Planning Your Trip to Sedona & a Grand Canyon Day Trip

A simple step-by-step guide to the perfect Northern Arizona getaway

Getting to Sedona

• Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
  • Most common and best option
  • Wide range of flights and rental cars
• Drive from Phoenix to Sedona
  • ~2 hours scenic drive
  • Beautiful red rock approach on Highway 179
• Alternative airports:
  • Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (50 miles north)
  • Harry Reid International Airport (Las Vegas – ~4 hour drive)

Where to Stay in Sedona

• Stay at El Portal Sedona Hotel
• Historic 1900s adobe-style boutique hotel
• Only 12 unique rooms — book early
• Walk to:
  • Oak Creek
  • Shops & galleries
  • Restaurants
• Central location = one of the best in Sedona

Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

• Visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
• Just steps from your room
• Features:
  • 40+ shops & galleries
  • Restaurants & wine tasting
  • Beautiful Spanish-style courtyards
• A must-see Sedona experience

Day Trip to the Grand Canyon (Easy & Worth It)

• Distance: ~100 miles from Sedona
• Perfect one-day trip

Suggested Plan:

• Leave Sedona by 8:00 AM
• Drive to the East Entrance (recommended)
• Explore scenic viewpoints along Desert View Drive
• Return to Sedona by dinner

Tips:

• Ask your hotel staff for the best route
• Bring water, snacks, and a camera
• Most visitors only need one full day

Best Sedona Hiking Trails (Top 10)

Sedona has 100+ trails — here are 10 favorites:

• Cathedral Rock (iconic views)
• Devil’s Bridge (largest natural arch)
• Bell Rock Pathway (easy & scenic)
• Airport Mesa Loop (sunset favorite)
• Soldier Pass Trail (Seven Sacred Pools & cave)
• Boynton Canyon (vortex energy site)
• West Fork Trail (shaded canyon hike)
• Fay Canyon (easy & family-friendly)
• Doe Mountain (flat-top panoramic views)
• Broken Arrow Trail (red rock adventure)

Take a Scenic Drive to Jerome & Cottonwood

• Drive 45 minutes west on Highway 89A

Stops:

• Jerome
  • Historic mining town
  • Shops, art galleries, incredible views
• Cottonwood
  • Great for lunch or dinner
  • Wine tasting rooms
  • Relaxed, local vibe

Dining & Travel Tips

• Sedona offers some of the best dining in Arizona
• Options for every budget
• Dress is casual everywhere

Important tips:

• Restaurants typically close early (8:00–8:30 PM)
• Make dinner reservations in advance
• Sedona lifestyle = early mornings, early evenings

Final Thought

• Sedona is not just a destination — it’s a place to slow down, recharge, and reconnect
• Combine it with a Grand Canyon day trip, and you have one of the most memorable experiences in the American Southwest

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!

Explore Arizona’s Iconic Canyons from Sedona

Arizona is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes—towering red rocks, winding canyons, and panoramic vistas that defy imagination. Among the state’s most famous destinations are the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon, along with other slot canyons carved into the desert sandstone. These awe-inspiring natural wonders attract travelers from across the globe—and when you stay at Hotel El Portal Sedona, you’ll be perfectly positioned to experience all of them while enjoying the peace, luxury, and personal service of a boutique Sedona retreat.

The Grand Canyon: A Journey into Immensity

As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon offers a dramatic showcase of geologic history, with colorful rock layers that stretch back nearly two billion years. Visiting the Canyon is a truly humbling experience, and more than five million people make the journey each year.

While lodging near the park can be limited and crowded, Sedona offers a serene alternative. Located just two hours from the South Rim, Sedona makes for an easy and scenic daytrip. From El Portal, you can enjoy a leisurely morning drive north through Oak Creek Canyon and Flagstaff, arriving at the Grand Canyon by mid-morning. Whether you choose to wander along the Rim Trail, explore the Visitor Center, or embark on a guided tour, your day will be filled with unforgettable views.

El Portal’s concierge service can help arrange premier experiences through our trusted partners, including private SUV tours, helicopter rides, and even philosophical excursions that explore the Canyon’s deeper meaning. After a day of adventure, returning to Sedona’s tranquility—and your cozy suite at El Portal—is the perfect way to unwind.

The Slot Canyons: Nature’s Sculpted Masterpieces

In contrast to the Grand Canyon’s vastness, slot canyons offer an intimate and otherworldly encounter with nature. Antelope Canyon, located near Page, Arizona (about three hours from Sedona), is the most famous of these winding sandstone corridors. Here, shafts of sunlight beam through narrow openings, creating shifting patterns of light and color on the sculpted rock walls. It’s a photographer’s dream and a bucket-list destination for many travelers.

In addition to Antelope Canyon, northern Arizona is home to several other stunning slot canyons:

• Waterhole Canyon – A less-crowded alternative to Antelope, offering a quieter but equally beautiful hike.
• Canyon X – Known for its dramatic rock formations and fewer crowds, making it a more intimate experience.
• Buckskin Gulch – One of the longest slot canyons in the world, perfect for adventurous hikers looking for a challenging trek.

All visits to Antelope Canyon and many other slot canyons require guided tours, as they are located on Navajo Nation land. The El Portal concierge team can help you plan and book the right experience for your interests—whether that’s a short, family-friendly walk or a more adventurous hike.

Why Stay in Sedona?

By choosing Sedona as your home base, you can easily access both the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and the mystique of Arizona’s slot canyons while also enjoying everything Sedona itself has to offer. Imagine beginning your day with a scenic drive to one of these world-class natural wonders, then returning in the evening to Sedona’s red rock vistas, local dining, and the comfort of El Portal.

At Hotel El Portal Sedona, every stay is designed around you. Our pet-friendly luxury suites, warm Southwestern charm, and personalized concierge services ensure that your Arizona adventure is as seamless as it is unforgettable.

Plan Your Adventure with El Portal

Whether your bucket list includes standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon or stepping into the glowing corridors of Antelope Canyon, El Portal is here to make it happen. From booking tours to curating itineraries, we’ll help you experience Arizona’s most extraordinary natural wonders with ease. Call us today at 800-313-0017 to begin planning your adventure!

Visit the Grand Canyon from Sedona: A Perfect Daytrip from El Portal

As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon offers a stunning showcase of nature’s power and beauty. With its immense scale, intricate rock formations, and nearly two billion years of geological history, it draws over five million visitors each year. However, staying overnight near Grand Canyon National Park can be challenging, with limited accommodations and often-crowded conditions. Fortunately, Sedona, Arizona provides an ideal alternative as a base for exploring this awe-inspiring landmark—and El Portal offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and personalized service for your adventure.

Why Stay in Sedona?

Located just two hours from the South Rim, staying in Sedona will allow you to experience the Grand Canyon without the congestion often found closer to the park. Sedona’s central location means you can enjoy a scenic daytrip to the Canyon, while retreating to the serene beauty of Sedona’s red rocks by evening. El Portal Sedona Hotel elevates this experience with luxurious accommodations, a pet-friendly atmosphere, and personalized concierge services to make planning your visit to the Grand Canyon and other nearby attractions as simple as possible.

Planning Your Grand Canyon Daytrip

Carefully planning your daytrip will ensure that you’ll be able to fully enjoy the majesty of the Grand Canyon. To make the most of your journey, we recommend starting your day by leaving Sedona around 8 a.m. This will allow you to enjoy adequate time at the Canyon before returning to Sedona for dinner at one of our many wonderful local restaurants.

To reach the Grand Canyon from Sedona, you’ll first travel north along the scenic State Route 89A to Flagstaff, a charming mountain town that serves as a great stop for lunch or coffee. If you have time for a short detour, you may also want to visit Sunset Crater National Monument, a cinder cone within the San Francisco Volcanic Field just north of Flagstaff. Maintained by the National Park Service in close conjunction with nearby Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater features volcanic landscapes and trails—some of which are pet-friendly—that showcase the dramatic geological history of northern Arizona.

Explore the South Rim

Arriving at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim by mid-morning will allow you plenty of time to take in the sights. Start at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, where you can learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife and browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs. Then, walk along the Rim Trail for breathtaking views at Mather Point or Yavapai Point. If you’ll be visiting with your four-legged companion, keep in mind that leashed pets are allowed on trails above the rim and throughout developed areas of the park.

If you’re interested in a guided tour of the Grand Canyon, El Portal is pleased to partner with a variety of premier tour companies offering a range of experiences. For instance, our partners include:

• Sedona Philosophy Tours. Experience the magnificence of the Grand Canyon while delving into the philosophical perspectives and insights it has inspired throughout history. Unique journeys from Sedona Philosophy Tours will transport you along the South Rim in the comfort of either a Tesla Model Y (for groups of 2-3) or an SUV (for groups of 4-5), making stops at the most breathtaking viewpoints, as your friendly and knowledgeable guide explains the geological and cultural history and facilitates discussions about the relationship between humanity and nature.
• First Class Charter & Tours. This small, private group tour company specializes in scenic tours via a luxury SUV and/or by helicopter. With their 8-10-hour excursion from Sedona, you will be picked up at El Portal and driven through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon and the ponderosa pine forests of Flagstaff before arriving at the South Rim. There, your expert guide will share the history and geology of the area as you enjoy the awe-inspiring views. This excursion includes lunch at the historic El Tovar Lodge, as well as the option to add hiking and/or a scenic helicopter tour.
• Great Venture Tours. This company provides a variety of Grand Canyon experiences, including a full-day luxury coach tour with pickup in Sedona, Colorado River rafting tours that range from serene to extreme, and a Grand Canyon Sunset Tour with a gourmet dinner at the Bright Angel Lodge.

Return to the Serenity of Sedona

After a day of exploring the Grand Canyon, there’s nothing better than returning to the tranquility of Sedona and El Portal. Relax in our enchanting courtyard with your favorite beverage, share stories of your adventure, and enjoy the comfort of our thoughtfully designed, pet-friendly suites.

Through our personalized concierge services, the El Portal team is here to help you plan a visit to the Grand Canyon and other nearby attractions. From booking tours to recommending can’t-miss sights and activities, we can build an itinerary tailored to your schedule and interests. Call us today at 800-313-0017 to plan your stay!