Sedona to Kemmerer Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive through the Southwest

This road trip from Sedona, Arizona to Kemmerer, Wyoming covers approximately 850 miles (1,368 km) and takes roughly 12.5 hours of driving time without stops. The route follows US-89A, I-15, and US-30, crossing the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Rocky Mountains. Notably, the drive passes through the historic town of Kanab, Utah, where many classic Western films were shot. Sedona sits at an elevation of 4,500 feet, while Kemmerer lies at 6,900 feet, meaning you'll ascend over 2,400 feet—a gradual climb that brings dramatic shifts in ecosystems.

For strategies on discovering off-the-beaten-path attractions along this route, see our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Roads and Highways

From Sedona, take US-89A north to I-15 near Kanab, then merge onto I-15 north through Utah. Near Brigham City, switch to US-89, then I-84 east to I-80 east to US-30, which leads directly to Kemmerer. The route includes a mix of scenic two-lane highways and high-speed interstates.

• US-89A: winding, scenic, with hairpin turns; watch for wildlife.
• I-15: well-maintained, but heavy traffic near Salt Lake City.
• US-30: quiet, rolling hills; last segment before Kemmerer.

Fuel and Route Economics

Gas stations are plentiful along I-15, but sparse in rural sections such as between Kanab and Fillmore. Average gas prices in 2025: Arizona $3.80/gal, Utah $3.85, Wyoming $3.70. Total estimated fuel cost for a 25-mpg car: around $130. Budget for tolls? None on this route.

• Best gas stops: Kanab, UT; Beaver, UT; Tremonton, UT.
• Electric car owners: charging stations in St. George, Cedar City, and Salt Lake City.

Accommodation Options

Overnight stays recommended near Kanab (halfway point) or Fillmore. Options range from motels to historic inns.

• Kanab: quaint B&Bs, budget motels.
• Fillmore: few chain hotels.
• Kemmerer: limited but adequate.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

The drive unfolds through five distinct biomes: Sedona's red rock canyons, the Vermilion Cliffs, the Great Basin sagebrush steppe, the Wasatch Range foothills, and Wyoming's high desert. Must-see stops include:

• Vermilion Cliffs National Monument (AZ/UT border): Paria Canyon and The Wave (requires permit).
• Zion National Park (near Springdale, UT): short detour (1 hour from Kanab).
• Fishlake National Forest (UT): scenic drive through aspen groves.
• Fossil Butte National Monument (WY): near Kemmerer, home to 50-million-year-old fish fossils.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: None directly on route, but Zion National Park (a short detour) is part of the Grand Canyon cluster nomination.

Local Commerce & Culture

Small towns offer quirky shops and regional cuisine. Kanab has art galleries; Fillmore has pioneer history. In Kemmerer, visit the JCPenney Mother Store (original location). Local products include Navajo rugs, Utah honey, Wyoming jade.

• Kanab: Frontier Movie Town memorabilia.
• Beaver, UT: historic Beaver Mercantile.
• Kemmerer: Fossil Butte gift shop.

Culinary Infrastructure

Dining ranges from diners to Southwestern and Mormon-influenced cuisine. Key stops:

• Sedona: Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill (upscale).
• Kanab: Rocking V Cafe (Southwest).
• Fillmore: Dot's Diner (classic American).
• Kemmerer: The Log Cabin (steak and fries).

Vegetarian options are limited in rural stretches; pack snacks.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

I-15 in Utah is well-maintained, but US-89A has sharp curves with 35 mph limits. Snow possible from October to April above 5,000 ft; check weather. Emergency services: every 20-30 miles on interstates.

• Winter travel: carry chains, blankets, extra water.
• Summer: extreme heat (100°F+) in desert sections; carry extra water.
• Wildlife: deer and cattle crossings common in rural areas.

Family and Child Suitability

Family-friendly attractions abound:

• Kanab: Dinosaur Tracks (short hike).
• Fillmore: Territorial Statehouse State Park museum.
• Kemmerer: JCPenney Museum and Fossil Butte (interactive exhibits).
• Zion National Park shuttle (great for kids).

Rest stops with playgrounds: many Utah rest areas have play areas.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Pets allowed on leash at most national forest lands and rest stops. National parks (Zion) restrict pets on trails. Pet-friendly motels: many in Kanab and Fillmore. Bring poop bags and a portable water bowl.

• Kanab: Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (tours, but not for pet drop-off).
• Kemmerer: no specific pet services; plan ahead.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Plan stops every 2 hours. Rest areas on I-15: near St. George, Beaver, and Nephi. Overnight at Kanab (mile 195) or Fillmore (mile 370).

• Fatigue signs: lane drifting, yawning. Pull over at rest area or coffee shop.
• Scenic pullouts on US-89A: good for short breaks.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Venture off the main road for solitude:

• Paria Ghost Town (UT) – abandoned film set.
• Meadow, UT – historic Paiute Indian village site.
• Opal, WY – tiny ghost town near Kemmerer.
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (UT) – off US-89, 12 miles from Kanab.