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Soaking Up Sun & Sights in Arizona

Soaking Up Sun & Sights in Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park Flagstaff Sedona Phoenix Tucson Tombstone
Trip length7-10 days
Route distance468 mi
Stops6
Customize this tripFree account · edit dates, stops & pace

Trip overview

Sunny Arizona is a land of variety. Striking desert landscapes, the wonders of the Grand Canyon, and mountains high enough for skiing, make Arizona a strikingly beautiful place to explore. The artsy towns, historic villages, foody cities, and activity-rich areas mean there truly is something for everyone in this state. You’ll enjoy wine, hiking, the arts, and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of The World during this RV trip through the Grand Canyon State. Be prepared, though, summer temperatures can be well over 100 degrees in much of Arizona. Heat or not, this will be a wonderful RV trip discovering Arizona.

Who will love this trip
Everyone – Arizona can be enjoyed in many ways, and each destination has a variety of activities. Arizona is a popular destination for adults, seniors, kids, families, and young adults.

Trip tips

  • Experience the South Rim: The Grand Canyon's South Rim is open all year, with spring, summer and fall the busiest times. Make lodging reservations well in advance. Get advice from park rangers at the Backcountry Information Center before venturing out. Always check the weather forecast before leaving. Temperatures down in the inner canyon tend to be 15-20 degrees warmer. During winter, snow and ice can make trails into the canyon slippery, so have the appropriate gear, clothing, and supplies.

  • Prepare to Unplug: The Grand Canyon is in a very remote location far away from cell towers and wireless hot spots Most public areas, including Trailer Village campsites and the Camper Services facility near Trailer Village do not have wi-fi; the Yavapai Lodge lounge area has limited wi-fi.

  • Welcome Fido: Grand Canyon National Park allows leashed dogs on named trails above the rim (not on any inner canyon trails) and the following locations: Yavapai Tavern, Desert View, Yavapai Lodge Gift Shop, and Grand Canyon Brewing & Distillery.

  • Drive along the Canyon Rim: Beginning near Grand Canyon Village at Mile Marker 241.5 at the junction with South Entrance Road, private vehicles can drive east along the canyon rim on the Desert View Drive portion of SR 64 for 23 miles to the Desert View Services Area, and the East Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park. Consider the $14.99 Grand Canyon South Rim self-guided driving tour app.

  • Watch the windy weather: Flagstaff has cool summer weather and winter snow that can last into late spring. Its location at an elevation of 6,909 ft, makes it prone to windy conditions throughout much of the year.

  • Camp in Flagstaff: You’ll find less crowds, better camping options, and easier arrangement of tours and expeditions to the Grand Canyon, Sunset Crater, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend and more by staying in Flagstaff, known as a Gateway city to Grand Canyon National Park.

  • Purchase a Pass: A Red Rock Pass (or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass, Golden Age or Golden Access) is required for vehicle access when hiking or recreating on National Forest land in Red Rock Country. The pass must be displayed in the windshield of the vehicle and can be purchased online.

  • Know your Time: Arizona is in Mountain Standard Time year-round and does NOT observe Daylight Savings Time, which means in the summer months, Arizona is on the same time as Pacific Daylight Time.

  • Hit the Trails Sunrise or Sunset in Phoenix: In the hottest months, go outdoors in the early morning to spot desert critters when they are most active. Drink lots of water, at least one liter for each hour you'll be outside. Take backpacks equipped with water bladders when hiking and biking. Some of the City of Phoenix parks and preserves stay open until 11 p.m. and some Maricopa County parks offer guided nighttime hikes and stargazing events throughout the year. Be sure to pack a flashlight or headlamp

  • Free Street Car: Ditch the parking hassle and ride the four-mile Tucson Sun Link Streetcar, with 23 stops connecting five districts– Downtown Tucson, Mercado San Agustín, Fourth Avenue, Main Gate Square and the University of Arizona– in central Tucson. The streetcar is located within walking distance of Tucson’s most iconic restaurants, museums, shops, entertainment venues and the historic Presidio District. Fares are currently free!

  • Life Happens in Tombstone: Many tourists think Tombstone is a movie set, but it is an actual town conducting daily business. It is legal to open carry firearms but check with individual businesses as to their gun carrying policies.

  • Beware of Flooding: July through September is monsoon season. Be cautious when crossing the many washes and strictly adhere to the “Do Not Cross When Flooded” signs.

Your route

Route map: Soaking Up Sun & Sights in Arizona
1Grand Canyon National Park2Flagstaff3Sedona4Phoenix5Tucson6Tombstone
1
Stop 1 1-2 day stay

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

The Grand Canyon is one of the most dramatic, erosion-formed canyons in the world. Spanning over one million acres and in two states, the arid canyon’s dramatic and jutting rock walls descend over 4000 feet for hundreds of miles. Prepare to be awed!  The winding Colorado River eroded the land over millions of years, leaving jaw-dropping areas for visitors to enjoy. The land is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let AdventureGenie help you plan your RV trip to Grand Canyon National Park. 

Top things to do

There is so much to do and see in the Grand Canyon, but here are some must-sees during your trip: 

1
Grand Canyon Visitor CenterThis is the perfect starting point for your Grand Canyon journey from the southern areas of the park. You'll be well prepared after a stop here with maps, brochures, tours, and information on things to do inside the park.
2
Enjoy a Guided TourGrand Canyon National Park offers many programs to help you appreciate and explore the canyon. Choose from day hikes, backpacking trips, bike rentals, bus tours, mule trips, and rafting. Having a knowledgeable guide can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of this truly grand area.
3
Grand Canyon SkywalkThis clear glass-bottomed walkway extends 70 feet into the canyon, where you can gaze down at the 4,000 feet drop below. The walkway is located on the west side of the Grand Canyon on land owned by the Hualapai Indian Tribe.
4
Desert View DriveThis 26-mile drive starts in Grand Canyon Village. You’ll follow the canyon rim east to Desert View, taking in some of the most dramatic views of the Grand Canyon. There are many lookout points along the way.
5
Rim TrailThis mostly paved and challenging 13-mile hike is located on the south side of the Grand Canyon. With multiple shuttle stops on the parallel Hermit Road, you can get beautiful views after just a few minutes of walking.
6
South Saibab Trail to Skeleton PointThis hike is slightly more difficult than the Rim Trail with 2,040 feet of elevation gain. You’ll get a lovely view of the Colorado River but pack extra water since there’s no water or restrooms on this 6-mile out-and-back trail.
7
South Kaibab, Phantom Ranch, and Bright Angel Trail— this strenuous 19.2-mile hike isn’t recommended for a day hike unless you are an experienced hiker with the gear you need. Many hikers go down through South Kaibab Trail and up through Bright Angel, enjoying the panoramic canyon views along the way. If you’re planning to stay the night at the bottom of the canyon, make sure to make reservations well in advance.

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ activities

HikingBikingRaftingClimbingMuseumsHistory ToursHorseback RidingMule RidingPaddlingPhotographyScenic Drives

RV campgrounds near Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

There are two campgrounds inside Grand Canyon National Park. The South Rim Trailer Village is the busiest, with lower elevation, warmer weather and amenities nearby (there are also RV length limits). The North Rim Campground is open from May to October, has fewer visitors, and no hookups. Both campgrounds book up months in advance, so you’ll want to make a reservation up to 6 months before you go.  There are several private campgrounds outside the park. Let AdventureGenie help you find a great campground to explore the Grand Canyon.

Next stop: Flagstaff
2
Stop 2 1-2 day stay

Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff has been called Arizona’s best-kept secret and is 80 miles from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This free-spirited mountain town has a vibrant downtown with great arts and culture scenes, historic buildings, local shops, delicious food, and lively bars. As the first International Dark Sky City, you can explore some of the best stargazing in the country after soaking up some outdoor adventure and the arts and culture scene. 

Top things to do

These are just a few highlights of what Flagstaff has to offer:

1
Lowell ObservatoryThis is the observatory where the planet Pluto was discovered. Join the thousands of visitors yearly to check out the telescope, workshops, and exhibits.
2
Museum of Northern ArizonaLearn the history of the land through Native Americans' past stories and future hopes, with artifacts from hundreds of years of history.
3
Downtown FlagstaffNo visit to Flagstaff is complete without visiting one of the many microbreweries, local eateries, and live music venues in this charming downtown district.
4
Snowbowl RoadThe Arizona Snowbowl ski area has a beautiful chair lift ride in the summer and fall, and an even more exhilarating ski or snowboard trip in the winter.
5
Fatman's Loop TrailThis 2.5-mile loop offers views of historic lava flow and Flagstaff as you wind through ancient Junipers. This trail is suitable for kids, dogs, and mountain biking.
6
Elden Lookout TrailThis 6.3-mile hike is best for experienced hikers with over 2,300 feet of elevation gain. The workout is worth it when you get to the top and catch a glimpse of sparkling green aspens, cheerful wildflowers, and eastern Flagstaff.

Flagstaff, AZ activities

HikingBikingClimbingMuseumsHistory ToursFishingBoatingPaddlingSkiingBreweries

RV campgrounds near Flagstaff, AZ

There are several RV-friendly campgrounds near Flagstaff – some with strict length requirements. If you don’t need hookups, there are also lots of dispersed camping spots in nearby Coconino National Forest. Let AdventureGenie help you find the perfect campground for you near Flagstaff.

Next stop: Sedona
3
Stop 3 1-2 day stay

Sedona, AZ

Sedona, AZ

Majestic outdoor scenery surrounds the vibrantly artsy and culture-rich Sedona. The land was historically a ceremonial meeting place for Native Americans, and, even today, is known as a spiritual mecca to enrich your mind and body. If that’s not your thing, there’s plenty to explore. Red Rock State Park is on the city's outskirts and offers many hiking and picnicking options, while the town itself has arts, food, drinks, and history for everyone.

Top things to do

As you can imagine, there’s so much to do in Sedona. Here are some highlights:

1
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts VillageThis is one of the best places to get a feel for Sedona's arts and culture scene. With five restaurants on-site, you can shop, check out art galleries, and enjoy festivities all day long.
2
Chapel of the Holy CrossThis historical chapel is built into the red rock buttes of a cliff with floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows overlooking the Verde Valley.
3
Verde ValleyExplore the wines of Arizona with wine tours from Sedona into the Verde Valley. There are tours that leave from Sedona every day, but if you’re looking for a more DIY tour, the heart of the Verde Valley is 25 miles from Sedona.
4
Red Rock State ParkThis 286-acre preserve is great for exploring the red sandstone canyons just outside of Sedona. There are plenty of outdoor pursuits.
5
Mescal Mountain TrailThis 6-mile hike is located in Cochino National Forest. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and landscape on this kid and dog-friendly trail. The hike is considered moderate for regular hikers and there is also a mountain biking path.

Sedona, AZ activities

HikingBikingClimbingMuseumsHistory ToursFishingBoatingPaddlingSkiing

RV campgrounds near Sedona, AZ

There are a number of public and private RV campgrounds in or near Sedona. The U.S. Forest Service Red Rock Ranger District has RV-friendly campsites and is 9 miles outside of town. AdventureGenie can help you find a good RV campsite near Sedona. 

Next stop: Phoenix
4
Stop 4 1-2 day stay

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix, AZ

The capital city of Arizona, Phoenix, is aptly called “The Valley of the Sun,” and, with 300 sunny days a year, this isn’t a misnomer. Phoenix is surrounded by the mountains of the Sonoran Desert and offers plenty of urban amenities as well as easy access to nature and outdoor pursuits. There are also many different hikes in the town since the area is full of state parks. You’ll love the golf courses, spas, dining, shopping, hiking trails, and multiple cultural centers and events within the city.

Top things to do

You could spend days enjoying Phoenix, but here are a few things you shouldn’t miss:

1
Desert Botanical GardensThis 140-acre preserve is surrounded by beautiful scenery and desert flora and fauna. There are also indoor art exhibits, guided tours, and a butterfly garden.
2
Heard MuseumDiscover the ancient artifacts of the American Southwest. This museum, founded in 1929, has over 40,000 pieces in its collection.
3
Wrigley MansionLocated on a hill overlooking the city, this mansion showcases the Spanish Colonial style architecture of the early 1930s and is a wonderful place to dine and take in views of the city.
4
Camelback MountainTowering over the city, this mountain (shaped like a camel’s hump) is hard to miss. If you’re up for some exercise, a challenging hike to the top offers wonderful views of Phoenix and Scottsdale. Otherwise, enjoy the views from the base.

Phoenix, AZ activities

HikingBikingShoppingGolfSpasHistory ToursMuseumsHorseback Riding

RV campgrounds near Phoenix, AZ

There are many public and private RV campgrounds in and around greater Phoenix. You can find public campsites near Phoenix in greater Maricopa County . Let AdventureGenie help you find a good RV campsite to explore Phoenix!

Next stop: Tucson
5
Stop 5 1-2 day stay

Tucson, AZ

Tucson, AZ

“The Soul of the Sonoran Desert,” Tucson – a UNESCO designated City of Gastronomy – has a lively downtown, centuries-old historical buildings, and numerous outdoor activities for everyone. You’ll have plenty of events to choose from in the second biggest city in Arizona, and with over 300 days of sunshine a year, you can take full advantage of the open-air museums, gardens, and surrounding landscape.

Top things to do

There’s no limit to what you can do in Tucson, but here are some of the highlights:

1
City of GastronomyAs a UNESCO certified city of food, Tucson is one of the best places to enjoy local ingredients, traditional recipes, and numerous food festivals and events with traditions that date back over 4000 years. The UNSECO distinction is given for the delicious restaurants, farmers markets, and festivals, and also for the traditional way food is produced.
2
Mission San Xavier del BacThis mission was established in 1692 and has the oldest intact European structure in Arizona. The church was built in 1793 and is the perfect place to step back in time and learn about the Hispanic, Native, and Anglo influences of the region.
3
Mount LemmonJust outside of Tucson, you’ll find the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains, with cooler temperatures, hiking, skiing, and rock-climbing activities.

Tucson, AZ activities

HikingBikingClimbingMuseumsHistory ToursGastronomyShoppingSkiingGolf

RV campgrounds near Tucson, AZ

There are many camping spots in and near Tucson. The Coronado National Forest and several county and state parks provide many public camping options. There are also many privately-owned campgrounds. Use AdventureGenie to help you find a great campground in Tucson!

Next stop: Tombstone
6
Stop 6 1-2 day stay

Tombstone, AZ

Tombstone, AZ

If you’re looking for a taste of the Wild West, Tombstone is must-see. With Tombstone’s history of mining, gun fights, and untimely deaths, you’ll understand why it was called “The Town Too Tough to Die.” The town includes many original and replica buildings from the Wild West era. Its most popular attraction is the re-enactment of the O.K. Corral gun fights as well as the ghosts that are said to frequent some of the buildings.

Top things to do

Get ready for a ride through the Wild West with these fun activities in Tombstone:

1
O.K. CorralWatch the re-enactment of the famous Tombstone gunfight and then explore the central historic streets of downtown Tombstone.
2
Bird Cage TheatreThis preserved 1881 theater still includes its original poker table. Many say that ghosts still haunt the place. While there are no longer shows, you can learn about the site with a self-guided tour or evening ghost tour.
3
Tombstone Brewing CompanyThis is one of the most popular breweries in Arizona. Try original flavors and traditional brews.
4
Good Enough Silver MineDiscover the silver mine that started it all. Tours of the mine include entry to the 1878 mine and learning all about what silver mining was like.
5
Kartchner CavernsThe striking caves located at the eastern base of the Whetstone Mountains (20 minutes from Tombstone) feature some of the longest straw stalactites and columns, as well as other stunning geological formations. You can take a guided tour of this delicate and beautiful cave.

Tombstone, AZ activities

HikingMuseumsHistory ToursShopping

RV campgrounds near Tombstone, AZ

Located 20 minutes northeast of Tombstone Kartchner Caverns State Park has hookups, water, and dump stations. There are also private campgrounds near Tombstone. Use AdventureGenie to find the perfect campground to enjoy Tombstone!

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