What's the Distance Between Sedona and Phoenix, and How to Create a Scenic Road Trip Itinerary?
Traveling from Phoenix to Arizona's Gem: Sedona
Swing by Sedona, just 116 miles (187 km) or a 2-hour drive away from Phoenix, for a jaw-dropping experience! Whether you're up for a quick excursion or a leisurely weekend escape, here's your ultimate travel guide.
Why Ditch Phoenix for Sedona?
Sedona's breathtaking red rocks, spiritual vortexes, and thriving arts scene make it one of Arizona's top destinations. With a swift commute from Phoenix, you can:
- Spend a day trip for hiking, sightseeing, and rejuvenation
- Enjoy a weekend getaway at luxury resorts
- Savor short travel times without sacrificing Arizona's natural beauty!
3 Best Routes from Phoenix to Sedona
1. Speed Demon's Choice: I-17 N to AZ-179 N (2 hours, 116 miles)
Perfect for those with an itch to get there fast!
- Key Landmark: Slide Rock State Park
- TIP: Keep an eye on Google Maps for traffic updates before leaving.
2. Slow 'n' Sip Route: AZ-260 & Cottonwood (2.5 hours, 130 miles)
Feel like a relaxed drive? Discover wineries and historic sites along the way!
- Must-See Stops:
- Jerome Ghost Town (haunted history & cool art galleries)
- Alcantara Vineyards (wine tasting with stunning river views)
3. Road Warrior's Delight: Via Payson & Mogollon Rim (4+ hours, 180 miles)
Epic mountain views await the adventurous!
- Highlights:
- Tonto Natural Bridge
- Rim Road Overlooks
5 Can't-Miss Detours along the Way
- Montezuma Castle National Monument - Experience a 900-year-old cliff dwelling.
- Arcosanti - Step into Paolo Soleri's futuristic eco-city.
- Out of Africa Wildlife Park - Get up close and personal with tigers and giraffes!
- Cliff Castle Casino - A fun pit stop for food, games, and entertainment.
- Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ-179) - The gateway to Sedona's unparalleled beauty.
Pro Tips for Smooth Sailing
- Dodge Rush Hour: Steer clear of I-17's congestion (7-9 AM & 4-6 PM).
- Fuel Up: Gas stations become scarce, so fill up in North Phoenix or Camp Verde.
- Navigate Without Glitches: Download offline maps for seamless travel.
- Be Early: Sedona parking spots quickly fill up, so arrive early to snag a spot!
At a Loss? Worry Not!
- Shuttle: Groome Transportation ($50 one-way, 2.5 hours)
- Private Tours: Companies like Sedona Sightseeing offer guided trips.
- Helicopter Ride: A splurge, but the views are unbeatable!
There's More to Sedona Than the Drive!
Though short, the journey from Phoenix to Sedona is far from ordinary. Whether you zip through on I-17 or take the scenic route, Arizona's most striking landscapes await!
FAQs
Sedona or Flagstaff? Phoenix is Sedona! Flagstaff is another 30 miles north.
Day Trip Possible? Absolutely! Leave early to hike Devil's Bridge or Cathedral Rock.
Ideal Travel Month? Spring (March-May) or Fall (Sept-Nov) - avoid summer heat and winter snow delays.
Toll Roads? Nope! Arizona's roads are toll-free.
Swing by Sedona, just 2 hours away from Phoenix, for a day trip filled with hiking, sightseeing, and rejuvenation, or extend your visit to a relaxing weekend getaway at luxury resorts. Whether you take the speedy I-17 N route or the scenic AZ-260 with historical and wine-tasting stops, each journey offers an unparalleled glimpse of Arizona's natural beauty. And don't forget to add detours like the Montezuma Castle National Monument and the Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ-179) to your itinerary for an even more enriching travel experience.
