Mountain Biking in Sedona: The Complete Guide

Mountain biking in Sedona offers the best mountain bike trails in the world and breathtaking red rock landscapes but it’s essential to plan your trip to ensure an enjoyable adventure. This blog covers everything you need to know about mountian biking in Sedona. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner looking to explore, Sedona’s diverse terrain has something for everyone. Let’s dive in.

Interested in other mountain bike locations? Check out our destinations page.

What to Know about Mountain Biking in Sedona

E-bike Restrictions

If you’re thinking about using an e-bike, it’s crucial to be aware of local restrictions. E-bikes are generally not allowed on non-motorized trails in Sedona, which makes most of the popular singletrack systems off-limits. However, you can ride e-bikes on some forest service roads and motorized trails. Make sure to double-check trail rules before heading out, as violating these can result in hefty fines.

Traffic

While Sedona is a small town, traffic can be a significant issue, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and fall). The influx of visitors can make it tough to get around town quickly, particularly on weekends. It’s a good idea to plan your rides early in the morning to avoid the busiest times of the day. Alternatively, many of Sedona’s trailheads are accessible by bike from nearby accommodations, allowing you to bypass traffic altogether.

Weather

Sedona’s weather can vary significantly depending on the season. Spring and fall are the prime times for mountain biking, offering mild temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers, however, can be scorching, with temperatures soaring over 100 degrees, making morning or evening rides the best option. Winters in Sedona are generally mild, but you might encounter snow on higher elevations. While March, April, and October are prime time, we’ve also visited in September and really enjoyed the lack of crowds and the temps were perfect in the late afternoon into evenings for riding.

Parking

Parking can be a challenge at popular trailheads like Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock, especially during peak seasons. Many trailheads require a Red Rock or America the Beautiful Pass, which can be purchased at kiosks near the trails or online. To avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot, consider using public transportation like the Sedona Shuttle or ride your bike from town. If you do drive, aim to arrive early to secure a parking space.

Riding Terrain

Sedona’s diverse terrain makes it a mountain biker’s paradise. The area is known for its technical trails that offer a mix of slickrock, loose dirt, and rocky sections. While there are some beginner-friendly routes, most trails in Sedona cater to intermediate to advanced riders. Expect plenty of steep climbs, tight turns, and tricky descents. If you’re looking for a challenge, trails like Hangover and Hiline are must-rides for their iconic views and technical features.

Mountain Bike Trail Systems in Sedona

Here’s a list of 6 areas to ride in and around Sedona. We’ll cover an overview of each area and a recommended route. Sedona has a lot of trails!

West Sedona
Village of Oak Creek
Adobe Jack
Broken Arrow
Carrol Canyon
Schnebly Hill

West Sedona/Dry Creek

West Sedona/Dry Creek is the trail network west of Sedona. This area is more flow and has less tech than other areas in Sedona. It’s also a great place for families or to get in a lot of miles. Favorite trails here include Mescal, Aerie, Chuckwagon, Canyon of Fools, and Ground Control.

Route: West Sedona Loop
Distance: 13 miles
Elevation: 1400 ft
Difficulty: Intermediate

Kid Friendly: You could cut this short by doing Mescal to Canyon of Fools. This is still a fairly technical ride but also engaging and fun for skilled kids. I also like Long Canyon for kids or a good alternative for Mescal if you don’t want as much tech.
Go Big: Check out the West Sedona Epic Loop

Village of Oak Creek

The Village of Oak Creek or VOC is about 20 minutes away (or up to an hour when the traffic is bad) from downtown Sedona. VOC doesn’t have as much character as Sedona but this is where the best trails are located. There are also bike shops (Absolute and Bike & Bean) and our favorite pizza place (see below). Classic trails/routes here include Llama, Slim Shady, Big Park Loop, Baldwin Loop, Hiline, and Bell Rock with the kids.

Route: Slim Shady
Distance: 11 miles
Elevation: 945 ft
Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced

Kid Friendly: The best trails in the VOC for kids are around the Bell Rock Pathway. You can start on the paths and then venture off on the singletrack options such as Phone. If that goes well try the Big Park Loop
Go Big: For an iconic and more advanced ride check out Hiline Loop. 9 miles might not seem like much but this is Sedona and those 9 miles will feel like 20!

Adobe Jack

Adobe Jack is usually our first ride or a ride when we don’t have much time. You can’t beat the views and terrain for being so close to town. Check out Grand Central for fun or Javelina. To get up to Solider Pass you can take Adobe Jack or pedal up Soldier Pass road to the hiking trailhead and then it’s a short but technical climb over to Grand Central.

Route: Central Sedona Rip
Distance: 11 miles
Elevation: 945 ft
Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced

Kid Friendly: These trails are a lot of up and down tech. A shuttle to Solider Pass and then down Grand Central would be a good option for kids that are solid riders but don’t want to pedal up.
Go Big: Adobe Jack 4: Adds on Thunder Mountain and Teacup for a more advanced ride.

Broken Arrow

Broken Arrow is classic Sedona but it’s hard. Lots of pedaling and tech but the views and experience are worth the effort. Save Broken Arrow for a day you feel fresh and ready to tackle all that Sedona can throw at you. Trails here include Submarine Rock, the Hog trails, Little Horse, and Llama.

Route: Broken Arrow to Llama
Distance: 10 miles
Elevation: 900 ft
Difficulty: Advanced

Kid Friendly: I would make sure to try the other areas with kids before attempting this area.
Go Big: The Hogs. The Hogs are a must ride for advanced mountain bikers. This route also throws in the classic Broken Arrow trails.

Carrol Canyon

This area is short, sweet and fairly unknown. If you want some solitude and ride from town this is it. Usually we’ll combine it with a Dry Creek to Western Gateway ride and have one of us shuttle and wait at the end of Scorpion. Scorpion is FUN!

Route: Scorpion
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation: 48 ft
Difficulty: Intermediate

Kid Friendly: This trail is a great start to introduce kids to the tech of Sedona. With just a little bit of climbing it will give them a sample of pedaling in Sedona but also a ton of fin. There’s even a nice drop on the side of the trail near the end.
Go Big: If you want more pedaling add in this loop for 10 miles of scenic trails.

Schnebly Hill

Schnebly Hill is all about the Hangover Trail, which is one of the hardest and well-known mountain bike trails in Sedona. If you don’t mind exposure and love slabs this trail is for you. They’ve also recently put up signs warning hikers that bikers have the right of way so you know it’s a good one!

Route: Hangover Loop
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation: 1000 ft
Difficulty: Expert

Kid Friendly: Nope, not this one. Of course there are shredders out there skilled for this but be prepared and know their limits.
Go Big: This really is big enough but if you really want a challenge check out the 30 mile Triple H which combines all the H trails.

Sedona Bike Shops and Rentals

Don’t have your own bike? No problem! Sedona has several bike shops that offer a range of high-quality mountain bikes.

Most rental shops also provide maps and advice on the best trails to suit your skill level and preferences. Here’s three we recommend.

Thunder Mountain Bikes: A well-stocked shop with bikes for all skill levels, from beginners to pros. They also have a great selection of branded riding gear. On our last trip they fixed my dropper post on the spot for a reasonable rate.
Sedona Bike & Bean: In Oak Creek, they offer bike rentals and coffee, making it a favorite stop for many mountain bikers.
Absolute Bikes: The OG shop in Sedona. Large selection of bikes, gear, and rentals.

Sedona Camping

Like many places, Sedona has had it’s share of issues with camping. There’s one official RV Park in town and dispersed camping near the West Sedona Trails.

For your safety and convenience I recommend these areas:

Dispersed Camping: Because of overuse and long term campers there are now more regulations at the popular spots off FR 525. You can find more information at West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping and Day-Use Area.

Manzanita Campground: Located along Oak Creek, this site offers shade and proximity to popular biking routes.

Cave Springs Campground: A larger site that is perfect for families or groups.

Rancho Sedona RV Park – Perfect location but pricey and hard to get a spot unless you plan ahead.

Sedona Lodging

If camping isn’t your style, Sedona offers a wide variety of lodging options. From budget motels to luxury resorts, there’s something for every mountain biker. Popular choices include:

Arabella: Mountain bike friendly, reasonable rates, and good location.

L’Auberge de Sedona: A luxurious resort along Oak Creek, perfect for those looking to relax after a day on the trails.

Sedona Real Inn & Suites: A family-friendly option that offers easy access to mountain biking trails. They also have a bike wash and repair station.

Sedona Non-Bike Activities

When you’re not hitting the trails, Sedona offers plenty of other outdoor and cultural activities:

Jeep Tours: For a more relaxed adventure, consider taking a Jeep tour to explore Sedona’s off-road trails without the physical exertion. The Pink Jeep tours seem are the most popular.

Hiking: Sedona is renowned for its hiking, with trails like Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock offering stunning views. Even our non-hiking family loves to hot the trails here and explore.

Vortex Tours: Sedona’s energy vortices attract visitors from around the world. Guided tours offer an introduction to the spiritual side of Sedona.

Sedona Restaurants

After a long day of riding, you’ll want to refuel with some delicious food and drinks. Sedona is home to several great breweries and restaurants:

Pisa Lisa: They now have two locations (Sedona and Oak Creek) so you’ll have no excuse but to stop here at least once after your rides. Save room for the cannolis or gelato.

Sedona Beer Company: A local favorite with a great selection of craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere. There new location is the perfect stop after riding the West Sedona trails.

Oak Creek Brewery & Grill: Located in the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, this brewery offers craft beers and tasty pub food.

Elote Cafe: Feels almost impossible to get a reservation here but worth a visit at least once for the fresh mexican dishes, margs, and of course Elote!

Sedonuts: Saving the best for last. Great donuts to fuel for your rides (or at least a good splurge).

Other Sedona Resources

Want to do more research about Sedona? Here are a few other sites to check out.

Red Rock Ranger District: The official website provides up-to-date trail conditions, maps, and regulations.

Sedona Chamber of Commerce: Offers information on lodging, dining, and activities.

Have you been to Sedona? What’s your favorite trail?

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