Sedona to Riverton Drive Guide: Red Rocks to Wyoming

The drive from Sedona, Arizona to Riverton, Wyoming spans roughly 660 miles (1060 km) along US-89 and US-191, a route that transitions from the iconic red sandstone buttes of Sedona to the windswept basins of central Wyoming. One specific fact many travelers miss: the section between Page, AZ and Kanab, UT runs along the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, where the road literally hugs the base of a 3,000-foot escarpment formed 200 million years ago. Driving this segment at sunset, the cliffs glow deep crimson, a geological spectacle unique to this exact corridor. For those wondering how long to drive Sedona, AZ to Riverton, WY, expect about 11-12 hours of pure driving time, but plan for at least two days to fully experience the attractions along the way.

This guide answers the pressing question: is it worth driving Sedona, AZ to Riverton, WY? Absolutely. The route cuts through the Grand Staircase, Monument Valley, and the Colorado Plateau, offering landscapes that shift from desert to alpine. The key is knowing things to do between Sedona, AZ and Riverton, WY to break up the drive. Use our resource on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to plan your itinerary.

Below is a quick overview of the trip's logistics.

The drive follows US-89A from Sedona to Flagstaff, then US-89 north through Page and Kanab. From Kanab, take US-89 to US-12 east, then US-191 north through Moab, UT, finally US-191 into Wyoming past Rock Springs to Riverton. This route is well-paved but includes steep grades in Utah's canyon country. Key fueling points: Flagstaff, Page, Kanab, Moab, Green River, Rock Springs. Gas stations become sparse between Moab and Green River (about 110 miles).

• Fuel stops: Flagstaff (mile 0), Page (mile 130), Kanab (mile 158), Moab (mile 310), Green River (mile 370), Rock Springs (mile 460), Riverton (mile 660).
• Cell coverage: Intermittent in Utah canyons but reliable in towns. Download offline maps for segments between Kanab and Moab.
• Vehicle recommendation: Any car is fine, but an SUV is better for optional dirt roads to viewpoints.
• Best time to drive: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for moderate temperatures. Summer can be hot in the desert (100+°F) but pleasant in Wyoming.
• Road quality: Excellent paved highways. Watch for wildlife near dawn/dusk, especially deer and elk in Wyoming.
• Accommodations: Book ahead in Moab and Page during peak season. Riverton has ample motels and hotels.

The landscapes along this route are world-class. From Sedona's red rocks to the Grand Canyon's shadow (visible from US-89), the Vermilion Cliffs, and Monument Valley's mittens near the Utah-Arizona border, the drive is a geological feast. The route also passes near two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Grand Canyon National Park and Mesa Verde National Park (a short detour from Cortez, CO). Mesa Verde's Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings offer a glimpse into 1,400-year-old civilizations.

Local commerce thrives in the tourist hubs of Page and Moab. In Page, visit the Navajo-owned vendors selling handmade jewelry and fry bread near Horseshoe Bend. Moab's Main Street is lined with outfitters offering rafting, jeep tours, and bike rentals. For authentic local produce, stop at the Green River Farmers Market (seasonal) for melons and artisan goods. The ride between Moab and Green River passes the San Rafael Swell, a massive geological fold with hiking trails like the Little Wild Horse Canyon.

• Must-see stops: Horseshoe Bend (Page), Antelope Canyon (Page, requires tour), Monument Valley (3 hours from Page), Dead Horse Point State Park (Moab), Canyonlands National Park (Moab).
• Hidden gem: The Moki Dugway (UT-261), a steep gravel road with switchbacks offering panoramic views of the Valley of the Gods. Best driven in a high-clearance vehicle.
• Culinary highlights: Mexican food in Flagstaff (Salsa Brava), Navajo tacos in Page (Dinner Plate), world-class Italian in Moab (Pasta Jay's), and Wyoming steak in Riverton (Riverton Cattle Company).
• Local culture: The Utah section is rich in Mormon pioneer history; visit the Frontier Homestead State Park in Cedar City (slight detour). In Wyoming, the Wind River Indian Reservation is the largest reservation in the state; the Wind River Heritage Center in Riverton offers exhibits on Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes.

Road safety is generally good, but watch for construction on US-191 in Utah (especially near Helper). Wyoming sections can be affected by snow from October to April; check weather reports before crossing the Rockies. For wildlife, be alert near dusk in the Wyoming segment, where antelope and cattle frequent the roadside. The speed limit is 65-75 mph on highways, but reduce in canyons.

Families will find plenty of kid-friendly stops. The Moab Giants dinosaur museum features a 1-mile outdoor trail with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. In Kanab, the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary offers tours and a petting zoo. For a break, the Red Hills Desert Garden in St. George (on the way) has interactive water features. Pet owners: most national parks allow leashed pets on roads and campgrounds, but not on trails. The Bureau of Land Management lands (like the San Rafael Swell) are pet-friendly. Always carry water for your pet, especially in desert sections.

Fatigue management is critical on this long drive. Plan stops every 2 hours. Ideal rest zones:

• Flagstaff: Walk through historic downtown or hike the Buffalo Park loop (shaded).
• Page: Visit the Lake Powell overlook or the Antelope Point Marina for a short stroll.
• Kanab: Jackson Flat Reservoir park has tables and shade.
• Moab: Rotary Park offers short trails with views of the La Sal Mountains.
• Green River: The Green River State Park has grassy areas next to the river.
• Rock Springs: Bunning Park in the center has benches and water fountains.