Trip planning help

Question

This is our first time at GC. We will fly into PHX and drive up to flagstaff to spend the night. From there I thought we would drive to Page and do antelope canon and horseshoe bend. Then a day at the south rim. Ope to ideas of more thing to see and do and the best order to do them in. It will be me, husband and 2 kids 11 and 13. We are all in great shape.

Also any ideas on what to stop and see on the drive from PHX to Flagstaff.

Answer

For a first-time Grand Canyon trip with kids, a well-paced itinerary that balances scenic stops, short hikes, and unique experiences will make the trip memorable without being exhausting.

Day 1: Phoenix to Flagstaff

Leave PHX early morning to Flagstaff (approx. 2.5–3 hours). Traffic can be busy around Phoenix, so earlier is better.
Stops along the way:

Monte Verde Ghost Town – a quick historic stop if interested in old mining towns.
Wupatki National Monument – ancient Pueblo ruins and scenic desert landscape, a great stretch break.
Sunset Crater Volcano – unique volcanic landscape, can take a short walk around the cinder cone.

Arrive in Flagstaff for overnight; enjoy dinner in historic downtown Flagstaff.

Day 2: Flagstaff to Page (Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend)

Drive Flagstaff → Page (approx. 2.5–3 hours).
Antelope Canyon:

Book a guided tour in advance; either Upper or Lower Canyon depending on preference and kids’ stamina. Upper is more accessible; Lower is more adventurous.

Horseshoe Bend: short 1.5 mile round trip hike to the overlook; best visited late afternoon for softer light.
Overnight in Page.

Day 3: Page to South Rim

Drive Page → Grand Canyon South Rim (approx. 2.5–3 hours).
Stops along the way:

Glen Canyon Dam Overlook – brief stop for photos.
Marble Canyon & Navajo Bridge – see Colorado River and possible California Condors.

Arrive at South Rim mid-day; settle into accommodations.
Short rim walks (e.g., Mather Point, Yavapai Point) for sunset.

Day 4: South Rim Exploration

Start early for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Suggested hikes (all easy to moderate for kids):

Bright Angel Trail – hike down 1–3 miles for views; turn around before it gets too strenuous.
Rim Trail – mostly flat, can choose segments for easier walking and scenic overlooks.

Optional: Shuttle to Hermit Road viewpoints (great vistas without much walking).
Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Yavapai Geology Museum to enrich the educational experience for your kids.

Additional Tips:

Book accommodations in advance, especially for Page and the South Rim.
Pack plenty of water and snacks; the desert is dry and can be hot even for kids.
Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses) is essential.
Check shuttle schedules at the South Rim – using shuttles reduces walking and parking hassles.
Photography tip: early morning or late afternoon gives the best light and fewer crowds at viewpoints.

With this itinerary, you’ll balance travel, sightseeing, and family-friendly hiking while hitting the must-see landmarks. It also allows some flexibility if you want extra stops along the way or more time at the canyon.

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