Sedona vs. Page: Which Arizona Destination Is Right for You?
- Logan & Audri
- Oct 12
- 8 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
When it comes to adventure destinations in the U.S., Sedona and Page are two of the best, and choosing between them isn’t easy. At first glance, they might seem like similar desert getaways. Both have amazing red rock views, world-class hiking, and that signature Arizona beauty that makes you want to stay outdoors from sunrise to sunset. But once you’ve experienced them, you realize they deliver two very different kinds of adventure.
Sedona offers adventure with a touch of luxury; it’s a place where mornings are spent on the trails and afternoons wandering through the shops and galleries, and boutique resorts are tucked between red rock cliffs. It’s the perfect balance of outdoor exploration and desert relaxation.
Page, on the other hand, is pure, unfiltered adventure. It’s home to slot canyons, rugged backroads, and the unreal blue waters of Lake Powell. There’s nothing fancy about it, just wide-open desert, starry skies, and some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Southwest.
So if you’re deciding between Sedona’s refined desert charm and Page’s raw, adventurous spirit, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the perfect destination that fits your style of adventure.
Table of Contents
Sedona vs. Page: Location and Distance
Even though Sedona and Page are both in northern Arizona, they’re separated by nearly three hours of desert highway, and the landscapes in between are just as beautiful as the destinations themselves.
Sedona sits about two hours north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), making it one of the easiest adventure towns in the state to reach. The drive from Phoenix to Sedona is scenic the entire way, starting with cactus-covered hills and ending among the beautiful red rock formations that define the area. If you’re flying into Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), Sedona is even closer, only about a 45-minute drive through the winding mountain roads in Oak Creek Canyon (make sure you take the scenic route!)
Page, on the other hand, is tucked into the far north near the Utah border. The most common way to get there is by car, with two main airport options: Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), about a 4.5-hour drive, or Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), roughly the same distance. There’s also a smaller local option, the Page Municipal Airport (PGA), with very limited regional flights, although we’d recommend the extra driving to see everything America’s Southwest has to offer. If you’re starting from Flagstaff, it’s about 2.5 hours to Page, but if you make a stop at the Grand Canyon on your way, expect around an hour-and-a-half detour.
If you plan to visit both destinations, the drive between Sedona and Page follows Highway 89A through the forest and US-89 across wide desert landscapes. It’s a beautiful route that passes through national forests and open desert, this drive will show you why Arizona is one of the best road trip states in the country.
How Far is Sedona from Page, Arizona?
If you’re deciding whether to visit Sedona or Page, or planning to include both in the same trip, the distance between the two is easier than most people expect. Sedona and Page are 160 miles apart, and the drive takes about 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
The route is straightforward: take Highway 89A north through Flagstaff, then continue onto US-89 all the way to Page. The drive is smooth, well-maintained, and incredibly scenic the entire way. Expect incredible desert views, red rock cliffs, and plenty of wide-open landscapes that show off why this part of Arizona is so special.
Best Stops on the Drive From Sedona to Page
If you want to break up the drive or make it more of an adventure, here are a few can’t-miss stops along the way:
Oak Creek Canyon Overlook: gorgeous canyon views on the way out of Sedona
Flagstaff Downtown: cute coffee shops and local restaurants
Wupatki National Monument: ancient pueblos and desert ruins
Horseshoe Bend: one of the most iconic views in Arizona
Glen Canyon Dam Overlook: an easy pull-off with great views of Lake Powell
Best Things to Do in Sedona vs. Page
Once you’ve figured out how to get there, the real fun begins. Both Sedona and Page are built for adventure, whether you’re into hiking, exploring hidden corners of the desert, or finding the best spots to watch the sun go down. Here’s a look at what to do in each destination and what makes them worth the trip.
Things to Do in Sedona
Sedona is built for exploring. The trails start right outside town, and you don’t have to go far to find some of the best views in Arizona. Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge are the most popular, they’re short, steep climbs that reward you with amazing views. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, Boynton Canyon and Fay Canyon are quieter options with the same red rock views that Sedona is known for.
Adventure in Sedona isn’t limited to hiking. The Jeep tours are a must-do, especially if you want to see parts of the desert most visitors never see. The Broken Arrow Trail is one of the most popular routes, climbing straight over slickrock and through narrow canyons before opening up to incredible panoramic views of the valley.
If you decide to take the scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon, make a stop at Slide Rock State Park. It’s one of Arizona’s most unique spots, a natural 80-foot water slide carved into the sandstone, where you can cool off in the creek or just sit back and watch people brave the cold water. It’s especially fun in the warmer months and makes for a great mid-day break between hikes.
Sedona’s energy changes once you head into town. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a great spot to slow down; there are cobblestone walkways, local art galleries, and boutique shops everywhere you look. For food, there’s a mix of casual and upscale. The Hudson and Mariposa are local favorites for dinner with a view, and if you want something quick, Jay Bird’s is our absolute favorite!
Things to Do in Page
Page is all about getting outdoors. The town itself is small, but everything around it feels otherworldly.
The main highlight is Antelope Canyon, a narrow slot canyon shaped by flash floods over time. Walking through it feels surreal, there really isn’t anything else quite like it. You’ll need a guided tour to visit, so plan ahead; spots book up quickly!
Right outside of town is Horseshoe Bend, one of the easiest and most rewarding stops in the area. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the overlook, and the view of the Colorado River below is worth seeing at least once. Go for sunrise or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.
If you want to get on the water, Lake Powell is the place to go. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the canyons and quiet coves along the lake’s edge. Early mornings are calm, and you’ll often have whole stretches to yourself. For an easy roadside stop with great views, check out the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook.
For something more remote, drive out to Alstrom Point. It’s about 25 miles from town and requires a high-clearance 4x4, but the overlook is one of the best in the entire region. You’ll feel completely off the grid once you get there.
Page doesn’t have a big restaurant or shopping scene like Sedona, but it has a few solid local spots. Big John’s Texas BBQ is great after a full day outside, and Bonkers Restaurant is a good sit-down option if you want something quieter.
Sedona vs. Page: What Will It Cost You?
Both Sedona and Page can fit almost any budget, but the type of experience you’ll have in each place is very different. Sedona leans more upscale, with boutique hotels, fine dining, and guided tours that add to the cost. Page is simpler, fewer frills, fewer expenses, and more focus on the adventure itself. Here’s what to expect from each.
Sedona Costs
Sedona isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t have to break your budget either. The town leans more upscale, especially when it comes to hotels and dining. You’ll find plenty of boutique resorts and spas with incredible views, places like Amara Resort and L’Auberge de Sedona come with higher price tags but deliver the full experience.
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, there are solid mid-range hotels and vacation rentals around West Sedona. Most are clean, convenient, and close to the main trails, so you don’t have to sacrifice location. And if you don’t mind a bit of extra driving, staying in Flagstaff is a great way to save. We’ve done this two out of the three times we’ve visited Sedona, and it cuts costs dramatically while still keeping you less than an hour away from the main hikes and viewpoints.
Food in Sedona can add up quickly if you eat out for every meal. Restaurants like The Hudson and Mariposa are worth the splurge, but you’ll also find casual cafés and local spots where prices are more reasonable. Expect mid-range meals to run around $20–$30 per person, and nicer dinners closer to $50 per person.
Activities are what you make them. Hiking is free, but guided Jeep tours, vortex tours, and park entry fees can add up fast. If you’re planning to do a few tours, budget an extra $200–$300 per person to cover experiences and entrance fees comfortably.
Page Costs
Compared to Sedona, Page is much easier on the wallet. Hotels here average under $150 per night, and most are simple but comfortable. You won’t find luxury resorts or high-end spas, but you’ll have no trouble finding clean, convenient places to stay close to the main attractions.
Food prices are also lower across the board. Most restaurants in town are casual, with barbecue, pizza, and diner-style spots. You can easily eat out for $15–$25 per person, and even the nicer sit-down options stay affordable.
Activities in Page are mostly outdoors, so costs depend on what you plan to do. Antelope Canyon tours typically range from $80–$120 per person, and kayak or paddleboard rentals on Lake Powell usually fall between $50–$100. Beyond that, nearly everything else is free.
Overall, Page offers the same level of adventure as Sedona for a fraction of the price. It’s one of those places where you can pack your days with incredible experiences without spending much beyond your hotel and tour costs.
So, Which One Should You Choose? Page or Sedona?
Honestly, it depends on the kind of trip you want. We’ve spent time in both, and each one is incredible; it’s a hard choice. Sedona is the easier choice; it’s comfortable and full of ways to slow down between adventures. Page is a bit different, it’s remote, simple, and everything revolves around the outdoors.
There isn’t a clear winner here, and that’s the best part. Both deliver the kind of Arizona landscapes that make you stop and stare, and if you can, we’d say visit both. Experiencing them back-to-back makes you realize just how underrated Arizona really is.
FAQ: Sedona vs. Page
Is Page or Sedona better for hiking?
Both have amazing hikes, but they’re completely different. Sedona’s trails are more accessible and close to town. Page’s hikes are fewer and more remote, but just as beautiful!
How many days do you need in each?
Sedona is great for a weekend, but you could easily spend 3-5 days exploring. Page can be done in 2–3 days since most of the main spots are close together.
Is Sedona or Page better for first-time visitors to Arizona?
Sedona is usually the better starting point. It’s easier to get to, has more restaurants and hotels, and gives you that classic Arizona feel without needing to go too far off the grid.
Is Sedona or Page better for families?
Sedona is more family-friendly overall. The hikes are easier to access, and the town has plenty of restaurants, spas, and kid-friendly stays. Page is great for families who love the outdoors, but it’s a lot more rugged.
Is Page or Sedona better for couples?
Both are incredible for couples, just in different ways. Sedona is romantic with luxury resorts, spa days, and sunset dinners. Page is about shared adventure, kayaking, hiking, and watching the stargazing.