My ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:

Day 1: Yucca Valley
Day 2: Joshua Tree to Sedona
Day 3: Sedona to The Grand Canyon South Rim
Day 4: Grand Canyon to Valley of fire

DAY 1: YuCCA VALLEY

Start your Journey in the California desert. Explore the beauty of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley.

What to do:

Afternoon: Are you excited to get started! We arrived early afternoon and stopped for lunch in the adorable little town of Yucca Valley. We ate at Las Palmas Mexican. Next Visit the cactusmart  which is litterally 2 minutes away and walk through the cactatorium. Before checking into your unique Airbnb / Hotel as you know Yucca Valley & Palm springs are famous for stop by the iconic Pioneer Town. 

Where to stay:

• America’s Best Value Inn 29 Palms – This hotel is WILD! Seriously look through the photos to check out the themed suites! 
• THIS Airbnb. My family seriously had the best time here! Awesome secluded location. Lots of wildlife, a hot tub and game room! 

DAY 2: JOSHUA TREE TO SEDONA

WHAT TO DO:

Head out on the earlier side for the 5-hour drive to Sedona – drive straight to the Devils Bridge Trail, then head into town for dinner and a rest. You Cannot miss this hike people! It was one of the best ones I have EVER experienced! 

WHERE TO STAY:

• Southwest Sedona Inn: Doing more research I wish we would have stayed here, a super-cute little lodge with a pool, hot tub, and cute room decor. From $150/Night
• Best Western Sedona Plus: This is is where we stayed. It was in the perfect location right in the heart of downtown Sedona!
  

DAY 3: SEDONA TO THE GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM

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WHAT TO DO:

On the way out .. If you are traveling in the summer months wake up early and hit Slide Rock Park. This is a very popular place so get up early to ensure you have a place to park.

Now for the drive up to the Grand Canyon South Rim, and first stop at the Visitor’s center for the first viewpoint. Even from the railing, the views into the canyon are truly breathtaking. These were a few of my favorite view points

1. Mohave Point

2. Hopi Point
3. Yavapai Point
4. Mather Point

Where we stayed:

Now… This is by far the BEST place we stayed during our entire southwest trip and its a must.

Under Canvas – Grand Canyon. This place is about 30 minute drive from the south rim of Grand Canyon entrance. Its defenitly in a secluded area. The cabins are perfect for giving you that rugged feeling with the necessities. They have different cabin types available  pending on what you are looking for. This was definetly the most pricey place we stayed close to $350 per night but it was worth every penny. I love the community ourdoor area with firepits, complmentry smores and music. This is a place to put on the bucket list.

DAY 4: GRAND CANYON TO Valley of fire

Now Drive 2 and a half hours, cross into Nevada, and go straight to Valley of Fire State Park. This park was the highlight of my road trip. This place is photographers haven!! The bright red rocks, wild life and hiking trails are something you will not want to miss. I would suggest a sunset or sunrise trip to valley of fire as the park gets very very hot.

We ended up staying in Las Vegas as the drive home would have been about 8 hours to the SF bay area. Here are some more lodging suggestions:

West Gate Resort is about 45 minutes from the Valley of fire entrance

Also any hotel on the Vegas strip is about 40-50 minutes away. 

We hope you enjoy!!

XOXO,

The Pea Crew