Monthly Archives: April 2021

Arizona blew us away. We have yet to travel much through the US (we always just are drawn to international adventures…anyone else?) but WOW, our own country is so versatile in its beauty.

We spent two days in Phoenix (the first day of our trip & last), three in the Grand Canyon (which we felt was perfect), & three in Sedona.

I had no clue how much this state would challenge me. Hiking here is NO JOKE & sometimes it’s more like a rock climb.

But reaching the peak was always worth the struggles of the summit.

Roadtripping this state with my BFF felt like a movie.

We roadtripped from Phoenix to Grand Canyon to Sedona. We devoured a TON of mexican cuisine in Phoenix, hiked INTO the Grand Canyon (seriously, if you can, actually hike PAST the rim, it’s magnificent), spotted tons of moose strolling along the rim, and summited the massive red rocks in Sedona.

Fave hikes in Grand Canyon: Bright Angel (hiked to Indian Gardens & then back up) & South Kaibab trail.

Fave hikes in Sedona: Cathedral Rock (hard but worth it for sunset) & Doe Mountain (easy breezy, way less people & 360 view up top!)

If you have yet to venture across this beautiful state, you surely should make plans to!

Sedona is GORGEOUS. All her beauty has caused quite the scene for tourists. Some insight: expect high prices, limited parking, and gorgeous views. Check out this list of things to do in Sedona on the cheap!

1. Hike! It’s free, except for the $5-$10 fee for parking in the lots next to the trails. Some advice, do not park on the shoulder of the road—they will tow and ticket you. I’m speaking from experience. Some suggestions: Cathedral Rock trail, Doe Mountain trail, Little Horse trail, Devil’s Bridge trail, and the West Fork trail.Sunset at the end of the Cathedral Rock Trail! Be prepared to climb on your hands and knees for this one!
2. Eat local! Stay away from the pricey city center and try the spots a few minutes away. Some suggestions: Thai Spices, Minami Japanese Restaurant, Pisa Lisa, Picasso’s, get a hot dog or pie at Black Cow, and Memories sandwich shop. My last suggestion: Cowboy Club is a restaurant that’s semi-pricey but I 100% recommend their appetizer sampler. It’s $24 and you will try rattlesnake, bison, and even cacti!
3. Try a Jeep tour company that is NOT pink Jeep tours. There are a few smaller tour companies with lower prices and similar routes. I will say the Pink Jeep tours are nice and reputable if that’s the tour you do end up choosing, though.
4. Try meditation by yourself at the Amitabha Stupa peace park—many come to meditate there. I suggest heading to the Amitabha Stupa Peace Park. It’s quiet and seems to be a hidden gem for relaxation. We actually went online and found a local, Michele, to lead us through our meditation instead of saving the money and mediating by ourselves. It was worth it to us since we are beginners. Would totally recommend her if you decide you want a lead! Here is her website link: https://www.sedonameditationexperiences.com
5. Lastly, Slide Rock park. Go in the summer to cool off and literally slide down the rocks. Disclaimer: probably not the best winter experience. $10 entrance fee
6. Photoshoot with your smartphone! The Red Rocks are ALL OVER town. Park and take some photos.