Arizona’s Two Canyons Experience: Discover the Grand Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon from Sedona

When travelers picture Arizona, one natural wonder often comes to mind first: the Grand Canyon. Vast, iconic, and humbling in scale, it’s a destination that lives up to its reputation. But just two hours south of its rim lies another canyon—equally storied, dramatically beautiful, and deeply intertwined with Arizona’s history—yet often overlooked.

As 2026 begins, Hotel El Portal Sedona is excited to launch a new travel initiative: Arizona’s Two Canyons Experience, which invites visitors to explore both the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and the intimate beauty of historic Oak Creek Canyon—all from the comfort of one of Sedona’s most celebrated boutique hotels.

Sedona: A World-Famous Destination and the Perfect Canyon Basecamp

As travel trends continue to favor immersive, meaningful experiences over rushed itineraries, Sedona has emerged as a destination in its own right—not just a stop along the way. Known for its glowing red rock landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and restorative energy, Sedona offers travelers something increasingly rare: a sense of place that invites both exploration and reflection.

El Portal sits at the heart of it all. Built in the tradition of Arts & Crafts mission-style lodges, the hotel blends architectural authenticity with handcrafted elegance and deeply personalized service. Nationally recognized with honors including the coveted Michelin Key (2024 and 2025) and beloved by returning guests from around the world, El Portal is often described as one of the best boutique hotels in Arizona.

From here, guests can venture out to explore the state’s most legendary landscapes—then return each evening to exceptional dining, serene surroundings, and Sedona’s famously star-filled skies.

Oak Creek Canyon: Sedona’s Living, Breathing Canyon

Often called one of the most beautiful drives in America, Oak Creek Canyon winds north from Sedona toward Flagstaff, following the path of Oak Creek as it cuts through soaring canyon walls. Unlike the vast openness of the Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon feels lush, intimate, and alive with movement—flowing water, cottonwood trees, and seasonal color.

Historically significant and geologically dramatic, the canyon has long served as a passageway through northern Arizona. Today, it offers countless opportunities for hiking, photography, swimming at Slide Rock State Park, and quiet moments of connection with nature. Traveling through its iconic switchbacks is an experience in itself, especially in the early morning light or during the golden glow of fall.

For guests staying at El Portal, Oak Creek Canyon isn’t a destination you pass through—it’s part of the journey, setting the tone for deeper exploration beyond Sedona.

The Grand Canyon—Without the Rush

One of the hallmarks of El Portal’s Two Canyons Experience is highlighting just how accessible the Grand Canyon is from Sedona. Guests can enjoy a leisurely breakfast, depart for a scenic drive north through Oak Creek Canyon, and arrive at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with time to truly take it in.

Whether it’s a walk along the South Rim, a guided tour, or simply standing still and absorbing the immense scale of the landscape, the Grand Canyon has a way of reshaping perspective. And unlike staying at the canyon itself, returning to Sedona means ending the day in comfort—back to refined lodging, exceptional food, and evenings that invite relaxation rather than crowds.

More Than Canyons: Elevating the Entire Experience

While the Grand Canyon may be the main attraction for many visitors to Arizona, Sedona enriches the journey in countless ways. Guests of El Portal are perfectly positioned to explore:

  • An expanding culinary scene with nationally recognized dining and locally inspired flavors, starting at the iconic Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village—just steps away from El Portal!
  • Miles of hiking and biking trails, from gentle red rock paths to challenging high-desert climbs
  • Wellness experiences that reflect Sedona’s reputation as a place of renewal and balance
  • A thriving arts and culture community, including galleries, festivals, and historic sites

Together, these elements transform a bucket-list visit into a layered, restorative escape that will linger long after the trip ends.

Experience Arizona’s Canyons in 2026

Arizona’s landscapes are vast, but the most memorable journeys are often defined by contrast. With the Two Canyons Experience, visitors can explore two extraordinary canyons—one world-famous, one quietly profound—while staying rooted in comfort, culture, and timeless design.

As we step into 2026, now is the perfect time to make plans to explore Arizona’s iconic landscapes, with Sedona as your home base. Book your stay at El Portal today and get ready to make the Two Canyons Experience part of your next remarkable journey!