Scottsdale to Sedona: Epic Arizona Road Trip Guide

The 115-mile drive from Scottsdale, AZ to Sedona, AZ along AZ-89A and I-17 takes you from desert luxury to red rock majesty. This route climbs over 4,000 feet in elevation, offering dramatic shifts in climate and scenery. Did you know that the switchbacks on AZ-89A through Oak Creek Canyon are carved from a geologic fault line that runs for 50 miles? The drive typically takes 2 hours without stops, but savvy travelers budget 4-6 hours to explore.

This highway is not just a road; it's a journey through Arizona's geological and cultural heart. From the artsy enclaves of Scottsdale to the vortex energy of Sedona, every mile unfolds a story. Whether you're wondering how long to drive Scottsdale to Sedona or is it worth driving, the answer is a resounding yes. Along the way, discover best stops Scottsdale to Sedona, including Montezuma Castle National Monument and hidden viewpoints.

To maximize your journey, learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This guide dives deep into things to do between Scottsdale and Sedona.

The primary route is I-17 north from Phoenix, then AZ-89A at Camp Verde. Expect road construction delays on I-17 near Bumble Bee, especially on weekends. Gas stations are plentiful in Camp Verde and at the Sedona exit, but limited along the scenic byway. Fuel up before entering Oak Creek Canyon.

• Scottsdale to Camp Verde: 75 miles via I-17 (1.5 hours)
• Camp Verde to Sedona: 40 miles via AZ-89A (1 hour)
• Total tolls: None, but state parks charge entrance fees

The drive is mostly paved and well-maintained. Watch for wildlife—deer and javelina cross highways at dusk. Cell service drops near the canyon rim, so download offline maps. RVs should use caution on AZ-89A's tight turns; alternative route via SR-260 through Cottonwood is wider but adds 20 minutes.

Climate and Best Times

Scottsdale sits at 1,300 feet; Sedona at 4,500 feet. In summer, Scottsdale can reach 110°F while Sedona enjoys 90°F. Spring and fall are ideal. Monsoon storms (July–August) cause flash floods in canyons. Winter snow closes Oak Creek Canyon occasionally, check road conditions before head.

From the saguaro-studded Sonoran Desert near Scottsdale to the juniper forests on Mingus Mountain, the landscape transforms. Key natural attractions include:

• Montezuma Castle National Monument: A 20-room cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people. Entrance $10, allow 1 hour.
• Slide Rock State Park: Natural water slides in Oak Creek Canyon. Busy in summer, arrive early.
• Cathedral Rock: Iconic red rock formation, requires moderate hike for best views.

Local commerce thrives on tourism and Native American art. In Sedona, galleries sell authentic Kachina dolls and silver jewelry. Jerome, a former mining town perched on Cleopatra Hill, offers eclectic shops and a ghost story. For culinary stops, Elote Cafe in Sedona serves award-winning Mexico cuisine (reservations required). At Camp Verde, try the tacos at La Fiesta.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

While no UNESCO sites lie directly on this route, Montezuma Castle is a National Monument and part of the broader cultural landscape. Nearby, Walnut Canyon National Monument and Tuzigoot National Monument offer further Sinagua cliff dwellings. These sites are loosely associated with the UNESCO World Heritage listing of the “Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot” tentative list.

Safety is paramount on this winding mountain road. Use low gears on downhill sections of AZ-89A to avoid brake fade. Pullouts are frequent for slower traffic. The speed limit is 45 mph in the canyon, strictly enforced. Rest areas at Sunset Point (north of Phoenix) have restrooms and vending machines.

• Fatigue stops: Sunset Point rest area (milepost 248 on I-17) and the Camp Verde visitor center.
• Pet-friendly stops: Oak Creek Canyon has many short trails where dogs on leash are welcome. Sedona's Uptown has pet-friendly patios.
• Family stops: Smokey Bear sign at Pine Flat campground, rock scrambling at Bell Rock.

For things to do between Scottsdale and Sedona with kids: palo verde buggy rides at the Verde Canyon Railroad, gem mining at Sedona's gemstone alley, and panoramic views from Airport Mesa. The drive is how long to drive Scottsdale to Sedona as brief as 2 hours, but we recommend spreading it over a full day to absorb the magic. Is it worth driving? Absolutely—the scenery is among the most diverse in the Southwest.

Hidden off-route spots:

• West Clear Creek Wilderness: A 3-mile hike to a pristine swimming hole. Access via Forest Road 215 near Pine.
• Honanki Heritage Site: Well-preserved Sinagua cliff dwelling with fewer crowds than Montezuma Castle. Self-guided tour $10.