Quick question for advice--LONG Roadtrip? :)

Question

HI, we're heading to AZ via PHX airport next week. Landing at 930. No luggage to get just a car. I originally thought we could do the long drive and book an Antelope Canyon tour, but no refunds if we are running late, etc. Since we have the whole day (Staying in Flagstaff Wed-Thur-Fri) I was thinking we might head up to Page and check out the sights there. You can do Horseshoe bend on your own. Is that worth a drive (I realize it's a hike). And is there anything else in that vicinity worth a visit? Any other towns? Jerome? We definitely don't mind driving.

We will spend the next 2 days at the GC, then down to Sedona on Friday evening- Monday.

Thank You!

Answer

Driving from Phoenix to Page in one day is doable but ambitious. The drive from Phoenix to Page is roughly 270 miles and takes about 4.5–5 hours without stops. Since you’re landing at 9:30 AM and have no luggage to collect, you could potentially hit the road by 10:30–11 AM, but you’ll need to consider breaks, meals, and fuel. That said, it’s a long first day, so plan carefully if you want to make it relaxing.

Horseshoe Bend is absolutely worth visiting. The hike from the parking lot is about 0.75 miles one way on a sandy path, mostly flat, with some uphill sections near the end. Kids and adults generally handle it fine, but allow 45–60 minutes total for parking, hiking, and photos.

Other sights in the Page area:

Glen Canyon Dam: The visitor center offers views of the dam and Lake Powell. Free entry and easy to walk around.
Lake Powell: Quick viewpoints are available along the highway. A short stop to take in the scenery is easy.
Antelope Canyon: If you can’t make a scheduled tour due to timing concerns, consider booking a later slot for the following day, or you might skip it and focus on Horseshoe Bend and the lake views.

On the drive back or alternative stops:

Monument Valley: Slightly out of the way if you’re strictly Phoenix → Page → Flagstaff, but iconic if you have extra time.
Marble Canyon / Vermilion Cliffs: Scenic pull-offs along US-89, worth a few minutes for photos.
Lees Ferry: Historical site and river access, a short detour before you reach Page.

Other towns worth visiting along your overall route in northern Arizona:

Jerome: A charming former mining town with unique shops, galleries, and views over the Verde Valley. If your route takes you via I-17 and AZ-179 toward Sedona, Jerome can be a half-day stop either coming or going. Allow 1–2 hours.
Flagstaff: Already planned for overnight stays. Great for dining and refueling, plus downtown is walkable with some local shops and breweries.

Tips for the long road trip day:

Plan departure times and stops to ensure you reach Page with enough daylight for sightseeing.
Bring snacks and water, as services are limited along parts of US-89.
Check sunrise/sunset times if you want photos at Horseshoe Bend—it’s especially stunning in late afternoon light.
Be mindful of the heat if hiking; mid-May can already be warm in northern Arizona.

In summary, a Phoenix → Page day is long but possible if you start early and limit stops. Horseshoe Bend is definitely worth it, Antelope Canyon tours require careful timing, and short scenic stops at Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell viewpoints, and Vermilion Cliffs add value. Jerome is a great detour on a different day, and Flagstaff makes for a comfortable base for the Grand Canyon visit the next two days.

Quick question for advice--LONG Roadtrip? :)

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