Phoenix Cross-Country: National Parks, Ohtani at Chase Field, & Family

Just two months after receiving my Private Pilot certificate in April 2021, I planned my first major long-distance cross-country flight with family. I flew my dad and youngest daughter, Taylor, down to Phoenix so we could watch the Arizona Diamondbacks play the Los Angeles Dodgers—with Shohei Ohtani pitching that night.

Day 1: Flying South & The Ballgame

On the way down, we took the scenic route past Moab for aerial views of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks before continuing over Lake Powell into Page, Arizona for fuel.

Aerial view of Canyonlands National Park from the flight flight leg southbound.

Overflying Lake Powell near Page, AZ.

After fueling up, we crossed over the Grand Canyon en route to Glendale (KGEU).

Crossing the Grand Canyon southbound into Arizona.

Day 2: The Return Leg & Surprise Stop

On our return trip, we made a planned fuel stop in Kanab, Utah.

Taylor standing on the wing during our pitstop in Kanab, UT.

We realized our timing aligned perfectly to catch my older daughter’s traveling symphony group in St. George, Utah. We made an unscheduled stop at KSGU, watched their concert, and completed the final leg home to South Valley (U42).