As to traffic, the stretch of Hwy 179 between the Village of Oak Creek and Sedona can get very congested, especially in Sedona's high seasons from March through May and September through mid-December.  The curvy, two-lane road is the main artery between the two popular areas and requires a moderate speed, even when it's not crowded.  The good news is, the slower pace gives the driver and passengers opportunities to see the fantastic scenery as it unfolds around you.  Likewise, the portion of Hwy 89A in Uptown Sedona can be packed with cars and pedestrians, so take it easy...try to park as suggested above and get out on foot to walk along the storefronts and take in the views of Oak Creek and the towering red rocks.

Highway 179 construction update: Through May 2008, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is making improvements to Highway 179 from the Village of Oak Creek to the "Y" in Uptown Sedona, where Hwy 179 meets Highway 89A.

ADOT also continues to partner with the community to assist businesses and community members during construction. During the Highway 179 planning and design phases, ADOT made several promises to the community for construction, including to: 

• Keep traffic moving in both directions, with lane closures being less than 15 minutes; 
• Keep at least one driveway access open to businesses, and 
• Work during the week instead of weekends when tourist traffic is heavier, and at the request of lodging facilities, not to work evenings.