OAK CREEK CANYON: A DRIVE THROUGH CHANGING ELEVATIONS

Heading north from Sedona along Highway 89A, the landscape shifts dramatically as the road winds into Oak Creek Canyon. Here, the red rock environment transitions into a cooler, forested setting, with steep canyon walls, flowing water, and shaded curves. Along the way, historic stops such as Indian Gardens and Slide Rock Park reflect the canyon’s early tourism roots. Nearby, the rustic setting of Don Hoel’s Cabins offers a glimpse into a quieter era of travel in the region. The drive is especially popular in the fall, when changing leaves bring bursts of gold and orange to the canyon floor. Pullouts along the route provide access to creekside areas and short walks, encouraging visitors to slow down and experience the environment up close.

HIGHWAY 179: SEDONA’S ICONIC CORRIDOR

For many visitors, the scenic experience begins along Highway 179, often referred to as the Red Rock Scenic Byway. Stretching between the Village of Oak Creek and Uptown Sedona, this route offers one of the most visually striking drives in Arizona. Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte rise alongside the roadway, creating a sense drivers to stop, take in the views, and capture photos, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon when the light enhances the deep reds and shadows of the formations. It’s a relatively short drive, but one that often becomes the centerpiece of a visit.

JEROME & MINGUS MOUNTAIN: AN HISTORIC CLIMB

To the west, the drive from Cottonwood to Jerome offers a different kind of scenic experience—one shaped as much by history as by landscape. As the road climbs toward Jerome, the valley opens up below, revealing sweeping views of the Verde Valley. The town itself, perched on the side of Mingus Mountain, adds a distinct character to the journey, with its hillside buildings and layered streets. Landmarks such as the Jerome Grand Hotel—a former hospital turned historic hotel—serve as reminders of the town’s mining past. Continuing beyond Jerome toward Mingus Mountain, the road becomes more remote, with expansive overlooks that stretch across the valley floor. It’s a route that combines natural beauty with a strong sense of place.

PAGE SPRINGS AND CORNVILLE: A SLOWER SCENIC ROUTE

For a more relaxed and less-traveled drive, the roads through Page Springs and Cornville offer a quieter look at the Verde Valley. Here, the landscape softens—vineyards replace rock formations, and the Verde River weaves through a greener, more agricultural setting. The area has become known for its growing wine scene, with destinations such as Page Springs Cellars, Oak Creek Vineyards, Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery, and Cove Mesa Vineyard offering opportunities to stop, taste, and take in the surroundings. Nearby, Up the Creek Bistro Wine Bar provides a natural pause along the route, where dining is paired with views of the surrounding landscape. The pace here is unhurried, with wide-open views and fewer crowds than the more heavily visited Sedona corridors—an ideal contrast to the red rock drives to the north.

DRIVING AS A WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE REGION

What makes these drives so compelling is not just the scenery, but the way they connect the region. In a relatively short distance, visitors can move from desert landscapes to forested canyon, from historic hillside towns to vineyard-lined backroads. Each route offers its own perspective, and together they create a broader understanding of the Verde Valley’s diversity. For those willing to take the scenic route, the journey becomes part of the experience—one that unfolds gradually, with each turn revealing something new. Celebrating at Page Springs Cellars Photo courtesy of visitsedona.com Winding road up scenic Mingus Mountain

The Verde Valley is known for its dramatic red rock landscapes and endless outdoor recreation—but you don’t have to be an extreme hiker to enjoy it. For families traveling with kids or pets, the region offers plenty of accessible, memorable ways to experience the outdoors together. From easy trails and splash-friendly creek spots to wide-open parks and scenic strolls, here’s how to make the most of the Verde Valley with your whole crew in tow.