You can make Phoenix to Cottonwood in about 1.75 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 100 miles on I-17 and AZ-260, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable among the vineyards.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Phoenix
Aim to clear Phoenix before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 84 miles to Camp Verde.
The headline stop on this route is Old Town Cottonwood tasting rooms. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Camp Verde, the last stretch
Camp Verde sits about 84 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, Hillside ghost town of Jerome is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
Rolling into Cottonwood
The final 16 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Page Springs Cellars on Oak Creek; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen Old Town Cottonwood tasting rooms, Hillside ghost town of Jerome and Page Springs Cellars on Oak Creek, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. Cottonwood, Jerome or Sedona, AZ is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along I-17 and AZ-260 before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
