Travel experts predict that 2022 will be a road trip renaissance. Many turned to road trips in the early days of the pandemic to practice socially distanced travel.

Even as restrictions ease, road trips will continue as people take their summer vacations by car. Epic road trips offer the chance to see more of a destination and are often an economical option.

The United States is full of road trip routes, from the California coast to South Carolina. Consider traveling from Scottsdale, Arizona, to Sedona, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon National Park for your next road trip. Arizona is full of things to do for spring breakers, family vacationers and adventure-seekers alike. Hit the road and enjoy beautiful desert landscapes and picture-perfect weather with this five-day Arizona road trip itinerary.

Day One – Scottsdale

 

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and head to nearby Scottsdale for a day packed with outdoor adventures.

• Hike Pinnacle Peak Park for a view of Scottsdale. Camelback Mountain is a strenuous hike if you’re up for a challenge, but the views are worth the journey.
• Explore Arizona’s waterways, and rent a paddleboard or kayak.
• Golfers rejoice! There are plenty of golf courses to practice your putt. Try Topgolf Scottsdale for a fun twist on the classic game.
• After a long day, stay at Scottsdale Villa Mirage, a Hilton Vacation Club, or Scottsdale Links Resort, a Hilton Vacation Club, for an oasis escape, complete with sparkling blue pools.

Day Two – Scottsdale

 

After spending a day in the sun, take it easy by exploring Scottsdale proper.

• Tour Old Town Scottsdale for souvenir shopping and historical sites, such as the Old Adobe Mission.
• Dine out at local favorites, like Diego Pops, Cornish Pasty Co and Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor.
• Prepare a picnic, and head to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The whole crew will enjoy train rides on replica engines and Wild-West-themed playgrounds.
• Enjoy Scottsdale’s art scene. Highlights include public art installations, such as One-Eyed Jack and Copper Falls.

Day Three – Sedona

 

After two days in Scottsdale, head to Sedona, just a two-hour drive north, for even more outdoor adventures.

• On the drive to Sedona, stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument, a prehistoric cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people.
• See some of Sedona’s iconic rock formations and hike to Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge.
• Visit Slide Rock State Park, and swim in Oak Creek Canyon to stay cool.
• If you’re hitting Sedona during the summer, consider waiting until dark for outdoor activities. You’ll avoid the daytime heat and have unparalleled views of the stars.
• When you’re ready to retire for the day, take your pick between Sedona Summit, a Hilton Vacation Club, and Ridge on Sedona, a Hilton Vacation Club, for quick access to Sedona.

Day Four – Sedona

 

While you could spend days in Red Rock Country, Sedona is full of plenty of things to do and see.

• Don’t explore on an empty stomach, and stop by Red Rock Cafe for breakfast all day.
• Shutterbugs will find inspiration throughout Red Rock Country. Check out these seven scenic spots in Sedona for stunning vacation photos.
• Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village for art galleries, artisan crafts shops and restaurants.
• Immerse yourself in the energy of Sedona’s vortexes at Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

Day Five – Grand Canyon National Park 

 

What’s an Arizona road trip without stopping at the Grand Canyon National Park? Finish your vacation with these sights for an unforgettable road trip.

• On the way, stop at the Wupatki National Monument, just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. Walk around the pueblo ruins of Wupatki, one of the largest ancient Native American sites in Arizona.
• Start at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, and check out the Visitor Center to learn about the history of this geological wonder.
• Hike the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point for spectacular views of the Grand Canyon.
• While driving to the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, stop your car at the Historic Navajo Bridge. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may even spot California condors circling the skies.
• Eat at the Desert View Trading Post for lunch, and check out the Desert View Watchtower for another incredible view.

Read “Level-Up Your Road Trip and Stay With Hilton Grand Vacations” for how one Owner uses her Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare to take epic road trips.