10 Day California/Arizona Road Trip

$1999 / Per Person

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10 days

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Trip Summary

A California, Arizona road trip promises a captivating adventure through the heart of the Southwest, where you can witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon and the striking landscapes of Sedona, all while enjoying the eclectic vibe of cities like Los Angeles and Phoenix. From the sun-soaked beaches of California to the red rock wonders of Arizona, this road trip offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and scenic drives, making it a memorable journey through the diverse landscapes of the region. You can add you hotels, flights, car rental, activities and transfers to your liking. The itinerary is just a suggestion based on our experience.

DAY 1

Day 1 :

Arrive in LA and pick up your car. Journey into the mountains through Angels Crest Highway where you’ll see the beauty of the California Pines as you wind your way up through beautiful mountain roads. Big Bear Lake is filled with activities and skiing(depending on the time of year you’d like to go). Boating, jet skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding or swimming is great in the summer. Enjoy the towns nightlife and shopping. You’ll stay in the woods in small luxury cabins, just enough off the beaten path to enjoy the stars at night.

DAY 2

Day 2 :

Sleep in and enjoy some more activities at the lake and in town. You’ll be taking the backroads towards Joshua tree. A couple hours drive you’ll end up at the famous Pioneer Town Hotel where you can soak up the beauty of the high desert. Explore old town and have dinner at the best spot in Joshua Tree, Pappy and Harriots, an old Honky Tonk restaurant/bar with live music. Sit by the communal campfire and enjoy the nights sky.

DAY 3

Day 3 :

Wake up early and drive through Joshua Tree National Park on your way to the Grand Canyon. Stop, hike on the rocks and enjoy the quiet and soft wind of the desert. Joshua Tree is a magical place. You’ll arrive late in the day at the Grand Canyon. Hopefully in time to see the sun set from the south rim. An amazing and unforgettable experience. We have a number of Glamping options for you to stay or treat yourself to the hotel at the south rim overlooking the Grand Canyon.

DAY 4

Day 4 :

It should be noted that it’s worth it to rise early and watch the sunrise. Lots of hiking and exploring. We can arrange for private guided hikes, horseback riding or Helicopter tours for you and your fellow travelers. Let us know and we can get you pricing for these.

DAY 5

Day 5 :

Take your time waking up and head south to Sedona. One of the most beautiful places in the southwest. It’s a 3 hour drive if you take your time. Maybe stop in Flagstaff for breakfast or lunch on your way. Upon arrival you’ll check into your hotel and get settled. Maybe enjoy the pool or walk into town for some food or shopping. Relax for the rest of the day as there are lots of options for activities tomorrow.

DAY 6

Day 6 :

If you’re an early riser and feeling adventurous maybe take a hot air ballon ride. There are tons of hikes and you don’t want to miss Slide Rock. It’s an amazing place to hike and swim. If you want to head off the beaten path we have private guides who can take you to some hidden gems but there are also lots of hikes to do on your own. One thing you won’t want to miss is riding dune buggies on the off-road trails. We had such a blast doing it and we highly recommend. Fairly certain you’ll be exhausted by the end of the day so relaxing at the hotel in the evening might be a good option.

DAY 7

Day 7 :

Sleep in and have a nice breakfast at one of the many great restaurants(We have lots of recommendations). When you’re ready hit the road towards Scottsdale to check into your hotel. We have a few amazing places to choose from depending on your budget. If you get there early enough you should see the Botanical Gardens. Head back to the hotel and enjoy the amenities and if there’s time a spa treatment might be in order.

DAY 8

Day 8 :

Sleep in and enjoy Scottsdale and your hotel. No rush, but when you’re ready start the drive towards Palm Springs. It’s a 3-4 hour drive and fairly boring to be honest but once you get there you’ll check into your hotel and relax for a bit, maybe lay by the pool or head into town for dinner. If you’re feeling adventurous venture into the desert to rent ATV’s.

DAY 9

Day 9 :

Wake up and have breakfast before heading into the mountains again towards Idyllwild. This drive is absolutely beautiful with lakes and wildlife. You’ll likely see mountain goats on the way as you end up to alpine country again. Check into the hotel and relax before heading into the quaint town center for shopping and exploring. Spend the afternoon enjoying some of the many hikes they have.

DAY 10

Day 10 :

Wake up, have breakfast and get ready to head back to Los Angeles. We highly recommend stopping in Cabazon at their many outlet stores for some incredible shopping deals. Once you arrive back in LA, return the car and fly home.

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 3

DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6

DAY 7

DAY 8

DAY 9

DAY 10

Day 1 :

Arrive in LA and pick up your car. Journey into the mountains through Angels Crest Highway where you’ll see the beauty of the California Pines as you wind your way up through beautiful mountain roads. Big Bear Lake is filled with activities and skiing(depending on the time of year you’d like to go). Boating, jet skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding or swimming is great in the summer. Enjoy the towns nightlife and shopping. You’ll stay in the woods in small luxury cabins, just enough off the beaten path to enjoy the stars at night.

Day 2 :

Sleep in and enjoy some more activities at the lake and in town. You’ll be taking the backroads towards Joshua tree. A couple hours drive you’ll end up at the famous Pioneer Town Hotel where you can soak up the beauty of the high desert. Explore old town and have dinner at the best spot in Joshua Tree, Pappy and Harriots, an old Honky Tonk restaurant/bar with live music. Sit by the communal campfire and enjoy the nights sky.

Day 3 :

Wake up early and drive through Joshua Tree National Park on your way to the Grand Canyon. Stop, hike on the rocks and enjoy the quiet and soft wind of the desert. Joshua Tree is a magical place. You’ll arrive late in the day at the Grand Canyon. Hopefully in time to see the sun set from the south rim. An amazing and unforgettable experience. We have a number of Glamping options for you to stay or treat yourself to the hotel at the south rim overlooking the Grand Canyon.

Day 4 :

It should be noted that it’s worth it to rise early and watch the sunrise. Lots of hiking and exploring. We can arrange for private guided hikes, horseback riding or Helicopter tours for you and your fellow travelers. Let us know and we can get you pricing for these.

Day 5 :

Take your time waking up and head south to Sedona. One of the most beautiful places in the southwest. It’s a 3 hour drive if you take your time. Maybe stop in Flagstaff for breakfast or lunch on your way. Upon arrival you’ll check into your hotel and get settled. Maybe enjoy the pool or walk into town for some food or shopping. Relax for the rest of the day as there are lots of options for activities tomorrow.

Day 6 :

If you’re an early riser and feeling adventurous maybe take a hot air ballon ride. There are tons of hikes and you don’t want to miss Slide Rock. It’s an amazing place to hike and swim. If you want to head off the beaten path we have private guides who can take you to some hidden gems but there are also lots of hikes to do on your own. One thing you won’t want to miss is riding dune buggies on the off-road trails. We had such a blast doing it and we highly recommend. Fairly certain you’ll be exhausted by the end of the day so relaxing at the hotel in the evening might be a good option.

Day 7 :

Sleep in and have a nice breakfast at one of the many great restaurants(We have lots of recommendations). When you’re ready hit the road towards Scottsdale to check into your hotel. We have a few amazing places to choose from depending on your budget. If you get there early enough you should see the Botanical Gardens. Head back to the hotel and enjoy the amenities and if there’s time a spa treatment might be in order.

Day 8 :

Sleep in and enjoy Scottsdale and your hotel. No rush, but when you’re ready start the drive towards Palm Springs. It’s a 3-4 hour drive and fairly boring to be honest but once you get there you’ll check into your hotel and relax for a bit, maybe lay by the pool or head into town for dinner. If you’re feeling adventurous venture into the desert to rent ATV’s.

Day 9 :

Wake up and have breakfast before heading into the mountains again towards Idyllwild. This drive is absolutely beautiful with lakes and wildlife. You’ll likely see mountain goats on the way as you end up to alpine country again. Check into the hotel and relax before heading into the quaint town center for shopping and exploring. Spend the afternoon enjoying some of the many hikes they have.

Day 10 :

Wake up, have breakfast and get ready to head back to Los Angeles. We highly recommend stopping in Cabazon at their many outlet stores for some incredible shopping deals. Once you arrive back in LA, return the car and fly home.

Q: Do I have to stick to the itinerary?

A: You're free to do what you want and go at your own pace, however your hotel reservations will be strict and hard to shuffle around. These itineraries have you seeing and doing a lot. If you prefer to take your time a little more. Contact us to custom build this trip. These itineraries are for the active and adventurous traveler.

Q: How do I book activities?

A: Some of them you will be able to book with us and others are first come, first serve as they are smaller vendors. After you book Your detailed itinerary will have all that information.

Q: How much driving each day will I do?

A: We estimate 3-5 hours of straight driving as you head to a new destination. Assuming you'll stop along the way and see things it could be longer. We suggest getting an early start each day. After you book, your detailed itinerary will have all that information, including times to start your day etc.

Q: What is the best time of year to do these trips?

A: April - October is best. Many of the destinations are at higher elevations so there might be snow along the mountain passes. July and August can be very hot in some parts of these trips so keep that in mind as well.

Q: What sort of clothing do we need?

A: Because you are going to high and low elevations it would be good to pack for both warm and cold weather. Good hiking shoes for sure and an extra pair in case they get wet. Comfortable clothing and layers is best. Maybe bring one nice outfit if you're going to go somewhere nice in one of the locations.

Q: What else might we need to think about bringing?

A: Bring extra water containers to keep in the car, bug spray and sunscreen. Also a good pair of sunglasses.

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Gold Mountain Manor – Big Bear

Pioneertown Motel

El Tovar Hotel – Grand Canyon

Amara Resort & Spa

Hotel Valley Ho – Scottsdale

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

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We know, we hate waiting too, but just hang tight for a moment as we pull some amazing info for you.
Don't hit the back button or refresh the page please.🌴

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10 Day California/Arizona Road Trip