St. George to Sedona
Famous for its stunning red rock formations, spiritual vortex sites, world-class hiking, and vibrant arts scene, Sedona is one of Arizona's most visited destinations and makes an excellent multi-day road trip from St. George.
I-15 S to AZ via Hurricane, US-89A through Fredonia, AZ-89A S
310 miles
Distance
4 hr 30 min
Drive Time
south
Direction
March-May, September-November
Best Time
4,500 feet elevation
Driving from St. George to Sedona
Route: I-15 S to AZ via Hurricane, US-89A through Fredonia, AZ-89A S
Head south on I-15 to UT-9 through Hurricane and Zion area. Continue south on US-89A through Fredonia and Marble Canyon. Take AZ-89A south through Flagstaff area to Sedona. Alternatively, take I-15 South to Las Vegas, then I-40 East to Flagstaff, then AZ-89A North to Sedona (longer but faster interstate driving).
About Sedona
Sedona sits in a geological masterpiece at the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, where towering red sandstone formations rise dramatically from the high desert floor. The town has become world-renowned for its striking natural beauty, spiritual energy, world-class hiking trails, thriving arts community, and increasingly sophisticated food and wine scene. Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Courthouse Butte are among the most photographed landmarks in Arizona, their crimson and orange tones shifting with the light throughout the day.
The drive from St. George to Sedona takes approximately four and a half hours through some of the most scenic terrain in the Southwest. The route via US-89A passes through the Arizona Strip, crosses Marble Canyon near the Navajo Bridge, and descends through Oak Creek Canyon — one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the country. Alternatively, the interstate route through Las Vegas and Flagstaff is longer in distance but may be faster depending on conditions. Either way, the journey itself is part of the experience.
Sedona is famous for its four energy vortexes — locations where the Earth's energy is said to be intensely concentrated: Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. Whether or not you believe in spiritual energy, these sites offer some of the best hiking and most dramatic scenery in the region. Beyond hiking, Sedona offers a vibrant gallery scene in the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, a growing wine region along the Verde Valley Wine Trail, Jeep tours through the backcountry, and restaurants ranging from casual Southwestern to fine dining with red rock views.
Gas Stops Along the Way
- Hurricane — 25 miles / 25 min (full services)
- Fredonia/Kanab — 120 miles / 1 hr 50 min (gas, food, limited services)
- Flagstaff — 270 miles / 4 hr (full services — if taking the I-40 alternate route)
Weather & Climate
Sedona sits at 4,500 feet in the Verde Valley with a mild four-season climate. Summer highs reach 95-100°F but with low humidity and cool evenings. Winter is mild at 40-60°F with occasional snow that creates stunning contrast against the red rocks. Spring and fall are ideal at 60-85°F. Oak Creek Canyon above Sedona can be significantly cooler. Monsoon season (July-September) brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms.
Best Time to Visit
March-May, September-November
Spring and fall offer ideal hiking weather at 60-85°F with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Summer highs reach 95-100°F but are manageable with early morning hikes and afternoon shade. Winter is mild (40-60°F) with occasional dustings of snow on the red rocks creating magical scenery. Sedona is a year-round destination, but spring and fall are peak with the most pleasant weather and vibrant foliage.
Things to Do in Sedona
From outdoor adventures to dining, here is everything worth experiencing when you visit Sedona, Arizona.
Red Rock Trails & Vortexes
Cathedral Rock Trail
$5 Red Rock PassSedona's most iconic hike — a steep 1.2-mile scramble up slickrock to a saddle between the twin spires of Cathedral Rock. Stunning 360-degree views at the top. One of Sedona's four vortex sites. Arrive early to secure parking.
Bell Rock Pathway
$5 Red Rock PassEasy-to-moderate trail system circling the base of Bell Rock with options to scramble up the lower flanks. One of Sedona's most recognizable formations and a vortex site. Great for all fitness levels with multiple loop options.
Devil's Bridge Trail
$5 Red Rock PassSedona's largest natural sandstone arch — a 54-foot-tall bridge you can walk across for dramatic photos. The trail is 4.2 miles round trip from the main trailhead (shorter via the dry creek bed route). One of Sedona's most popular hikes.
Boynton Canyon Trail
$5 Red Rock PassA 6.1-mile round-trip hike through a beautiful box canyon to a forested viewpoint. One of Sedona's four vortex sites with a side trail to the vortex at the canyon mouth. A quintessential Sedona experience combining scenery and spirituality.
Airport Mesa Overlook
Free parking at overlookA short 0.5-mile loop trail atop Airport Mesa offering 360-degree panoramic views of Sedona's red rocks. One of the four vortex sites and the best spot for sunrise or sunset photography. Easily accessible from the main road.
Dining & Wine
Elote Cafe
$$$Sedona's most celebrated restaurant serving elevated Mexican cuisine. The signature fire-roasted elote (corn) is legendary. No reservations — expect a wait. Worth every minute. A James Beard-recognized gem.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
$$$$Stunning fine dining perched on a hillside with panoramic red rock views. Latin American-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on Argentine-style wood-fired grilling. The sunset views alone are worth the visit.
Creekside American Bistro
$$$Upscale casual dining alongside Oak Creek in Sedona's Creekside Plaza. Creative American fare with Southwestern accents, craft cocktails, and a lovely patio with creek views.
Page Springs Cellars
$$One of the Verde Valley's premier wineries, about 20 minutes from Sedona. Tastings of estate-grown wines in a beautiful creekside setting. Part of the growing Verde Valley Wine Trail with over a dozen tasting rooms in the area.
Combine With
Grand Canyon South Rim
$35/vehicleThe South Rim of the Grand Canyon is approximately 2 hours north of Sedona via Flagstaff and AZ-64. Many visitors combine Sedona and the Grand Canyon into a multi-day Arizona road trip.
Jerome Ghost Town
FreeA former copper mining town perched on the side of Mingus Mountain, 30 minutes southwest of Sedona. Now a quirky artist community with galleries, tasting rooms, a haunted hotel, and sweeping Verde Valley views.
Montezuma Castle & Montezuma Well
$10/personWell-preserved Sinagua cliff dwellings and a unique natural sinkhole spring, both managed as National Monuments. About 30 minutes south of Sedona off I-17. Excellent complement to Sedona's natural scenery with cultural and archaeological significance.
Travel Tips for the St. George to Sedona Drive
A Red Rock Pass ($5/day or $15/week) is required for parking at most trailheads — purchase at ranger stations, visitor centers, or local shops
Arrive at popular trailheads (Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge) before 8 AM or after 3 PM to find parking
The Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive (AZ-89A from Flagstaff to Sedona) is one of the most beautiful drives in Arizona — don't miss it
Vortex sites are at Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon — visit at least one for the quintessential Sedona experience
Sedona is at 4,500 feet elevation and 15-20°F cooler than Phoenix — bring layers for morning and evening
Book restaurants early, especially Elote Cafe — Sedona dining fills up fast during peak season and weekends
Frequently Asked Questions: St. George to Sedona
How far is Sedona from St. George?
Sedona is approximately 310 miles (4 hours 30 minutes) from St. George. The most scenic route goes south through Hurricane, east on US-89A through Marble Canyon, and south through Oak Creek Canyon. The alternate I-15/I-40 route through Las Vegas and Flagstaff is about 380 miles but uses more interstate.
What is the best route from St. George to Sedona?
The most scenic route is via US-89A through Fredonia, Marble Canyon, and down through Oak Creek Canyon to Sedona. This route is approximately 310 miles and takes 4.5 hours with stunning scenery throughout. The alternate route via I-15 South to Las Vegas, then I-40 East to Flagstaff, then AZ-89A North to Sedona is longer (380 miles) but uses faster interstate roads.
What are the Sedona vortexes?
Sedona's four main energy vortexes are locations where the Earth's energy is believed to be especially strong: Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. Many visitors report feeling tingling, warmth, or emotional release at these sites. Whether spiritual or simply beautiful, each vortex site offers outstanding hiking and scenery that make them worth visiting regardless of belief.
When is the best time to visit Sedona?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are ideal with temperatures between 60-85°F, clear skies, and comfortable hiking conditions. Summer reaches 95-100°F but remains manageable with early morning activity. Winter (40-60°F) is mild and offers the chance to see snow on the red rocks — a photographer's dream.
How many days do you need in Sedona?
Plan for at least 2-3 days to experience Sedona properly. Day one: hike Cathedral Rock and explore Tlaquepaque. Day two: Devil's Bridge and Boynton Canyon trails. Day three: Jeep tour, wine tasting on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, and a visit to Jerome. With more time, add day trips to the Grand Canyon South Rim or Montezuma Castle.
Nearby Destinations from Sedona
Grand Canyon (South Rim)
The world's most famous canyon view. The South Rim is open year-round with the most visitor services, iconic lodges, and legendary trails. A longer drive from St. George but worth every mile.
Grand Canyon (North Rim)
The quieter, cooler, and closer rim of the Grand Canyon is just under three hours from St. George. With one-tenth the visitors of the South Rim, the North Rim offers a more intimate and serene Grand Canyon experience.
Phoenix / Scottsdale
The Valley of the Sun offers world-class resorts, professional sports, spring training baseball, incredible desert hiking, and big-city amenities just six and a half hours south through Las Vegas.
Complete Guide: Driving from St. George to Sedona
St. George to Sedona — 310 miles, 4 hr 30 min Drive
Sedona sits in a geological masterpiece at the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, where towering red sandstone formations rise dramatically from the high desert floor. The town has become world-renowned for its striking natural beauty, spiritual energy, world-class hiking trails, thriving arts community, and increasingly sophisticated food and wine scene. Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Courthouse Butte are among the most photographed landmarks in Arizona, their crimson and orange tones shifting with the light throughout the day.
The route from St. George, Utah to Sedona, Arizona covers 310 miles and takes approximately 4 hr 30 min via I-15 S to AZ via Hurricane, US-89A through Fredonia, AZ-89A S. Head south on I-15 to UT-9 through Hurricane and Zion area. Continue south on US-89A through Fredonia and Marble Canyon. Take AZ-89A south through Flagstaff area to Sedona. Alternatively, take I-15 South to Las Vegas, then I-40 East to Flagstaff, then AZ-89A North to Sedona (longer but faster interstate driving).
Things to Do in Sedona
Red Rock Trails & Vortexes: Cathedral Rock Trail, Bell Rock Pathway, Devil's Bridge Trail. Dining & Wine: Elote Cafe, Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, Creekside American Bistro. Combine With: Grand Canyon South Rim, Jerome Ghost Town, Montezuma Castle & Montezuma Well.
Best Time to Visit Sedona
Spring and fall offer ideal hiking weather at 60-85°F with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Summer highs reach 95-100°F but are manageable with early morning hikes and afternoon shade. Winter is mild (40-60°F) with occasional dustings of snow on the red rocks creating magical scenery. Sedona is a year-round destination, but spring and fall are peak with the most pleasant weather and vibrant foliage.
Travel Tips
A Red Rock Pass ($5/day or $15/week) is required for parking at most trailheads — purchase at ranger stations, visitor centers, or local shops. Arrive at popular trailheads (Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge) before 8 AM or after 3 PM to find parking. The Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive (AZ-89A from Flagstaff to Sedona) is one of the most beautiful drives in Arizona — don't miss it. Vortex sites are at Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon — visit at least one for the quintessential Sedona experience.
For more things to do near St. George, explore our Things to Do guide, browse the Events Calendar, or discover local businesses in the St. George Business Directory. Check out all road trip destinations from St. George including Grand Canyon (South Rim), Grand Canyon (North Rim), Phoenix / Scottsdale.