Phoenix To Sedona Arizona Directions

Originally written by Tony Subia

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

Magical Sedona Light. © Mike Koopsen

Phoenix to Sedona is approximately 113 miles by the primary route, with a typical driving time of about two hours when traffic and road conditions are favorable. Most travelers follow Interstate 17 north from the Phoenix area to Exit 298, then take State Route 179 through the Village of Oak Creek into Sedona. Actual mileage and travel time vary depending on where you begin in the Phoenix metropolitan area and current traffic conditions.

Phoenix To Sedona Overview
Driving Directions
Alternate Route
What You'll See
Elevation & Weather
Road Conditions
Sedona Area Map
Driving Tips
FAQ

Phoenix To Sedona Driving Overview

The primary driving route from Phoenix to Sedona follows Interstate 17 north through central Arizona and then State Route 179 northwest into Red Rock Country. The route climbs substantially in elevation as it leaves the Sonoran Desert and approaches the higher terrain surrounding Sedona.

Driving conditions are generally straightforward, but traffic can be heavier on weekends, holidays and during busy visitor seasons. Construction, weather and traffic incidents can also affect travel times.

Driving Directions From Phoenix To Sedona

Take Interstate 17 north from the Phoenix metropolitan area toward Flagstaff.
Continue north on I-17 past Black Canyon City, Cordes Junction and Camp Verde.
Take Exit 298 for State Route 179 toward Sedona.
Turn left and follow State Route 179 north through the Village of Oak Creek.
Continue on State Route 179 for approximately 14 miles into Sedona.

State Route 179 is a nationally designated All-American Road and provides impressive views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and the surrounding red rock landscape as you approach Sedona.

Alternate Phoenix To Sedona Route Through Cottonwood

Travelers headed primarily to West Sedona can also use an alternate route through Camp Verde and Cottonwood. From Interstate 17 north, take Exit 287 and follow State Route 260 west toward Cottonwood, then turn right onto State Route 89A and continue northeast into Sedona.

This route is longer than the primary State Route 179 approach for many Phoenix-area travelers, but it can be useful when traffic or road conditions make the SR 179 corridor less desirable.

What You'll See Between Phoenix And Sedona

The drive from Phoenix to Sedona passes through several distinct Arizona landscapes. The route begins in the Sonoran Desert, where saguaros and desert vegetation dominate the scenery, then gradually climbs toward higher-elevation grasslands and juniper country.

After leaving Interstate 17 at Exit 298, State Route 179 provides the most dramatic part of the drive. Red rock formations become increasingly prominent as the highway passes through the Village of Oak Creek toward Sedona.

Elevation And Weather Between Phoenix And Sedona

Phoenix sits at roughly 1,100 feet above sea level, while Sedona is around 4,300 to 4,500 feet in elevation. Because of the higher elevation, Sedona is generally cooler than Phoenix, although the temperature difference varies by season, time of day and weather conditions.

Winter travelers should be prepared for colder temperatures and occasional snow or icy conditions around Sedona and the higher sections of the drive. See our Sedona Arizona weather information for average temperatures and seasonal conditions.

Check Road Conditions Before Driving To Sedona

Traffic incidents, construction, wildfire activity, winter weather and holiday congestion can affect Interstate 17 and State Route 179. Check current highway conditions shortly before leaving Phoenix, particularly during periods of severe weather or heavy travel.

Phoenix To Sedona Area Map

Map of Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon and central Arizona driving routes

Phoenix To Sedona Driving Tips

Allow extra time: Weekend and holiday traffic can increase travel time significantly.
Check fuel: Gas and services are available along Interstate 17 and in communities such as Camp Verde and the Village of Oak Creek.
Watch your speed: Speed limits decrease substantially after leaving Interstate 17 and entering communities along State Route 179.
Expect elevation changes: Temperatures and weather can be noticeably different between Phoenix and Sedona.
Check AZ 511: Review current crashes, closures, construction and weather conditions before departure.

More Sedona Driving Information

Phoenix To Sedona Directions FAQ

How far is Sedona from Phoenix?

Sedona is approximately 113 miles from central Phoenix by the primary Interstate 17 and State Route 179 route. The exact distance varies depending on your starting point in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

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

The drive typically takes about two hours when traffic and road conditions are favorable. Weekends, holidays, construction and traffic incidents can increase travel time.

What is the main route from Phoenix to Sedona?

The primary route is Interstate 17 north to Exit 298, followed by State Route 179 north through the Village of Oak Creek into Sedona.

What exit do you take from Interstate 17 for Sedona?

Take Exit 298 from Interstate 17 for State Route 179 toward Sedona.

Is State Route 179 scenic?

Yes. State Route 179 is a nationally designated All-American Road known for views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and Sedona's red rock landscape.

Is there another route from Phoenix to Sedona?

Yes. An alternate route uses Interstate 17 to Exit 287, State Route 260 west through the Camp Verde and Cottonwood area, and State Route 89A northeast into Sedona.

Is Sedona cooler than Phoenix?

Sedona is generally cooler because it sits several thousand feet higher in elevation than Phoenix, although the actual temperature difference varies by season and weather conditions.