Sedona & Page, Arizona
We headed to Sedona with a purpose — to run/walk in the Run Sedona, a race that gives back to the local community. What better excuse for a getaway than beautiful red rocks and a meaningful finish line?
But the adventure started before we even got there.
On the drive up, we made a stop at Out of Africa Wildlife Park, and it did not disappoint. We fed giraffes (yes, their tongues are impressively long), pet a 13-foot python, and watched lions and tigers devour whole turkeys like it was just another Tuesday. It felt wild in the best way possible — the perfect kickoff to an already beautiful day, complete with amazing Arizona weather.
For our stay, we checked into Sedona Pines Resort, and it was such a hidden gem. The resort is made up of adorable cottage-style units, each with a full kitchen stocked with dishes, pots, and pans — which makes traveling so much easier (especially for families). It gave us that cozy, home-away-from-home feeling while still being surrounded by Sedona’s stunning scenery.
Right on the property is Bella Vita Ristorante, and it was a delightful surprise. The food is authentic Italian, rich with flavor, and the ambiance feels like stepping into old-world Italy — warm lighting, rustic charm, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger over dessert just a little longer.
After completing our 5K in Sedona — surrounded by those iconic red rock views — we decided to keep the momentum going and road-trip to Page, Arizona. After living in Arizona for over 20 years, I finally said, “It’s time.” And wow… no regrets.
First stop: the jaw-dropping curves of Horseshoe Bend. Standing at the edge and looking down at the Colorado River winding perfectly through the canyon felt surreal.
Then came the highlight: Antelope Canyon. To see the Lower Canyon, you have to book through one of two tour operators — Ken's Tours or Dixie's Lower Antelope Canyon Tours — and we chose Ken’s. The tour was incredible. It’s not a long hike, but it is an adventure. You’ll climb up and down ladders, squeeze through narrow sandstone passageways, and weave between rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water.
It’s hard to believe Mother Nature carved something so intricate and breathtaking. Our guide told us that after heavy rains, the canyon can close because water can pool up to 15 feet in the lower sections — a powerful reminder that this beauty was shaped by flash floods over time.
If you’re visiting Arizona, this excursion is absolutely worth it. Just be prepared: you need to be comfortable walking, climbing ladders, and navigating tight spaces for the Lower Canyon. If that sounds challenging, the Upper Canyon offers a more accessible option — but either way, you’re in for views that will stay with you long after the trip ends.
From racing through Sedona to wandering through ancient canyon walls, it was one of those trips that perfectly blended adventure, purpose, and pure awe.
