Arizona & Utah Road Trip: Chasing Sunsets & Slot Canyons

We landed in Phoenix and immediately hit the road, heading north toward one of the most remote and breathtaking corners of the Grand Canyon: the North Rim. Along the way, we passed the quirky Bumblebee Ghost Town and crossed the iconic Navajo Bridge, where the Colorado River cuts dramatically through marble canyon. We arrived just in time for sunset at the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge—with cocktails in hand, watching the sky light up over the canyon was the perfect welcome to the Southwest.

Our day began with a two-hour horseback ride arranged by the lodge, giving us a peaceful, up-close experience with the rugged beauty of the North Rim. Afterward, we spent the day exploring scenic viewpoints and visiting the North Rim Visitor Center, each stop revealing a new perspective of the canyon’s immense scale. We wrapped up the day by soaking in another spectacular sunset back at the lodge.

We drove north toward Page, Arizona, with a fun stop at a dinosaur museum along the way. From there, we hiked to the whimsical Toadstools in Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument—otherworldly rock formations that felt straight out of a storybook. That evening, we checked into Lake Powell Resort and Marina, settling in for a relaxing night overlooking the shimmering water.

This was the highlight of the trip. We toured Antelope Canyon with Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours, whose knowledgeable and passionate guides brought the slot canyon to life while sharing the cultural and geological significance of this sacred land. Watching the sunlight dance through the narrow sandstone walls was truly unforgettable. That evening, we boarded a cocktail cruise on Lake Powell, enjoying stunning views and a peaceful sunset from the water—pure magic.

Next stop: Sedona. We arrived at one of my favorite resorts in the world, Enchantment Resort, tucked among Sedona’s iconic red rock formations. The setting alone feels magical, and dinner at the resort’s incredible restaurant made for a perfect first night in this desert oasis.

A full spa day at Enchantment was exactly what we needed. Massages, facials, and plenty of time soaking in the beauty of the property made for a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating day. It was the perfect way to slow down and savor the final stretch of our trip.

All good things must come to an end. We made the scenic drive back to Phoenix for our flight home to Nashville, already reminiscing about the landscapes, adventures, and unforgettable moments we experienced along the way.