Drive from Phoenix to Sedona

Question

I will be flying to Phoenix and then traveling to Sedona. I am trying to decide between renting a car or using Uber to get from the Phoenix airport to Sedona and then back to Phoenix. If I rent a car is the drive from Phoenix to Sedona a difficult one? And would I need a GPS system in the car? Also, are there scenic places to stop on the way to Sedona that would not take me out of my way on the trip?

Thanks.

Answer

Driving from Phoenix to Sedona is a popular and manageable route, making renting a car generally the most flexible and convenient option. Here’s a detailed overview to help with your decision:

Drive Difficulty:

The drive from Phoenix to Sedona is approximately 115–120 miles and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours under normal traffic. The route is straightforward, primarily via I-17 North, then transitioning onto AZ-179 or AZ-89A into Sedona. The roads are well-maintained and paved, with clear signage. The main considerations are:

Some curvy sections, particularly on AZ-179 and AZ-89A as you approach Sedona, which pass through scenic red rock areas and can require attentive driving.
The road climbs in elevation from the desert floor around Phoenix to the higher plateau near Sedona, but this is gradual and well-marked.
Traffic can increase on weekends or holidays, especially through Sedona itself, but it’s generally not difficult for drivers familiar with standard highway conditions.

GPS or Navigation:

A GPS or smartphone navigation app is recommended but not strictly necessary if you follow major highways and signs. Most rental cars come with GPS options or you can rely on Google Maps or Apple Maps. Key navigation tips:

Set your destination to Sedona or your specific hotel to get the most accurate route.
Keep in mind that cellular service may be intermittent in more remote sections, so having offline maps can be helpful.

Scenic Stops Along the Way:

There are several beautiful, convenient stops that don’t significantly add time to your drive:

Montezuma Castle National Monument: About 90 minutes from Phoenix on I-17 North, featuring well-preserved cliff dwellings and short walking paths.
Red Rock State Park: Close to Sedona, ideal for a quick walk or photo stop to enjoy the stunning red rock formations.
Oak Creek Canyon Overlooks: On AZ-89A entering Sedona, multiple pullouts provide breathtaking views without major detours.

Alternative: Uber or Ride-Sharing:

While Uber or Lyft is an option, it is expensive due to the long distance and may require pre-arrangement for the return trip. Additionally, you would miss flexibility for stopping at scenic points along the way.

Recommendation:

Renting a car is the preferred choice for convenience, cost-effectiveness, and ability to enjoy the scenic drive at your own pace. The drive is not difficult for standard vehicles, and GPS is helpful but optional if you follow signs carefully. Plan a few quick stops along the way to enhance your journey to Sedona.

Drive from Phoenix to Sedona

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