AZ Road Trip: Discover ancient rocks, kayaking and Native dance in Page and Holbrook
Northern Arizona encompasses such a varied landscape, offering more than the mountains of Flagstaff, the red rocks of Sedona and the plunging drop-offs of the Grand Canyon.
Two towns, Page and Holbrook, give locals a chance to explore nationally celebrated and nationally recognized gems that often take a backseat to the state’s other headlining attractions.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, for example, draws visitors from near and far. The majestic slot canyon made of wind-carved sandstone pathways is tucked into Page, a city of about 7,000 people that welcomes visitors year-round for attractions that often appear in Instagram feeds.
And Holbrook, an even smaller city, is a quirky and endearing area that mixes a prehistoric flavor with an appreciation for history and the outdoors.
Both are worth a visit, and when you go, here’s what to do!
Visiting Page
Getting there
Page is located just south of the Utah state line, just over two hours north of Flagstaff on highway 89. It’s an easy drive that takes a little over 4 hours from Phoenix.
Must see
Page is home to a trio of extraordinary sights, including Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon. The Horseshoe Bend overlook is an accessible overlook that allows visitors to see where the Colorado River curls around into a horseshoe shape. From above, the view is stunning and can be dicey for those who are uneasy with heights. Ample parking is available, for a fee.
Horseshoe Bend
Antelope Canyon is only accessible by registering for a guided tour. Located just minutes from Horseshoe Bend, the canyon offers visitors a couple different types of tours through two different slot canyons. Clear your camera roll before visiting, because you’ll want to have as much memory as possible for photos once you’re in the canyon.
Lake Powell sits on the north side of town, teetering between time zones as it crosses into Utah. The reservoir welcomes millions of visitors every year, even in the winter, and provides space for all types of recreation — from hiking to boating to camping, swimming and fishing. The marina at the lake includes restaurants, which have longer operating hours in the summer season, as well as watercraft rentals, including houseboats.
Kayaking the Colorado River
Must do
Horseshoe Bend is a spectacular sight from above, but it’s even more incredible while paddling the river. Lee’s Ferry in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is the starting point for an epic adventure that allows kayakers and paddleboarders to float the Colorado River for a day, or a couple. Dispersed campsites are available along the river, allowing for campers to stay overnight or for day-paddlers to stop for lunch. The entire stretch can take as long as you want it to, but if you complete it in one day, it could take 5 to 8 hours to finish.
The BirdHouse restaurant in Page
Where to eat
Page has a variety of locally-owned options where visitors can satiate their hunger. From the classic American cuisine and craft beers offered at State 48 to Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge to tangier options at Big John’s Texas BBQ. And if you’re looking for a morning starter, visit Hot N Sweet Coffee & Donut Shop.
Explore more
For more destinations on your Page road trip, see our complete guide at explore.localfirstaz.com/page.
Visiting Holbrook
Getting there
Holbrook is located just west of the New Mexico state line, about three hours northeast of Phoenix. From Phoenix, road trippers will take the 87 through Payson, where they’ll connect with the 260, the 277 and eventually the 377.
The Painted Desert Indian Center souvenir shop
Must see
Dinosaurs and teepees loom large in Holbrook, and both are fun to see as you drive through the town’s main drag. The Wigwam Motel is a must-visit for anyone who delights in the nostalgia of the past or appreciates its resemblance to the traffic cone hotel in Pixar’s Cars movie.
Holbrook Cultural Dances
As for the dinosaurs, they’re seemingly everywhere. The Rainbow Rock Shop has one out front, as does the Painted Desert Indian Center. Many of the shops in town will offer petrified wood souvenirs alongside beautiful rocks, allowing you to take a piece of Holbrook charm home with you.
Or spend a night enthralled by dancers of all ages in colorful Native American and Mexican Folklórico regalia with Holbrook Cultural Dances.
Must do
You could visit Holbrook without going to the Petrified Forest National Park, but why would you ever want to miss that? Discover ancient villages, petroglyphs and petrified wood, all of which is set against the stunning backdrop of the Painted Desert. The park not only tells the stories of the ecosystem that has evolved there over millions of years, but it captures the spirit of the cultures and people who have made an imprint on the area — from Indigenous peoples to pioneers to those who discovered the West by way of Route 66.
Butterfield Stage Co. Steakhouse
Plus the Petrified Forest is pet-friendly, a nice bonus for anyone traveling with their four-legged besties.
Where to eat
Fans of Mexican food will find an abundance of options in Holbrook, including Romo’s, Aliberto’s and Bienvenidos. Other options include Butterfield Stage Co. Steakhouse, where the Old West meets fine steak cuts, and Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs, for those looking for a quick, fill-me-up bite.
Explore more
For more destinations on your Holbrook road trip, see our complete guide at explore.localfirstaz.com/holbrook.
Local First Arizona invites Arizonans to explore the wonders of their home state, slow down the pace and appreciate everything our rural and tribal areas have to offer. To find more adventurous destinations, visit explore.localfirstaz.com.
