Summary
A Phoenix to Sedona drive is one of the most underrated road trips in the US. Unlike many of the country’s grand road trips, this Sedona road trip can easily be accomplished in a day. The journey spans Arizona from Phoenix to Sedona, covering 117 miles in just over two hours. This scenic drive transitions from a bustling city into the mesmerizing red rock landscapes of Sedona, showcasing breathtaking natural beauty and numerous hiking opportunities. Along the way, you can also explore cultural landmarks like Montezuma Castle National Monument.
In this guide, we’ll share everything we learned on our recent Phoenix to Sedona drive – which is actually quite comprehensive. We will provide you with a detailed itinerary, answer frequently asked questions, and suggest activities in both Sedona and Phoenix, ensuring you make the most of your day trip. Let’s begin!
Phoenix to Sedona Drive Itinerary
Ready to embark on the Phoenix to Sedona drive? This journey ranks among Arizona’s top road trips and day trips, and we’ve crafted the ultimate itinerary to ensure you don’t miss a single highlight. You’ll traverse central Arizona’s dramatic desert landscapes, making it an ideal getaway for nature and hiking enthusiasts. We’ll outline the most direct route first, followed by an alternative route if you’re interested in a detour.
Start your adventure by flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. From there, rent a car, follow this itinerary to Sedona, and consider flying out of Sedona Airport. Alternatively, you might drive back to Phoenix after enjoying a few nights in Sedona. If planning a return trip, this is the perfect opportunity to explore our alternative route for a comprehensive experience.
Ready with a pen and paper? Let’s dive into the ultimate itinerary for your Phoenix to Sedona road trip!
1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park
- Distance from Phoenix: 55 minutes
- Time required: 1 hour
Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a vast recreational area and one of the initial stops on your Phoenix to Sedona drive. With over a hundred campsites, it’s a popular natural getaway for Phoenix locals. Early morning is the best time to visit for refreshing activities like sunrise kayaking. Alternatively, head over for some fun on the world’s largest floating waterslide at H2.
Remember to bring your swimwear and towels, as Lake Pleasant is a perfect wake-up destination. The summer atmosphere here is especially invigorating!
2. Rock Springs Cafe in Black Canyon City
- Distance from Phoenix: 49 minutes
- Time required: 30 minutes
Black Canyon City, an old mining town, offers a brief but delightful stop along the drive. The highlight here is Rock Springs Cafe, known for its charming trucker vibe and a menu that’s steeped in local history.
At Rock Springs, you’ll find a character-filled cafe linked to bootlegging days and famous for its special pies. We recommend stopping for brunch after your rejuvenating morning at Lake Pleasant!
3. Badger Springs Trail
- Distance from Phoenix: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Time required: 1 hour
Badger Springs Trail features a 1.5-mile hike with a trailhead located in the Agua Fria National Monument. This relatively easy trail is suitable for hikers of all skills, as long as they have basic mobility. The trail leads you along the banks of the Agua Fria River and showcases spectacular Perry Mesa petroglyphs hidden within a canyon.
Spend an hour stretching your legs on this widely enjoyed trail. It’s an excellent opportunity to see petroglyphs without crowding.
4. Agua Fria National Monument
- Distance from Phoenix: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Time required: 1 hour
Once you enter the central region of Agua Fria National Monument, you can appreciate the 71,000 acres of pristine natural space. Following your hike on Badger Springs Trail, spend some extra time in this area with binoculars, soaking in the stunning views. Keep an eye out for coyotes, mountain lions, mule deer, and perhaps even antelope!
You may also opt for a detour to the Pueblo La Plata site, a 40-minute drive leading you to an ancient Native American settlement.
5. Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Distance from Phoenix: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Time required: 30 minutes
As you delve into Native American history, Montezuma Castle stands out as one of the best attractions in Arizona. This impressive 20-story cliff dwelling carved into limestone rock offers fascinating insights into early settlements.
Enjoy ranger-led tours or visit independently – just a short walk from parking along a paved track under 10 minutes. Although entry inside the castle is not allowed, you can still enjoy amazing views from outside.
6. Red Rock Scenic Byway
- Distance from Phoenix: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Time required: 20 minutes
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is often considered the gateway to Sedona. Stretching approximately 7.5 miles, this scenic drive unveils stunning red rock formations. Since Sedona is famed for its red rocks, it’s no surprise that this road is dotted with beautiful cherry-red features.
This byway adds only 20 minutes to your trip and is the easiest attraction to incorporate into your route. You might even pause briefly for breathtaking photographs!
7. Bell Rock
- Distance from Phoenix: 2 hours
- Time required: 1-2 hours
As a striking red rock butte right before entering Sedona, Bell Rock is an ideal final stop. We highly recommend hiking (or mountain biking) up Bell Rock, which is a short 0.8 miles out and back, featuring an elevation gain of 203 feet.
This moderate trail calls for sturdy shoes and water supply. However, the payoff is a panoramic view that makes the hike worthwhile.
Alternate Route: Via Verde Valley Wine Trail
If you desire a different return route to Phoenix or wish to skip the scenic byway and Bell Rock, consider taking the alternate route looping up to Old Town Cottonwood. This option allows you the chance to explore the delightful wine tours on the Verde Valley Wine Trail.
While traveling this way, you can visit the stunning Verde Canyon Railroad and Tuzigoot National Monument. If traveling with kids, the Africa Wildlife Park is worth considering; though we advise evaluating such institutions for their management quality. The railroad is ideal for non-hikers or anyone with mobility restrictions.
Since wine tours typically aren’t suited for single-day trips, consider spending the night in Old Town Cottonwood for the best experience.
What To See and Do in Phoenix
After arriving at Phoenix Airport, take a day or two to acclimate before setting off on your Phoenix to Sedona drive. You may wonder how to keep yourself entertained – there is a wealth of attractions in Phoenix to explore. Forget about day trips initially, as this vibrant city offers a plethora of sights to see.
Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum ranks among the most unique museums in the US, featuring over 15,000 artifacts. This museum highlights Phoenix’s artistic and cultured essence, significantly enhancing your visit. Besides exhibitions, it boasts a 300-seat theater that hosts regular performances. Check to see if one aligns with your visit dates and don’t miss the gift shop.
Frontier Town
Frontier Town is a must-visit. This recreated old west settlement is akin to a time capsule, offering an immersive Western experience at the heart of Phoenix. It’s not just a tourist attraction; it operates as a functional shopping center.
Capture memories against aesthetic old west-style scenery while exploring shops of bargain finds. Frontier Town might be a bit of a tourist trap, but it can still bring smiles to even the grumpiest visitors!
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix provides a serene escape amid bustling Downtown. Operated mainly by volunteers, its tranquil atmosphere makes it a lovely spot for a brief walk amidst greenery. Enjoy quaint pagodas, endless water features, and traditional tea offerings at the garden’s tea house.
Frank Lloyd Wright Spire
Though the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire isn’t usually highlighted in top Phoenix attractions, it’s worth a visit. Located in nearby Scottsdale, this remarkable piece of architecture stands 125 feet tall, resembling a jagged blue spike that towers above the boulevard. The spire honors the late architect’s design for Arizona’s state capitol in 1957. You can explore the park surrounding the spire and appreciate this architectural feat.
What To See and Do in Sedona
Although the Phoenix to Sedona drive is a day trip, consider extending your visit to Sedona. Spend a few days in this captivating region after your drive. Here are top recommendations for activities in Sedona. Who knows – you may even plan a Sedona road trip to nearby gems, like the Grand Canyon!
Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon is a breathtaking red rock gorge that’s a must-see during your Sedona visit. Offering picturesque scenery, a swimming hole, and a natural water slide, it’s accessible in under 10 minutes by car.
This location makes for a fantastic half-day activity; just bring swimwear, towels, and snacks. For a more adventurous option, consider cycling to the canyon – it’s a mere 30-minute bike ride away.
Cathedral Rock Trail
For thrill-seekers, Cathedral Rock trail presents an exhilarating challenge. This steep 1.5-mile round trip leads to a saddle nestled between two stunning red rock formations. Though it requires physical endurance, it’s manageable for those with a determined spirit.
Chances are, you’ve seen Cathedral Rock in photos. If not, look it up; this sandstone butte is among Arizona’s most renowned landmarks. It’s just a 12-minute drive from Sedona and magnificently beautiful during sunset.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Chapel of the Holy Cross is an abstract Catholic church from the 1950s, characterized by expansive windows that overlook the surrounding red rock landscape. This iconic concrete structure resembles a spaceship more than a traditional place of worship, blending modern architecture with its natural setting. Entry is free, and it remains one of Sedona’s most visited attractions.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, while not located in Sedona, is merely a two-hour drive away, making Sedona an excellent base for a day trip to this prestigious national park. Known for its dramatic vistas, visitors flock to the Grand Canyon for scenic views, helicopter tours, and extensive hiking trails.
Spanning 278 miles, the Grand Canyon also encompasses the ancestral lands of 11 associated tribes and features the intriguing Great Unconformity, a puzzling geological layer. Planning a visit to Sedona truly opens doors to an unforgettable trip to the Grand Canyon, made easy by its proximity.
Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout
Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout is a breathtaking viewpoint where you can witness stunning sunsets illuminating the red rocks. Located at the end of the airport road, this spot is ideal for sunset picnics or star-gazing evenings.
The expansive parking lot offers free access, so pack a picnic, grab some blankets, and enjoy a romantic evening soaking in the views.
Phoenix to Sedona Drive: FAQs
The Phoenix to Sedona drive is undeniably a bucket list experience. This route can be comfortably completed in one day, making it accessible for those with limited time in Arizona. Below are answers to some of your frequently asked questions.
Is Sedona worth the drive from Phoenix?
Absolutely! Sedona offers a completely different side of Arizona in contrast to Phoenix. You’ll experience authentic ‘red rock country’ via an incredibly scenic route and discover an abundance of hiking trails and cultural experiences. Additionally, Sedona serves as an excellent base for skiing or exploring the Grand Canyon.
What is the best scenic route from Phoenix to Sedona?
The most scenic route from Phoenix to Sedona is via the Red Rock Scenic Byway. This route immerses you in picturesque red rocks, particularly stunning during sunset. If you aim for an iconic entrance into Sedona, this route is the one to choose.
Is the drive from Phoenix to Sedona easy?
Indeed, the drive from Phoenix to Sedona is straightforward. Most of the journey follows the Arizona Veterans Highway, transitioning to Highway 179 (the scenic byway) for the last 30 minutes. Navigation is incredibly simple.
What is the road like from Phoenix to Sedona?
The road from Phoenix to Sedona is straightforward and easy to navigate. It primarily consists of highways; beginning on the Arizona Veterans Highway and shifting to Highway 179. The highways meander through serene desert landscapes and are relatively quiet after departing from Phoenix.
The Phoenix to Sedona drive ranks as a must-do road trip, showcasing irresistible red rocks and picturesque desert terrain. Enjoy the ancient stone pueblos at Montezuma Castle National Monument or tackle the hiking trails mentioned earlier in this guide. Best of all, the drive lasts just two hours – giving you ample time to fill your day with exciting stops.
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