Planning a trip from Phoenix to Sedona? The drive from Phoenix to Sedona is one of the easiest ways to reach Arizona’s famous red-rock country. Whether you are flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, starting from downtown Phoenix, or coming from Scottsdale, you can reach Sedona by car in roughly two hours under normal conditions.
Before planning your activities, check our guide to things to do in Sedona.
The Phoenix to Sedona route covers about 113 miles, with most travelers using I-17 North before connecting to either SR 179 or AZ-260/SR 89A. Visit Sedona lists the trip at about 113.4 miles and approximately two hours, although actual travel time can change with traffic, construction, weather, and your exact starting point.
If you are deciding where to fly, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the main airport used by many long-distance visitors to Sedona. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) is closer to Sedona and is about a 45-minute drive away, but it has fewer commercial flight options.
Phoenix to Sedona at a Glance
| Travel Detail | Approximate Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 113 miles |
| Normal driving time | About 2 hours |
| Main highway | I-17 North |
| Scenic route into Sedona | SR 179 |
| Alternative route | AZ-260 / SR 89A |
| Major airport | Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) |
| Closest commercial airport | Flagstaff Pulliam (FLG) |
| Sedona airport | Sedona Airport (KSEZ), no scheduled commercial service |
The exact time depends on where you start in the Phoenix area and current road conditions.
How Far Is Sedona From Phoenix?
Sedona is approximately 113 miles from Phoenix by road. The official Visit Sedona driving guide gives a distance of about 113.4 miles and an estimated driving time of two hours.
That makes Sedona a realistic destination for a weekend trip from Phoenix. You can leave Phoenix in the morning, spend the day exploring Sedona’s red rocks and hiking trails, and either stay overnight or return to the Phoenix area.
However, don’t plan your trip around exactly two hours. Traffic around Phoenix, especially during busy periods, can affect your departure time. Weather and road conditions can also change travel times.
How Far Is Phoenix Airport From Sedona?
If you are flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Sedona is roughly a two-hour drive away under normal conditions.
Visit Sedona identifies Phoenix Sky Harbor as approximately two hours from Sedona.
For most visitors arriving from outside Arizona, PHX can be a practical choice because it is a major airport with many flight connections.
After landing, travelers can rent a car at the airport and drive north toward Sedona.
Phoenix to Sedona Drive
The most common Phoenix to Sedona drive follows I-17 North toward Flagstaff.
A typical route is:
Phoenix → I-17 North → Exit 298 → SR 179 → Sedona
Visit Sedona lists this route as approximately 113.4 miles and about two hours. The route includes approximately 98.4 miles on I-17 followed by SR 179 into the Sedona area.
SR 179 is also known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway and provides an especially scenic entrance into Sedona. The Arizona Department of Transportation describes SR 179 as a roughly 15-mile road between I-17 and Sedona.
What Is the Best Route From Phoenix to Sedona?
For many first-time visitors, the I-17 and SR 179 route is straightforward and scenic.
Route 1: I-17 + SR 179
This is a popular route for travelers heading from Phoenix into central Sedona.
Phoenix → I-17 North → Exit 298 → SR 179 → Sedona
The biggest advantage is that you get a memorable approach into the red-rock landscape as you travel along SR 179.
Route 2: I-17 + AZ-260 + SR 89A
Another option is to leave I-17 around Camp Verde and continue through AZ-260 before connecting with SR 89A.
Visit Sedona lists this as an alternative route into Sedona.
This option can be useful depending on your final destination in the Sedona area and current traffic.
Which Route Should You Take?
Your choice can depend on where you are staying.
If you are heading toward central Sedona and want a scenic approach, SR 179 is an excellent route to consider.
If your destination is in West Sedona, Visit Sedona notes that travelers can also use SR-260 through Camp Verde and Cottonwood before entering Sedona.
Before leaving Phoenix, check current Arizona highway conditions because construction, closures, accidents, and weather can affect the best route.
Closest Airport to Sedona
One of the most common questions from travelers is:
What is the closest airport to Sedona, Arizona?
The answer depends on whether you mean the closest airport of any type or the closest airport with scheduled commercial airline service.
Sedona Airport (KSEZ)
Sedona Airport is located right in Sedona and is the closest airport geographically.
However, there is an important difference: Sedona Airport does not have scheduled commercial airline service. The airport’s official FAQ states that most visitors traveling from long distances fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor, while some travelers use Flagstaff or Prescott.
Sedona Airport is primarily useful for private aircraft, aviation services, scenic flights, charters, and general aviation.
So if you are searching for a normal commercial flight to Sedona, don’t expect to book a standard airline ticket directly to KSEZ.
Closest Commercial Airport to Sedona
For travelers looking for a commercial airport, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) is much closer to Sedona than Phoenix.
The Sedona Chamber of Commerce says Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is about 45 minutes from Sedona, while Phoenix Sky Harbor is about two hours away.
The tradeoff is that Flagstaff has fewer flight options than Phoenix.
Flagstaff Pulliam currently has commercial service to Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth, with additional service changes depending on the season and airline schedule.
For travelers who can find a convenient flight into Flagstaff, the shorter drive can be attractive.
Phoenix Sky Harbor vs. Flagstaff Pulliam
| Airport | Approx. drive to Sedona | Commercial service | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | About 2 hours | Yes | More flight choices |
| Flagstaff Pulliam (FLG) | About 45 minutes | Yes | Shorter drive |
| Sedona Airport (KSEZ) | In Sedona | No scheduled commercial service | Private/general aviation |
| Prescott Regional Airport (PRC) | About 90 minutes | Limited commercial service | Some regional travelers |
The Sedona Airport specifically notes that Flagstaff and Prescott have limited flight frequencies and fewer connections than major airports.
Phoenix Airport to Sedona
If you land at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the easiest option for many travelers is to rent a car and drive to Sedona.
Your basic route is:
Phoenix Sky Harbor → I-17 North → SR 179 → Sedona
The drive is approximately two hours in normal conditions.
If you are visiting Sedona for several days and plan to explore hiking trails, viewpoints, restaurants, and attractions outside the downtown area, having a rental car can give you more flexibility.
Another option is to arrange a shuttle or private transportation from Phoenix to Sedona. The Sedona Airport’s visitor FAQ also notes rental cars and shuttle services as ways travelers reach Sedona after flying into Phoenix.
Phoenix to Sedona Without a Car
You don’t necessarily have to drive yourself.
Travelers can consider:
- Shuttle services
- Private transportation
- Rental cars
- Guided tours from the Phoenix area
For a short trip focused mainly on downtown Sedona, transportation can sometimes be arranged without renting a car.
However, if your itinerary includes several hiking trailheads, scenic viewpoints, or locations outside central Sedona, a rental car may provide greater flexibility.
Scottsdale AZ to Sedona AZ
If you are starting in Scottsdale, the basic journey is similar to the Phoenix route.
Scottsdale, AZ → Phoenix area → I-17 North → Sedona
The exact distance and driving time depend on where you start in Scottsdale and your destination in Sedona.
Because Scottsdale is east of central Phoenix, your trip can take longer than the basic Phoenix-to-Sedona estimate. During busy traffic periods, allow additional time before you reach I-17.
If you are staying in Scottsdale before visiting Sedona, it is worth checking live traffic conditions before leaving.
Phoenix AZ to Sedona AZ: What the Drive Is Like
The drive changes dramatically as you leave the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Phoenix is surrounded by desert landscape, while Sedona is known for its red-rock formations, canyon scenery, and higher elevation.
The final section of the trip is particularly scenic.
If you enter Sedona via SR 179, you will travel through the Red Rock Scenic Byway. ADOT identifies SR 179 as an important scenic route connecting I-17 with Sedona.
This is one reason many visitors prefer driving rather than treating the trip simply as transportation between two cities.
Best Time to Drive From Phoenix to Sedona
The best departure time depends on your itinerary and the season.
For a day trip, leaving Phoenix early can help you arrive in Sedona with more time for hiking and sightseeing.
Early morning can also be useful if you want to start a popular trail before parking areas become busy.
Before leaving, check:
- Traffic
- Weather
- Highway construction
- Road closures
- Winter conditions
- Parking availability at your destination
Arizona road conditions can change, especially during winter weather in northern Arizona.
If you are traveling during a snow event, check conditions before choosing routes through higher-elevation areas. The Sedona Airport notes that Flagstaff and Prescott are both above 7,000 feet and can receive significant seasonal snow, which can affect roads connecting them with Sedona.
Is the Phoenix to Sedona Drive Scenic?
Yes. While much of the journey from Phoenix follows Interstate 17, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as you approach northern Arizona.
The section along SR 179 is particularly scenic.
The road enters Sedona’s red-rock landscape, making the final portion of the journey feel very different from the desert environment around Phoenix.
If scenery is important to you, consider allowing extra time for viewpoints and stops rather than treating the entire trip as a direct two-hour drive.
Tips for Driving From Phoenix to Sedona
1. Start With Enough Time
Don’t schedule your arrival down to the minute. Traffic and road conditions can change.
2. Check Road Conditions
Before leaving Phoenix, check current Arizona highway information, especially during winter or periods of construction.
3. Fill Up Before Leaving
You will find services along the way, but starting with enough fuel makes the drive easier.
4. Bring Water
Arizona’s desert climate can be hot, particularly during warmer months. Carry water even if you’re only driving.
5. Don’t Forget Your Hiking Gear
If Sedona is the main purpose of your trip, keep hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, and other essentials accessible rather than buried in your luggage.
6. Check Your Sedona Parking Plan
Popular trailheads and attractions can become busy. Know where you plan to park before heading out.
7. Check Your Exact Destination
Sedona is spread across several areas. Downtown, West Sedona, Village of Oak Creek, and locations around the city can have different driving times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Phoenix from Sedona?
Phoenix is approximately 113 miles from Sedona by road, according to Visit Sedona. The estimated driving time is around two hours under normal conditions.
How far is it from Phoenix to Sedona?
The Phoenix-to-Sedona driving distance is about 113.4 miles, although your exact mileage will depend on your starting location and destination.
How long is the drive from Phoenix to Sedona?
The drive normally takes about two hours, but traffic, weather, construction, and stops can make the trip longer.
What is the closest airport to Sedona, Arizona?
Sedona Airport (KSEZ) is located in Sedona itself, but it does not offer scheduled commercial airline service.
What is the closest commercial airport to Sedona?
Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is the closest commercial airport commonly used by visitors, at about a 45-minute drive from Sedona.
Is Phoenix Airport or Flagstaff Airport better for Sedona?
They serve different needs. Phoenix Sky Harbor is farther away but offers access to a much larger airport network. Flagstaff is considerably closer to Sedona but has fewer commercial flight options.
Can I fly directly into Sedona?
Sedona Airport does not have scheduled commercial airline service. It serves general aviation and other aviation activities instead.
How far is Scottsdale from Sedona?
The driving distance from Scottsdale to Sedona depends on your exact starting point and destination. In general, expect a longer trip than the approximately 113-mile Phoenix-to-Sedona route because Scottsdale is east of central Phoenix.
Is Phoenix to Sedona a good road trip?
Yes. The route is manageable as a day trip, and the approach to Sedona becomes especially scenic around SR 179 and the surrounding red-rock country.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, the Phoenix to Sedona drive is simple: head north from Phoenix on I-17 and then choose the appropriate route into Sedona.
If you’re flying into Arizona, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a practical option with broad air service, while Flagstaff Pulliam Airport can significantly shorten the drive if you find a suitable flight.
The key numbers to remember are:
Phoenix to Sedona: about 113 miles
Phoenix to Sedona driving time: about 2 hours
Flagstaff Airport to Sedona: about 45 minutes
Phoenix Sky Harbor to Sedona: about 2 hours
For the most enjoyable trip, allow some flexibility in your schedule, check current road conditions, and give yourself time to enjoy the scenery as you approach Sedona.