Sedona Mountain Biking
As you might expect, Sedona mountain biking is some of the best in the country. Whether you're aiming to ascend red rock shelves or navigate through a flowy desert single track, mountain biking in Sedona offers a variety of trails for everyone to enjoy. The terrain in Sedona caters to riders of all experience levels, ranging from beginner-friendly green trails to challenging blacks. Whether you're a beginner seeking a leisurely ride to enjoy the scenery or an advanced rider craving the thrill of a black diamond trail, there's something here for everyone.
- Spectacular Scenery
- Trail Variety
- Rental Convenience
- Guided Tours
- Shuttle Services
The best time to mountain bike in Sedona is during the shoulder seasons (March - May and September - November). It gets very hot during the summer months so those are not the best time to visit Sedona for mountain biking, but if you do, be prepared. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sun protection. It is also important to note that Sedona sits at an elevation of 4,350 feet, which is relatively high depending on where you’re coming from. Take it easy the first day or two and drink lots of water. For a detailed breakdown of weather in Sedona please visit our Sedona weather page!
Sedona Mountain Biking Trails
Mountain biking in Sedona is unique due to its breathtaking red rock scenery juxtaposed against diverse trail offerings. Riders experience a blend of challenging technical terrain and flowy desert tracks, catering to all skill levels. The area's striking geological formations and panoramic vistas create an unparalleled backdrop, providing an immersive and exhilarating biking adventure found nowhere else. Although the majority of trial systems are well marked we still recommend downloading trailmaps for the area to help you find the trailhead, and stay on the correct route once you get there. Some of our favorite resources are Trail Forks, MTB Project, or All Trails to help navigate the best mountain bike trails in Sedona, AZ
The riding in Sedona is broken up into five main mountain biking networks:
- Village of Oak Creek
- Dry Creek/Western Gateway
- Adobe Jack
- Broken Arrow/Schnebly Hill
- Carroll Canyon
Sedona is renowned for its stunning scenery and offers a plethora of scenic mountain biking trails. Here are some of the best mountain bike trails in Sedona for scenic views:
- Hangover Trail: Known for its challenging technical sections and breathtaking views of Sedona's red rock formations.
- Hiline Trail: Offers panoramic vistas of Cathedral Rock and surrounding landscapes, along with technical sections and thrilling descents.
- Cathedral Rock Trail: Features stunning views of the iconic Cathedral Rock formation, offering a mix of challenging terrain and scenic beauty.
- Mescal Trail: Provides incredible views of the red rocks and an enjoyable ride through desert landscapes.
- Templeton Trail: Offers scenic vistas of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, combined with moderate terrain suitable for various skill levels.
- Aerie Trail: Known for its picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and relatively challenging sections.
- Munds Wagon Trail: Showcases diverse landscapes, from lush forested areas to stunning vistas of the red rocks.
Sedona offers several beginner-friendly mountain biking trails ideal for those new to the sport or seeking easier rides. Here are some favorites:
- Bell Rock Pathway: A relatively easy trail with fantastic views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, perfect for beginners.
- Easy Breezy: As the name suggests, this trail offers a gentle ride suitable for beginners, winding through scenic landscapes.
- Old Post Trail: A straightforward trail with minimal technical sections, providing a relaxed ride amid Sedona's red rock scenery.
- Baldwin Trail: Offers a mix of easy sections and slightly more challenging parts, allowing beginners to gradually build confidence.
- Llama Trail: A great starting point with gentle slopes and minimal obstacles, providing a pleasant introduction to Sedona's trails.
- Little Horse Trail: Combines relatively easy sections with captivating views of the red rocks, suitable for beginners willing to explore a bit more.
- Hangover Trail: Renowned for its technical challenges, steep drops, and exposure, providing an exhilarating and demanding ride.
- Hiline Trail: Offers advanced riders steep descents, exposed sections, and technical features, along with stunning views of Sedona's landscapes.
- Hogs Trail: Known for its challenging and technical sections, including steep drops and rocky terrain, offering a thrilling experience.
- Mescal Trail (upper sections): While the lower part is beginner-friendly, the upper segments have technical challenges and rocky sections.
- Aerie Trail: Features demanding climbs and technical descents, providing advanced riders with a thrilling and challenging ride.
- High on the Hog Trail: Offers a mix of technical challenges, steep descents, and challenging obstacles for experienced riders.
Mountain Bike Rentals
Renting a mountain bike in Sedona is a breeze. There are several shops in town that offer a variety of bike types, including mountain bikes, to suit different preferences. It is important to note that it can be helpful to reserve bikes in advance, especially in peak season. The shops are also a good place to receive guidance from knowledgeable staff and will provide trail maps and recommendations based on skill level. Once equipped, you can head straight to the trails or sign up for a guided experience.
Bike Shuttles
Mountain bike shuttles enable bikers to maximize their trail time and enjoy the exhilarating rides Sedona has to offer. These services transport riders and their bikes to higher trailheads, eliminating the need for uphill climbs. Operating at designated pick-up points, shuttles efficiently ferry cyclists to some of the most popular trailheads in the area.
Guided Bike Tours
If you don’t want to navigate the area by yourself or are looking for more of an informative experience consider embarking on a guided bike tour. Led by experienced guides, you can traverse iconic red rock formations, taking in panoramic vistas and learning about the region's geological wonders. These guided bike tours cater to various skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone. Receive top-notch equipment and insightful commentary, throughout, while enhancing your adventure as you pedal through the awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural landmarks of Sedona.
More Important Tips for Mountain Biking in Sedona
Trails are multi-use
Most trails in Sedona are open to mountain bikers, hikers, horses, and OHV’s (on designated roads and trails). Please be courteous when passing and share the trails.
E-Bikes are not allowed on mountain bike trails
There are specific trails and tours that allow e-bikes. Please respect the local rules and regulations.
Most trailhead parking requires a day pass
When heading to a trailhead parking area, remember that most, though not all, require a Red Rock Pass. Passes can be purchased at self-serve stations, visitor centers, local businesses, and online. The money goes back into the trails and maintaining the beautiful landscape of Sedona.
Traffic can be heavy
If you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday, expect to add at least 20 minutes (probably more) to your drive to/from the trailheads.
Know your skill level
Sedona definitely has some high-stakes riding, so know and respect your skill level. There is potential for some high consequences.
Sedona Mountain Bike Festival
There is a mountain biking festival held every year typically in March at Posse Grounds Park in Sedona that hosts bike workshops, demos, gear tents, and live music. See our page for more details!
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Sedona UFO Tour Guided By Contacted Scientist
At sundown, all participants caravan 3 miles to a parking area with a dark sky. 3rd gen night vision goggles are distributed to see what can't be seen with the naked eye. Satellites, airplanes and UFOs are seen every night.
Personal UFO Tour: With 3 or more in a … More
At sundown, all participants caravan 3 miles to a parking area with a dark sky. 3rd gen night vision goggles are distributed to see what can't be seen with the naked eye. Satellites, airplanes and UFOs are seen every night.
Personal UFO Tour: With 3 or more in a party, the Sedona UFO Tour Guide comes to you with the gear and the information that has made Michael THE guide to hire for a UFO Tour.
Conversations with a Contactee: Michael will buy lunch and spend an hour sharing his ET contact story, and answering the attendees' questions.
Vortex Experience | Activities | UFO Tours
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