Sedona / Grand Canyon / Antelope Canyon

Question

Hello,

Just booked a last minute trip - leaving on 24th afternoon to phoenix . Starting from phoenix back on 29th morning .

Have 4 full days - would like your recommendations to see Sedona , Grand Canykn ( both rims if possible ) , antelope canyon and horse shoe bend tour .

Your recommendations on hotels and points would be helpful . I have a knee issue so will not be able to do too much hiking - but yeah some hiking . Thanks in advance

Answer

With four full days and a knee issue limiting strenuous hiking, the key is to focus on scenic drives, overlooks, and short walks. Here’s a suggested itinerary starting from Phoenix:

Day 1 – Arrival in Phoenix and drive to Sedona

Arrive in Phoenix in the afternoon and pick up a rental car.
Drive to Sedona (approx. 2 hours). Check into a hotel or resort; Marriott options in Sedona include Courtyard Sedona and Residence Inn Sedona (good for points).
Evening: take a short scenic drive through Red Rock Loop or Airport Mesa for sunset views.

Day 2 – Sedona exploration

Morning: Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross (minimal walking required).
Optional: Short easy hike or stroll at Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock base (avoid steep climbs due to knee).
Afternoon: Pink Jeep Tour – choose the Broken Arrow or Red Rock Scenic route for off-road views without hiking.
Dinner in Sedona; consider a restaurant in Uptown Sedona for convenience and scenery.

Day 3 – Sedona to Page

Early morning departure to Page, AZ (approx. 3.5–4 hours).
Visit Horseshoe Bend – short 1.5-mile round trip to the overlook.
Book an Antelope Canyon tour in advance (Upper Antelope Canyon is easier for walking and less climbing).
Stay overnight in Page; Marriott options include Courtyard Page or local hotels for convenience.

Day 4 – Page to Grand Canyon South Rim

Morning drive to Grand Canyon South Rim (approx. 2.5–3 hours).
Use the Visitor Center as a hub and drive along Desert View Drive, stopping at viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Grandview Point.
Short Rim Trail walks are flat and manageable for limited hiking.
Overnight in Grand Canyon Village; Bright Angel Lodge or Yavapai Lodge (points options limited, check availability).

Day 5 – Grand Canyon North Rim or return to Phoenix

If feeling ambitious and roads are open (seasonal), consider a drive to viewpoints on the North Rim (note: may add 4+ hours of driving; check winter accessibility).
Alternatively, enjoy more scenic overlooks and easy walks at the South Rim.
Drive back to Phoenix (approx. 3.5–4 hours) to return your rental car and prepare for departure.

Additional tips:

Prioritize scenic drives and overlooks over long hikes due to knee limitations.
Book hotels and tours as soon as possible; last-minute trips can have limited availability in Sedona, Page, and the Grand Canyon.
Carry water, snacks, and layers for changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations like the Grand Canyon.
Parking can be limited at major viewpoints; arrive early for best access and minimal walking stress.

This itinerary balances travel, sightseeing, and minimal hiking while hitting all the key destinations: Sedona, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon.

Sedona / Grand Canyon / Antelope Canyon

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