Phoenix, Page, Monument Valley, South Rim of Grand Canyon

Question

Hi, we are getting into Phoenix on Friday night, staying over. On Saturday morning we are going to head out to either Monument Valley, Page or the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. what is the best way to go as far as a loop. which should we visit first? will one night in each of those place be enough? We are coming back to Phoenix on Tuesday evening/night.

Answer

Given your schedule of arriving in Phoenix on Friday night and returning Tuesday evening, you have roughly three full days for the loop covering the Grand Canyon South Rim, Page, and Monument Valley. The key is balancing driving time with sightseeing, as distances in northern Arizona can be significant.

Suggested Itinerary

Saturday: Phoenix → Grand Canyon South Rim – Depart early from Phoenix (about 3.5–4 hours to the South Rim). Spend the day exploring viewpoints along Desert View Drive and doing a short hike such as Rim Trail or part of Bright Angel Trail. Stay overnight near the Grand Canyon.
Sunday: Grand Canyon → Page – Head out early (about 2.5–3 hours). In Page, you can visit Antelope Canyon (booked tour required) and Horseshoe Bend. If time allows, take a brief stop at Lake Powell or the Glen Canyon Dam. Stay overnight in Page.
Monday: Page → Monument Valley → return toward Phoenix – Drive from Page to Monument Valley (about 2–2.5 hours). Take a scenic drive or guided tour through the Valley, then begin your return toward Phoenix (approximately 5–6 hours) or consider an overnight halfway, for example in Flagstaff, to break up the drive.
Tuesday: Drive back to Phoenix – If you stayed overnight in Flagstaff, it’s about 2–2.5 hours back to Phoenix. Spend any extra time exploring Flagstaff or Oak Creek Canyon along the way.

Notes on Timing

One night in each location is tight but doable if you prioritize key sights and plan early departures.
Saturday and Sunday are your sightseeing-heavy days; Monday involves more driving if you want to loop through Monument Valley.
If you prefer less driving stress, consider skipping Monument Valley and spending more time at Grand Canyon and Page.

Driving and Logistics

All routes are on paved highways; the South Rim loop via US-89 and US-160 is straightforward.
Fuel up in Flagstaff, Page, and near the Grand Canyon, as services can be limited in some stretches.
Book accommodations in advance, particularly near Grand Canyon and Page, as spring can be busy.

In summary, a feasible loop is: Saturday – South Rim, Sunday – Page, Monday – Monument Valley then back toward Phoenix, with optional overnight in Flagstaff to ease the long drive. Each location gets one night, which is enough for main highlights if you plan efficiently.

Phoenix, Page, Monument Valley, South Rim of Grand Canyon

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