Day 1
Phoenix
Fly to Phoenix-Mesa, pick up your hire car and drive to your chosen hotel.
Overnight: Greentree Inn & Suites Phoenix Sky Harbor or similar
Day 2
Phoenix – Prescott (100 miles)
Drive up towards Prescott to explore the historic Whiskey Row, known for its lively bars and saloons. Hike the picturesque trails of Prescott National Forest, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife. Visit the Sharlot Hall Museum to learn about Arizona's history. Enjoy boating, fishing, and kayaking at the beautiful Watson Lake. Stroll through the charming downtown area, featuring unique shops, art galleries, and delightful dining options.
Overnight: Residence Inn Prescott or similar
Day 3
Prescott – Flagstaff (96 miles)
Today it’s time to hit the road and head north through Arizona to the fun city of Flagstaff. En route you there are plenty of places to stop to admire the view, have refreshments break and stretch your legs. A couple of suggestions include Frontier Town and Pioneer Arizona – two living museums featuring costumed actors, and the Black Canyon Heritage Park. Arrive in Flagstaff in its amazing location surrounded by mountains, desert and ponderosa pine forests, and check into your hotel.
Overnight: Little America Hotel Flagstaff or similar
Day 4 - 5
Flagstaff – Grand Canyon (79 miles)
A day to treasure, visiting the breath-taking Grand Canyon. It’s about an hour and a half drive to Grand Canyon Visitor Centre, but if it’s the summer months then we advise you to have an early start to miss the crowds. Park up your car and take the short walk to Mather Point for your very first view of Grand Canyon, and then from Mather Point, continue walking by turning either east of west along the Canyon Rim Trail. Take plenty of water with you and prepare to be awestruck! Or how about staying at the Grand Canyon Railway hotel in Williams and get the scenic train up?
Overnight: Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel or similar
Day 6
Grand Canyon – Sedona (115 miles)
A day to enjoy the attractions of Sedona. One of the iconic sights is Cathedral Rock, and you’ll find a few great viewpoints to get some great images for your photo album. Eating and drinking is a way of life in Sedona, and you'll find any number of wine rooms and craft breweries where you can sample the local beverages and produce. To walk this off you might want to stroll Sedona's numerous art galleries as you journey along Red Rock Scenic Byway from bottom to top. You'll find local photography, sculptures, paintings along the way. Or for those who prefer a more relaxing pace, a trolley tour is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. This 55-minute ride will take you on a leisurely jaunt through town so you can get your bearings and learn more about Sedona, photo stops included. Our final suggestion is to spend an hour or so discovering the past at Sedona Heritage Museum, with exhibits on its pioneering and movie-magic past.
Overnight: Sky Rock Sedona Hotel or similar
Day 7 - 8
Sedona – Scottsdale (125 miles)
The heart of Scottsdale is its Old Town, made up of nine walkable neighbourhoods combining Old West charm with urban chic. It is made up of a unique collection of shops, restaurants and art galleries, alongside well as public art installations, world-class museums and historic sites from the late 1880s.
You might also want to pick up one of the many trails to explore the Sonoran Desert – there are 230 miles of trails through Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, so pick your route and discover the iconic Saguaro cacti that are hundreds of years old, stunning mountain and valley views, plus flora and fauna of this fascinating region. Scottsdale is also a haven for foodies, with quirky things for you to sample including a prickly pear margarita or a cactus taco. There are watering holes and eateries to suit all palates and budgets, ranging from cool cocktails to sports bars and hipster cafes to relaxed restaurants, where you can unwind after a day exploring.
Overnight: Doubletree Resort By Hilton Hotel Paradise Valley-Scottsdale or similar
Day 9 - 10
Scottsdale – Tucson (108 miles)
Head towards Tucson where you can choose your stay of ranches!
Home of the White Stallion Ranch, a family-owned guest ranch offering an authentic Western experience. Your say will include horse riding, hiking, and rock climbing. The ranch features comfortable accommodations, a heated pool, and delicious home-cooked meals. Activities include rodeos, Western entertainment, and star-gazing. Perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Rancho De La Osa, based in Sasabe, you will be transporteed to a time of legendary western figures. Being close to the US-Mexican border, its influence obvious with its classic western decor throughout the property. Delve into its ample acitivites on site with horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, archery and guided off road tours. Take a dip in the outside heated pool to cool off after a long day of fun! During your time, you will have hearty southwest style meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
We've included two nights at the here, but feel free to extend your stay and get the most of your ranching experience!
Day 11
Fly home from either Phoenix international airport or Tucson international airport.
