USA – Arizona – Red Rock & High Country Loop (3 days · Full Loop)
Phoenix → Sedona → Flagstaff → Jerome → Prescott → Wickenburg → Phoenix · 180–230 km per day.
Route overview
This three-day loop strings together Arizona’s classic motorcycle terrain: big-sky desert leaving Phoenix, the sculpted red sandstone walls around Sedona, the cool pine forests above Flagstaff, and the historic mining town of Jerome. From there you drift down to the heritage roofs of Prescott before carving back through saguaro country around Wickenburg.
Distances are kept in the 180–230 km band to give time for photo stops and short hikes at Cathedral Rock, viewpoints in Oak Creek Canyon and the terraces of Jerome Historic District. The loop runs entirely on paved roads, mixing fast state highways with slower scenic sections.
Interactive map · Waypoints, POIs & Hotels
Red markers: POIs · Blue markers: hotels · Grey markers: main waypoints · Polyline: suggested loop.
Day-by-day itinerary
Leave Phoenix early and run north on I-17 before turning onto AZ-179 into the red rock amphitheatre around Sedona. Pause at the trailhead for Cathedral Rock and continue along the curves of Oak Creek Canyon to climb to the forests above Flagstaff.
Head south-west on US-89A and the shoulder of Mingus Mountain toward Jerome, a historic copper town clinging to the hillside. Walk the terraces and viewpoints before continuing to Prescott for the evening on Whiskey Row.
Drop south towards Yarnell Hill’s sweeping curves, then cruise into Wickenburg, framed by classic desert ranchland. From here, follow US-60 back into the Phoenix basin to close the loop.
Points of interest along the loop
- Cathedral Rock Trailhead – short, steep hike to classic Sedona viewpoints.
- Oak Creek Canyon Vista – overlook above AZ-89A with sweeping views into the canyon.
- Jerome State Historic Park – exhibits on the mining town’s history and panoramic terrace.
- Whiskey Row (Prescott) – historic saloons and restaurants around Courthouse Plaza.
Suggested hotels with parking
Selection along the loop; all offer on-site or adjacent parking. Please double-check parking details and availability when booking.
Practical base near Phoenix Sky Harbor with evening snacks and easy access to the start/end of the loop.
Parking: free on-site parking, suitable for motorcycles (check conditions on arrival).
Simple, rider-friendly motel-style property close to Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock trailheads.
Parking: free outdoor parking directly in front of rooms.
Straightforward stop-over with pool and easy access to Wickenburg’s western-style downtown.
Parking: free on-site parking; typically space for bikes near rooms.
Classic lodge-style hotel surrounded by pines; convenient for the high-country section and Oak Creek access.
Parking: extensive free surface parking; easy to tuck motorcycles near the lobby.
Historic boutique property just off Courthouse Plaza, with period details and a popular bar.
Parking: hotel and nearby parking; confirm on arrival for secure bike spots.
Modern option with spacious rooms, a good base if you prefer to stay just outside the historic core.
Parking: free on-site parking around the building.
Landmark luxury resort with extensive pools and gardens – a comfortable bookend night in Phoenix.
Parking: resort parking; check options for covered parking / valet for motorcycles.
Small inn with elevated views of the Sedona cliffs and easy walking access to restaurants and shops.
Parking: on-site surface parking; check with reception for best bike spots.
Design-led resort tucked by Oak Creek, ideal if you want a more upscale base for the Sedona section.
Parking: valet/self-parking, check current arrangements for motorcycles.
Restaurant suggestions (online booking)
A few options that accept online reservations via OpenTable or their official website. Use Google Maps for exact access and to confirm current opening hours.
Modern dining with a coastal twist, convenient for an evening stop in Sedona or Village of Oak Creek.
Chef-driven menu in a refined but relaxed setting, ideal for a special dinner in Flagstaff.
Long-standing local favourite with steaks, seafood and a traditional dining-room atmosphere.
Busy, sociable spot in Phoenix with comfort food and drinks – useful as a relaxed start or finish to the loop.
GetYourGuide activities along the route
Optional organised tours that fit well with this loop. Links below include your partner tracking (partner_id=6833118).
Guided excursion from Phoenix through the red rock country, historic Jerome and Montezuma Castle National Monument.
Coach or van tour covering Bell Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross and key viewpoints, good for a rest day off the bike.
Small-group tour from Sedona to the South Rim, including several viewpoints and time for short walks along the rim.
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