Explore the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most visited attractions in Arizona, and for good reason. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and containing so much history and beauty, it’s a must-do for every Arizona visitor and resident alike.

Scenic vista of the Grand Canyon at sunset

From L’Auberge to the Grand Canyon

Before you visit or after you’re settled in, spend time with the concierge at L’Auberge de Sedona. Our team can help you plan unforgettable experiences, as you decide how you want to see the Grand Canyon: hiking, biking, by air, by train, or on a private or group tour.

couple standing on the edge of a cliff at the grand canyon

Grand Canyon Tips & Recommendations

Learning about this wonder of the world doesn’t have to feel like a lesson. Take an engaging and informative tour or conduct your own research of the Grand Canyon. The history of the land, people, native plants and animals all come to life through an immersive journey.

While the Grand Canyon has been a part of our National Parks for 100 years, it’s still a vast area that requires caution, at times. And staying vigilant means more than watching where you step. Be sure to dress according to changing weather—the conditions at the top (South Rim) are quite different than at the bottom (Phantom Ranch), as it’s usually 20 degrees warmer. In the summer, Phantom Ranch will exceed 100 degrees.

Don’t forget to pack your camera, and make sure your smartphone is fully charged—you’ll want to capture every moment while exploring the Grand Canyon. And as you share your sensational shots on social media, be sure to tag us.

Routes to the Grand Canyon

How far is the Grand Canyon from Sedona? Depends on the route you take. We find most guests prefer making it a self-guided day adventure, allowing them to explore at their own pace.

– Take State Route 179 away from the hotel and get onto I-17. If you stay on 1-17, it becomes the main street of Flagstaff, and when you go under the railway line, the first traffic light is the left turn that becomes Hwy 180. Take 180 until Hwy 64, then 64 to the south entrance for the Grand Canyon.

 

– If you came in at the south entrance, you can drive yourself to the overlooks on the East Rim, and walk around the main area of the South Rim—where you will see the historic El Tovar Lodge, the Hopi House, Kolb Studio, and the Bright Angel trail that goes down into the Canyon. They offer free shuttles which run every 15 minutes and take you to the overlooks out to the west.

 

This route takes about two hours and fifteen minutes and is the most direct.

Take State Route 179 away from the hotel and get onto I-17 until you reach Flagstaff, then take I-40 East to 89 North. Proceed towards the eastern entrance of the Grand Canyon at the Desert View Watchtower along AZ-64 W.

 

Along the way you can stop and visit Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, the Wupatki National Monument, and the Historic Cameron Trading Post, specializing in Native American crafts since 1916.

 

Once you are there, it is easy to get around to the various overlooks and other interesting sights.