Of all of the questions I am asked about traveling on US Route 89, one of the most frequent is about the two possible drives between Bitter Springs, Arizona and Kanab, Utah. Since both US 89 and 89A are about the same length and take the same time to drive, neither one has a clear advantage over the other. However, each road has unique features and possibilities for exploring this corner of the Colorado Plateau. I’ll describe what you can expect along each road so you can answer the question for yourself. For a map and more information, check out the road trip guides here Flagstaff to Page, here Page to Kanab and here Bitter Springs to Kanab.
Bitter Springs to Kanab on US 89A
US Route 89A is the original alignment of the highway when it came into existence along with the rest of the federal highway system in 1926. It became an alternative when 89 was rerouted to Page to facilitate the construction of Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River. From Bitter Springs it is 14 miles to the low point on this route at the crossing of the Colorado River in Marble Canyon. Navajo Bridge was completed in 1929 as the final connecting link in the border to border highway. A new vehicle bridge was built in 1992. Stop at the visitors’ center and take a walk out on the old bridge to view Marble Canyon and the Colorado River 470 feet below.
The road to Lee’s Ferry is on the west side of the river. River trips downstream through the Grand Canyon start here and some of the best trout fishing in Arizona is upstream toward Glen Canyon Dam. You can also visit Lonely Dell Ranch, the home of John D. Lee, now lovingly maintained by the Park Service.
For 28 miles through the House Rock Valley, 89A parallels the Vermillion Cliffs. California condors have been reintroduced to make their home here and can be seen along the cliffs and near Navajo Bridge. Stop at the Donimgues-Escalante Interpretive Site to learn about the history of Spanish exploration across the Colorado Plateau. At the west end of the valley, a dirt road goes north along Coyote Wash and eventually connects to US 89 in Utah.
Straight ahead is the Kaibab Plateau. For the next twelve miles the road climbs 2,500 feet to the top at Jacob Lake. From here, Arizona Route 67 runs south to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This road is only open from the middle of May until the end of October depending on snow conditions. If you are traveling 89A in the off season, be sure to check ahead for current driving conditions.
From Jacob Lake, highway 89A descends the west side of the Kaibab Plateau to Fredonia. Pipe Springs National Monument is 13.5 miles west of Fredonia on highway 389. Continue on 89A for 7 miles to Kanab.
Bitter Springs to Kanab via Page on 89
From Bitter Springs, US 89 climbs 1,000 feet in 3 miles hugging the face of the Echo Cliffs through Antelope Pass onto the Kaibito Plateau. Near the top, there is a small parking area where Navajos set up tables to display and sell jewelry and other craft items.
The road slowly descends for 20 miles to Page. Three miles south of Page is short road on the west that leads to an overlook of the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend. US 89 reaches its low point as it crosses the Colorado at Glen Canyon Dam. The visitors’ centers offers tours of the dam including descending inside the dam almost to river level to view the giant turbines that produce electricity for distant cities.
Views of Lake Powell and access to the lake at Wahweap are available along the highway to the west of Page. The road crosses the Paria River 29 miles from Page. A hike into the Narrows of the Paria is one of the highlights of this section of US 89. Check in at the BLM Ranger Station for a permit and for information on current weather conditions. Flash floods are common on the Paria in the summer rainy season, so proceed with caution.
Five miles west of the Paria is the intersection with House Rock Road. Take the road south to access the Coyote Buttes and eventually connect to US 89A. Permits are required to hike to the Wave and other spectacular rock features along this road and are available at the BLM Ranger Station.
US 89 continues west for 40 miles to Kanab.
What about recreational vehicles?
Several people who have asked this question have been driving larger RV’s and are concerned about steep grades. Be assured that both roads can be driven in larger vehicles. They are federal highways and conform to the national standards of construction. Since both roads connect Bryce Canyon, Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks, they are heavily traveled by tourists in all kinds of vehicles, especially in the summer months.
When we travel through this area on a round trip from our home near Tucson, we drive 89 in one direction and 89A the other. That way we can enjoy both roads and avoid having to choose one over the other. If you can only choose one, both are beautiful drives so you can’t go wrong either way.
Hello, We are staying in Kanab the beginning of June. Taking a day trip to Page and driving back to Kanab. I’d really like to go the the Red Heritage Dinner Show in Page. The show ends at 8 p.m. Page time with sunset that day at 7:52 p.m. There will be some twilight but is it safe to drive from Page to Kanab in the dark? Are animals in the road an issue?
The U.S. Highway 89 Kanab-Paunsaugunt Project was constructed in 2012-2013 to help reduce mule deer-vehicle collisions and provide connectivity for the Paunsaugunt Mule Deer herds and other wildlife in their north-south movements across the highway. Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and partners placed 12.5 miles (20.1 km) of fence to guide wildlife to four existing structures and three new wildlife crossing culverts. Studies conducted since then show a high success rate in preventing vehicle collisions with mule deer. I think you can feel safe traveling this section of Highway 89 in the evening. Of course, as is the case with any rural road, stay alert to the possibility of wildlife on the road.
What kind of weather/road conditions can we expect driving 89 or 89A in the middle of April?
The weather in April along US 89 and 89A is quite variable. On 89A over the Kaibab Plateau, temperatures range from highs in the upper 50s and lows below freezing, and snow is not uncommon until the middle of May. On 89 between Page and Kanab, because it is lower in elevation, the weather is a bit milder but still quite variable. It is best to check the weather and road conditions before you head out. Here is an article on how to find up-to-date information.
Hello James,
Me and family (wife and two kids, 3 and 5 y/o) are planning a road trip all the way from Vancouver, BC > California > Grand Canyon park, AZ > back to Vancouver. While the to-drive to California will be through the coast, I wanted to take the family thru scenic inland route on the way back, weather permitting, esp now that I read your post mentioning the scenic drive on Hwy89 between Page and Kanab.
We are planning the road-trip mid-March. The last leg of the trip is what Google suggests through Hwy89.
My questions to you are:
1) what weather should I expect, particularly in the section from the grand canyon park up until merging on I-15? I dont think i will hit the Kaibab Plateau section, but reslly don’t know what to expect rest of the route until we hit I-15. Onwards on I-15, I believe will not be at higher elevations and more predictable weather-wise
2) how crowded or deserted should I expect the above stretch of Hwy89 to be?
3) would you suggest taking Hwy89 over taking a much longer but perhaps more predictable (weather wise) coastal route?
For what it’s worth, I will be driving a 2WD SUV and have limited experience driving in snow/icy conditions.
Much thanks.
The weather and driving conditions in March are unpredictable. Having said that, US 89 is the main road through quite a few communities. As such, it is likely to be clear even if you encounter snowy conditions. School buses need to get kids to school, and businesses will be open except under the most extreme conditions. You should check weather conditions several days in advance and driving conditions as you travel. Here is an article on finding up-to-date driving conditions. For details about what to expect along the road, check out the road trip guides for Flagstaff north to Sevier. The road trip guides are also available in the US Route 89 Road Trip Map Book. I think you and your family will enjoy this section of US Route 89.
We are planning a trip from Duck Creek Village, UT to the Lake Powell Area, AZ. We will be driving an SUV. What will be the best (views, scenery, photo opportunity, etc.) route to take? How many miles and time it will take ? Thanks for the help from the knowledgeable one.
From Duck Creek Village to Page is about 120 miles so your driving time will be about 2 hours without any stops. If you are interested in art, you should plan a stop at the Thunderbird Foundation near Mt. Carmel to tour the historic home and studio of Maynard Dixon. Of course, you could take a side trip to Zion National Park. Just north of Kanab is Best Friends, an animal sanctuary that is a must-stop for dog lovers. Kanab is a good place to stop for lunch or dinner. The drive from Kanab to Page is one of the most scenic on US 89. You will find lots more information in the road trip guides for Kanab to Sevier and Page to Kanab. Even though this is a fairly short drive, plan to take a day and make a few stops along the way to take pictures.
We have travelled from Page to Kanab a few times on highway 89. Plan on taking 89A next weekend via Jacob Lake and will be towing our ATV. Once inside the Kaibab is the 89 on the east side about the same as the west side going out to Kanab? We’ve noticed it being a bit narrow for trailering so just wanted to make sure it’d be safe. Thank you.
When you start the climb up the east side of the Kaibab Plateau on US 89A, you will encounter a couple of switchbacks that will slow you down but are not a problem with your ATV. We have seen full-size RVs and trailers make it up to Jacob Lake. Enjoy your road trip.
Not sure if you will see this but recently came across this article as I am planning a drive from Phoenix to Page and back. I am not from Arizona so I am not entirely comfortable with the steep grades some of the roads here have. Is US-89 a bad road for these grades because I have a small engine car and always worry about it being able to make it. Should I be concerned, find an alternate route, or just keep on my original path? And how many parts do have steep grades and for how long?
I suggest that you take Interstate 17 from Phoenix to Flagstaff. The historic route of US 89 from Wickenburg to Flagstaff on AZ 89 and AZ 89A goes through several mountainous sections with steep grades and many curves. From Flagstaff to Page, one short section of US 89 climbs up the side of the Echo Cliffs. It is four-lanes and is used by semis and RVs with a beautiful view over Marble Canyon to the Vermillion Cliffs. If you want to avoid that climb, you can take Navajo Route 20 from The Gap to Page. For details of that route, see my article about that bypass and also check out the Flagstaff to Page Road Trip Guide.
planning trip from Williams Az to Arches, May 2022. We have 40′ DP Motor home with toad. Being from Florida was wondering how difficult US89 would be? Are there many areas where your driving hanging over the side of cliffs/canyons?
Is I15- I70 more scenic route?
I assume you will be taking I-40 to Flagstaff and exiting onto US 89 on the east side. Go north on 89 to US 180 and head northeast to Utah. You will be on 89 for 62 miles of fairly level travel. You might consider stopping at Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments and the Cameron Trading Post is a great place to shop for Native American arts and crafts and have a good meal. Check out the Flagstaff to Page Raod Trip Guide for more information.
We will be traveling from the South Rim to Marble Canyon. Then from Marble Canyon we want to go to Kanab. This will be at the end of November 2021. Which route will be best in a rental car -89A or 89 to get to Kanab?
The answer to this question depends on the weather conditions at the time you are traveling. By the end of November, it is possible that US 89A will have snow on the road as you cross over the Kaibab Plateau through Jacob Lake to Kanab. The road conditions on US 89 are less likely to be a problem. From Marble Canyon, you could go back to US 89 to proceed to Page and on to Kanab. Check out this article on Finding Current Road Conditions.
Hi James,
My wife and I plan to drive from Flagstaff to Duck Creek Village UT next week, leaving Flagstaff at about 3 PM. How difficult is the drive on US 89 during this time, knowing
that sunset will occur before we arrive? We are both in our early 70’s but in relative good health. Thanks for the advice.
It is about 135 miles from Flagstaff to Page, so if you leave at 3:00 pm that part of the drive will be in daylight. The rest of the drive which is about 2 hours will be after dark. My only caution is between Page and Kanab there are sections where elk cross the road so be on the look out. Check out the three Road Trip Guides that detail your drive beginning with Flagstaff to Page.
Thanks James! Your quick reply is very much appreciated.
We are leaving april 17th from Florida in our motorcoach for a once in a lifetime trip.
We intend to go route 10 to 89 stopping along the way and eventually end up in CT by mid June for my grandaughter high school graduation
My concern is the weather once We get on 89. Any thoughts? Also for this being our first trip out that way is 89 or 89 best?
Any help would be appreciatedm
April is a good time of the year to spend some time in southern Arizona to see the sights around Tucson, such as Saguaro National Park. When you get to Phoenix on I-10, I would suggest that you take I-17 north to Flagstaff to begin your journey on US Route 89. You could take a side trip to the Verde Valley and Sedona on your way to Flagstaff. From there you can plan visits to the Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce. The weather is usually nice at that time and you will avoid the summer crowds. If you plan to camp in the national parks, it is a good idea to make reservations in advance. Heading north through Utah into Wyoming you will encounter early spring weather with nice days and cool nights as you visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Check out the Road Trip Guides on the website for more detailed information and consider purchasing the US Route 89 Road Trip Map Book to take with you. Enjoy your road trip.
Hi James, We are planning a trip on hwy 89 from Alpine, WY through West Thumb WY. We will be pulling a 37ft 5th wheel. Are there any towing/ length restrictions or caution you can educate me on? TiA
I am not aware of any restrictions between Alpine and West Thumb. Check out RV Tips page on the Yellowstone National Park website. You’ll find a description of the drive, galleries of photos and articles to read in the Montpelier to Jackson Road Trip Guide and the Jackson to Gardiner Road Trip Guide.
Good Morning,
Google Maps says driving on 89 AND 89 A from Fredona/Kanab to Page are toll roads? Is that true? Can‘t any other information.
Thanks!
Erika
I don’t know where Google Maps got that information but there are no tolls on US 89 or US 89A between Fredona/Kanab and Page.
Thank you James for your quick answer.
Kind regards,
Erika
FYI, if someone is mapping to or from a National or State Park that has fees the road will show as having tolls due to the entrance fees. I’m not sure if this example includes parks, but many times that’s the case.
If you take Utah Route 9 from US Route 89 to Zion National Park, you will need to pay the entrance fee for the park even if you just pass through. Other than that I know of no tolls on US Route 89.
We are traveling in a 33ft RV from Provo, UT to Williams, AZ. We do have the America the beautiful pass. It says to go through. It says to take 15S to SR-20 to 89 to 40. I’m wondering if this is a smart route? We aren’t looking for the scenic route but the safest and quickest.
Do we have to go through the tunnel?
We will be traveling 6/10/21.
Thanks
This is a reasonable route to follow. SR-20 climbs to 7,200 feet before dropping back down to US 89 but it is only 20 miles long. Otherwise this is a safe and quick way that does not involve going through Zion National Park and the tunnel. I think you will enjoy the drive on highway 89 to Flagstaff where you will connect to I-40 and on to Williams.
We will be traveling to Tucson Arizona. Canbyou please tell me which route has more bathrooms, 89 or 89A?
On US 89A between Kanab and Bitter Springs there is a rest area on the western slope of the Kaibab Plateau, a gas station and restaurant at Jacob Lake and an interpretive center at Navajo Bridge. On US 89 between Kanab and Page there is a gas station at Big Water and of course many places to stop in Page. On US 89 south to Flagstaff, there is a gas station at The Gap and the trading post at Cameron is an excellent stop for restrooms, gift shop, museum and restaurant. I don’t think you can go more than 50 miles without finding a proper facility.
Hi, I am traveling early November from Panguitch, Ut to Apache Junction, AZ on route 89 and am wondering about any mountain passes to be concerned about. I will be hauling a 3 horse living quarter trailer, and want to avoid any steep passes with winter weather upon us. Appreciate any info.
Between Panguitch and Flagstaff there are two sections of 89 that you will probably want to avoid. The first is US 89A between Kanab and Bitter Springs which crosses the Kaibab Plateau. Stay on US 89 between Kanab and Page. South of Page, 89 descends the Echo Cliffs. This section is well engineered and recently upgraded and is used by 18-wheelers. If the weather is bad you can avoid it by taking Navajo Route 20 between Page and The Gap which is detailed in this article. From Flagstaff you will need to take Interstate 17 instead of staying on Historic 89 as there are a couple of steep winding sections that are restricted to vehicles under 45 feet.
What is the smoke conditions on AZ 89 going into UT? Will be pulling a camper Through that area in a few days and need to know if a Detour is recommended.
I’m in southern Arizona so I don’t have direct knowledge of the smoke conditions along US 89 between Page and Kanab. The Magnum Fire is burning well south of the highway so I wouldn’t expect heavy smoke so depending on wind direction you are not likely to encounter a lot of smoke. I checked on the Utah Department of Transportation website and didn’t find any alerts. I hope that helps and have a good road trip.
Several comments are made in the article and replies that Route 89A is a federal highway and has suitable shoulder width and lane width since it is a Federal Highway. For folks pulling trailers, they should be VERY aware that 89A between the Colorado River bridge and Jacobs Lake has about 10 narrow bridges and six-inch high concrete curbs within one foot of the edge of the road.
I became aware of these when pulling an eight-foot wide trailer across this route in 2002. I met a semi-truck right in the middle of one of these small ravine crossings. He took most of his own lane and about 3 feet of mine. I dodged right, slightly out of my lane to clear a head-on collision and lost both axles of the trailer to a 60 MPH collision with that bridge curb. There are no other markers, and at the time there were no warning signs about narrow bridge ahead.
89A is no longer a road that I use if RVing in Northern Arizona.
I agree that when driving an RV or pulling a trailer on US 89A you have to use caution and be aware of the road conditions. We do see RV on this road and, of course, it is the only way to get to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Thanks for you words of warning.
James! I am in Page and taking a boat trip on Lee’s Ferry in the morning. I’ve done this before but did the Page to Kanab to Lee’s Ferry Route. I am terrified of heights so I was going to drive out of my way and head south then back north. It is 89 that has the pass and is terrifying, 89A from bitter springs north to the canyon is not terrifying, correct? I come out here every year but am a wuss with some of these roads. 😠
To avoid the downhill drop on the Echo Cliffs on US 89, I would recommend taking Navajo Route 20 from Page. It will reconnect with US 89 at The Gap. You can then go north on 89 to the intersection with US 89A at Bitter Springs. Take US 89A to Lee’s Ferry. Here is an article that describes Navajo Route 20. The Road Trip Guide for Flagstaff to Page has a map that shows the route.
Can you describe the drive between Page and Marble Canyon on 89 and 89A? Not a fan of heights. How is it for motorcycles? Thanks l!
I have addressed this question in a few articles and in the road trip guides. Take a look at Two Alternative 89 Routes for a description of US 89A over the Kaibab Plateau. US 89 between Page and Bitter Springs has one somewhat exposed section as it descends the Echo Cliffs. To avoid that section you can take Navajo Route 20 as described in this article. The Flagstaff to Page and Page to Kanab Road Trip Guides will give you more information about US 89 as well as the US 89A Road Trip Guide.
I’m looking at the Jacobs Lake to Lees Ferry stretch of 89A on Google Maps satellite view. The road itself looks fine, with no obvious variations in usable width, but…there are quite a few bulk carrier semi trucks visible, including one place where one is passing another – pretty tight!
Is heavy large truck traffic a problem on 89A?
I can only speak from our experience but we haven’t encountered unusually heavy truck traffic on US 89A. I can’t explain why Google Maps would show heavy traffic unless the view was made when traffic was diverted from US 89 between Bitter Springs and Kanab for some reason. I wouldn’t let it stop you from taking 89A but either route is a beautiful scenic drive.
Hello. We are planning to drive 89 or 89A this September and are trying to find weather forecasts. Can you advise please? We hope to go on into Canada as well. Thank you
You can find weather averages by Googling the cities along your route and add “weather averages”. For example, searching for “Great Falls MT weather averages” will give you that information and a link to find more. A week or so ahead of your departure you can get the weather forecast using an app on your phone. My favorite is Dark Sky. For more about finding driving conditions, read the article How to Find Up-To-The-Minute Driving Conditions on US Route 89.
James I’m going to be traveling between St. George Utah to flagstaff next month, I have a 42ft fifth wheel witch route is better 89 or 89A?
Driving on US 89A from Kanab to Bitter Springs includes a climb over the Kaibab Plateau with an elevation change of about 2,500 feet up and then down. We see large RV’s and trucks on this road frequently. The drive on US 89 from Kanab to Page does not have the same elevation change and might be a better choice if you are trying to make time. Both routes are very scenic. Let me know which you choose and what your advice would be for others pulling fifth wheels.
I want to take 89A from Lee’s ferry to Fredonia, and on mapquest it looks like a part of the road is closed, is this so?? thanks for any help
I just checked AZ511.com and I don’t see any indication of a closure. I also looked at Mapquest and didn’t see anything unusual. I think you are OK to take Us 89A from Lee’s Ferry to Fredonia.
We are traveling to Tucson Arizona, which is a better road for bathrooms? 89 or 89A
Hi James,
This summer we passed by this road and stopped at the Navajo jewelry stalls at the parking lot with a beautiful view (i think its the one in you picture). We got our daughter a nice pin from the stall most to the left). later this summer someone broke into our car and stole it. it was not pricy, but was sort of unique to navajo. do you happen to know how to get in touch with those road-side vendors? ”'(they all had cell phones and seamed tech-savy). perhaps we can get a replacement in correspondence…?
I don’t know how to get in touch with the Navajo vendors at the stop on 89 along the Echo Cliffs. The vendors have licenses from the Navajo tribe in order to set up their stands. You could try contacting the tribal offices in Window Rock to see if they can help. As an alternative source, the Cameron Trading Post has an extensive online store. Perhaps you can find a replacement there.
Mr Cowlin, I wanted to take 89A from Lees’ ferry to Fredonia on my way to Mesquite. When I look on Mapquest it looks like a part of the road is closed, is this true?? Thank you for any help on this 🙂
I just checked AZ511.com and I don’t see any indication of a closure. I also looked at Mapquest and didn’t see anything unusual. I think you are OK to take Us 89A from Lee’s Ferry to Fredonia.
Contact the Navajo Nation Tourism Dept in Window Rock, AZ 928-810-8501
I will be traveling in September with my 90 year old mom. We will be traveling to Flagstaff from St. George Utah and can’t decide witch route to take. My mom will need a lot of rest stops with rest rooms. Should we take highway 89 or take highway 93 to Kingman and then east to Flagstaff. Which route would have more rest areas with bathrooms?
I can’t comment on what you will find along the route through Kingman. If you take US 89 you will find convenience stores and gas stations in Fredonia and Kanab. The next possible stop will be Page. From Page to Flagstaff, there is a very nice stop at the Cameron Trading Post where you’ll find clean restrooms and good food. The distance between these places is around 70 to 80 miles or an hour and half driving time. To save time, from St. George I would suggest taking Utah 59 through Hillsdale and AZ 389 to Fredonia, not Utah Highway 9 through Springdale and Zion National Park. And from Fredonia, go to Kanab and pick US 89 there to Page, instead of continuing on US 89A. I hope that helps.
Hi Jim,
we are from Hong Kong, first time planning a driving trip in coming July to Utah, Arizona, will be visiting the Bryce Canyon and the Antelope Canyon.
We will be going from Las Vegas.
For the onward way to Bryce Canyon, we are planning Highway 15, then Route 9 passing the Zion National Park, then Route 89 and highway 12 to Bryce.
Since we will be taking the Route 89 from Bryce to Page, for the return trip from Page to Vegas, we are planning to take the 89a from Bitter Spring, through Jacob Lake to Fredonia, then head back Highway 15 and back to Las Vegas.
Both the onward way and the return trip will be done in one full day.
And we are probably renting a 7-seater SUV.
Do you think that our plans are feasible?
Are all the highways paved highways?
Knowing the 89a needs climbing up some thousands feet, is it ok for a 7 seater in hot summer day?
What things we have to pay special attention to?
Would appreciate your advise soon.
Judy
It is possible to do the trip you are proposing in two days although you won’t have much time for sightseeing in Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. If you could add another day or two to the trip, I think you would not be so rushed and would enjoy it more. All of the roads you will be traveling are paved highways. If you rent an SUV you will have no trouble crossing the Kaibab Plateau on US 89A. If you can make time, you should include a visit to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon which is about an hour south of Jacob Lake.
Thanks so much James for your advise..
I have left out telling you that we will stay at Bryce and Page for the Bryce Canyon and Antelope Canyon visits, two nights each, so, no worries about us being too rush.. =P
I am thinking of how we can chipping in the Zion National Park or the Grand Canyon North Rim, may be we have to change the hotel plans..
In 2014 we went to the Grand Canyon. First the South then North Rim. From there to Lake Havasu. It was getting dusk when we passed what look like dwellings carved in the stone walls, that had intricate carvings made into these dwellings (almost alien looking), with several trailers parked outside. I’d like to revisit this area, so if anyone knows where it is, please respond. Thank you
Hey Jim! I have read through all the info and comments but wanted to ask you how 89a is in comparison (if you know) going into Estes Park, CO? Our 2001 dodge dually tends to get a little overheated climbing mountains and we were planning to go 89a to Koibab from Williams, AZ.
Is it slow and gradual?
Thank you!!
Check out the article, Two Alternative 89 Routes, that will give you the information you need. Let me know if that helps.
In 2014 we went to the Grand Canyon. First the South then North Rim. From there to Lake Havasu. It was getting dusk when we passed what look like dwellings carved in the stone walls, that had intricate carvings made into these dwellings (almost alien looking), with several trailers parked outside. I’d like to revisit this area, so if anyone knows where it is, please respond. Thank you
This is one of the coolest highways I’ve been on. The drive from Flagstaff to Kanab is really a fun one, it’s worth taking a trip just to drive it and see it. It’s about as “Arizona Highways” as it gets. 10/10 will drive again.
My wife and I are planning a trip to Sedona, AZ this coming March for a camping trip. I had planned on taking highway 89A from Flagstaff to Sedona but noticed on the map that there is section with some switch backs. Since we are pulling a 42 ft. toy hauler 5-wheel would it be better to come into Sedona from the south? Your advice would be much appreciated, since I am not familiar with this area.
Thank you.
At the head of Oak Creek Canyon there is a mile or two of switchbacks that take you down to Oak Creek and then into Sedona. We see RVs and fifth-wheelers on the this section so it should be no problem although you’ll need to take it slow. Some RVers we’ve talk to suggest that the alternative is much easier. Your alternative is to take I-17 south to the exit for Sedona at State Route 179. That’s the long way around but avoids the switchbacks and the narrow road through Oak Creek. Once you are parked in your campground you can drive your truck into Oak Creek Canyon which is one of the most scenic drives on the highway. FYI, there are two Alternate 89s. The post refers to US Route 89A. The one you are asking about is Arizona Route 89A detailed in the AZ 89A Prescott to Flagstaff Road Trip Guide.
I am making the trip from Flagstaff to Zion staying in Hurricane. I am pulling a 40 Ft fifth wheel. We are going to be making the trip in January providing the weather is acceptable. Can I make the lower route taking 89A without problems?
In January weather could definitely be a factor. US 89A takes you over the Kaibab Plateau at about 8,000 feet after a 3,000 foot climb from House Rock Valley. I think you will have less potential problems by taking US 89 from Page to Kanab. Weather can still be a problem but the elevation change isn’t as great. If you are going that way with your trailer, you should consider taking Navajo Route 20 from The Gap to Page which avoids the climb up the Echo Cliffs. From Kanab you can go north to Mt. Carmel Junction and enter Zion on Utah Route 9. Be aware that going that way involves going through the tunnel. In order to do that you need to enter during the day and get a tunnel permit. The Park Service will stop traffic for you so you can safely traverse the tunnel. Check this page on the Zion National Park website for details.
will 89a be open this week 3/10/18 between Kanab an rt 89? We’ll be driving from Zion to Grand Canyon South entrance.
According to Arizona Department of Transportation, US 89A is currently open. Be sure to check driving conditions and weather closer to the time you will be traveling. If US 89A is closed or the weather look bad, take US 89 between Kanab and Page.
Thanks for the information. I have experience pulling my RV over large elevation changes in the Rockies in Montana, New Mexico and Colorado (Lake City). Do you know if the elevation changes are any more severe on 89 in comparison to these areas? My truck is equipped with a good engine assist braking system and I just completed having my trailer brakes maintenance. As long as the highways are well maintained and suitable for big rig travel I will plan to travel on 89.
With your experience you should have no trouble as long as there is no severe weather. The elevation changes are fairly gradual. Highway 89 is a federal highway and the section you are traveling has been improved over the last few years. There are lots of passing lanes and it is a major truck route. Have a safe journey.
Do you think a 40 ft diesel pusher could handle 89, to phoenix. We will be coming from Reno NV n would love to see this part of the country?
The short answer is yes with a little qualification. You could take I-80 from Reno to Salt Lake City and then I-15 to Spanish Fork. Go east on Utah Route 6 to US 89 and head south. From then on you will be on a two-lane road that is fine for your vehicle. You will probably want to get on I-70 from Salina to Savier where you can pick up US 89 again. In southern Utah you can take short side trips to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. Be sure to check the status of entry to the parks on their websites. From Kanab I would suggest staying on US 89 to Page rather than US 89A. From Page you can go directly to Flagstaff and visit the south rim of the Grand Canyon along the way but check to make sure that the east entrance is open. From Flagstaff you will need to take I-17 to Phoenix because there are several sections of 89 that are restricted to vehicle under 45 feet. Have a great road trip.
Just checking for current status here since I can’t find much detail about Navajo Route 20 in Arizona on line or elsewhere. I know it was paved years ago and was wondering what current road conditions are like since I’m a new to towing an RV and it sounds like if this route is still paved and in excellent condition that it will be the one I’ll take to help me avoid my fear of taking 89 through Antelope Pass. Thanks.
Navajo Route 20 is a good alternative to US 89. I wrote an article about it when it opened as a bypass for 89 when it was closed by a landslide. I drove Navajo 20 about 6 months ago and it is in excellent condition.
I am an overly cautious driver, i.e.: chicken, when it comes to hanging on to the side of a cliff. Not my idea of fun just in a car, but being a relatively new RV puller makes it even worse. That said, there is a dreadful hill on 89, right after the 89a split past Bitter Springs. There’s a scenic lookout sign, but I have both eyes on the road and both hands gripping that wheel tight. It sounds like this road is a better bet, though, than 89a. We will be heading back to Phoenix soon, after visiting Zion and Bryce, and can’t wait to get back to Glen Canyon so that stretch of road will be behind me.
There is an alternative that bypasses the Echo Cliffs section of US 89 south of Page. Take Navajo Route 20 by going south on Coppermine Road. Route 20 rejoins 89 at The Gap. This road was improved during the reconstruction of the Echo Cliffs section of 89 after a land slide and is an excellent alternation especially of RV’s. You can read a more detailed description of this route in my blog post Getting to Page, Arizona, on 89T.
Mr. Cowlin your suggestion was miraculous!!! I can’t believe how much easier Navajo Route 20 was, and now I don’t have to rule out a return trip to that area just because of Echo Canyon. We’re actually planning to head back to Page to tour Glen Canyon Dam, and Antelope Canyon in the near future. Thank you again for the help!!!
Are there any restrictions for big trucks (18 wheelers) on these routes? Any help would be great thank you!
There are no truck restrictions on US 89A or US 89 in southern Utah and northern Arizona. However, 89A is not a good road for trucks because of steep grades and tight turns as the road climbs over the Kaibab Plateau. Given the choice, take US 89 between Kanab and Page.
Hi there. We are in Kanab and want to travel to Flagstaff vis 89a. We heard the drive is beautiful. Both of us have vertigo and are concerned about guard rails on the roads and sheer dropoffs. What do you say. Thanks. Lew
89A between Kanab and House Rock Valley climbs over the Kaibab Plateau. There are sections on both sides of the plateau where the road is open to views of the valleys on either side. However, as a federal highway, the shoulders of the road are wide and drop offs are protected by guard rails. I don’t recall that there are any places where the road is close enough to the edge to feel unsafe. If you do make the drive over 89A, we would like to hear how you experience it.
What is service availability like taking 89 versus 89A. Facilities such as gas stations, rest areas, restaurants, etc. Thank you, Jay
89A is scenic, with only some lodges, visitor’s centers and a couple sovenir stores and restaurants. If you get stuck behind a slow driver you might as well turn back. 89 is north of 89A and Flagstaff. Go figure.
Between Flagstaff and Page on US 89 there are two places for gas—Cameron Trading Post and a convenience store at The Gap. The restaurant at Cameron is pretty good and serves some Navajo specialties. Of course there are plenty of services in Page. Between Page and Kanab on 89 there is gas at Big Water and a couple of restaurants scattered along the route. There is a BLM Ranger Station about half way that has restrooms. There is a small campground near the ranger station and the entrance to Paria Canyon.
On US 89A from Bitter Springs to Kanab, there is gas and food at Marble Canyon just over the Navajo Bridge and at Cliff Dwellers a few miles down the road. The food at Cliff Dwellers Cafe is surprisingly good for a place so far from anywhere. Hatch River Expeditions is headquartered there so there is a nice motel as well as the cafe. The other place to stop on 89A is at Jacob Lake. There is a restaurant and gas station as well as a Forest Service campground there. From Jacob Lake you can take a side trip to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon (about 100 mile round trip) where you will find spectacular views of the Grand Canyon and a great restaurant in the Lodge. There is an overlook point and restrooms a few miles further on toward Kanab.
Continuing on 89A the next place with services is Freedonia and then a short distance into Utah. Kanab has several pretty good restaurants. For fine dining try the Rocking V. Historic Perry’s Lodge is great for breakfast and lunch or Houtson’s Trails End offer good fare at reasonable prices.
Take a look at the Road Trip Guides on the US Route 89 Appreciation Society website for more information about these routes.
Thanks James and Raj for your reply. This info helps out greatly as we plan our trip to Zion National Park, coming from Phoenix, AZ. This website is a wonderful resource for travel details in this part of Arizona/Utah.
Jay
Hi, we are planning on doing the 89A from Sedona to Flagstaff this month, are they open yet ? The az511.gov sites states they are still closed
Thanks !
-Raj
To the best of my knowledge, Arizona Route 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff is open. The 89A referred to in this article is US Route 89A in northern Arizona between Bitter Springs and Kanab, Utah. US 89 from Bitter Springs to Page is still closed for construction but there is a temporary bypass road. I hope that clears up the confusion.
Yes, it does. Too bad the .gov site doesn’t list the section that is closed. Appreciate your response, Cheers !
Hi…we are planning to do one of these routes heading west to east next February in a 30′ Motohome. I am concerned about snow and highway conditions at that time of year and wonder if one route is generally a better bet in the dead of winter. Obviously, weather at the time will govern our actions…including staying put! Your opinion would be helpful! Thanks in advance and for the info above!
Travel on US 89 between Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona, in February is less likely to be a problem than US 89A. There is relatively little elevation change between Kanab and Page. US 89A goes over the Kaibab Plateau climbing from 5,000 feet to 8,000 feet at Jacob Lake and then back down through the House Rock Valley to Bitter Springs where it rejoins US 89. Be sure to check the weather conditions along your route. This blog post has links for highway departments and more: . Have an enjoyable and safe trip.
I am planning to drive highway 89A from Kanab to Bitter springs on Sunday, March 31. Everything I can find on line tells me that the weather should be good. Has anyone driven the stretch past Jacob Lake and can confirm that the snow is melted and the roadways clear?
Sir,
My wife and I are at an RV park in Kanab. We arrived here via Zion. Our next waypoint is the Grand Canyon on our way to Albequerque. If possible, we would choose the north rim over the south.
We are advised that hwy 89a is an arduous drive between Kanab and Jacob Lake, and less so between Page and Jacob Lake. My drive through Zion was stupendous – other than the stress on my 1995 30 ft Airstream Landyacht motorhome. I would gladly drive around through Page if the stress on my temperature gauge were less than it was through Zion.
Can you advise me on this question? Is the drive from Page to Jacob Lake on 89a of less grade than the drive from Kanab to Jacob Lake?
I would like to know as soon as possible.
thanx
Paul
Paul,
To get to Jacob Lake on US 89A from either direction you will be ascending to the top of the Kaibab Plateau. From where you start the climb on either side the elevation change is about 2,000 feet. The distance to the top is also about the same from either direction. We see RV’s and trailers on this road all the time and since it is a federal highway the grades are limited to 6%. If you drive to Page then back to the North Rim you will add at least a half day to the trip. However, the drive across US 89 from Kanab to Page is beautiful. I hope this answers your question and I’d love to hear what you decide and how it works out.
Jim
We are looking at going from Flagstaff to Page,AZ on 89.
I am not fond of heights. Would this be a bad trip if you do not like heights.
There is one short section of US 89 when it climbs the Echo Cliffs where there is a drop off on one side. You can avoid that section by taking Navajo Route 20 instead as described in this article.
Did not mean to “subscribe” to anything other than subscribing to the great scenic attractions throughout Northern Arizona and especially along Hiways 89 and 89A. Thanks again, Jim
Hi, I was surprised that no mention was made of Hiway 89 from Sedona to Flagstaff, which is also a prime recreation area with Forest Service camps with parking for recreation vehicles in some of the campgrounds such as at Pine Flat and at Red Rocks Crossing. This is based on my memory from back in the 70’s when I worked as a Federal Officer in the campgrounds there along Oak Creek for three years while attending and earning my BS Degree in Forestry at Northern Arizona University, class of ’71 in Flagstaff. Lived in Flagstaff altogether for 18 years. Still miss it a lot. So many great toursist attractions close by, not to mention The Grand Canyon, 7 National Forests, Several National Monuments, and just great people to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable as well as educational. Well I better close now, or you won’t read the book. James Schlup
This blog is about the federal highways in northern Arizona. You are refering to what are now Arizona state highways 89 and 89A. The section of US Route 89 and 89A from Flagstaff to Nogales was decommissioned in 1992. Take a look at this blog Where is 89 in Arizona? for details.
We have spent a lot of time in the Verde Valley and Oak Creek Canyon. It is one of our favorite areas of Arizona which I always recommend to travelers on historic highway 89. You’ll find a Road Trip Guide for 89A on our website with lots of pictures.