MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Sedona

How to Get to Sedona

Sedona Arizona, USA Travel Guide

Sedona Shuttle

This is the main public transit option for visitors. It launched to handle the high volume of visitors to some of the most popular trailheads, directly addressing parking challenges at these sites. The shuttle intends to alleviate congestion and parking difficulties. It operates specific routes to highly-trafficked trailheads. Main parking lots for the shuttle reside at Northbound State Route 179 (near Village of Oak Creek) and Posse Grounds Park (West Sedona).

The Sedona Shuttle operates without charge. No tickets are needed, making it an economical choice for accessing popular trails. The shuttle mainly operates Thursday through Sunday, and on some holidays. Hours change by season, generally from 8:00 AM to late afternoon. Frequency typically falls between 15-30 minutes, ensuring minimal wait times. The Sedona Shuttle buses are ADA accessible.

Shuttle Routes & Tips

  • Routes: Dry Creek Road (Mescal, Devil's Bridge, Soldier Pass); Little Horse/Cathedral Rock (Little Horse Trailhead).
  • Parking: Vehicle parking at designated shuttle lots is a good idea; trailhead parking often fills or restricts when the shuttle runs.
  • Schedule: Check the Official Sedona Shuttle website for current schedules and operational days.
  • Benefits: Using the shuttle often proves simpler and less stressful than searching for parking at popular trailheads.

Sedona Shuttle

Main public transit option for visitors. Free to use, serving popular trailheads from park-and-ride lots.

Taxis & Rideshare

Uber and Lyft services are in Sedona. Driver numbers may be limited, potentially causing longer wait times.

Car Rentals

Renting a car comes with a strong recommendation for flexible exploration. Major companies at PHX and FLG.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Traditional licensed taxis are less frequent in Sedona compared to larger cities.
  • You might find them near major hotels, or you may call a local taxi company.
  • Taxi fares usually follow meters. Payment is typically by cash or credit card.
Ride-Sharing Uber & Lyft
  • Uber and Lyft services are in Sedona.
  • Driver numbers may be limited, potentially causing longer wait times or dynamic pricing.
  • Use in-app safety features: verify driver/vehicle, share trip status.

Rental Options

Car Rentals

A valid driver's license and a major credit card are needed. Booking ahead is a good idea. DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Limited rental options directly in Sedona. Specialty shops in Phoenix or Flagstaff may have them.

Bicycle Rentals

Local shops offer mountain bike and e-bike rentals (typically $60-$100+ per day). Helmets usually come with the rental.

Specialty Vehicles

Jeep rentals for off-road adventures, and ATV/UTV rentals for designated trails, are available.

Driving & Parking

Standard U.S. Driving laws are in effect. Drive on the right side of the road; seatbelts are a must. Handheld cell phone use while driving is not permitted. Adhere to posted speed limits.

Road Conditions

  • Main highways (I-17, SR 179) and roads within Sedona generally show excellent condition.
  • US-89A, the scenic road north of Sedona, shows winding characteristics with steep grades.
  • Some forest service roads may be unpaved, rocky, and prone to washouts.
  • Conditions should be checked with the Red Rock Ranger District before venturing onto unpaved roads.

Parking Information

  • Parking may be challenging and costly in Uptown Sedona, especially during peak season.
  • Metered parking and paid lots exist.
  • Many popular trailheads now call for the use of the free Sedona Shuttle during peak hours or days.
  • Many hotels offer free parking for guests.

Walking & Cycling

  • Sedona's natural beauty renders walking and cycling appealing ways to experience the area.
  • Uptown Sedona and Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village are very walkable.
  • Sedona's extensive trail system has countless walking and hiking opportunities.
  • Sedona is a world-class mountain biking destination, featuring hundreds of miles of trails.
  • Always wear a helmet when cycling. Ride predictably and follow traffic laws.
  • Walking or cycling on busy highways outside designated pathways is not recommended. Always staying on marked trails is best.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Companies offer bus tours from Sedona to major Arizona attractions, like the Grand Canyon.

Hop-on-Hop-off

No formal hop-on-hop-off bus system exists within Sedona. The free Sedona Shuttle serves a like purpose for accessing trailheads.

Accessibility

Many hotels and attractions have ADA-compliant facilities. The Sedona Shuttle is ADA compliant. However, many trails appear rugged.

← Previous
What to Pack for Sedona
← Back to Sedona
Next →
Getting Around Sedona

Next Up: Getting Around Sedona. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around Sedona