Arizona
On the Road: Sedona's Red Rock Country and the Grand Canyon
Program No. 1088RJ
Set out on a larger-than-life learning adventure to experience Sedona’s red rocks and the Grand Canyon, joining experts for an insider’s view on these two monumental sites!
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Not seeing the date you're looking for?
To be notified if dates of this program become available, click the button below.
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
7 days
6 nights
16 meals
6B 4L 6D
2
Geology, Sedona's Best Loved Sites
Sedona, AZ
4
Oak Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon South Rim
Grand Canyon - South Rim
5
Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Route 66 Nostalgia
Peach Springs, AZ
6
Peach Springs, Grand Canyon, Colorado River
Peach Springs, AZ
7
Program Concludes with return to Sedona
Sedona, AZ
At a Glance
The Colorado Plateau in Arizona claims two of North America’s most beautiful canyons. Explore the geology, ecology and human heritage of these spectacular canyon landscapes: Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon and the incomparable Grand Canyon. In Sedona, enjoy a spectacular “Pink” Jeep trip into its stunning red-rock back country, exploring vistas seldom seen by visitors. Overnight in Grand Canyon National Park while soaking in the breathtaking panorama of this world heritage site. Travel an epic road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, through its multiplicity of layered rock and time, with the reward of a picnic on the banks of the mighty Colorado River.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to one mile on varied terrain. Some time for personal hiking at Grand Canyon. Bumpy jeep and van rides on slick rock, dirt and gravel roads. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Visit Montezuma Castle National Monument, a five-story cliff dwelling of the prehistoric Sinagua people.
- Go off the beaten path on the Hualapai Indian Reservation on old Route 66 and in Sedona on a Pink Jeep adventure.
- Explore the Grand Canyon South Rim’s dramatic viewpoints and trails with regional experts.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell
Maggie Mitchell has spent years leading educational excursions throughout the Sedona area. Her passion lies with the study of Arizona's wild creatures, and she loves sharing her love of reptiles and spiders with students of all ages.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell
View biography
Maggie Mitchell has spent years leading educational excursions throughout the Sedona area. Her passion lies with the study of Arizona's wild creatures, and she loves sharing her love of reptiles and spiders with students of all ages.
Carrie Calisay Cannon
View biography
Carrie Calisay Cannon is a member of the Kiowa tribe of Oklahoma and also is of Oglala Lakota descent. She has a B.S. in Wildlife Biology and an M.S. in Resource Management. She is currently employed as an Ethnobotanist for the Hualapai Department of Cultural Resources. She administers a number of department projects and programs which promote the intergenerational teaching of Hualapai ethnobotanical knowledge. She works towards ensuring tribal ethnobotanical knowledge persists as a living practice and tradition.
Slim Woodruff
View biography
Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff is a graduate of Northern Arizona University. She has worked in outdoor recreation and education for most of her adult life. Slim is a board member and outings chair for the Grand Canyon Historical Society. She is a senior instructor with the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Living on the South Rim, her usual hangouts are inside the canyon. Her writings can be found in High Country News Writers on the Range and The Outdoor Journal.
Suggested Reading List
(10 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
On the Road: Sedona's Red Rock Country and the Grand Canyon
Program Number: 1088
Carving Grand Canyon: Evidence, Theories, and Mystery
Ranney explains how rivers in general can physically carve canyons, looks chronologically at the numerous theories that have been presented by successive generations of geologists regarding the Grand Canyon's formation, and describes a plausible sequence of geologic events that could create such a landscape. Numerous color photographs, detailed illustrations, and maps are provided. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR 160pp; 2nd edition 2012.
Field Guide to the Grand Canyon
This book describes and illustrates the area's plants and animals, and offers fascinating in-depth information on the natural history and geology of this dramatic region. 272pp
Secret Sedona: Sacred Moments in the Landscape
This book provides an overview of the terrain, ancestral Indian ruins and petroglyphs found in Sedona's wilderness areas. Extraordinary photography from one of the nations most photogenic areas. 80 pages.
An Introduction to Grand Canyon Prehistory
People have inhabited Grand Canyon for the past twelve thousand years. Evidence of their lives exists throughout the canyon; but it is up to their ancestors and archaeologists to interpret those remains for us. This book provides a popular look at the architecture, art, and tools of prehistoric Puebloan peoples, as well as information about modern-day Native American tribes. With illustrations and color photographs.
Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters, and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region
A comprehensive look at the pioneer history of the Grand Canyon Region, from its earliest residents to the creation of the national park at the end of the pioneer era (circa 1920). Included are close to two hundred historic photographs, many never published before, and 12 custom maps of the region. 184pp
Sedona through time: Geology of the Red Rocks
Visitors to the towering red rock cliffs near Sedona seldom realize that the area was once a broad river floodplain that lay beyond the Ancestral Rocky Mountains. Or that this same place was later buried in a vast, Sahara-like desert, still later to lie beneath the waters of a warm tropical sea filled with ancient life forms. Sedona Through Time is an eminently readable story of the evolution of this fantastic landscape through the eons of geologic time.
Ancient Peoples of the American Southwest
The American Southwest is home to some of the most remarkable monuments of America's prehistoric past, such as Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde. Stephen Plog, who has spent decades working in the region, provides the most readable and up-to-date account of the predecessors of the modern Hopi and Pueblo Indian cultures in this well-received account. Chaco Canyon became the center of a thriving Anasazi cultural tradition. It was the hub of a trading network extending over hundreds of miles, whose arteries were a series of extraordinary roads that are still being discovered and mapped. Interweaving the latest archaeological evidence with early first-person accounts, Professor Plog explains the rise and mysterious fall of Southwestern cultures. 224pp.
The Archaeology of Ancient Arizona
General overview of the archaeology of Arizona written by archaeologists with combined experience of over half a century of a combination of laboratory and fieldwork.
We are an Indian Nation: A History of the Hualapai People (First Peoples: New Directions in Indigenous Studies)
This book focuses on the historical construction of the Hualapai Nation in the face of modern American colonialism. Shepherd shows that Hualapai nation-building was a complex process shaped by band identities, competing visions of the past, creative reactions to modernity, and resistance to state power. He analyzes how the Hualapais transformed an externally imposed tribal identity through nationalist discourses of protecting aboriginal territory; and he examines how that discourse strengthened the Hualapais’ claim to land and water while simultaneously reifying a politicized version of their own history. Drawing on recent work in American Indian history and Native American studies, Shepherd shows how the Hualapai have strived to reclaim a distinct identity and culture in the face of ongoing colonialism.
Grand Canyon Geology
This second edition of the leading book on Grand Canyon geology contains the most recent discoveries and interpretations of the origin and history of the canyon. It includes two entirely new chapters: one on debris flow in the Canyon and one on the impact of water flow releases from the Glen Canyon Dam. All chapters have been updated where necessary and all photographs have been replaced or re-screened for better resolution. Written by acknowledged experts in stratigraphy, paleontology, structural geology, geomorphology, volcanism and seismology, this book offers a wealth of information for geologists and general readers interested in acquiring an understanding of the geological history of this great natural wonder. 423pp
Program
At a Glance
Duration
7 days
Program Begins
Sedona, AZ
Program Concludes
Sedona, AZ
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
16 (
6B, 4L, 6D
)
Activity Level
The Colorado Plateau in Arizona claims two of North America’s most beautiful canyons. Explore the geology, ecology and human heritage of these spectacular canyon landscapes: Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon and the incomparable Grand Canyon. In Sedona, enjoy a spectacular “Pink” Jeep trip into its stunning red-rock back country, exploring vistas seldom seen by visitors. Overnight in Grand Canyon National Park while soaking in the breathtaking panorama of this world heritage site. Travel an epic road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, through its multiplicity of layered rock and time, with the reward of a picnic on the banks of the mighty Colorado River.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Visit Montezuma Castle National Monument, a five-story cliff dwelling of the prehistoric Sinagua people.
- Go off the beaten path on the Hualapai Indian Reservation on old Route 66 and in Sedona on a Pink Jeep adventure.
- Explore the Grand Canyon South Rim’s dramatic viewpoints and trails with regional experts.
Featured Expert
Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell
Maggie Mitchell has spent years leading educational excursions throughout the Sedona area. Her passion lies with the study of Arizona's wild creatures, and she loves sharing her love of reptiles and spiders with students of all ages.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Carrie Calisay Cannon
Carrie Calisay Cannon is a member of the Kiowa tribe of Oklahoma and also is of Oglala Lakota descent. She has a B.S. in Wildlife Biology and an M.S. in Resource Management. She is currently employed as an Ethnobotanist for the Hualapai Department of Cultural Resources. She administers a number of department projects and programs which promote the intergenerational teaching of Hualapai ethnobotanical knowledge. She works towards ensuring tribal ethnobotanical knowledge persists as a living practice and tradition.
Slim Woodruff
Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff is a graduate of Northern Arizona University. She has worked in outdoor recreation and education for most of her adult life. Slim is a board member and outings chair for the Grand Canyon Historical Society. She is a senior instructor with the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Living on the South Rim, her usual hangouts are inside the canyon. Her writings can be found in High Country News Writers on the Range and The Outdoor Journal.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to one mile on varied terrain. Some time for personal hiking at Grand Canyon. Bumpy jeep and van rides on slick rock, dirt and gravel roads. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(10 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
7 days
6 nights
What's Included
16 meals (
6B, 4L, 6D
)
5 expert-led lectures
9 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
D
Stay:
Element Sedona
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
4:30-5:15 p.m. Program Registration: After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in the hotel conference room to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. All field trips will be led by our Group Leader unless specified otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
In our hotel conference room we will have a meal with a choice of a non-alcoholic drink. Alcoholic beverages will be available at the hotel bar.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Geology, Sedona's Best Loved Sites
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Element Sedona
Activity Note
Walking up to 1 mile throughout the day, with stops. Getting on/off bus/vans; riding approximately 15 miles; about 2 hours.
Breakfast:
Hotel Continental Breakfast with Coffee and Tea.
Morning:
We’ll be joined at the hotel by a geologist for a presentation on the geologic story of Sedona, Grand Canyon and the surrounding area.
Lunch:
Catered meal at the hotel.
Afternoon:
Setting out for a riding exploration of Sedona with our Group Leader. We will see some of the town’s most beloved sites. During our exploration, we will learn about the history, geology, climate, flora, and fauna of the area. As we explore, we will have photo opportunities at some scenic vistas.
Dinner:
Catered meal at the hotel.
Evening:
In the evening we will be joined by a local expert for a presentation on a topic of local interest.
Day
3
Montezuma National Monument, Sedona 4x4 Adventure
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Element Sedona
Activity Note
Driving approx. 30 miles roundtrip to Montezuma Castle National Monument; about 1.5 hours total. Climbing in/out of 4x4 vehicles; assistance available as needed. 4x4 ride is approx. 15 miles roundtrip; about 2 hours, with stops; some bumpy sections of the ride. Jeeps comfortably fit 7 passengers and have seat belts and grab bars for participants to hold on to with each seat. Walking up to 1.5 miles throughout the day; mostly flat, paved trails at Montezuma with some rocky, sandy, uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Hotel Continental Breakfast with Coffee and Tea.
Morning:
We will travel with our Group Leader for a field trip to Montezuma Castle National Monument. This 5-story, 20-room cliff dwelling is nestled in a limestone recess high above the flood plain of Beaver Creek in the Verde Valley. It is one of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America, constructed approximately 600 years ago by the Sinagua Indians. While here, we will observe the ruins from below and take note of Wet Beaver Creek’s unique ecosystem as we walk the paved loop trail. Then, we will depart for the Verde Valley Archeology Center and Museum as we accompany a docent to learn about the incredible and diverse accomplishments of the people who inhabited the Sedona/Verde Valley area for over 12,000 years.
Lunch:
Plated meal at a near by restaurant.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a 4X4 "Pink Jeep" adventure in the beauty of Sedona's Red Rocks Wilderness. Drivers who are well-versed in the geology, flora, fauna and pre-historic details of the region will guide you on this truly exceptional experience. Expect some sections of road where there may be jostling in the vehicle as the driver navigates dirt roads, sandy washes, and/or slick rock. Vehicles are very comfortable, seat up to 7 people, and have grab bars to hold on to with every seat. We will go on some short walks with our drivers away from the jeeps as we visit viewpoints and they provide informative commentary on the area’s ancient, modern, cultural, and natural history.
Dinner:
Plated meal at a nearby Mexican Restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
4
Oak Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon South Rim
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Driving approximately. 115 miles; about 2.5 hours. Walking approximately 1.5 miles total throughout the day; mostly flat, paved or dirt paths.
Breakfast:
Hotel Continental Breakfast with Coffee and Tea.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will transfer to the Grand Canyon via scenic Oak Creek Canyon and Flagstaff. As we travel, we will marvel at the change of life zones and scenery as we move from the Sonora Desert Colorado Plateau. Continuing, we’ll make our way past the San Francisco Peaks Volcanic Field and the site of Arizona’s highest point – Humphreys Peak – reaching an elevation of 12,633 feet. As we drive, our Group Leader will provide commentary on the regional geography and natural history. Having arrived at the South Rim, we will see Grand Canyon Village. Many of the impressive structures in the historic village were designed by Mary Jane Colter, a renowned architect and designer for the Fred Harvey Company and Santa Fe Railroad. We may even see an endangered California condor soaring overhead as we gaze into the Canyon's depths.
Lunch:
Along the Grand Canyon’s rim, we will have sack lunches including a sandwich, chips, and fruit.
Afternoon:
We will then stop at a few more amazing viewpoints, have the opportunity to walk along the rim, and visit Grand Canyon Village all led by a local expert. Highlights of the village include the Kolb Studio where the Kolb brothers took photos of mule riders into the canyon. The buildings of Santa Fe Railroad and Fred Harvey, and architect and designer Mary Jane Colter’s work including the Bright Angel Lodge, Lookout Studio, and the Hopi House. At the east end of the Village, we will visit the El Tovar Hotel, built in 1903 and one of the great hotels in the National Parks. From the village, we will be able to see the North Rim and various spires and monuments rising from the canyon floor. We will also have time to explore rim trails and admire canyon vistas. Keep your eyes out for the endangered California condor soaring overhead as you gaze into the Canyon's depths below. Next, we will transfer to our lodge on the south rim and check-in.
Dinner:
Cafeteria style meal served at the Yavapai Lodge restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Route 66 Nostalgia
Location:
Peach Springs, AZ
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hualapai Lodge
Activity Note
Walking up to 1.5 miles total throughout the day; mostly flat, paved or dirt paths. Optional longer hiking opportunities available. Drive to Peach Springs area is approximately 130 miles; approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Breakfast:
At the lodge dinning facility, we will have a cafeteria style meal featuring choices such as an egg dish, breakfast meats, cereals, and fresh fruit, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
In the morning we will check out of the lodge and head to breakfast. Then, it is time to continue our Grand Canyon learning adventure with time for a walk along the canyon’s rim with our Group Leader as they discuss geology as well as natural and human history. Following you will have time to explore independently. The National Park Service includes a free shuttle along the West Rim Drive to Hermit's Rest with access to numerous scenic viewpoints (Powell, Hopi, Mohave, and Maricopa points to name a few) with sweeping views of the canyon and the Colorado River. You might also like to go for a rim walk, hike further into the Canyon, attend an NPS ranger program, or just find a quiet spot to contemplate and gaze out at the Grand Canyon, taking in all of its grandeur.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like from a variety of venues on the South Rim. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
After rendezvousing at a predetermined time and place, we will board the vans and transfer from Grand Canyon National Park to our accommodation along a historic stretch of the famous Route 66. En route, we will keep a look out for Burma Shave signs, enjoy wide open views, and drive through a classic site of Route 66 nostalgia – Seligman – with its focus on American road touring in the 1950s. Seligman is the town which Radiator Springs, from the Pixar movie “Cars,” was based on. In late afternoon, we will arrive at our accommodation and have access to the more remote and wild western end of the Grand Canyon.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant, we will enjoy a dinner featuring a salad bar and home-cooked entrees. Coffee, iced tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
In the hotel meeting room, we will hear a presentation given by a local expert about the natural and biological environment of Arizona. Exact topics are dependent on availability of presenters who travel long distances to reach the hotel.
Day
6
Peach Springs, Grand Canyon, Colorado River
Location:
Peach Springs, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hualapai Lodge
Activity Note
Driving approx. 40 miles total; about 4 hours: 20 miles on a rough unpaved road to bottom of canyon, 3 hours, including stops; return drive is approx. 20 miles, 1 hour. Walking up to 2 miles on short group walks to viewpoints; sandy terrain and possible hot temperatures, depending on time of year. Additional elective walk of about 1 mile; approximately .5 hour; on road down to the Colorado River.
Breakfast:
At the lodge, we will have breakfast featuring a variety of hot and cold choices, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We will transfer from the hotel to Peach Springs Canyon via vans on the bumpy Diamond Creek Road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. This is the only drivable road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, so expect adventure! Along our journey, we will stop at various points of interest while the walls rise higher and higher as we come closer to the Colorado River. We will pass through hundreds of millions of years of geologic history that has culminated in the arrival to the 1.8 billion year old rock that makes up the Granite Gorge. Among our highlights will be a self-led walk along Diamond Creek down to the Colorado River. Alternatively, those who require it can continue to the picnic site via van where we will rendezvous with the walkers for lunch.
Lunch:
On the banks of the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, we will enjoy sack lunches amidst remarkable scenery.
Afternoon:
Our field trip at the bottom of the Grand Canyon will continue with a viewing of Diamond Creek Rapids as we look for desert bighorn sheep and watch for river runners in their rafts passing by us on the Colorado River. Our Group Leader will share some of the interesting history, facts and management issues regarding the Colorado River with us as we relax on the beach. We will return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant, we will enjoy a tasty plated meal for our farewell dinner in the company of our fellow participants.
Evening:
With our Group Leader, we will gather in the hotel meeting room for a program wrap-up and reflect on our experiences. Share some of your favorite memories from the program with new Road Scholar friends. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
7
Program Concludes with return to Sedona
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out and departure by 7:15 a.m. Driving approximately 130 miles back to Sedona; about 3 hours. Expected arrival in Sedona by approx. 10:15 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Early morning Lodge breakfast.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we’ll load our vans and transfer back to the starting hotel in Sedona. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
MEALS
16 Meals
6 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
6 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
- Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 15, 2025
- Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025
- Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025
- May 04, 2025 - May 10, 2025
- Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025
- Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025
- Mar 22, 2026 - Mar 28, 2026
- Apr 05, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026
- Apr 19, 2026 - Apr 25, 2026
- Apr 26, 2026 - May 02, 2026
- May 03, 2026 - May 09, 2026
- May 10, 2026 - May 16, 2026
- Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
- Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 03, 2026
- Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
- Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
Participant Reviews
Based on 45 Reviews
Sort By:
Great trip lead by the very knowledgeable and friendly Mike & Drew. Not a lot of trails or walking but on the move all day. Highlights... Pink Jeep trip into the beautiful Red Rocks of Sedona, Montezuma Castle, sunset with big horn sheep on the rim of the Grand Canyon and the bumpy but beautiful ride through the Hualapai Reservation to the bottom of the canyon and lunch on the shore of the Colorado River with the amazing people we met in our group. Oh and I can't forget the pie at the Pine Country Restaurant in Willams on Rt 66. Lots of information from Mike & Drew and guest speakers about geology, history of the west, American Native people and the flora and fauna. I have a new appreciation for Arizona!
— Review left November 11, 2024
A great educational vacation! Sedona is a must to visit and learning is always a great experience.
— Review left November 7, 2024
If you are ready to explore the beauty of Sedona and the Grand Canyon, pack your bags as you are in for a treat. The knowledge of the scientists were excellent, the speakers and the guests all added to a very enjoyable trip. This was my first but now I am looking for another trip for the spring 25!
— Review left October 21, 2024
Many people travel to Sedona and the Grand Canyon but a Road Scholar trip gives you the opportunity to explore, experience and learn beyond a family vacation and they take care of all the travel details.
— Review left October 7, 2024
My trip with my old high school friend to Red Rock country in Sedona, and then to the Grand Canyon, was everything I hoped for and more. We got to experience places I had not previously imagined. Road Scholar made everything easy so we could fully enjoy all the best parts. Life long memories.
— Review left May 16, 2024
This tour exposed us to all the majesty and awesome beauty of the Grand Canyon and Sedona. The guides are the best I have ever encountered, and I have been on tours by other companies. The educational component makes this experience one of the best vacations I have ever had. The evening lectures and music program enhanced the physical activities. The travelers in our group are some of the most interesting people I have ever met, and I will cherish my memories for a lifetime.
— Review left May 12, 2024
Just a marvelous experience. Everything was well planned and executed. Group leaders Chris and Shayla were knowledgeable, organized, and lots of fun. Added plus was getting us glasses and scheduled time for the viewing of the eclipse which occurred that week. We enjoyed a geology lecture early in the trip which explained formation of Sedona area and the Grand Canyon. Hiking in Sedona was fun and pink Jeep ride was a blast. Then three days at the Grand Canyon with multiple view locations, Slim’s guided tour on Grand Canyon history, a day hiking the rim, then driving down to the Colorado at the base of the canyon plus exposure to Native American culture. Couldn’t ask for more. Very enjoyable packed week. Highly recommend.
— Review left May 5, 2024
I would recommend the Road Scholar program to anyone who wants to understand and explore the world fully, with both head and heart.
— Review left May 1, 2024
We just returned from our very first Road Scholar Trip to Sedona and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, IT WAS AMAZING! We are already planning on a second trip with Road Scholar in the fall, we couldn't be more impressed!
— Review left April 21, 2024
This trip has been a life-changing adventure! The information provided before and during the trip, combined with the knowledge, competency, and warmth of the group leaders and instructors, make each day's activities nothing short of thrilling. This is a "don't miss" for anyone who wants to deeply experience Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and surrounding areas in a unique and memorable manner.
— Review left April 16, 2024
Excellent program: well organized in every aspect, extremely informative, gives one a new appreciation of the beauty of our land as well as its history, a lot of variety in activities, encouragement in getting to know and interact with other participants, created memorable experiences that I will never forget.
— Review left April 14, 2024
Our group had outstanding leaders for this tour. The leaders, Buck Sanford and Norm Geiger and Joel, were highly educated and taught us much about the area's geology, history, and culture. They were resourceful and humorous and kind, finding ways to make everyone feel included in all of our activities. It was especially appreciated to have them share their geology expertise on our visit to the Grand Canyon. If you go on this journey, don't miss the opportunity to see the sunset at the Geology Museum site!
— Review left April 10, 2024
A fascinating and beautiful part of the country--and my tour was led by people who were remarkably well-informed, resourceful and engaging.
— Review left April 8, 2024
This was an amazing trip in every way. The scenery, education, transportation, food was all wonderful.
Our tour director, Rocky Sullivan was an outstanding guide. He was always concerned each guest was taken care of.
He has a wealth of knowledge about the area and the culture. Also, he made the trip enjoyable with his wit and his patience. Rod Estrada also was a great asset to the trip. He is a great leader, with a kind spirit. We had a very
enjoyable group of people to travel with. I think our two leaders did a great job in fostering a sense of unity in the
group. They went out of their way to provide us with a positive experience. This is a very unique and beautiful
part of the country, my husband and I are so glad we took this trip and would highly recommend it to anyone.
— Review left November 14, 2023
Because of my age,95 years old, I was a bit hesitant of what was going to go on at this trip. I was surprised at all the things I managed to do. This was the most action packed trip I have taken in many years. I am sold on Road Scholar trips.
— Review left November 1, 2023
This is a thrilling, educational, fun tour led by a team of warm, interesting experts. Experiencing the Grand Canyon had been a lifelong wish. So many fun activities! Our group was so friendly and so much fun. Wonderful in every way!
— Review left October 9, 2023
Truly superior guides! Wow! Don't ever let these people go!
— Review left July 29, 2023
This program was well designed and executed - it provided for a fantastic experience.
— Review left May 28, 2023
The program was designed superbly and implemented flawlessly. The experts and group leaders were outstanding - knowledgeable, helpful, and always approachable. We learnt a lot while fulfilling a lifelong dream of seeing the Grand Canyon. This was our first Road Scholar trip and we have already signed up for the next one ! Aditya and Sushma Narain
— Review left May 20, 2023
Go for it. This is an experience you would probably not had otherwise and will always remember for all the things you encountered.
— Review left May 15, 2023
Many the comforts we enjoy on other RS trips were missing because the locations we visited were very remote and services few. If you pack your spirit of adventure the lack of amenities is understandable and worth the geology and plant life you will encounter.
— Review left May 11, 2023
My trip to the Grand Canyon was on my bucket list and did not disappoint! It's true what people say that pictures do not do it justice!
— Review left May 6, 2023
This was a great trip with opportunities to explore Sedona and the Grand Canyon both independently and with the group. Group Leaders Matt and Mike were excellent.
— Review left May 6, 2023
This is a fantastic program in which to enjoy the scenery in Sedona and the Grand Canyon. Group leaders Mike and Matt had the geology and plant knowledge to impart. All the presenters were interesting and added to the trip. I had been to both areas years ago with my children. The main draw to this one was the ability to ride down to the river on the west side. Very few people do that, so was able to add something unique to this trip. We had fabulous weather this last week in April, so that certainly added to the pleasure. I have taken several Road Scholar trips. They always deliver a high quality experience.
— Review left May 4, 2023
Prepare yourself for an exciting and invigorating trip in a beautiful part of our country and to experience far more than you could on your own. JUST DO IT and Have Fun!
— Review left April 17, 2023
text
— Review left November 9, 2022
Fantastic trip! Road Scholar handled all the logistics, allowing me to enjoy my vacation and see more than I ever would have on my own. The educational lectures helped me better understand what I was taking in. The guides were friendly and helpful and had a wealth of information to share without overwhelming the group with details.
This was my first RS trip and I look forward to another one!
— Review left November 4, 2022
Our Sedona/Grand Canyon trip was my first experience with Road Scholar and for that matter any organized tour vendor. I was not sure what to expect, but was very pleased with the tour guides and the logistical support behind them from the organization. They were very approachable; clearly explained in detail the sites we would visit and what to expect; knowledgeable about the areas we visited; and helpful and proactive in anticipating our needs. As a tour group they helped to facilitate our interactions with new folks making it a very friendly and enjoyable time together! My wife and I will be doing more Road Scholar trips!
— Review left November 2, 2022
I would not recommend this tour.
— Review left September 26, 2022
Fun and educational. I now have a new perspective about Arizona.
— Review left May 15, 2022
Road Scholar really delivers! This was my first Road Scholar trip and I look forward to taking another trip next year. There is a comfort level with this tour group. They offer endless possibilities for the traveler, they prepare you, and they take care of your every need. The guides are professional and knowledgeable. Road Scholar is a win win travel experience.
— Review left May 8, 2022
What a fun trip and a great introduction to the Southwest and the Grand Canyon!
— Review left April 15, 2022
This tour is an excellent opportunity to visit Sedona and the Grand Canyon, and to learn about each. The Arizona desert came alive in a way I never imagined. Our tour was as much fun as it was interesting. A "Must Do" trip!
— Review left April 11, 2022
A moderately active program with some of the most beautiful scenery you will ever see!
— Review left April 11, 2022
This adventure with Paul and Betty Johnson was one of the very best trips I’ve ever taken. You can’t help but love it!!!
— Review left November 13, 2021
My first trip with Road Scholar was so positive and a totally rewarding experience. My guides were the best and my group of 24 were awesome. And we all learned from each other too. Looking forward to my next trip soon.
— Review left November 10, 2021
An amaziing chance to see and learn about the plants, geology and history of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. The tour leaders were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I’ve been on multiple Road Scholar tours and this was the best yet. A great group to travel with, great tour leaders and a beautiful area to visit, I couldn’t ask for more.
— Review left November 2, 2021
This trip provides a great introduction to the Sedona area and the Grand Canyon (GC). For me, the highlights were the Pink Jeep Broken Arrow tour (not for the faint of heart) and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. Don’t miss the sunrise at the Grand Canyon, even if it’s 22 degrees and windy!
By walking about 2 miles of the South Rim Trail (from Hopi Point to the Bright Angel Lodge area, during free time, with 3 liked-minded group members), we saw a large portion of the southern rim of the GC. And the next day, the drive on a dusty, bumpy dirt road through Hualapai lands to the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon (Paul said only about 1% of visitors to the GC do this!) was amazing. If you are able, exercise the option to walk the last mile to the river.
All hotels were great. The meals at the Golden Goose (part of the Andante Inn) and at the Caverns Inn were excellent.
The weather was unseasonably cold for mid-October, so be sure to bring plenty of warm clothes, including gloves. My hoodies were much used and appreciated.
Highly recommend as an introduction to Sedona and the Grand Canyon.
— Review left October 24, 2021
Very clear and easy to use. Thank you!
— Review left March 2, 2020
Sedona was beautiful, the pink jeep rides exciting, and the scenery spectacular. The Grand Canyon came alive with the stories of our guide and sunrise over the canyon was awe inspiring. Taking a trip to the Colorado River inside the canyon was the cherry on top.
— Review left February 28, 2020
Road Scholar is a wonderful Learning and traveling experience. Never a dull moment !
— Review left November 19, 2019
The Road Scholar trip to the Grand Canyon was magnificent. I highly recommend this trip to anyone interested in seeing the Grand Canyon. The part of the trip in Sedona was an added bonus that I didn't expect. What a beautiful area of the country!
— Review left May 30, 2019
This was a splendid trip exploring the beauty of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. The expert guides, guest lecturers and our Program Coodinator
did an excellent job of providing ample facts and features of the areas we explored. It was wonderful to be out in the wide open spaces of Arizona and observing the marvels of the natural world and learning about the native people. We were very active and saw some amazing sights. I would take this trip again because it was so enjoyable. Enlighting, relaxing and though provoking.
— Review left May 2, 2019
This was a fun and enjoyable trip. Our first domestic RS adventure. The weather was challenging (snow and 20 degree temps on the drive to the Grand Canyon!) but our trip leaders were flexible and very good. The highlights for us were the Pink Jeep Tour, the drive to the bottom of the Grand Canyon from Peach Springs (neither of which we would have done on our own!) and the morning on our own to hike on the South Rim.
— Review left March 21, 2019
The Grand Canyon was on my bucket list so a "check" can now be made. Beautiful scenery. As a new widow I was apprehensive on going it alone but things turned out and I was very well taking care of with no fears.
— Review left March 17, 2019
