Looking for a 4 days in Arizona Itinerary? This is the detailed itinerary for you!
I will walk you in detail through 4 amazing days in Arizona, covering all of the essential traveling details!
Arizona is the place I have spent the most time in outside of my home state throughout my life.
There are so many amazing things to see and do! In 4 days, you get to experience a bit of each.
Prepare for four days of exploration, relaxation, and discovery in this magnificent Southwestern state!
Day 1: Sedona
Hiking
Begin your day bright and early with a Sedona hike. Sedona is so huge and has so many hiking trails that there is always something for everyone.
One of my favorite easy hiking trails is Yavapai Vista. This feels like more of a flat walk that leads you to panoramic red rock views.
Longer trails like Devil’s Trail require an early arrival to secure parking. Over the weekend during summer months, Devil’s Trail has closed the parking lots all together and requires taking a shuttle.
Check this site before you go for the most up to date parking lot closures to provide a seamless trip. I also recommend checking AllTrails for the most up to date trail conditions and any recent parking lot information.
Some of the most highly rated hikes in Sedona include:
- Boynton Canyon
- Devil’s Trail
- Cathedral Rock
Tour
There are tons of adventure tours in Sedona to experience the red rock region outside of viewpoints and hiking.
The most popular tours involve ATVing or taking an off-road jeep through the red rocks. I have never taken one of these tours in Sedona but would love to experience the region this way!
⭐Popular Sedona Tours
Red Rock Scenic Byway
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is a famous, beautiful drive in Sedona spanning approximately 7.5 miles.
This picturesque route, officially designated as State Route 179, offers stunning views of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations.
Popular stops along the way include Bell Rock Vista and Courthouse Butte, both perfect for photography and leisurely walks.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross, a unique architectural marvel built into the rocks, is also a must-see attraction on this journey.
⭐Popular Sedona Hotels
Day 2: Grand Canyon
South Rim
I recommend beginning your drive to the Grand Canyon early so you can maximize your entire day here. Like other items on this itinerary, you will not have time to hike the entire Grand Canyon if you are visiting for only one day.
There is a Visitor Center at the South Rim that can get your trip started on the right foot!
Consider hiking a portion of Angel’s Trail or South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Ahh Point.
West Rim
The West Rim of the Grand Canyon, managed by the Hualapai Tribe, is also beautiful.
One of the best things to do on this side of the park is walk the Skywalk, a glass bridge extending 70 feet over the canyon.
Visitors can also experience Native American culture through the Hualapai Ranch and cultural performances.
Scenic helicopter tours and rafting trips on the Colorado River offer adventurous ways to explore the canyon’s beauty.
Tip: If you want to hike the entire Grand Canyon, I recommend customizing this itinerary and spending two or three full days in the Grand Canyon with one full day in Sedona.
Day 3: Mogollon Rim
Rim Lakes Vista Overlook
There are amazing pull-out viewpoints shortly after you pass the visitors center when entering Mogollon Rim.
The Rim Lakes Vista is a notable one.
Willow Springs Lake
There are three beautiful Arizona lakes located at Mogollon Rim. Willow Springs Lake is the closest lake from Payson and from the Mogollon Rim visitors center.
Hiking
The Rim Lakes Vista Trail brings you to one of the best viewpoints in Mogollon Rim.
During my visit, I did not hike the entire trail. I just parked at the trailhead and checked out the incredible, sweeping views or the mountains.
Other popular hiking trails in Mogollon Rim include:
- Derrick Trail
- Woods Canyon Lake Loop
- Canyon Point Rim Trail
Bear Canyon Lake
Bear Canyon Lake is deeper into Mogollon Rim and offers a stunning oasis for water activities. It’s about a 10-minute walk down to the lake from the parking lot.
Camping Overnight
Camping at Mogollon Rim is free and provides an amazing way to experience the surrounding national forest.
Day 4: Phoenix and Scottsdale
Desert Botanic Garden
I recommend Desert Botanic Garden on any Phoenix or Scottsdale itinerary! The vibrant, desert garden is in full bloom throughout the year. It’s my favorite way to learn about all the plants around Arizona.
There are photo opportunities around every corner. I think it’s well worth the entrance fee and definitely a fun thing to do in Scottsdale!
⭐Popular Scottsdale Hotels
Papago Park
Papago Park is an easy hiking trail in Phoenix with beautiful rewards.
It is most famous for Hole In The Rock Trail, which is a short walk from the parking lot.
There are tons of other hiking options in the area if you are in the mood for something more challenging, like Camelback Mountain.
Read Next: Easy Hiking Trails in Phoenix
South Mountain Viewpoint
I think that South Mountain is one of the most gorgeous viewpoints in Phoenix! You can choose to hike it or drive all the way to the top.
During my girls’ trip, we drove to the top. This was convenient because we needed to conserve energy from our Joshua Tree trip the following day!
⭐Popular Scottsdale Tours
Culinary Dropout or OH SO
Culinary Dropout is a delicious restaurant spot in a fun atmosphere. There are various locations in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area.
Other fun patio restaurants to check out include OH SO or T. Cooks for finer dining.
Outrider Rooftop Lounge
Outrider Rooftop is an awesome viewpoint spot in Old Town Scottsdale. I love the aesthetic and ambiance!
They open around 11:00am so you can head there earlier in the day for coffee with a view or wait until sunset.
Conclusion
The best part of planning any itinerary is that you can customize it to your preferences!
I highly recommend determining which parts of this itinerary are right for you and which parts you want to swap out to make it all your own.
I recommend reading about the best day trips from Phoenix and the Best Things to Do in Northern Arizona to help your planning.
