Soaring crimson rock canyons teeming with verdant, lush valleys. Stone formations seemingly placed by a divine force. A place where every glance unveils sights unlike any other, and each turn leads to more awe-inspiring vistas and landmarks.
No, this isn’t a futuristic movie plot. We’re delving into Sedona, Arizona! A truly unparalleled destination famous not only for its otherworldly beauty but also for harboring some of the most remarkable driving routes in the nation. Our escapade kickstarts at the renowned Sky Rock Sedona hotel, heading out to witness vistas like never before.
Crimson Rock Scenic Byway
For a stimulating drive that packs a punch and can be conquered swiftly, the Crimson Rock Scenic Byway / 89A loop is your go-to.
Embark from the iconic Sky Rock Sedona, navigating through the heart of Downtown Sedona along the Crimson Rocks Scenic Byway (SR 179), passing by iconic spots like the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, both of which warrant thorough exploration on their own. Continue through the charming village of Oak Creek, boasting some of the most breathtaking panoramas in all of Sedona, and make a quick pit stop at the Red Rocks Visitor Center for an unmatched view of the valley and the Crimson Rock Range.
Exit highway 179 at Beaverflats Road to commence the loop back towards Sky Rock Sedona and onto Oak Creek Road. If visiting in summer, ensure to pause for a refreshing dip at one of the many swimming spots along Oak Creek! Head north on 89A, relishing the sights of the Crimson Rock Range from the opposite side of the valley. Countless stopping points await along this route for admiring the stunning vistas.
Favor this path, and in just a few hours, you’ll behold the finest Sedona has to offer.
Crimson Rocks Scenic Byway to Mingus Mountain
If you have more time to spare, treating yourself to an escapade through the antiquated mining town of Jerome and an exhilarating drive up Mingus Mountain is a must.
Your initial journey leg takes you along the Crimson Rocks Scenic Byway, offering opportunities to halt and marvel at the astounding vistas of the Crimson Rock Valley. Once deviating from the 179, cruise through the vintage western town of Cottonwood, featuring an iconic downtown bustling with bars, eateries, and shops. Proceed along 89A for a thrilling mix of eerie fun and superb driving.
Enthusiasts of the supernatural (or simply the super cool) will relish exploring the fabled ghost town of Jerome, renowned for its many haunted locales and intriguing history. Gear up for an adventurous drive to the apex of Mingus Mountain. With twists and turns in Jerome and sweeping bends as you ascend, this route is tailor-made for a proper sports car experience. Pause at the summit of Mingus Mountain to relish tranquility, seclusion, and a picnic lunch.
On your descent, trace back 89A all the way to Sedona; however, savor the numerous breathtaking vistas along the route back to Sky Rock Sedona. A highlighted stop on this itinerary is a visit to the Sedona Wetlands Preserve, hailed as among the most ecologically diverse areas in the Southwest.
Sedona to County Corner
For exhilarating driving experiences and awe-inspiring vistas, the Sedona Sky to County Corner run is unparalleled.
This route is a breeze as you predominantly stick to highway 89A throughout. Initiate your excursion in Sedona, meandering along the rear side of the Crimson Rock Range, pausing at one of the many scenic overlooks along the way. Traverse through Cottonwood and Jerome, then tackle the truly demanding segment of this journey. 89A meanders and winds through the Prescott National Forest, ascending in elevation to nearly 8,000 feet before gradually descending back towards Kirkland.
What sets this route apart are the views of the valleys and peaks you encounter en route, along with the enchanting transition from high desert to pine-studded forests. For driving or riding enthusiasts, this is a must-not-miss route.
A Supplementary Road for a Standalone Expedition
If you have a penchant for nature, a trip to the Grand Canyon while in this region is a non-negotiable. Besides being one of the marvels of the natural world, the journey to and fro the Grand Canyon is an enriching experience in itself.
Prior to venturing to Grand Canyon National Park, ensure to secure tickets for a specific entry time, as the Grand Canyon ranks among the most visited National Parks globally! There are myriad routes to the Grand Canyon, but we recommend the scenic path through Flagstaff, across the splendid expanse of Highway 180, and onto Highway 64. Along the journey, witness the treeline vanishing into a seemingly flat terrain concealing the Grand Canyon’s secret just a few miles ahead.
Remember to pack a picnic and plan out all the activities you wish to partake in once inside the park. An absolute highlight for those on a brief halt is Desert View Road, spanning 23 miles along the iconic South Rim of the Canyon. With so much to behold, you might even necessitate a second day! Fuel is available in the Grand Canyon Village, but be cautious of slightly inflated prices.
An Unforgettable Drive
What’s better than magnificent red rocks and towering peaks? Experiencing these wonders from the driver’s seat of an authentic supercar, of course!
Open Road by Xtreme Xperience offers you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to slip into the driver’s seat of one of our exclusive supercars. Yes indeed, YOU can pilot these amazing roads encircling the iconic Sedona, AZ region. Sure, you could navigate these roads in a standard minivan, but cruising past iconic landmarks like Cathedral Rock or Red Rock State Park in a supercar is an experience that will redefine your life.
You have the chance to drive up to three distinct supercars from prestigious brands such as Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari. Depending on the experience, you may drive all three vehicles in the lineup throughout the day. Besides being a vehicle enthusiast, how else can you compare three of the globe’s top-tier supercars?
Spectacular roads, breathtaking vistas, and elite cars. What more could you ask for on your next Sedona expedition?
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