Winding 7.5 miles through Arizona’s stunning red rock country, the Red Rock Scenic Byway connects I-17 north of Rimrock to SR 89A in Sedona—and every turn reveals another jaw-dropping vista. This All-American Road designation isn’t given lightly; the route is considered a destination unto itself.

As you drive, towering crimson buttes and spires rise dramatically against impossibly blue skies. Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte dominate the landscape, their iron-rich sandstone formations glowing amber and vermillion in the shifting light. Pull off at numerous vista points to photograph these ancient monuments or simply absorb the otherworldly beauty.

The byway passes trailheads leading to some of Sedona’s most beloved hikes, art galleries tucked into the desert landscape, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross—an architectural marvel built directly into the red rocks.

Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures and spectacular light. Sunrise and sunset transform the rocks into living fire.

Allow: At minimum one hour for the drive alone, but plan half a day to explore viewpoints, snap photos, and soak in Sedona’s famous vortex energy. This short stretch delivers Arizona’s most iconic scenery—don’t rush it.

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