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Itinerary Help - December

Hello,

My family is coming to AZ after Christmas and I wondered your advice on a portion of the trip. (we are a family of 4 with a 6 and 12 year old).

We are driving from Winslow up to see Antelope Canyon.

1. What are the best things to check out along the way? I've heard this route offers the best views of the Painted Desert. If so, where is that?

2. We were going to allow a full day to see the Upper and Lower canyons and then spend another night before moving on to the GC. Does this sound right? Or could we do Antelope Canyon and head to the GC later that day/evening?

We are then traveling from Antelope Canyon to the GC.

1. Is this route safe to drive in the later afternoon/evening?

2. what company do you suggest for a helicopter tour of the GC?

After the GC we are heading to Sedona to chill out for a few days.

1. is the route from the GC to Sedona safe to drive after dark?

2. Recommendations on where to stay in Sedona? I've read about the different areas and am a bit overwhelmed.

3. Going to do a Jeep Tour. Any one in particular most recommended?

Thanks!

Driving from Winslow to Page and beyond offers some of the most scenic landscapes in Northern Arizona. Here's a detailed breakdown of your itinerary questions and recommendations for your family trip.

Winslow to Page:

This drive is beautiful, especially if you take US-89 north. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Navajo Nation and areas with incredible desert and canyon scenery.

  • Painted Desert: The Painted Desert stretches north of Winslow and is part of the Petrified Forest National Park. Some of the best viewpoints are along the Rim Road inside the park. Stop at viewpoints like Newspaper Rock and Jasper Forest for short walks and photos.
  • Consider a quick stop at the Petrified Forest Visitor Center to get maps and tips for short kid-friendly walks.
  • Driving time Winslow to Page is about 2.5–3 hours without stops.

Antelope Canyon Timing:

  • Allocating a full day for Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon is ideal, especially with kids, as it allows flexibility for timing and photo stops. The tours are guided and can vary in length.
  • It is technically possible to do Antelope Canyon and drive to the Grand Canyon the same day, but this would make for a long afternoon drive (about 2.5–3 hours from Page to GC South Rim) and limit your sightseeing time.

Driving from Page to Grand Canyon:

  • The route is generally safe in the later afternoon, but sunset comes early in December. Use headlights, watch for wildlife, and be cautious on winding stretches of road. Snow or icy patches are unlikely at lower elevations but possible at higher points near the Grand Canyon.

Helicopter Tours of the Grand Canyon:

  • Several companies operate out of Tusayan (just south of the South Rim) and Grand Canyon Airport near Flagstaff. Reputable options include Maverick Helicopters, Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, and GC Helicopters. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during holiday season.

Grand Canyon to Sedona:

  • This drive is mostly on US-89 south to Flagstaff, then I-17 south to Sedona. After dark, it’s safe to drive, but watch for deer and wildlife, and be mindful that roads are winding near Oak Creek Canyon. Allow about 2.5–3 hours from the South Rim to Sedona.

Where to Stay in Sedona:

  • Uptown Sedona: Convenient for shopping, dining, and easy access to many trailheads. Good for families wanting walkable options.
  • Village of Oak Creek: Quieter, more resort-style accommodations, slightly south of main Sedona hub.
  • West Sedona: Offers more budget-friendly hotels and easy access to hiking but is less central for dining and galleries.

Jeep Tours in Sedona:

  • Pink Jeep Tours is the most widely recommended and reliable company. They offer several routes suitable for families, including Broken Arrow and Scenic Rim. Tours are guided, educational, and accommodate all ages.

Overall, your plan to allow a full day for Antelope Canyon, then travel to the Grand Canyon the next day, followed by Sedona, is sensible and keeps travel manageable for your family. December weather can be cold in higher elevations, so dress in layers and check local conditions before heading out each day.

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