mslt1996

My wife and I (65 years old) would like to take a 7 day road trip in Mid March 2023 from Las Vegas to Phoenix. Our present itinerary is Bryce Canyon (1 night), Zion (2 nights), Page (1 night), Grand Canyon (1 night), Sedona (2 nights) then making our way to our destination in Phoenix. I would like to stay in the parks whenever possible, so I have already made reservations for the Zion Lodge and also one of the lodges at the Grand Canyon. Due to some health issues, long strenuous hikes are not possible. Walking 1/4 to 1/2 mile is ok, just no strenuous hiking. So we would have particular interest in sights and activities that we can easily get to, or close to, by car. I'm looking for suggestions on must see places, points of interest, and dining or suggested changes to our choices and sequence of stays. Thanks in advance.

janisj

Welcome to Fodors. I can't post much right now because I'm in the middle of a project -- but here is a link to my trip report of essentially that same road trip only in reverse Phoenix to Las Vegas - maybe it has some helpful info for you

Short TR - Short trip to SW national parks

J62

March is still winter at the higher elevation parks such as Bryce and GC, so plan for accordingl. Technically it's still winter everywhere....

Temps at GC will be below freezing at night/early am, but should warm up to the 40s or 50s during the day. You won't be able to do long hikes withoutt heavy ice spikes, even if you wanted to.
Bryce, overnights may be as cold as 0 degrees F, and highs you'll be lucky if it gets up to 32. You should expect park roads except for the main amphitheater to be closed, snow on the ground, and the possibility of snow at any time. I don't know if you'll be able to do any hiking below the rim.
Zion - it will be much warmer as it is lower elevation.

oldemalloy

We have not had trouble with lodging at that time of year, so you can be a bit flexible on lodging. Make reservations that can be cancelled without penalty.

I would head from Vegas to Zion the first day as long as your flight gets in early enough to drive during daylight hours. Plan two nights there then check the weather and go to Bryce as long as it is not snowing. As has been mentioned, Bryce will probably have snow on the trails, but the park roads will be fine and it is beautiful with snow on it. Spend the night then head for Page. If there is a storm, either stay near Zion or head to where you can go without icy roads….either to Page or back towards Vegas.

I love Grand Canyon and could easily spend a couple of nights there. Get lodging in the park so you can see sunrise and sunset without having to drive in the dark with deer, elk, etc, on the roads. We have often been able to get walk in reservations there off season, so you can be flexible. If the shuttle is running from Bright Angel and hop off to see the views then get back on the next shuttle.

Always fill your gas tank when it gets down to a half and keep water in the cape, drink more than you think you need.

Melnq8

We've visited Utah parks twice in January and are planning to do so again next month.

You might get some ideas on what to expect from my trip report from last Jan when we visited Bryce and Zion (plus others not on your list).

Got rocks? A winter visit to Utah’s Orogenous Zones

PrairieHikerI

It should be in the upper 60s F and sunny in Sedona. There are three visitor centers where you can find information on easy, short trails. It is known as the Day Hike Capital of America.

MichelleY

I had some problems with altitude sickness at Bryce. Stay hydrated and take it slow.

oldemalloy

If you are going west on 40 from Albuquerque, just before you hit the Arizona line, head to Window Rock for a quick stop, then up to Chinle and hire a guide to take you into Canyon de Chelley. There is lodging in Chinle and guides at many of the hotel/motels or at the NP VC. You con only hike down to one ruin or look from the rim on your own, but a guide will give you lots of history. Get your own guide rather than taking the “shake and bake” tour.