience the Old West through various exhibits and attractions.

      • FAQ’s about visiting Old Town Tucson.

  • <Where to dine in Tucson>

  • <Where to stay in Tucson>

  • Overnight: Tucson (2 nights)


<LEARN MORE> why the Sedona Shuttle is the best way to explore Sedona’s trails and attractions.

  • Popular restaurants in Sedona

Map of Sedona

DAY 5-7

  • Journey to Sedona:

    • Sedona, in northern Arizona, is a popular destination known for its stunning red sandstone formations and clear blue skies. Often called "Red Rock Country," Sedona attracts outdoor lovers, artists, hikers and anyone seeking peace and inspiration.

  • Please Note: because of a increase in popularity in recent years, traffic and parking in Sedona, including at trail sites has become a nuisance. It has become advisable to plan your travels accordingly and allow extra time for potential delays.

    • To help alleviate the traffic congestion and parking issues, the city is providing a shuttle service. The Sedona Shuttle, also known as the Sedona RoadRunner offers convenient transportation options to various popular attractions, shopping districts, hotels, and trail sites.

    • Trail Maps for Trailheads Served by Sedona Shuttle.

    Explore Sedona:

  • Take a great hike to the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and the city below. The trail is challenging but short.

  • Head to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a unique architectural marvel built into the red rocks. Explore the chapel's serene interior and enjoy panoramic views of Sedona from the observation deck.

  • Take a scenic drive (20 mi.) on the Red Rock Scenic Byway (State Route 179), which offers spectacular views of Sedona's famous red rock formations. Stop at the various viewpoints along the way, such as Courthouse Butte.

  • Visit the famous Bell Rock, known for its distinctive shape and spiritual significance. Take a short hike around the base or simply enjoy the majestic views from a nearby viewpoint. <trail details>

  • Embark on a hiking adventure in scenic Oak Creek Canyon. Choose a trail that suits your fitness level and interests, such has Devil's Bridge Trail. This trail offer stunning scenery and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sedona's natural beauty.

  • Experience the Pink Jeep tour. The popular tour company offers several tour options, including the Broken Arrow Tour, <video> which takes you on an exhilarating off-road journey through rugged terrain, steep climbs, and thrilling descents.

  • Stroll through Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. This charming outdoor shopping area features art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants housed in a Spanish-style village.

  • Explore the vibrant walkable downtown area of Sedona. Browse the eclectic shops, art galleries, and New Age boutiques. Treat yourself to a spa treatment or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local cafes or restaurants.

  • End your day by witnessing a Sedona sunset.

    • Drive to Airport Mesa or Doe Mountain Trailhead to capture the panoramic views and magical colors as the sun sets over the red rocks. <location(s)>

  • Remember to check weather conditions before your hike, and always carry plenty of water and sun protection.

  • <Where to stay>

  • Overnight:. Sedona (3 nights)

  • Distance: Tucson —-> Sedona, 4.5 hrs. (230 mi.)



DAY 8 and 9

  • Embark and explore Grand Canyon National Park

    • The canyon considered one of the finest examples of arid-land erosion in the world. Carved by the Colorado River.

  • Visit all the viewpoints along the Grand Canyon Road Drive.

  • Make sure you witness the changing sunset colors of the canyon. This is when the Grand Canyon comes alive with vivid color and great shadows. The Canyon can change from orange to pink to purple as the descending sun casts color and shade across the landscape.

  • Learn about the Grand Canyon shuttle service—what you need to know.

  • Grand Canyon Tours for Seniors <Learn more>

  • <Where to eat>

    • Reservations are required for lunch and dinner at the historic El Tovar Dining Room. Book at early as possible.

  • BEST HIKE: A sunrise hike on the scenic self-guided South Kaibab Trail.

    • Hiking in the park can be challenging. Be ready by bringing enough water and snacks.

    • It’s a 6-hour/ 5.4 mile RT to Skeleton Point. Difficulty: moderate

      • Do not go past Skeleton Point on a day hike.

      • June, July & August are the worst months to hike into the canyon due to hot temperatures. (90°F / 32°C or more.)

      • Stay hydrated. The Park Service warns that you need 2 liters of water per 90 minutes while you’re hiking.

      • Bananas, granola bars, trail mix or good old raisins and peanuts make handy and convenient snacks.

  • Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness should be understood by every hiker.

  • Kaibab Trail begins south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. <Learn more>

    • Yaki Point is the only viewpoint on Desert View Drive that is not accessible with a private vehicle.

    • Yaki Point can be reached using the free Kaibab Rim Route (Orange) Shuttle Bus departing from the Visitor Center.

  • Optional shorter trails:

    • Cedar Ridge trail, an 3.1 RT hike is a good alternative if the Skeleton Point hike is too challenging or time consuming.

    • The Ooh Ahh Point hike is a great beginner's hike (1.8 mi. RT) that lets you get away from the South Rim and spend some time on the trail.

  • Would you rather Bike than hike?

  • Overnight: Grand Canyon Lodge (2 nights), Reservations-recommended. Book 6-8 months in advance.

  • Distance: Sedona —> Grand Canyon Village. 2.5hrs.

  • Add a Extra Day.

    Take a mule ride DOWN the canyon. Mule rides ARE arranged through Grand Canyon Lodges (303-297-2757) <click here>

Learn more about rafting down the Colorado River

Lake Powell boat tour

DAY 10 and 11

  • Journey to Page, Arizona. The small town is a popular destination with several unique attractions and natural wonders to explore.

  • <Page Visitor Resources> <Map of Page>

  • The top activity in Page is exploring Lake Powell, within Glen Canyon Recreation Area.

    • Discover Lake Powell with a boat tour. These tours focus on the breathtaking scenery taking you through narrow canyons, past towering red cliffs, and to notable landmarks like Rainbow Bridge.

    • Lake Powell - it's a stunning reservoir made by the Glen Canyon Dam. You can rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to enjoy the clear waters, swim, or relax on the sandy beaches. <Services>

    • Kayaking at Lees Ferry:

    • Glen Canyon Dam: provides hydroelectric power and controls the flow of the Colorado River. <map>

  • Horseshoe Bend, located just 5 miles from Page, AZ is a stunning natural landmark where the Colorado River forms a horseshoe-shaped bend surrounded by dramatic red rock cliffs. Accessible via a 1.5-mile RT hike from a paid parking lot ($10 per vehicle), the trail is easy. The best times to visit are sunrise for soft light and fewer crowds, midday for vibrant colors, or sunset for spectacular views.

  • Antelope Canyon: take a guided tour of Upper Antelope Canyon. These slot canyons are famous for their stunning rock formations and light beams that create mesmerizing photo opportunities. <video>

    • For optimal light beams and best photos, it's best to visit Antelope Canyon between March and October. The best time to capture the light beams is typically around midday when the sun is high in the sky.

    • To enhance your photography experience, consider joining a dedicated photography tour. These tours often provide extended time in the canyon, specialized guidance from experienced guides, and opportunities to capture the best lighting conditions.

    • Guided tours are required to visit, you CANNOT go independently.

  • A excellent alternative without the crowds is Waterhole Canyon.

Visit Horseshoe Bend:

A magnificent bend in the Colorado River known for its horseshoe-like shape. Take a short hike to the overlook and enjoy panoramic views of the deep canyon & the river below.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument:

Taking a boat tour to Rainbow Bridge. This natural bridge is one of the largest in the world &holds cultural significance for Native American tribes.

Visit the Wahweap Marina:

Here you can rent watercraft, or take a boat tour. It's a great place to relax and soak up the beauty of Lake Powell. Not far from Wahweap, you’ll find the city of Page, AZ just 2 miles away.

  • Rainbow Bridge Tour Alert: Boat tours by Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas are available only when the lake is high enough. Tours depart from Wahweap Marina, located about 50 miles from Rainbow Bridge.

    • The trip takes the whole day. For more details or to make a reservation, visit www.lakepowell.com or call 800-528-6154.

  • Photography and Stargazing: With its unique landscapes and dark skies, Page is a paradise for photographers and stargazers. Capture the stunning red rock formations and enjoy spectacular night sky views.

  • Things to do in Page.

  • Remember to check availability, permits, and weather conditions for specific activities.

  • Overnight: Page (2 nights)

  • Distance: Grand Canyon Park —-> Page, 2.5 hrs.


DAY 13

  • Return to Phoenix

    • If time permits, make a stop at a winery in Verde Valley. <Wine trail information>

      • Arizona's wineries provide unique and enjoyable experiences, but California and Washington wine regions have their own special charm and appeal..

      • Overnight: Phoenix

  • Distance: Page —-> Phoenix, 5 hrs (280 miles)


DAY 14

  • Depart for your flight home.

Climate Guide:

Historical Weather data for the Phoenix region.

Historical Weather data for Grand Canyon.

Historical Weather data for Sedona,AZ

  • Because Phoenix & Tucson are located in the Sonoran Desert they experiences a warm desert climate. This means extremely hot summers and warm winters. With 3900 hours yearly of sunshine it is one of the most sunny regions in the world.

    • During the months of late October to April you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures.

    • From late May to end of September, it is extremely hot with temperatures regularly reaching 100°F (40°C). Many locals call it “hell season”.

  • Northern Arizona: The weather is unlike Phoenix and Tucson. Sedona, Grand Canyon and Page, AZ have four distinct seasons and cooler average temperatures due to the higher elevation (5,000-7,000ft). Northern Arizona is typically 20-30° F cooler than Phoenix/Tucson at any given time of the day year-round. Some northern regions experience an average of 40-80 inches of snow during the winter months. Snow tends to come in late November and may last till April.

  • Arizona’s monsoon season starts in mid-June and continues till end of September.

  • Make sure you know the warning signs of heat-related illness.

  • Sunrise/Sunset times.

Average cost:

(EXCLUDING AIRFARE)

$$$ USD for two (2) people.

Budget $900

Moderate $1400

Luxury $2000+

Search for your Hotel

Back to the top

No copyright infringement is intended on this website by travelwildnow.com