The Best Scenic Drives Around Sedona

The scenery in Sedona is so beautiful, why not take a drive?

The Red Rock Scenic Byway

The Red Rock Scenic Byway is a 7.5 mile road through Sedona’s Red Rock Country.  The road is also known as State Route 179 which runs between Interstate 17 and ends within the Sedona city limits.  Many hiking trails and parking areas are along this road.  If you would like to know more about the Federal Highway Administration’s America’s Byways Program, click here https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/byways/byways/11290.

Schnebly Hill Road

Schnebly Hill Road is a primitive road that is extremely bumpy, steep and somewhat dangerous.  A high profile, four wheel drive vehicle or an all terrain vehicle is recommended. This road winds up the mountain from Sedona and ends at Interstate 17, near Munds Park, Arizona.  The views are stunning and well worth the ride. A few of the things you will see along the road are the Committee Tank, Cow Pie Trail, Merry Go Round Rock and the Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook.  During certain times of the year, the road is closed.

Red Rock Loop Road

Driving along State Highway 89A toward Cottonwood, you’ll find the intersection of Upper Red Rock Loop Road and Cultural Park Road. Here’s where you can begin the loop. However, if you continue along SR 89A about 1.3 miles you’ll find Lower Red Rock Loop Road. Many recommend going the extra distance to begin the loop for the best scenery. The Loop is about 6 miles long winding through neighborhoods and gorgeous red rock views. Along the way, you’ll find Red Rock State Park, Red Rock Crossing & Crescent Moon Ranch day use area. Once you end the loop, turn around and drive it again to get a new perspective.

Dry Creek Road

From State Route 89A in West Sedona, turn onto Dry Creek Road. This road takes you through some stunning scenery where you’ll find several trails and pull outs. Continue several miles until you come to the stop sign. Turn left to go to the Enchantment Resort, Boynton Pass and Palatki Ruins. Turn right to go on Long Canyon Road which ends at the gated community of Seven Canyons & Golf Club. Other hiking trails you’ll find along this road are Devil’s Bridge Trail, Vultee Arch, Mescal Trailhead, Bear Mountain, Fay Canyon and the Secret Wilderness Area.

Oak Creek Canyon

State Route 89A from Uptown Sedona towards Flagstaff through Oak Creek Canyon is a beautiful drive.  The road takes you along Oak Creek, up switchbacks ending at a scenic overlook called Oak Creek Vista.  The scenic drive is about 16 miles long.  There are hotels, restaurants, picnic areas, campgrounds and hiking trails in Oak Creek Canyon.  Along the way, you will pass Grasshopper Point Day Use Area, Rainbow Trout Farm, Slide Rock State Park, Banjo Bill Picnic Area and the West Fork Hiking Area.

Now that you have seen some of the beauty of Sedona, why not take a hike?  Start by viewing our Sedona Hiking Guide with some of Sedona’s most popular trails.  If you are interested in mountain biking, golfing or visiting other local spots, view our Sedona To-Do List of activities.