January Roadtrip Around Phoenix

Question

Hi,

Looking for advice on a roadtrip on the warmer side starting in Phoenix . We will be arriving around the beginning of January and staying for a week.

We have seen a lot of Tucson on a previous trip. But, sure there is more to see.

TIA...

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.

Here are some suggested routes and destinations to consider for a week-long trip:

Day 1-2: Phoenix to Sedona – About a 2-hour drive north. Sedona is famous for its red rock formations, scenic hikes, and art galleries. Must-see spots include Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Slide Rock State Park. Consider a Pink Jeep Tour or a short sunrise hike like Doe Mountain.
Day 3: Sedona to Flagstaff – Just 45 minutes north. Flagstaff offers historic Route 66 charm, Lowell Observatory, and access to the Arizona Snowbowl if you want a brief winter mountain experience. You can explore Walnut Canyon National Monument for short cliff dwellings hikes.
Day 4: Day trip to Grand Canyon – From Flagstaff or Sedona, drive 1.5-2 hours to the South Rim. Enjoy iconic viewpoints like Mather Point, Desert View, and Yavapai Observation Station. In January, crowds are smaller, and sunsets can be spectacular. Winter weather may include light snow at the rim.
Day 5: Flagstaff to Page (optional) – If you want to see Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon, this is a longer day (4+ hours one-way). Antelope Canyon tours are available year-round, but winter light rays are minimal. Alternatively, skip Page and spend more time exploring northern Arizona or small towns along the way.
Day 6: Jerome and Cottonwood – Scenic detour on the way back south. Jerome is a historic mining town with quirky shops and galleries, and Cottonwood has Old Town charm and tasting rooms.
Day 7: Return to Phoenix – Consider a stop at Montezuma Castle or Montezuma Well on the way, then explore Old Town Scottsdale or Desert Botanical Garden if you have extra time before departure.

Other tips for your January road trip:

Weather is generally mild in the lower desert, but northern Arizona (Flagstaff, Grand Canyon) can be chilly and occasionally snowy—pack layers and check road conditions.
Sunset and sunrise times are shorter; plan hikes and scenic viewpoints for midday if you want full daylight.
Smaller towns and scenic drives are less crowded this time of year, offering a more relaxed experience.
If you enjoy stargazing, Sedona and Flagstaff have dark sky designations, making winter nights clear and excellent for astronomy.

This itinerary allows flexibility, scenic variety, and manageable driving distances while keeping you mostly on the warmer southern side for much of the trip. You can adjust based on how much driving your group prefers and whether you want to prioritize hiking, sightseeing, or relaxing in charming towns.

January Roadtrip Around Phoenix

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