The Grand Canyon is a beautiful place to visit, but the beauty doesn’t end there. There are a lot of interesting things to see in the area. From Sedona’s beautiful landscapes to Flagstaff, these nearby places offer a wide range of natural beauty and cultural history. Here, we’ll show you how to plan your trip beyond the Grand Canyon’s rim to get the most out of it.
Itinerary
Day 1: Take a drive to Sedona and hike in the Sedona Red Rock State Park. In the afternoon, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Day 2: Arrive in Flagstaff and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, including a visit to Lowell Observatory.
Day 3: Drive to Marble Canyon and hike to the Navajo Bridge. In the afternoon, drive back to Flagstaff and catch your flight home.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff is a northern Arizona city. It’s famous for its observatories, such as Lowell Observatory, whose Discovery Channel Telescope identified a slew of exoplanets. Lowell Park, located near downtown, is a path-lined former municipal forest. The Museum of Northern Arizona, which exhibits Native American artefacts and art, is also located in the city.
Lowell Observatory is a Flagstaff, Arizona-based astronomy observatory. Percival Lowell founded it in 1894, making it one of the country’s oldest astronomical observatories. The observatory is most recognised for its role in Clyde Tombaugh’s discovery of Pluto in 1930.
For those interested in astronomy, Flagstaff is a fantastic spot to visit. Other astronomy-related attractions in Flagstaff include the Steward Observatory, a research facility run by the University of Arizona, and the Meteor Crater Museum, which is about 30 miles outside of town.
Activities at Flagstaff
Here are some activities available in Flagstaff:
- Learn about the history of astronomy and the discovery of Pluto at Lowell Observatory.
- Tour the Steward Observatory and learn about the research being conducted there.
- Learn about the world’s largest impact crater at the Meteor Crater Museum.
- Visit one of the many dark sky places in Flagstaff to gaze at the stars.
- Hike or ride your bike through the Coconino National Forest.
- Learn about the history and culture of the Southwest at the Museum of Northern Arizona.
- Take a walk or drive through downtown Flagstaff and enjoy the shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Sedona
Sedona is an Arizona town famous for its red rock canyons and buttes. Hiking, motorcycling, and rock climbing are popular visitor activities. Sedona Red Rock State Park is an excellent starting point for exploring the area. Red Rock State Park is a 286-acre (1.16 km2) state park of Arizona, United States, featuring a red sandstone canyon outside the city of Sedona. The preservation of the riparian ecosystem along Oak Creek is the primary goal of this day-use park.
The park is available all year and provides a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, picnics, and birdwatching. There are also a number of hiking paths that lead to picturesque vistas, such as the West Fork Trail, which provides panoramic views of the Sedona area. There are a variety of plant and animal species in the park, including saguaro cacti, ocotillo trees, and cottonwood trees. Deer, coyotes, bobcats, and a variety of birds can be found in the park.
Red Rock State Park is a popular tourist and local destination. The park is just minutes from Sedona and is an excellent site to take in the natural beauty of the area.
Trecks
West Fork Trail: This 2.4-mile loop trail is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the park. The path meanders through a verdant forest and alongside Oak Creek.
Bell Rock Path: The 0.8-mile Bell Rock Path Trail leads to the base of Bell Rock, one of Sedona’s most renowned rock formations.
Fay Canyon Trail: If you’re searching for a more difficult hike, try the Fay Canyon Trail. This 4.2-mile circle trail winds through a small canyon surrounded by towering red rocks.
Whatever your level of skill, there is a walk in Sedona Red Rock State Park for you. So put on your hiking boots and go discover the wonders of this magnificent place.
Marble Canyon
The Grand Canyon is approximately 129 miles (208 km) away from Marble Canyon. The journey takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes. Marble Canyon is the upper section of the Grand Canyon, and the two canyons are located in northern Arizona. Both canyons are fed by the Colorado River.
Marble Canyon is a popular whitewater rafting and hiking site. A variety of Native American ruins can also be found in the canyon. The Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of America’s most renowned tourist destinations. There are numerous hiking paths, overlooks, and camping in the canyon.
Things to do
Hiking and Backpacking: Marble Canyon has a variety of hiking trails for people of all experience levels. The Marble Canyon Rim Trail is a popular hike that offers breathtaking views of the canyon and the Colorado River. In addition, the location provides as a starting point for various backcountry trails leading to the nearby Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and the Grand Canyon.
Rafting and kayaking: The Colorado River flows through Marble Canyon, making it an ideal location for river-based activities. Many tour operators provide rafting and kayaking experiences that allow you to explore the canyon’s picturesque delights, traverse thrilling rapids, and marvel at the towering cliffs and rock formations.
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Colorado River, which is known for its diverse fish population. The river is home to species such as trout, bass, and catfish, making it a popular destination for anglers. Marble Canyon provides a tranquil and gorgeous backdrop for a day of fishing, whether you enjoy fly fishing or casting from the riverbanks.
Photography and Sightseeing
There are several options for photography and sightseeing at Marble Canyon. The towering red and orange sandstone walls, formed over millions of years, provide a spectacular backdrop for outstanding photographs. The changing light throughout the day creates mesmerizing shadows and highlights, providing photographers with limitless opportunities to capture one-of-a-kind photographs.
Viewing Wildlife: Desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, foxes, and a variety of bird species can all be found in Marble Canyon. Exploring the area gives you the opportunity to see and photograph these amazing species in their natural habitat. Keep a look out for wildlife observations when hiking or sailing along the river.
Camping & stargazing: Several Marble Canyon campgrounds allow you to immerse yourself in the majesty of the night sky. The lack of light pollution in this rural spot makes for ideal stargazing conditions. Camping under a starry sky with the sounds of the river echoing in the background is a peaceful and unique experience.
Marble Canyon is a geological wonder, displaying remarkable rock formations and layers that chronicle the tale of Earth’s past. Take your time admiring the beautiful patterns and colors of the cliffs, examining old fossils embedded in the rocks, and appreciating the canyon’s geological peculiarities.
Guided Tours and Interpretive Programs
If you want to understand more about Marble Canyon’s natural and cultural heritage, guided tours and interpretive programs are offered. Geological processes, Native American heritage, and the complex ecosystem that flourishes in this particular habitat can all be explained by knowledgeable guides.
Scenic Drives: Driving around the neighboring area provides wonderful scenic drives. The Navajo Bridge Interpretive Centre Loop on neighbouring Highway 89A offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the Navajo Bridge, which crosses the canyon. The trip provides multiple pullouts and vistas, allowing you to appreciate the splendour of Marble Canyon from various perspectives.
Outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers, and anybody looking for an immersive experience in one of nature’s most awe-inspiring masterpieces will all be drawn to Marble Canyon. It guarantees a fascinating trip for guests of all ages with its multitude of activities and natural attractions.
Viswanath Alikonda (Viswa) is a techie, passionate traveler, writer, and adventurer who believes that life is best experienced through the exploration of new places and cultures. With a deep love for adventure and a curiosity that knows no bounds, Viswa has embarked on journeys to various corners of the globe, from the New York to Bay Area.
His travel experiences have not only broadened his horizons but have also given him the opportunity to share stories, insights, and travel tips with a global audience. Viswa’s travel blogs aim to inspire fellow wanderers, offering a glimpse into the beauty of our world and providing practical advice for planning unforgettable adventures.