Petrified Forest
I am planning a trip to Arizona in April 2008. Can I see the great things in 3 weeks?
How many days do I need for the Grand Canyon? I am not interested in going down it on a donkey, or in white-water rafting, or in any other outdoor activities. I just want to see and photograph it from various viewing points. How much time for the painted desert and the petrified forest?
If you don't plan to go down the trails into the Canyon at all, you may be happy spending just a day or two. Be sure to include a drive along the east rim, which you can do on your way to Flagstaff. Then allow another day for the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest. You may also have time to visit Meteor Crater the same day. Other places I recommend in Northern Arizona are: Wupatki & Sunset Crater National Momuments. Also, Walnut Canyon, which is a personal favorite of mine. In Flagstaff I recomend seeing the Museum of Northern Arizona, and also Lowell Observatory which is where Pluto was discovered. Sedona is about 30 miles from Flagstaff, and a jeep tour there could be fun. All are great locations for getting some wonderful pictures. In the other direction, if you want to go up into Utah, there's spectacular scenery there as well. Just keep in mind that there can be snow in No. AZ & UT in April. Then again, there could be spring-like weather! It's a good idea to check the weather before you depart, and pack layers so that you can adjust with the weater. Also, be sure to take plenty of water with you each day. Even though you don't plan to be hiking, it's dry, and you'll likely find that you get thirsty easily.
Note: If you like trains consider taken the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon. Also, there's a lovely scenic railway, The Verde Canyon Railway in Clarkdale, AZ.