Next summer ( I know its early) my family (including pre teens)will be traveling to Scottsdale, Sedona and the canyon. We will have 9 nights to spend on the trip. We like the outdoors, sightseeing and resort activities. I was contemplating (in this order) 1 night at the canyon, 3 nights in Sedona and 5 nights in scottsdale Perhaps I could do the canyon in one day and spend 4 nights in sedona. Am I planning too little or too much time in any one location?? Your thoughts are welcomed.

Depends on how much hiking and outdoor activity you'll want to engage in.
The more time you plan to spend outdoors, the more time you should budget for Sedona and GC.
Scottsdale during summer is all about hanging around the pool or indoors....not much in the way of other outdoor activities due to the heat.
Scottsdale is not terribly unique, either. Has great resorts, OK shopping, OK restaurants, not much culture.
The northern part of AZ is where the state's uniqueness is most apparent.

I agree, spend 1 day at the GC 5 in Sedona and 3 in Scottsdale

I would spend 2 days at the GC, 2 days in Flagstaff, 2 in Prescott and the remainder in Scottsdale. I would visit Sedona on the way from Flagstaff to Prescott. Sorry, I don't find Sedona to be a big deal.

From Flagstaff, see Sunset Crater, Wupatki NM, Petrified Forest/Painted desert

On way to Prescott or day trip from Prescott see verde valley (Montezuma Castle/well NM, Tuzigoot NM, Jerome, Verde Valley Railroad

John......My wife and I are doing the same trip for next April. Starting and ending in Phoenix, we will spend 2 nights at the Grand Canyon, 4 nights in Sedona and then 2 nights in Scottsdale.
I debated long and hard on whether or not I should subtract 2 nights from the above listings and add 1 night near Monument Valley and 1 night near Canyon de Chelly. I finally decided not to add the extra driving. Good luck!

From what I have learned Scottsdale will be the least desirable due to the oppressive heat. I am leaning to spending more time in Sedona

I tend to agree with Steve. He sounds pretty knowledgeable in activities. Three nights in Sedona would be my max, didn't care for the town.

One day at the Grand Canyon? Not enough. Plan 1 day there just to get oriented and take in the views from the rim. Everyone who is able needs to hike into the canyon some. For me, 2 days was plenty in Sedona. Peaceful and beautiful- but 2 days was fine.

About one good long look was plenty for me (and my family) at the Grand Canyon.
After all, it's not exactly Wally World.

You need 3 days minimum @ the canyon and if possible hike down on day 2, even for an hour or so. I've been to Sedona 3 times, (over a 10 year period) all between 1 and 2 days and it's fine if a little boring. 2 days maximum. A few years ago I travelled up to Monument valley. Stunning,but again, after an hour or two, you'd be ready for moving on. Can't comment on scottsdale - don't know it ...

I grew up in Scottsdale and as a teen I dreaded t aking another trip to Sedona. It's a better place for adults. The Canyon you only need a day and a half. Scottsdale had lots to do for teens. There are three water parks, mini golf places that look like Disney, Diamondback baseball games, which are indoors. The shopping is great and there are many outlet centers. Tubing down the salt river is a whole day in itself. You tie a bunch of tubes together, including a cooler with food and drinks. Hiking Camelbak Mnt. In the early morning or very late afternoon is a wonderful hike. It's right in the heart of Scottsdale. If you need anymore info. just let me know.

Krissy will you be my tour guide?

Something about the name Krissy makes me think you must be this young, hot looking little ball of energy.
My wife is so....well, boring (not to mention pudgy and cold).
Make my vacation more special Krissy.
Show me the best sights in Scottsdale.

The other John was not me but he may have a point.

Wish Krissy was my Mom.

John,

Was there about 5 yrs ago...stayed in Flagstaff...I would minimize my time in Sedona and maximize my time around the canyon. North rim esp nice....it'll take you a day just to drive there....take the scenic drive between Flagstaff and Sedona. it is worth it. Be sure to visit Tempe when in Scottsdale area if you like a college area.