Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

Lowell observatory in Flagstaff, Sunset Crater Wupatki National Monument just north of the crater and Walnut Canyon ruins. Some less touristy places but still easily accessible and absolutely incredible.

On cinders at Sunset Crater


At Wupatki

genesampson

When going from Phoenix to Flag on day 1 instead of taking I-17 North which gives you few photo opportunities, take HWY 87 (AZ scenic byway also called The Beeline) to Payson, then Lake Mary Road (I think it's Hwy 3 but it's the road that goes through Happy Jack and not Camp Verde) to Flag. There are many geologic features, beautiful mountain views, winding two lane roads through Ponderosa Pine forests and many changes in ecosystems. I'm a local living in Payson and that's what I would do unless I was very cramped for time. BTW 14 years ago after taking part of that drive I quit my job in NYC and moved here.

genesampson

If possible take the short hike to Mesa Arch in Canyonlands near Moab (It's the Arch pictured on U haul trucks from Utah). I believe you get the best light around 10:00am or so but you may find this link helpful.

https://www.fototripper.com/mesa-arch-canyonlands-photo-guide/

frankraney Loc: Clovis, Ca.

AZNikon Loc: Mesa, AZ

You'll never make it...

lhardister Loc: Brownsville, TN

I definitely agree with all of the above. Arches N.P. and Moab are just too far away from your starting point to be encompassed within a one-week trip. I find that a trip is more enjoyable if one plans so as to have a little more time, and therefore a little more flexibility, in visits to scenic locations. I would plan to spend the entire time in Arizona seeing and enjoying the many attractions there.

Wherever you go, have a great trip!

Zooman 1

If you have the time in the Phoenix area try to go to the Gilbert Water Ranch. Many bird species to
photograph.

rdgreenwood Loc: Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

I was in Phoenix this past Christmas--it was my seventh trip to the area--and went to Sedona for the third time. This time it was only a day trip, so I did something I thought I'd never do: I took a "Pink Jeep Tour." It was incredible. I urge you, no, I plead with you, "Don't miss Sedona." Regardless of what others have said, Sedona is the jewel of the country. Don't miss it. In all truth, if I went to Phoenix today, a trip up to Sedona would be at the top of my list of places to visit.

If you go to Monument Valley, which you should, you'll get 100% more out of the visit if you hire a guide. It's indian land, so the best spots are held for those guided by Navajos. I also agree with the poster who said you should hire a guide and tour Canyon de Chelley. It's wonderful.

You have lots of great suggestions here, but I'd add the Apache Trail (southeast from Phoenix) and delete Flagstaff from my list. As for Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, they've been so overshot as to be cliche. I don't like to shoot cliches, so I tend to go to places where I can render my own interpretation.

Have a great tip and be sure to show us some of your images when you get back.

gwilliams6

From Flagstaff you can do the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon before you head to Monument Valley which is further northeast on Utah/ Arizona border. I did all three and none are to be missed.

gwilliams6

From Flagstaff you can do the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon before you head to Monument Valley which is further northeast on Utah/ Arizona border. I did all three and none are to be missed. After or on the way to Monument valley, you also do Navajo Monument for a cool cliff dwelling.

RichinSeattle

Any guarantee that the girl (my Lord) in a flatbed Ford will slow down to take a look at me?

Smudgey Loc: Ohio, Calif, Now Arizona

You are wise indeed 👍

GeneS Loc: Glendale,AZ

One of the best places in Arizona for great photographic tour is antelope canyon.
I'd say don't miss if you have the time. Call ahead to make sure you can get in.
Look it up on google you will want to go, and every body misses it

genesampson

There is a man "standing on the corner" and also a "flatbed Ford" in a window. While a block away is La Posada a restored train station and hotel. Worth a visit to have a great meal and just to walk around in. If lucky you may meet Tina Mion who created the interesting paintings and helped restore the magnificent structure. Furthered out the same road (Rt 66) is a 9-11 memorial which includes pieces of the WTC.

skylinefirepest Loc: Southern Pines, N.C.

My sole opinion...skip Petrified or see it on the way OUT...if you stop there after going to Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, Bryce, etc. you will be disappointed. We spent a week at Moab and are planning to go back later this year to try to see some of what we missed. We also drive a 4x4 and try to do some of the simple trails where there is fantastic scenery. You should have fun regardless. I also advise skipping Sedona for something else.