Arizona's climate depends on where you are: Phoenix and Tucson are extremely hot in summer (normal highs above 100°F from June to September at Phoenix), while Flagstaff is cool and snowy in winter, so pick the season and region together. The Grand Canyon charges $35 per vehicle plus a $100 surcharge per nonresident aged 16 and older (from 2026), and Sedona's Red Rock Pass is $5 a day. We verified no driving times or flight prices.
Quick plan (our recommendation)
This is an editorial plan from official sources, not a trip we took. See the weekend itinerary for a short version.
- Grand Canyon: the South Rim by free shuttle.
- Sedona: Coconino National Forest sites with a Red Rock Pass.
- Phoenix or Tucson: a city base in cooler months.
What it costs (verified figures only)
| Item | Figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon entry | $35 per vehicle; $20 on foot or bike | Card-only. Source: NPS. |
| Nonresident surcharge | $100 per person aged 16 and older | Unless you hold an annual or America the Beautiful pass. Source: NPS. |
| Red Rock Pass (Sedona) | $5 daily; $15 weekly; $20 annual | Per vehicle. Source: Forest Service. |
| Valley Metro local fare | $2 one-way; $4 daily cap | Source: Valley Metro. |
| Sedona rental stays | 13.90% in Coconino County | City's figure for short-term rentals. Source: City of Sedona. |
Getting around
Arizona is big and we verified only a few transit facts; see transportation.
When to go
NOAA's 1991–2020 normals for Phoenix show highs of 66.2–70.8°F in December–February and 104.2–106.5°F in June–August. Flagstaff's January high is 43.4°F with 20.9 inches of snow, and Tucson's July–August rainfall of about 2 inches reflects the summer monsoon. See the best-time guide.
Safety and practical tips
In summer see National Weather Service heat guidance and use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen (American Academy of Dermatology). This guide publishes no crime or wildlife-safety statistics.
What this guide does not cover
We do not rate hotels, restaurants, tours or stores, or claim first-hand visits; see the editorial policy.