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16 Apr 2025
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Road Trip From Phoenix to Salt Lake City

Southwest Scenic Drive Itinerary Overview

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from the bustling city of Phoenix to the serene landscapes of Salt Lake City, traversing some of the most iconic and picturesque destinations in the southwest United States. Start your journey in Phoenix, where the fusion of culture, history, and natural beauty sets the stage for an exciting adventure.

Your first stop is the charming city of Flagstaff, nestled in the shadow of the majestic San Francisco Peaks. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and explore the vibrant arts community before heading to one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the Grand Canyon National Park. Here, you can hike, photograph, or simply revel in the immense beauty of the canyon's towering walls and the Colorado River below.

Continue your journey to the enchanting town of Page, home to the mesmerizing Antelope Canyon and the dramatic curves of Horseshoe Bend. Capture the beauty of these geological wonders before making your way to the iconic Monument Valley. With its striking sandstone formations, this area presents a quintessential image of the American West.

Next, venture into the adventurous haven of Moab, a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. With easy access to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab offers a playground for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the dramatic landscapes shaped by time and nature.

Your journey concludes in Salt Lake City, a city rich with history and culture, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Relish in the diverse attractions, from visiting the historic Temple Square to enjoying the vibrant local culinary scene. This road trip promises an unforgettable experience, with each destination offering its own unique charm and beauty.


Recommended Activities

  • Phoenix offers a vibrant downtown area, rich cultural experiences with numerous museums, and beautiful desert landscapes such as the Desert Botanical Garden.
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  • Flagstaff is known for its stunning natural beauty, offering outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, along with its proximity to the San Francisco Peaks and a vibrant local arts scene.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Grand Canyon National Park

    The Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder, offering awe-inspiring views, numerous hiking trails, and a chance to experience one of the world's most iconic landscapes.
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  • Page is a gateway to stunning natural attractions like Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, offering unique photo opportunities and incredible landscapes.
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    Monument Valley

    Monument Valley provides breathtaking vistas of iconic sandstone buttes, making it a popular destination for experiencing the classic American West landscape.
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  • Moab attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, offering world-class hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Salt Lake City

    Salt Lake City is known for its historical significance, being the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and offers a variety of cultural attractions, beautiful mountain views, and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Welcome Diner

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    The Welcome Diner

    Located in Phoenix, this diner offers a quirky atmosphere with a focus on Southern comfort food and locally sourced ingredients.
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    The Turquoise Room

    The Turquoise Room

    Found in Flagstaff, this restaurant is known for its Southwestern cuisine and unique blend of Native American and Mexican flavors.
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    El Tovar Dining Room, Grand Canyon Village, AZ

    El Tovar Dining Room, Grand Canyon Village, AZ

    Located at the Grand Canyon, this historic restaurant offers fine dining with breathtaking views of the canyon.
    Picture for El Tovar Dining Room, Grand Canyon Village, AZ
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    The Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge

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    The Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge

    In Page, this unconventional sushi spot combines fresh fish with a desert backdrop for a unique dining experience.
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    $$$$
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    The Moab Brewery,

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    The Moab Brewery,

    Moab’s only microbrewery, offering handcrafted beers and pub food in a lively setting perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures.
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    $$$$
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Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The Clarendon Hotel and Spa

    The Clarendon Hotel and Spa

    Located in Phoenix, this boutique hotel offers retro-modern style, a rooftop skydeck with city views, and a vibrant pool area.
    Picture for The Clarendon Hotel and Spa
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    The Little America Hotel Flagstaff

    The Little America Hotel Flagstaff

    In Flagstaff, this hotel provides a cozy, welcoming atmosphere amid the pines, with a unique pine lodge feel and luxurious amenities.
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    El Tovar Hotel

    8.4

    El Tovar Hotel

    This historic hotel at the Grand Canyon South Rim combines rustic charm with premier canyon views and offers a quintessential national park experience.
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    Amangiri

    9.1

    Amangiri

    Situated near Page, this luxury resort boasts stunning architecture and exclusive access to the surrounding wilderness and canyons.
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    Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa

    Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa

    Located near Moab, this riverside resort offers a blend of luxury and rustic charm with stunning views of red rock landscapes.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Mike Pinto

    Mike Pinto

    The event will take place at The Museum Club in Flagstaff.
    Map IconThe Museum Club in Flagstaff (117.29 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Oct 2025
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    Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters

    Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters

    The event will take place at Yucca North in Flagstaff.
    Map IconYucca North in Flagstaff (117.78 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Oct 2025
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    Flagstaff International Film Festival

    Flagstaff International Film Festival

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (118.51 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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    Michael Franti & Spearhead

    Michael Franti & Spearhead

    The event will take place at Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff.
    Map IconPepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff (118.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon22 Aug 2025
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    Dub and Down With The Blues

    Dub and Down With The Blues

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (118.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Aug 2025
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    Ruta Verbena

    Ruta Verbena

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (118.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon24 Aug 2025
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    Sam Barber

    Sam Barber

    The event will take place at Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff.
    Map IconPepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff (118.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Aug 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    A subreddit for Salt Lake City, UT and the surrounding communities. Update: https://www.reddit.com/r/Save3rdPartyApps/comments/148m42t/the_fight_continues/ ... /r/roadtrip is ...

    Driving from Phoenix to Salt Lake

    A subreddit for Salt Lake City, UT and the surrounding communities. Update: https://www.reddit.com/r/Save3rdPartyApps/comments/148m42t/the_fight_continues/ ... /r/roadtrip is ...

    /r/arizona
  • Reddit Icon

    Im planning a trip for early/mid May where Ill be flying in to Salt Lake and will need to make my way down to Phoenix over about 6-7 days. What are

    Best Roadtrip Route/Stops from Salt Lake to Phoenix

    Im planning a trip for early/mid May where Ill be flying in to Salt Lake and will need to make my way down to Phoenix over about 6-7 days. What are

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    A subreddit for Salt Lake City, UT and the surrounding communities. Update: https://www.reddit.com/r/Save3rdPartyApps/comments/148m42t/the_fight_continues/ ... /r/roadtrip is ...

    9 day trip from Phoenix AZ to Salt Lake City UT

    A subreddit for Salt Lake City, UT and the surrounding communities. Update: https://www.reddit.com/r/Save3rdPartyApps/comments/148m42t/the_fight_continues/ ... /r/roadtrip is ...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Hey everyone, I know there's a few posts talking about this already but what are the pros and cons in your opinion of going to Phoenix through

    Salt Lake City to Phoenix. Best route?

    Hey everyone, I know there's a few posts talking about this already but what are the pros and cons in your opinion of going to Phoenix through

    /r/roadtrip

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    An Eagles classic that perfectly captures the spirit of an adventurous road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    A timeless travel anthem that gets you in the mood for the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    This upbeat track is great for keeping the energy high as you drive.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen's iconic song about the freedom and excitement of hitting the road.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Immerse in the mystical allure of desert travel with this Eagles hit.
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  • Music Icon

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Capture the essence of classic American road trips with this upbeat tune.
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  • Music Icon

    Tom Petty - Free Fallin'

    Tom Petty - Free Fallin'

    Tom Petty’s laid-back track is perfect for those long stretches of open highway.
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    M83 - Midnight City

    M83 - Midnight City

    This synth-pop track from M83 adds a sense of modern adventure to your journey.
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  • Music Icon

    Green Day - American Idiot

    Green Day - American Idiot

    Simon & Garfunkel’s classic is a reflective tune for contemplating the vast landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    Rihanna’s energetic track keeps the momentum high and the drive exciting.
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