Route map
Start / endStopsHalfway
Phoenix to Sedona: the drive
The drive from Phoenix to Sedona covers 116 miles (186 km) and takes about 2 hrs without stops, mostly on I-17 and AZ-179.
It's an easy drive that leaves plenty of time to explore along the way. Allow about 2 hr 30 min with breaks.
We found 2 worthwhile stops within about 25 miles of the route, including Jerome and Montezuma Castle National Monument.
| Main roads | Approx. miles |
|---|---|
| I-17 | 97 |
| AZ-179 | 15 |
Best time to go: March to May and September to November.
Best stops between Phoenix and Sedona
- 1
Jerome
A former copper boomtown clinging to Cleopatra Hill, now full of galleries and tasting rooms, with sweeping views of the Verde Valley.
Photo: Seasider53 · CC BY 4.0
Near Sedona
- 2
Montezuma Castle National Monument
A five-story cliff dwelling set high in a limestone wall, viewed from a short, flat loop trail just off I-17.
Photo: Beyond My Ken · CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay in Sedona
Red-rock buttes, vortex hikes and some of the best scenic driving in Arizona on SR-89A.
Map not loading? See places to stay near Sedona →
Renting a car for this trip
Most travelers fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and pick up a car there. Booking a round trip from the same airport is usually much cheaper than a one-way rental.
Need a car?
Rental cars at PHX
Compare prices from major and local agencies at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in one search.
Compare rental cars →Free cancellation on most bookings.
Trip cost calculator
Estimate gas or charging, hotels and car rental for a round trip from Phoenix to Sedona:
Phoenix to Sedona road trip FAQ
How long is the drive from Phoenix to Sedona?
About 2 hrs without stops for 116 miles via I-17 and AZ-179. With breaks for fuel and food, allow around 2 hr 30 min.
What is the halfway point between Phoenix and Sedona?
Black Canyon City, AZ is about halfway, roughly 58 miles from each end. It's a good place for fuel and a meal.
Can you drive from Phoenix to Sedona in one day?
Yes. At 2 hrs of driving it's a comfortable one-day trip. Leave early so you arrive with daylight to spare.
What are the best stops between Phoenix and Sedona?
Top stops include Jerome and Montezuma Castle National Monument. See the full list with detour times above.
How much does gas cost from Phoenix to Sedona?
About $15 one way in a car that gets 28 mpg with gas at $3.60 a gallon. Use the calculator on this page to plug in your own car and prices.
When is the best time to visit Sedona?
March to May and September to November.
Route calculated from OpenStreetMap data and checked 2026-11-09. Drive times assume normal traffic and no stops.
