If you’re planning a road adventure, one of the most crucial questions is: how far is Sedona from Phoenix? The distance is approximately 117 miles (188 km), and the drive via I‑17 North is estimated to take 1 hour 49 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

This journey is more than just a road trip—it’s a transformation. From sprawling cityscapes in Phoenix to serene desert vistas and red rock canyons near Sedona, every mile brings a new experience. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of the splendid drive.

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How Long is the Trip From Phoenix to Sedona?

When wondering how far is Sedona from Phoenix, the most accurate and current estimate is 1 hour 49 minutes for roughly 117 miles, following Interstate 17 North.This timeframe is slightly shorter than previous rounding estimates of about two hours, and reflects real-world driving conditions as of mid‑2025. For comparison, many travelers also ask how far is Tampa from Orlando when planning iconic road or rail adventures.

Direct Route via I‑17 N and AZ‑179

The fastest and most scenic route north of Phoenix is via Interstate 17 N, then transitioning onto State Route 179 (AZ‑179)—also known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway, a designated All-American Road recognized for its dramatic red sandstone vistas.

3 Travel Options from Phoenix to Sedona

There are three main ways to get from Phoenix to Sedona: by bus, car, or plane. Each mode of transportation offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and travel time. Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose the best option for your trip:

Mode of Transport	Route Details	Duration	Cost
Bus (Greyhound)	Phoenix Bus Station to Sedona (ARCO) via US1020S	2h 40m	$21–$25
Car (Driving)	Drive from Phoenix to Sedona (187.8 km via I-17 N)	2h 4m	$22–$31 (fuel/tolls)
Flight + Transfer	Fly from Phoenix (PHX) to Flagstaff (FLG), then drive to Sedona	2h 48m (excluding transfer time)	$100–$360

What is the Drive from Phoenix to Sedona Like?

As the drive unfolds, it marks a striking journey in geography:

Elevation gain from approximately 1,000 ft in Phoenix to about 4,350 ft in Sedona, delivering cooler temperatures and richer landscapes.
You begin in Sonoran Desert terrain, dominated by Saguaro cacti, and transition into high desert forests and towering red rock formations.

Seasonally, while Sedona seldom sees heavy snowfall, winter visits might surprise you with light dustings on the red rock formations.

Stops on the Phoenix to Sedona Drive

While you could drive straight through in under two hours, this route offers excellent opportunities to pause and experience local treasures:

Sunset Point Rest Stop

At nearly the halfway point, Sunset Point Rest Area offers breathtaking overlooks and a welcome rest break during the climb northward.

Agua Fria National Monument and Badger Springs Trail

Nearby you’ll find the Agua Fria National Monument, covering over 71,000 acres of mesas, canyons, and ancient sites. Exit at Badger Springs Road (Exit 256) for a short 1.5-mile hike to a lush creekside area with visible petroglyphs.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Just off the Camp Verde exit, this extraordinary cliff dwelling built nearly a millennium ago by the Sinagua people is a quick and enriching stop on the alternate route.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Near Camp Verde, this wildlife park offers guided safari tours and open-air exhibits featuring giraffes, zebras, lions, tigers, and more—a fun, family-friendly detour.

Cottonwood (Old Town Main Street)

If you’re taking the alternate route via AZ-260 and AZ-89A, the town of Cottonwood—particularly its Old Town district—is perfect for local dining, boutique shopping, and a slower pace before arriving in Sedona.

What is There to Do in Sedona?

Once you’ve arrived in Sedona, you’ll discover a wealth of activities to make your stay memorable:

Hiking: Over 200 trails spanning 400+ miles, including famed routes like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Bell Rock, and West Fork Trail.
Off-roading & Jeep tours: Explore backcountry trails and scenic overlooks in 4×4 vehicles or guided tour rigs.
Mountain biking: Trails such as Slim Shady, Templeton, and Llama provide a rugged and scenic challenge.
Camping: Set up amid pine forests and red rock vistas in Coconino National Forest.
Dining & Galleries: Sedona offers an eclectic culinary scene (e.g., Elote Café, The Hudson), as well as galleries and artisan shops in Tlaquepaque.
Golf: Tee off at golf courses like Sedona Golf Resort with panoramic desert views.
Spiritual vortex sites: Sedona is world‑famous for vortex energies at places like Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, and Cathedral Rock.
Shaka Guide Audio Tours: Offers narrated journeys through AZ‑179, Oak Creek Canyon, Jerome, and more, customized by time and interests.

Should You Drive from Phoenix to Sedona?

Yes—without question. The drive of 117 miles in ~1 hour 49 minutes via I‑17 N—how far is Sedona from Phoenix? Far enough to transform your scenery, but close enough for a quick and effortless adventure.

Driving offers the freedom to explore unique stops, scenery, and local culture at your own pace. You control the timing, the vibe, and the journey. And for travel-minded readers who often compare other famous routes like how far is London from Paris, this journey stands up as a truly iconic drive in the American Southwest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is the Drive from Phoenix to Sedona Beautiful?

Yes, the drive from Phoenix to Sedona is beautiful. It features scenic desert landscapes and mountain views with a few interesting stops along the way.

Q. How far is Sedona from Phoenix?

The distance is approximately 117 miles (188 km) when taking the direct route via I‑17 N and AZ‑179.

Q. How long does the drive take?

Under typical conditions, expect around 1 hour 49 minutes using the fastest, most scenic path ★.

Q. Is the drive scenic?

Absolutely! Starting in desert terrain, climbing through high desert plateaus, and glimpsing red rock canyons, the route via I‑17 and AZ‑179 is exceptionally picturesque.

Conclusion

So, just how far is Sedona from Phoenix? The distance is legitimate—not just in miles but in the experiences it holds. At 117 miles, and a driving time of about 1 hour 49 minutes via I‑17 N and AZ‑179, the journey blends efficiency with natural beauty. From desert highways to red rock vistas, plus dynamic stops along the way, this route is as rewarding as the destination.

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