State Route 89A is shut down in both directions between Sedona and Interstate 17 (mileposts 374–397) because of a brush fire, and officials say they still have no estimate for when it will reopen. The closure cuts off the iconic Oak Creek Canyon drive, forcing traffic onto much longer work‑around routes between Sedona and Flagstaff. Travelers headed for popular canyon spots should brace for delays and limited access while crews work the scene and agencies juggle traffic control.
Arizona Department of Transportation announced early Saturday on X that SR‑89A is closed both ways between Sedona and I‑17 (MP 374–397) because of a brush fire and that there is no estimated time to reopen. The agency directed drivers to its traveler‑information channels for updates, noting that detours are in place and conditions could shift as the response continues.
Detours And What To Expect
The Oak Creek Canyon switchbacks on SR‑89A are the primary scenic link between Sedona and Flagstaff, and they are notoriously vulnerable to weather, rockfall work and wildland fires. The area has a track record of major blazes: the 2014 Slide Fire scorched more than 21,000 acres and prompted closures and evacuations, according to KJZZ. With 89A shut, tourism and local traffic are likely to feel the squeeze, especially on weekends and holiday travel days when the canyon typically fills up.
Drivers are being routed around the closure via State Route 179 and Interstate 17 to move between Sedona and Flagstaff. ADOT warns that lane restrictions or pilot‑car operations may be in play in some work zones. Recent guardrail and stabilization projects have already narrowed stretches of SR‑89A this spring, which can complicate response times and traffic flow, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Local crews have also been contending with other structure and brush fires in the canyon this spring. A May cabin fire in Oak Creek Canyon underscored how remote access and limited water supply can slow firefighting operations, according to the Sedona Red Rock News. Residents and businesses across the Verde Valley are being urged to factor in delivery delays and potential visitor cancellations while the incident response plays out.
How To Get Updates
ADOT’s initial alert is the official word on this closure, and officials say they will push out updates as conditions change. Motorists should check official traveler feeds and local emergency channels before heading toward Oak Creek Canyon and, for now, plan on using the I‑17 and SR‑179 detour.
