Flight
Driving
Show Low to Sacramento
Updated: 30 May 2026
The journey from Show Low to Sacramento covers approximately 1,350 kilometers by road. Most travelers drive south to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to catch a flight. Alternatively, a road trip involves taking AZ-77 to I-17 and then I-40 West through the Mojave Desert. The drive takes roughly 14 hours of pure transit time. Sacramento serves as a major rail hub for Amtrak, though no direct train exists from Arizona.
Total Distance: 1,350 km driving, 1,050 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) to Sacramento (SMF) takes 5 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective for groups of two or more people.
Compare Show Low to Sacramento Routes
|
Connecting via Phoenix
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours including layover | 14 hours |
| Avg Price | $250-$450 | $180-$250 in fuel |
| Operator | Southwest Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | PHX to SMF. | AZ-77 to I-17 N, I-40 W, and I-5 N. |
| Tip | Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares. | Check for snow on mountain passes near Flagstaff during winter months. |
Travel Tips
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Airport ParkingUse the economy lots at PHX to save money on long-term parking.
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HydrationCarry extra water when driving through the Mojave Desert on I-40.
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TrafficAvoid entering Sacramento during weekday rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM.
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Fuel StopsFill up in Kingman, Arizona, before crossing into the California desert.
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NavigationDownload offline maps as cell service is spotty in rural Arizona.
Safety Tips
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Desert HeatKeep your vehicle's cooling system checked before departing.
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FatigueTake breaks every 3 hours to prevent driver exhaustion.
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Emergency KitCarry a basic tool kit and jumper cables in your trunk.
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Weather AlertsMonitor NWS reports for dust storms in the desert regions.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Sacramento?No direct train service exists from Show Low; you must drive to a major hub.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes approximately 14 hours without major stops.
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What is the best airport?Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) is the closest major airport to Show Low.
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Are there tolls?There are no major toll roads on the primary route via I-40 and I-5.
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Is it safe to drive alone?Yes, but ensure your vehicle is serviced and you have a charged phone.
Quick Info
- From Show Low, Arizona, United States
- To Sacramento, California, United States
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring and Fall are ideal to avoid extreme desert heat and mountain snow.
Things to Do in Sacramento
1
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Explore the historic district featuring wooden sidewalks and Gold Rush-era architecture. It is a hub for museums and river cruises.
2
California State Capitol
Tour the neoclassical building housing the state legislature. The surrounding park features trees from all over the world.
3
Crocker Art Museum
Visit the oldest art museum in the Western United States. It houses an extensive collection of California art.
4
Sutter's Fort
Walk through the restored 1840s fort that served as a center for early pioneers. It offers a deep dive into California history.
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