7-Days Self-Guided Arizona Driving Tour Bundle

Day 1 Saguaro National Park Tour

1. 1

   10 min

   This visitor center is a wealth of information about the west side of Saguaro National Park, the TMD. There are also good restrooms, a museum, activities, a gift shop, and a theatre.

2. 2

   Desert Discovery Nature Trail

   30 min

   An interpretive trail near the park entrance that is paved, flat, and easy for strollers or wheelchairs. The 0.4 mile loop may have flowers and birds, as well as reptiles.

3. 3

   Valley View Overlook Trail

   15 min

   A 0.8 mile trail that leads to an impressive overlook above a large expanse of virgin Sonoran desert, with mountains in the background.

4. 4

   30 min

   A placid picnic spot with vault toilets and nice desert views.

5. 5

   1 hour 30 min

   This trail offers a stunning route to reach Mt. Wassen, the highest point of the TMD. Along the way one can see saguaros and other desert plants, as well as possibly wildlife as well, reptiles, birds, and possibly mammals, like jackrabbits and javalinas, or even mountain lions.

6. 6

   35 min

   Stunning Hohokam culture petroglyphs with a backdrop of desert and mountains behind.

7. 7

   2 hours

   Nice 4 mile loop hike that summits Brown Mountain, a lower hill that's just outside Saguaro National Park.

8. 8

   Gates Pass Scenic Lookout

   15 min

   A stunning scenic overlook of vast desert, with parking and stone structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Day 2 Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway

1. 1

   5 min

   This lovely overlook gives a sweeping vista of the Sonoran desert plain, Tucson, and the mountains beyond.

2. 2

   Molino Canyon Vista

   5 min

   A pretty canyon that makes for a nice view, especially pretty when there’s water down in the creekbed.

3. 3

   Molino Basin Trailhead

   1 hour

   Hike down along an often-dry river and look for ancient grinding holes left by the Hohokam culture, used for turning acorns into flour.

4. 4

   Seven Cataracts

   5 min

   Take in great views of nearby Thimble Peak as well as view a rushing cascade of waterfalls on the opposite side of the ravine, though they are dry much of the year. Good spot to see wildlife, too.

5. 5

   Windy Point Vista

   30 min

   Wait for sunset or just marvel at the beauty of the landscape below you.

6. 6

   Hoodoo Vista

   5 min

   Hoodoos are strange, often otherworldly shapes caused by erosion of wind and rain. The drive has lots of them so they deserve their own pullout, don’t you think?

7. 7

   San Pedro Vista

   1 hour

   Here you can hike to Barnam Rock and the further Leopold Point, catching great views of the San Pedro valley below.

8. 8

   Palisades Visitor Center

   5 min

   Useful and informative visitor center with bathrooms.

9. 9

   Aspen Vista

   5 min

   This peaceful spot was recently ravaged by wildfires. You can view the mountains far across the valley amid charred trunks of trees.

10. 10

    5 min

    Find a picnic table and enjoy a relaxing bite amid tall pines, with chirping birds and views of the San Pedro valley far, far below.

11. 11

    Mt Lemmon Ski Valley

    1 hour

    Visit here if you've got some spare time (and some spare skis)!

12. 12

    1 hour

    What this tiny hamlet lacks in size, it makes up for in heart: Grab tasty fudge, enjoy a giant, freshly made cookie, have a sit-down dinner, or find a nice trail to hike. It’s all here in quiet Summerhaven.

13. 13

    3 hours

    Stop here to find a place to sit, eat, and enjoy nature.

14. 14

    Rose Canyon Lake

    30 min

    Get in some good views and some good camping here.

15. 15

    5 min

    This massive arch is surprisingly easy to miss as you zip up the highway, but it’s worth the brief stop, and certainly the biggest arch you’ll see on the tour, though there are a few small ones tucked here and there among the other hoodoos.

16. 16

    Geology Vista Point

    5 min

    This stop offers grand views of the valley and some interesting interpretive signs that detail how this vast area came to be.

17. 17

    30 min

    A fun hike for folks who want one last chance to get out of the car and onto a trail for a while.

18. 18

    Gordon Hirabayashi Campground

    5 min

    Get in some good camping! Open from October to April, and there are restrooms.

Day 3 Full-Day Grand Canyon South Rim Audio Driving Tour

1. 1

   Little Colorado River Overlook

   30 min

   View the Little Colorado River Overlook.

2. 2

   Tusayan Ruins and Museum

   30 min

   Archeological site and interpretive museum of ancient Puebloan village circa 1100 AD.

3. 3

   Lipan Point

   10 min

   At 7,360 feet above sea level, Lipan Point offers some of the most expansive and clear views of the entire canyon.

4. 4

   Navajo Point

   10 min

   Navajo Point offers a great view of Desert View Watchtower, as well as panoramic vistas to the west and a view north up the Colorado River.

5. 5

   Grand Canyon Desert View Watchtower

   30 min

   Explore this Mary Colter-designed structure. Also offers gift shop, grocery store and ice cream parlor services.

6. 6

   Lipan Point

   10 min

   Named for famed nature artist Thomas Moran, Moran Point is an excellent place to see the vibrant colors of the Grand Canyon Supergroup and basement rocks like Vishnu Shist.

7. 7

   Grandview Lookout Tower

   10 min

   Fire lookout tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936. It is approximately 10 miles east of the Tusayan Ranger District Office and houses an observation deck and informational signage.

8. 8

   Buggeln Picnic Area

   30 min

   Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shady ponderosa pine forest while stealing glances of the canyon through the trees.

9. 9

   30 min

   Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shady ponderosa pine forest while stealing glances of the canyon through the trees.

10. 10

    Duck on a Rock Viewpoint

    10 min

    Viewpoint along Desert View Drive that features a Kaibab limestone formation that has eroded into the shape of a duck.

11. 11

    Twin Point Overlook

    10 min

    Two quick pullovers for taking in more great canyon views.

12. 12

    South Kaibab Trail

    1 hour

    The trailhead located at Yaki Point that connects to the Bright Angel Trail before descending to the canyon floor.

13. 13

    Pipe Creek Vista

    10 min

    The first viewpoint on Desert View Drive.

14. 14

    Mather Point

    15 min

    Named for Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service, Mather Point is located a short walk from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and parking areas.

15. 15

    Yavapai Geology Museum

    30 min

    From Mather Point, walk less than a mile along the flat, paved Rim Trail to the Yavapai Geology Museum. Here you'll learn more about the geology of the Grand Canyon through interpretive panels and a topographical relief map of the entire canyon. The museum used to be the Yavapai Observation Station, so it offers some of the best panoramic views you'll see all day. Also has a gift shop on site.

16. 16

    Grand Canyon Village

    2 hours

    The Grand Canyon Village was the first spot at the South Rim to offer tourist accommodations. With over 120 years of history here, you can explore the historical buildings and Native artwork, shop for souvenirs and grab a bite to eat at iconic restaurants like Fred Harvey Burger Diner.

17. 17

    Verkamp's Visitor Center

    30 min

    A visitor center, curio shop, and family home that's been in the park for over a century.

18. 18

    Hopi House

    30 min

    Commissioned by the Fred Harvey Company in 1904, Mary Colter built this "Indian Arts Building" in the style of a 1,000 year-old Native American Pueblo village dwelling. These days it houses local Native American art and a gift shop.

19. 19

    El Tovar Hotel

    30 min

    The first luxury hotel built on the South Rim in 1905.

20. 20

    Bright Angel Lodge

    15 min

    Built in 1935 as a "moderately priced" alternative, the luxury El Tovar, Bright Angel Lodge offers historic rooms, cozy cabins, two restaurants, a gift shop, and instant access to the South Rim.

21. 21

    10 min

    Mary Colter designed the Lookout Studio in 1914 as a refuge for tourists and artists to sit, relax, and gaze out at the beauty of the canyon. Today, tourists can still do just that, but now there is an added bonus of a gift shop.

22. 22

    Kolb Studio

    15 min

    The original photography studio of Emery and Ellsworth Kolb is now an art gallery, bookstore and curio shop.

23. 23

    Grand Canyon Railway Depot

    10 min

    Before the time of automobiles, the trains were the lifeblood of the canyon, bringing in tourists and supplies. Check out the original log depot with signs and memorabilia to get a feel for the train depot's heyday.

24. 24

    Desert View Drive

    2 hours

    There are many surprising viewpoints and overlooks down the 26-mile Desert View Drive.

Day 4 Grand Canyon North Rim Tour

1. 1

   Bitter Springs

   30 min

   If you’re coming to the North Rim from Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Page, Arizona, or Sedona, you’ll start the audio tour in Bitter Springs, Arizona (just north of the Highway 89 N/Highway 89-A split. While you’re there, be sure to stop at the historical Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center for an up-close-and-personal look at the Colorado River!

2. 2

   Pipe Spring National Monument

   30 min

   The National Park Service's website(nps.gov/pisp) sums this unique national monument best: "The rich history of Pipe Spring and its flowing water comes alive as you explore the traditions of the Kaibab Paiute and the Mormon settlers through the museum, historic fort, cabins, and garden. Hike the Ridge Trail to enjoy geologic wonders, plants, and wildlife. Attend living history demonstrations and talks and be sure to visit with our amazing ranch animals!

3. 3

   Kanab

   30 min

   If you’re joining us from Zion or Bryce Canyon National Parks, Kanab, Utah is a great stopover as you make your way south to the North Rim! Right Kanab is home to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, the Red Pueblo Museum, Little Hollywood Land, and countless short day-hikes. Take some time to stretch your legs before the road trip ahead, and we’ll meet you in Fredonia.

4. 4

   Fredonia

   30 min

   We’ll be on Highway 89 A for about an hour. While you wind your way through the stunning Vermillion Cliffs and desert highway, our Shaka Guide will regale you with the fascinating history of the Native American tribes that came before us.

5. 5

   Jacob Lake Inn

   30 min

   The Jacob Lake Inn is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner in their dining room, and their on-site bakery is famous for its giant cookies.

6. 6

   Kaibab National Forest

   30 min

   Stop into the North Kaibab Visitor Center to check current trail and weather conditions and chat with the Kaibab National Forest rangers. It’s also a great place to gas up the car and stock up on hiking supplies. Don’t forget to grab some sunscreen!

7. 7

   Jacob Lake

   30 min

   Years ago, the US Forest Service used towers like the Jacob Lake Lookout to manually spot far-off forest fires. A USFS or park employee was responsible for manning the tower. Thanks to modern technology, these towers haven't been actively manned in years, but if you stop to check out this fascinating piece of history, you’ll be able to climb 80 feet to the top and get amazing pictures of the Kaibab National Forest from a pretty unique perspective!

8. 8

   North Rim Country Store

   15 min

   The Country Store is a great place to load up on supplies, snacks, and gas before going out to hit the trails.

9. 9

   15 min

   Get your America the Beautiful pass (or your $35 entry fee) ready! There shouldn’t be much of a line at the North Rim Entrance gate. If you’re planning on hiking while you’re here, be sure to get updated trail information and weather conditions from the friendly rangers here.

10. 10

    East Rim Viewpoint Trailhead

    15 min

    East Rim Viewpoint is an optional side trip that overlooks the Saddle Mountain Wilderness, Marble Canyon and the Navajo Nation. East Rim is just a short, 4-mile drive up Forest Road 611.

11. 11

    Point Imperial Road

    1 hour

    Point Imperial has the distinction of being the highest point on the North Rim. At 8,803 feet above sea level, you'll be able to see Boundary Ridge and its central peak Saddle Mountain to the North. The Nankoweap Trail runs across the lower ridge, and views of Mount Hayden, Hancock Butte and Alsap Butte are visible from the upper part of the ridge.

12. 12

    Cape Royal Road

    1 hour

    Some of the most spectacular overlooks at the North Rim are tucked away on this nine and a half mile paved road.

13. 13

    Vista Encantada Picnic Area

    15 min

    A quiet viewpoint along Cape Royal Drive, Vista Encantada is a picnic area that's blanketed in wildflowers and offers views of Nankoweap. The viewpoint of Vista Encantada looks out over the Walhalla Plateau. On clear days, youmay be able to see the Painted Desert in the east.

14. 14

    Roosevelt Point

    15 min

    Another viewpoint along Cape Royal Road. Roosevelt Point is accessed through a very short walk and has resting benches. Despite the high ridge, a fair amount of the scenery to the north is visible including the furthest section of the Grand Canyon, where the Colorado River forms an unbranched gorge just a mile or so across, cutting into the flat desert plain between the Vermilion and Echo Cliffs.

15. 15

    Cape Final Trail

    1 hour

    This is a 4-mile out and back trail leads to Cape Final. The trail is rated easy, which means it's relatively flat and shaded. The first part of the trail winds through the Ponderosa pine forest until you get to Cape Final Overlook, which provides expansive views of the North Rim. Many people say that this is the best overlook on the North Rim.

16. 16

    Walhalla Ruins

    15 min

    The Walhalla Ruins--or Walhalla Glades--was once the summer home of the Basketmakers during the Pueblo period. Here you'll be able to tour 10 rooms that have been left behind, and attend ranger-led talks and tours through the artifacts!

17. 17

    Cape Royal

    30 min

    This is the southernmost viewpoint at the North Rim, and it offers the most expansive views. In fact, you'll get an almost 270 degree view of the entire horizon. See if you can spot Angel's Window, a natural arch in the Kaibab limestone which frames a little section of the Colorado River.

18. 18

    Point Sublime

    1 hour

    Moderately challenging 32.5 mile out-and back hike

19. 19

    1 hour

    If you’re wondering why we’ve given you such a large timespan at the North Kaibab Trailhead, it’s because this one is a bit tricky. This is one of the most famous trails at both rims of the Canyon, because this is the one that connects them! The North Kaibab Trail itself descends to the Canyon floor, where it eventually connects to the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails to ascend out of the Canyon at the South Rim. Many adventurers prefer to camp at various locations near the Canyon floor. Beginner hikers or travelers without proper hiking gear should not attempt to hike this trail. So why are we including it here? Well, the North Kaibab Trail passes through every ecosystem from Canada to Mexico! Even if you’re not hiking the whole way down, it’s definitely worth a bit of exploration! Walk as far as you’re comfortable, take some great pictures, and give high fives to the Rim to Rim hikers as they ascend the Canyon!

20. 20

    North Rim Visitor Center

    30 min

    Plenty of parking here! The North Rim Visitor Center also offers educational programs, interactive exhibits both indoor and outdoor, a large gift shop, ranger information stations and those all-important restrooms, too!

21. 21

    Bright Angel Point

    1 hour

    This is the most visited viewpoint on the North Rim! Bright Angel Point can be accessed behind the Lodge on the Transept Trail. This is only a half-mile, paved path that leads to the Point, where you'll be treated to view of three peaks named for three Hindu deities: Deva Temple, Brahma Temple and Zoroaster Temple.

Day 5 Petrified National Park Tour

1. 1

   Route 66 Gifts & Souvenir Shop

   15 min

   Get in the Route 66 mindset with these two old-fashioned gift shops with local handiworks, petrified wood souvenirs, and tacky dinosaur statues greeting customers out front. Painted Desert Indian Center specializes in crafts from local artists while Stewart’s Petrified Wood shop specializes in petrified wood products.

2. 2

   Painted Desert Visitor Center

   15 min

   These flush toilets are the cleanest you'll find until the Rainbow Forest Museum on the other end of the park.

3. 3

   Tiponi Point

   15 min

   This overlook is your first glimpse of the Painted Desert coming in from the north, with the colorful hills below you and a vast horizon beyond facing the east. Any relevant entry fees/requirements: Tiponi Point is the first stop after the north entrance booth for Petrified Forest National Park.

4. 4

   30 min

   Stand nearly surrounded by the Painted Desert below from this overlook point. The easy Painted Desert Rim trail leaves from the overlook and takes you to the next overlook: Kachina Point. The hike is one mile, round trip. If you hike the trail, expect to spend a total of about 30 minutes here.

5. 5

   Kachina Point

   30 min

   The expanse of the Painted Desert is plainly viewable from the overlook, easily accessible behind the Painted Desert Inn via a short path from the parking lot.

6. 6

   Chinde Point

   15 min

   This lookout faces the Painted Desert to the north for an expansive, unobstructed view. A semi-circle of covered picnic tables is the only picnic area outside of the visitor centers.

7. 7

   Pintado Point

   15 min

   From this overlook on a clear day, you can see over 100 miles away including the San Francisco Peaks by Flagstaff, AZ.

8. 8

   Nizhoni Point

   15 min

   These three overlooks are close to each other and offer another expansive view of the Painted Desert, though you may find the previous lookouts more colorful.

9. 9

   Puerco Pueblo

   15 min

   This is a small, vault toilet by the parking lot.