Scottsdale to Sedona Airport Shuttle
Round Trips Save You 10%
How is Your Service Different?
- Any Address - We pick you up at your home, hotel or airport.
- Better - most rides are non-stop in a nice car.
- Flexible - we pick you up on your schedule 24/7.
- Safer - we don't leave you at a bus stop and we have better drivers.
- Faster - most rides take half the time and it's just you in the vehicle.
- More Convenient - door to door and no need to arrange or pay for other companies to get home.
- Affordable - once you add it all up, it's the same price.
Our Daily Schedule
What is your daily schedule from Phoenix to Sedona?
We pick you up on your schedule 24/7. Our professional Sedona shuttle drivers are normally 5-10 minutes early at your home in Sedona, or right on time at the Phoenix Airport. You get to pick the time we pick you up. 30 minutes after you land is normal.
What is my pickup time at Sky Harbor?
We normally pick you up 30 minutes after your plane lands in Phoenix for domestic flights, or 45 minutes after for international flights. If you don't have bags just schedule your pickup time for 15 mins after you land.
What happens if my Phoenix flight is delayed?
Pickup times automatically adjust to 30 minutes after you land in Phoenix if your flight is delayed for domestic flights, or 45 mins after you land for international flights. Please let us know if you change your airline or flight number. It's also important to give us the flight number actually coming into PHX. Sometimes you may have more than one flight number if you have a layover or switch planes.
What happens if my flight arrives early?
Just call or send us a text if you want us to pick you up early, and we will let your shuttle driver know that you are ready to be picked up. Most of the time we can accommodate an early pickup. Otherwise, we will pick you up at the scheduled time on your reservation. You can always grab a coffee or something to eat while you are waiting. If it's hot please wait until the last moment to go outside. We want to make you experience great.
How soon should I make a reservation to Sedona?
Several days ahead is a good idea. Some people book months in advance. Although there is no set rule that prevents booking a Phoenix to Sedona Shuttle last minute, it's a good idea to make your Shuttle reservation as soon as possible; this will make sure a driver is available and prevent any delays. This is especially true if you need a pick up in the middle of the night.
How long does it take to Scottsdale or Sedona?
Trips in normal traffic are about 1 hour and 40 minutes versus about 3 hours and 30 mins on the bus with a bunch of people. Rush hour will normally add 15-45 mins (30 mins on the average). Shuttle Scottsdale to Sedona is much different from buses and shared rides that frequently stop and wait for other people. They can also be significantly late at the airport. Combine that with traffic and you will probably not want to share a ride. Our company is highly reviewed and voted #1 by customers for Scottsdale to Sedona transportation services.
What time should I be picked up?
The drive from Scottsdale to Sedona is normally 1 hour and 40 minutes. 3 hours and 30 minutes before your flight is normally good on the way back. PHX recommends you to be there 2 hours early to get through security and to your plane. Boarding usually starts 30 mins before your plane takes off. However, one hour and thirty mins is normally good. So if the drive from Sedona by Airport Shuttle takes about 2 hours, then 3 and a half hours before your flight takes off is normally good. Airlines start giving seats away about 40 mins before take off. It just depends on how many people are trying to get on your plane.
Our Better Drivers
Who are your drivers?
Most of our Sedona shuttle drivers have been driving professionally with the public for more than 10 years. They have excellent people skills and are usually very knowledgeable about the area (what to do in Sedona, best restaurants in Sedona AZ, Sedona history and Sedona attractions). Some of our airport shuttle drivers are also professional tour guides that go to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Phoenix, and many other destinations in Arizona.
We have high standards for our shuttle drivers including safety, reliability and customer service. They are very helpful with bags. They get the door for you. All shuttle drivers go through extensive background checks with PHX in order to pick up passengers.
We also train them by driving them through the PHX, explaining all the rules, and showing them where to pick people up and drop people off. Drivers dress well, get the door for you, help with bags, and go out of their way to make you experience great.
Our Great Company
With more than 100,000 customers and many years in business since 2015, Airport Shuttle of Phoenix owns Shuttle Scottsdale to Sedona, and has drivers all over the State of Arizona. Our main office is 5 minutes from PHX in Phoenix, AZ.
Main Office
4600 E Washington St Ste 300
Phoenix, AZ 85034
2018 - 2023 Travel and Hospitality Award Winner
Testimonials and Reviews
Click here to read lots of excellent Scottsdale to Sedona Shuttle reviews.
Scottsdale to Sedona: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide
Intro paragraph (maybe ~100-150 words) summarizing answer: route, time, highlights.Why the I-17 Route is the Best Choice
(Comparison of route options)Driving Directions: Scottsdale to Sedona Step-by-Step
Must-See Stops Along the Way
Stop 1: Agua Fria National Monument
Stop 2: Montezuma Castle National Monument
Stop 3: Cottonwood & Historic Jerome
Stop 4: Red Rock State Park
Stop 5: Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook
Stop 6: Oak Creek Canyon
Stop 7: Chapel of the Holy Cross
Stop 8: Cathedral Rock Trail
Stop 9: Bell Rock
Stop 10: Elote Cafe
Comparison Table: Scenic Overlooks vs. Hiking Trails
(table with columns: Stop, Type, Difficulty, Time Needed, Highlights)Estimated Driving Times and Distances
(maybe a table with leg distances and times)Tips for a Smooth Scottsdale to Sedona Road Trip
(maybe bullet list)Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Start with
- Depart Scottsdale on the 101 Loop East toward Glendale.
- Merge onto I‑17 North toward Flagstaff. Stay on I‑17 for about 72 miles.
- Take exit #287 for AZ‑260 West toward Cottonwood.
- After 15 miles, turn right onto AZ‑89A (signs for Jerome).
- Follow AZ‑89A through the roundabouts, climbing into Jerome, then descend back to Cottonwood.
- In Cottonwood, follow signs for East AZ‑89A toward Sedona.
- Continue on AZ‑89A until it meets Highway 179, which leads directly into Sedona’s vortex district.
- Return: Head south on I‑17, exit onto the 101 West, and you’ll be back in Scottsdale in roughly two hours.
- Start Early: Heading out by 7 am helps you avoid Phoenix‑area traffic and gives you a full day in Sedona.
- Fuel Up: Fill the tank in Scottsdale; gas options are limited on the stretch between Cottonwood and Sedona.
- Pack Layers: Desert temperatures can swing 15‑20 °F between morning and afternoon; a light jacket is handy for high‑elevation stops like Oak Creek Canyon.
- Reserve Tickets If Needed: Pink Jeep Tours and some state‑park入口 may require advance booking, especially on weekends.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring at least a liter of water per person, especially if you plan to hike Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock.
- Check Road Conditions: I‑17 is generally well‑maintained, but winter weather can bring occasional snow near Flagstaff; verify forecasts before departure.
Scottsdale to Sedona: The Fastest Route and Must‑See Stops
Paragraph: The most efficient way to travel from Scottsdale to Sedona is to take Interstate 17 (I‑17) north for roughly 125 miles, a drive that takes about two hours under normal traffic conditions. This route bypasses the need for winding mountain roads and puts you in the heart of Sedona’s red‑rock country with minimal stops, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing.Why the I‑17 “Direct” Route Wins
Paragraph: While there are three route options (the I‑17 direct, the I‑17 + AZ‑260/Jerome scenic detour, and the US‑60/Prescott alternative), the I‑17 straight‑through path is the quickest and simplest. It shaves off 30–45 minutes compared with the scenic detour that loops through historic Jerome, and it avoids the longer US‑60 trek that adds extra mileage. Most travelers find the direct I‑17 drive provides a good balance of time and opportunity for a quick coffee break at the mid‑way rest area.Step‑by‑Step Driving Directions
Top 10 Stops Between Scottsdale and Sedona
1. Agua Fria National Monument – A Hidden Pueblo Legacy
Located off I‑17 roughly one hour north of Scottsdale, Agua Fria National Monument protects over 450 Native‑American structures, including massive pueblos and petroglyph panels. The monument’s short paved trail near the visitor center makes it an easy first stop for history buffs. Allow about 45 minutes to an hour.
2. Montezuma Castle National Monument – Cliff Dwelling Wonder
About 90 minutes north of Scottsdale, Montezuma Castle sits beside a limestone cliff and offers a self‑guided loop that winds past a five‑story Sinagua dwelling. The visitor center provides exhibits on the ancient culture; plan for a 30‑minute visit.
3. Cottonwood & Historic Jerome – Wine, Views, and Ghost Town Vibes
Just 30 minutes from Sedona, Cottonwood is becoming a go‑to destination for local wineries, antique shops, and the quirky former mining town of Jerome perched on a hillside. Take AZ‑89A up to Jerome, walk the steep Main Street, and sample a glass of local wine before heading back down.
4. Red Rock State Park – Hiking Amid Crimson Buttes
Red Rock State Park, situated on the western edge of Sedona, offers more than 5 miles of trails that weave through juniper flats and past dramatic red‑rock formations. The park is ideal for a morning hike; allow 2–3 hours to fully appreciate the scenery.
5. Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook – Sunrise or Sunset Magic
The overlook sits on the mesa above the Sedona Airport, providing a panoramic view of Cathedral Rock, Coffee Pot Rock, and the surrounding vortexes. It’s a quick 15‑minute stop; many travelers time their visit for the golden hour to capture striking photographs.
6. Oak Creek Canyon – River Gorge and Autumn Colors
North of Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon stretches for roughly 14 miles along AZ‑89A, with the creek running alongside the road. In fall, the canyon bursts with orange and gold foliage. Pull over at one of the designated viewpoints for a 30‑minute scenic break.
7. Chapel of the Holy Cross – Spiritual Icon Carved in Stone
Built into a red‑rock butte on Highway 179, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a striking Roman‑Catholic chapel that blends seamlessly with the landscape. The site is open to visitors; allow about 30 minutes to explore the grounds and enjoy the view.
8. Cathedral Rock Trail – The Iconic Hike
If you have time for only one hike, make it the Cathedral Rock Trail. The path is just 0.7 miles each way but includes steep, rocky switchbacks that reward you with a 360‑degree vista of Sedona’s red‑rock panorama. Budget about 2 hours round‑trip for the climb and descent.
9. Bell Rock – Accessible Vortex Walk
Bell Rock lies directly across from Cathedral Rock and offers a 1.5‑mile round‑trip walk to its base. The trail is family‑friendly and provides an excellent introduction to Sedona’s famous energy vortexes without the strenuous climb.
10. Elote Cafe – Taste of Local Flavor
Before heading home, stop at Elote Cafe in Sedona’s Uptown district for award‑winning Mexican cuisine. Known for its fresh‑made elote (Mexican street corn) and creative margaritas, the restaurant is a perfect way to end the day. Expect a short wait during peak dinner hours.
Comparison Table: Scenic Overlooks vs. Hiking Trails
| Stop | Type | Difficulty | Time Needed | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook | Scenic Overlook | Easy | 15–30 min | Panoramic red‑rock views, sunrise/sunset |
| Pink Jeep Tours | Guided Tour | Moderate | 2–3 hrs | Off‑road adventure, interpretive guides |
| Oak Creek Canyon | Scenic Drive | Easy | 30–60 min | River views, fall foliage, picnic spots |
| Red Rock State Park | Hiking Trail | Moderate | 2–3 hrs | Multiple trail options, wildlife |
| Chapel of the Holy Cross | Cultural Site | Easy | 30 min | Architecture, spiritual ambiance |
| Cathedral Rock Trail | Hiking Trail | Strenuous | 2 hrs | Iconic summit, vortex views |
| Bell Rock | Hiking Trail | Moderate | 1 hr | Accessible vortex, gentle grades |
| Tlaquepaque Arts Village | Arts & Shopping | Easy | 1 hr | Handcrafted gifts, galleries |
| Elote Cafe | Dining | Easy | 45–60 min | Local cuisine, lively atmosphere |
Estimated Driving Times and Distances
| Leg | Distance (mi) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Scottsdale → I‑17 Junction (via 101) | ~15 | 20 min |
| I‑17 North to AZ‑260 exit | ~72 | 1 hr 10 min |
| AZ‑260 to Cottonwood/Jerome | ~15 | 20 min |
| Cottonwood to Sedona (AZ‑89A) | ~20 | 30 min |
| Sedona → Oak Creek Canyon (return) | ~14 | 25 min |
| Sedona → Scottsdale (I‑17 South) | ~125 | 2 hrs |
Practical Tips for a Smooth Scottsdale‑to‑Sedona Road Trip
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to drive from Scottsdale to Sedona?
The drive is roughly 125 miles and takes about two hours when using the I‑17 direct route. If you detour through Jerome or stop at multiple scenic points, plan for an additional 30–60 minutes.
What is the best time of year to travel from Scottsdale to Sedona?
Spring (April‑May) and fall (September‑October) offer comfortable temperatures (60‑80 °F) and vibrant scenery, especially in Oak Creek Canyon. Summer can be hot (over 100 °F), while winter may bring snow on higher elevations.