Sedone & Page in April
Looking to take family of 4 (2 teens) out in April. 3 days in Sedona, 4 in Page/Lake Powell area. Wondering if we'd be missing out on other places for first time out there. GC & Vegas will be another time. Thinking 1 day in monument valley (Page), 1 day @ Lake Powell for water sports, 2 days for hikes like Antelope/Horseshoe Bend/Vermillion Cliffs/ Waterhole. Sedona would be 2 days of hiking, 1 jeep tour/Lowell Observatory, Starlight train ride.
Your proposed itinerary for Sedona and Page in April looks well-balanced for a first-time visit while keeping it manageable for a family with teens. Spending 3 days in Sedona and 4 in the Page/Lake Powell area is a reasonable split that allows for a mix of outdoor activities, sightseeing, and some relaxation without feeling too rushed.
Sedona (3 days)
- 2 days of hiking: Trails like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Bell Rock are iconic and suitable for teens, offering both moderate challenge and fantastic views.
- Jeep tour: A guided tour is a great way to see more rugged areas safely and learn about geology, history, and local culture.
- Lowell Observatory: Evening visit can be fun and educational, particularly for teens interested in science.
- Starlight train ride: A nice low-effort evening activity, providing a unique way to see the landscape at night.
This itinerary allows you to hit the main highlights of Sedona while providing a balance of physical activity, guided experiences, and scenic relaxation. You could also add a short visit to Slide Rock State Park if the weather is warm enough, as it’s a fun stop for families.
Page / Lake Powell Area (4 days)
- 1 day Monument Valley: A scenic drive or guided tour will give you iconic red rock vistas. Consider stopping at the visitor center for short, accessible viewpoints if the teens prefer less hiking.
- 1 day Lake Powell: Water sports, boat rentals, or a guided lake tour are excellent ways to relax and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook is also worth a short stop.
- 2 days for hikes / sightseeing:
- Antelope Canyon (Upper or Lower): Book in advance, as April is moderately busy. Upper Canyon is easier to navigate with teens.
- Horseshoe Bend: Short walk from the parking lot to the overlook; very family-friendly.
- Vermillion Cliffs: Consider the White Pocket area for dramatic photo opportunities; more adventurous and requires a high-clearance vehicle or guided tour.
- Waterhole Canyon: Another accessible slot canyon option, less crowded than Antelope.
Considerations / Optional Additions:
- If time permits, a scenic drive along the Vermillion Cliffs Backcountry Byway is stunning and family-accessible.
- Check local conditions for Antelope and other slot canyons, as spring runoff or recent rains may affect accessibility.
- Plan for early morning or late afternoon visits to popular spots to avoid crowds, especially Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.
Overall, this itinerary captures the iconic landscapes of Northern Arizona while providing variety in activities (hiking, water, sightseeing) and keeps travel distances manageable. You’re unlikely to feel like you’re missing other first-time experiences in the area, given that Grand Canyon and Las Vegas are planned for another trip.
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