Sedona to Pinedale Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive Through the Southwest

This 850-mile drive from Sedona, Arizona (elevation 4,350 ft) to Pinedale, Wyoming (elevation 7,175 ft) follows US-89 north through iconic landscapes. The route crosses the Colorado River at Page, AZ, and traverss the Grand Staircase-Escalante region. A little-known fact: this highway was originally a Native American trade route linking the Hopi and Ute tribes.

The drive typically takes 12-14 hours of pure driving time, but plan for 3-4 days to fully appreciate the stops. Key highway segments include US-89A from Sedona to Jacob Lake, then US-89 north to Kanab, UT, continuing to Pinedale via I-70 and US-191. The highest point is I-70 near Salina, UT at 8,100 ft.

• Total distance: 850 miles (1,368 km)
• Driving time: 12-14 hours without stops
• Suggested duration: 3-4 days
• Best time: Late spring or early fall for mild weather

Safety considerations: wildlife (deer, elk, even bison near Pinedale) are active at dawn and dusk. On I-70, watch for high crosswinds near the Salina exit. The route has no extreme mountain passes, but US-89 has sections with limited visibility. Service stations are open 24/7 in larger towns, but some desert gas stations close by 8 PM. Carry water, snacks, and a physical map as a backup.

• Wildlife caution: Deer crossings sign warning near Kanab and Monticello
• Weather: Sudden thunderstorms in summer can cause flash flooding in slot canyons
• Emergency services: Cell coverage gaps; know locations of hospitals (Page, Moab, Rock Springs)

Fatigue management: break every 2 hours or 100 miles. Ideal rest stops include the lonely but well-maintained rest area at Paria Contact Station (mile 175), the scenic overlook at Dead Horse Point State Park (just outside Moab), and the Green River rest area on I-70. For families, stop at the Frontier Homestead State Park in Cedar City (off route but worth) or the Dinosaur Museum in Blanding. Children enjoy the rainbow-hued rock formations and petrified wood at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.

• Kid-friendly: Moab Giants (dinosaur tracks), Pinedale Aquatic Center
• Pet-friendly: Most national forest trails allow dogs; many motels accept pets
• Rest zones: Page rest area (picnic tables); near Moab at Ken's Lake

Fuel stations are sparse between major towns, especially from Page to Moab (approx. 80 miles without services). Plan to fill up in Sedona, Page, Moab, and Price. Gas prices in Utah can be 20-30 cents higher than in Arizona or Wyoming. Budget for approximately $120-150 in fuel for a standard sedan at current prices ($3.50/gal).

• Sedona gas stations: Multiple, prices moderate
• Page, AZ: Several stations on Lake Powell Blvd
• Kanab, UT: Main Street has two stations
• Moab, UT: Main thoroughfare with competitive prices
• Price, UT: Stations near I-70 exits
• Rock Springs, WY: Ample stations along Dewar Drive

Cell service is reliable in towns but limited in remote stretches (especially between Page and Kanab, and east of Price). Download offline maps for the entire route. The road quality is generally good, with paved highways throughout. However, US-89A from Sedona to Jacob Lake has winding sections and narrow shoulders, requiring caution. In winter, check for snow closures near Flagstaff and the Utah Wasatch Range. The most scenic portion is US-89 along the Vermilion Cliffs, just south of the Utah border.

• Road quality: Excellent on I-70, good on US-89, winding on US-89A
• Winter hazards: Snow possible from October to April above 6,000 ft
• Recommended vehicle: Any reliable car, 4WD helpful for off-route exploration

The route passes through four distinct biomes: high desert (Sedona), red rock canyons (Page), alpine forests (Dixie National Forest), and high plains (Pinedale). The Colorado Plateau's exposed sedimentary layers, visible at every turn, tell a 300-million-year story. Highlights include the Marble Canyon (mile 125), the Grand Staircase (mile 200), and the Flaming Gorge (mile 650). For a deeper understanding of road trip planning, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Local commerce along the route is dominated by tourism and Native American crafts. In Page, visit the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park for authentic jewelry. Moab offers numerous art galleries and outdoor gear shops. In Pinedale, the Museum of the Mountain Man details fur trade history. Buy produce at roadside stands near Kanab (tomatoes, peaches in season) and fresh trout at the Pinedale Fish Hatchery. Sales tax rates vary: Arizona (8.6%), Utah (6.85%), Wyoming (4%).

• Sedona: Art galleries and upshuck boutiques
• Page: Navajo rugs, turquoise jewelry
• Kanab: Quirky movie-themed shops
• Moab: Outdoor gear, bookstores
• Price: Coal mining history museum
• Rock Springs: Western wear
• Pinedale: Fly fishing equipment, local art