Travelogue | The Grand Canyon

The amazing thing about The Grand Canyon is that it really is grand in every sense of the word.  It’s the kind of take your breath away grand that you won’t soon forget.  It is so much more than a photograph could ever depict, an emotion we all felt deeply from the first glance at the vast magical wonder.

Caution: this post contains many many photos.

We began our Arizona family adventure in Scottsdale, AZ.  It was Spring Break so we spent the first 2 days resting and playing at the Scottsdale Kierland which was exactly what we all needed to get on vacation mode quickly. The kids had a blast in their pools and Flowrider.

From Scottsdale we drove north to the Grand Canyon.  We were amazed at how quickly the geography changes once you leave the sprawling Phoenix area.  The cactus end, the concrete turns to red rock and you quickly realize how diverse the desert really can be.  On our drive north, we stopped in the Verde Valley to stretch our legs and check out Montezuma Castle.  The Native American caves are nestled into a limestone cliffside.  There is a short self-guided trail we walked to learn more.

From here we continued on to the Grand Canyon.  When we reached the park, none of us could wait to make the walk out to catch our first glimpse.  My husband and I both have been before as teens, but it has been quite a while.  It’s also so much fun to take your kids to see one of the seven wonders of the world.  {Insert super cool mom moment.}  We took pictures, let out grand sighs, were left speechless and mesmerized.  If you are like us, we get really excited by the power of nature.  Not only am I continually in awe of what has been created here on Earth over time, but how I feel being amongst natural beauty.  We are only one minuscule part of this big picture here, helps put my worries in perspective.

The Grand Canyon is easily accessed by all ages and abilities.  We spent our first day up on the South Rim. (North Rim is closed until May 1st)  The paths are well paved, vistas all around, park rangers giving talks, happy visitors to take photos, gift shops, nature center, markets and more.  The shuttle service is really helpful and advised.  We stayed just outside of the park (about 5miles from the rim).  We had been a little disappointed that we missed the boat on making reservations in time to book one of the rooms or cabins at the El Tovar Lodge or The Bright Angel, but it turned out just fine this way too.  Lesson learned, book early, earlier than you think especially for a family of 5!  The Grand Hotel was just what we needed and was very close to the park entrance for a good clean room, a restaurant and a good price.  We had dinner at the Bright Angel Lodge in the Arizona Room.  Lots of good options for everyone and fantastic views of the canyon while you eat.  There are a few shops in old artists studios and even an ice cream shop.  All was right in the world!  The next day we got up early and took the shuttle towards the South Kaibab Trailhead.  This is a pretty steep trail with loose dirt and gravel and while it does not have much shade, it has unbeatable views on your quick descent into the canyon.  My kids were big troopers and love to hike which helps.  Definitely allow lots of time, bring water for everyone and pack a lunch.

As the sun was setting I snapped a few more shots of the amazing canyon in all it’s warm red glory.  Feeling very fortunate to have been able to take my family here and share with them the true beauty of the world.  I passed by this sign hanging on one of the little studios perched out over the canyon.  It read as I felt;  Blessed by this wondrous beauty.  Good Night Grand Canyon.

Next we said good-bye to The Grand Canyon and made our way south to Sedona.  Wow. Just Wow.  Sedona was every bit as stunning as every single photograph I’ve ever seen of that insane red rock country.  We took hwy 89 south through Oak Creek Canyon.  Impressive is the best word for this scenic drive.  The canyons, the rock formations and the trees made for one remarkable drive.  We stopped at Slide Rock State Park for some fun in the canyon and sliding on rocks into the chilly creek waters.  One of those fantastic afternoons when the kids are asking ‘are we there yet?’ and then, BAM, mom pulls this one out of her bag.  {If you don’t have kids 10 and up, you won’t understand the growing need to occasionally be considered cool.}  Slide Rock will not disappoint you.

After an afternoon playing here, we continued on to our hotel in Sedona.  We stayed at The Enchantment Resort. It is one place we have heard about for years and feel fortunate to be able to finally experience this beautiful place through the looking glass of the Enchantment.  It is located within Boynton Canyon.  A breathtakingly beautiful part of Sedona.  We were greeted by gracious and helpful employees who showed us around and presented us with our lovely accommodations.  From each and every angle a view was to be seen, one as sensational as the next. We swam and hiked together.  The girls had a morning at the Camp Coyote while my husband and I took a few minutes to exercise and relax poolside at the Mii Amo spa.  My son played on their putting course and played tennis safely navigating himself at the resort on his own.  {getting so grown-up}

I can’t recommend a trip to The Grand Canyon enough.  We have already started plotting our return.  We have only just begun to explore this part of the west.  Next time we want to see it from the bottom of the canyon. Sedona will forever hold a special place in our hearts.  The red rock is one of the most striking and impressive landscapes I’ve ever seen.  Traveller at heart.