The Grand Canyon is a nice leisurely day trip from Sedona. Leave El Portal Sedona by 9:00A.M and you’ll be back by 6:00 P.M.

Your first stop is the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. This  National Monument is centered around Sunset Crater; a cinder cone that is part of the San Francisco Volcanic Field.  It and the Wupatki National Monument are maintained by the National Park Service . In the late 1920s, a Hollywood film company tried to detonate large quantities of explosives inside Sunset Crater to simulate a volcanic eruption. Public outcry over this plan led in part to the proclamation of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument by President Herbert Hoover in 1930.

Next stop, is Cameron Trading Post. A visit to Cameron is more than just a routine stop on your tour.  It is a cultural experience; an opportunity to learn about Navajo culture first-hand through their art.  The Cameron Trading Post sells handcrafted jewelry of silver and turquoise, colorful handmade rugs, as well as pottery, baskets and paintings from many tribes throughout the Southwest.  In the gallery, you’ll find one of Northern Arizona’s best collections of Native made crafts.  Cameron Trading Post also has a hotel, convenience store, gas station, and a restaurant.

From the Trading Post to the Grand Canyon, east entrance. There are many scenic overlooks accessible by car that provide spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. Desert View Drive (Highway 64) follows the canyon rim for 26 miles east of Grand Canyon Village to Desert View, which is the east entrance to the park. Desert View Drive is open to private vehicles throughout the year. Hermit Road follows the rim for 7 miles west from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest. Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles from March through November. The park runs a free shuttle bus to provide transportation to many of the canyon overlooks.

After you’ve taken in all the splendor of the Grand Canyon, it’s time to head back to El Portal Luxury Inn -and in time for dinner! If driving is not your thing, let us know – we’d be happy to book you a train trip, a Custom Grand Canyon trip or a personal guide to go with you. At El Portal we are your Grand Canyon specialists!

El Portal Luxury Inn is conveniently located in the heart of Sedona; close to Tlaquepaque shopping village, with great restaurants, art galleries and fun shopping. We have twelve guest suites, a beautiful courtyard, an inviting lobby and delicious breakfasts. We are your pet friendly bed and breakfast in Sedona too! Call 1-800-313-0017 for your “Day Trip to the Grand Canyon.”  Visit us online for daily internet specials!