Flagstaff To Sedona Arizona Directions

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 11, 2026

Oak Creek flowing through Oak Creek Canyon between Flagstaff and Sedona Arizona

Autumn Reflections, Oak Creek Canyon. Credit: Coconino National Forest

Flagstaff to Sedona can be driven by two primary routes. The most scenic and direct option follows State Route 89A south through Oak Creek Canyon for approximately 28 miles. An alternate route uses Interstate 17 south and State Route 179 north into Sedona. Your best route can depend on weather, traffic and current road conditions.

Flagstaff To Sedona Overview
Scenic Route Via Oak Creek Canyon
Route Via I-17
Compare The Routes
Scenic Highlights
Road Conditions
Route Map
Driving Tips
FAQ

Flagstaff To Sedona Driving Overview

The scenic State Route 89A route from Flagstaff to Sedona is approximately 28 miles and descends from the ponderosa pine forests south of Flagstaff through Oak Creek Canyon before reaching Uptown Sedona. The route is winding and includes a series of switchbacks near the top of the canyon.

The Interstate 17 and State Route 179 route is longer but provides an important alternative when SR 89A is closed, restricted or undesirable because of weather or road conditions.

Scenic Route From Flagstaff To Sedona Via Oak Creek Canyon

From Flagstaff, follow State Route 89A south toward Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona. The highway passes through ponderosa pine forest before reaching Oak Creek Vista near the top of the canyon, then descends a winding series of switchbacks into Oak Creek Canyon.

Continue south on SR 89A through the canyon, passing recreation areas and dramatic canyon scenery before entering Uptown Sedona. The total distance is approximately 28 miles.

Follow State Route 89A south from Flagstaff.
Continue toward Oak Creek Vista and the top of Oak Creek Canyon.
Descend the SR 89A switchbacks into Oak Creek Canyon.
Remain on SR 89A through the canyon.
Continue directly into Uptown Sedona.

Flagstaff To Sedona Via Interstate 17

The alternate route follows Interstate 17 south from Flagstaff to Exit 298 for State Route 179. From the interchange, take SR 179 north through the Village of Oak Creek and continue into Sedona.

This route is longer than traveling through Oak Creek Canyon, but it avoids the winding SR 89A switchbacks. It is also the primary alternate route when State Route 89A between Flagstaff and Sedona is closed or restricted.

Take Interstate 17 south from Flagstaff.
Continue south toward the Sedona and Oak Creek area.
Take Exit 298 for State Route 179.
Follow State Route 179 north through the Village of Oak Creek.
Continue on SR 179 into Sedona.

Which Flagstaff To Sedona Route Should You Take?

For scenery: Choose State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon.
For the shorter route: State Route 89A is generally the more direct drive between Flagstaff and Sedona.
To avoid canyon switchbacks: Use Interstate 17 south and State Route 179 north.
During an SR 89A closure: Use Interstate 17 and State Route 179.
During winter weather: Check current conditions before choosing either route because elevation and weather can affect both highways.

Scenic Highlights Along Oak Creek Canyon

The State Route 89A drive from Flagstaff to Sedona passes through one of northern Arizona's most distinctive transitions in scenery. The route begins among the ponderosa pines south of Flagstaff, reaches the rim above Oak Creek Canyon and then descends toward Sedona's red rock country.

Oak Creek Vista: A scenic overlook near the top of Oak Creek Canyon.
Oak Creek Canyon: A forested canyon followed by SR 89A between Flagstaff and Sedona.
Slide Rock State Park: A popular recreation area along Oak Creek.
Grasshopper Point: A recreation area near the southern end of Oak Creek Canyon.
Uptown Sedona: The northern gateway into Sedona when arriving on SR 89A.

Check Road Conditions Before Driving To Sedona

State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon can be affected by winter weather, wildfire activity, rockfall, construction and traffic incidents. Interstate 17 can also experience weather and traffic delays. Check current Arizona highway conditions before leaving Flagstaff, particularly during winter storms or periods of active road restrictions.

Flagstaff To Sedona Route Map

Map of Flagstaff to Sedona routes through Oak Creek Canyon and Interstate 17

Flagstaff To Sedona Driving Tips

Allow extra time: SR 89A is winding and traffic can move slowly through Oak Creek Canyon.
Use caution on switchbacks: The upper canyon includes tight curves and significant elevation changes.
Expect changing weather: Conditions in Flagstaff can differ considerably from those in Sedona because of the elevation difference.
Watch for restrictions: Construction, rockfall, wildfire activity and winter weather can temporarily affect SR 89A.
Check AZ 511: Review current closures, crashes, construction and weather conditions before departure.

More Sedona Driving Information

Flagstaff To Sedona Directions FAQ

How far is Sedona from Flagstaff?

Sedona is approximately 28 miles from Flagstaff by the scenic State Route 89A route through Oak Creek Canyon.

How long does it take to drive from Flagstaff to Sedona?

Driving time varies with traffic, weather and road conditions. The scenic SR 89A route is relatively short, but its winding canyon road and switchbacks can slow travel.

What is the most scenic route from Flagstaff to Sedona?

State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon is the most scenic route. It descends from the ponderosa pine forests near Flagstaff through Oak Creek Canyon and directly into Uptown Sedona.