This is the perfect time of year to take a vacation in Sedona, Arizona and treat yourself to some outdoor sedona activities like mountain biking. Not only does Sedona offer many trails but it also offers great weather and breathtaking scenery. There are trails in Sedona for all skill levels and if you do not want to go the trails alone you can take a Sedona guided tour with one of the Sedona’s specialty tour companies.
If you are a novice like me I would suggest an easy start. My favorite start to a day of mountain biking is Bell Rock Pathway. The pathway links the Village of Oak Creek and Sedona. The trail is only about 7 miles long, round trip, provides great scenery and the pathway has a wide surface for an easy smooth ride, but there are some steep hills too, making you put in some effort. You can reach Bell Rock Pathway from the junction of Routes 89A and 179 in Sedona by taking 179 south 3.6 miles to a paved turnout and trailhead parking on the left (east) at milepost 309.8, .2 miles south of the entrance to the United Methodist Church for the northern trailhead.
If you are looking for something a little more strenuous, take your bike to the Broken Arrow Trail. This is the perfect strenuous trail in the spring. The weather is cool enough to really get the most out of your ride. Begin at the signed trailhead which will direct you across the jeep road to the trail. This trail is about 4 mile round trip and offers extraordinary views of Sedona and the red rocks. You can reach the trail from the junction of Routes 89A and 179 in Sedona by taking 179 south 1.4 miles to Morgan Road on the left (east). Go .6 miles to the end of the pavement, cross the cattle guard and continue for another 80 yards to trailhead parking on the left.
While most trails in Red Rock State Park are off-limits to bicycles, there is access to several Forest Service trails from within the park. For example the Lime Kiln Trail is located right outside the entrance to the park and there are various trails located outside the park’s east gate.
*To get an overview and more information about bike trails in Sedona visit Red Rock District, Coconino National Forest.
*If you are looking for a guided mountain bike tour, repairs, rental or more trail info visit Mountain Bike Heaven.
Tips for biking in Red Rock Country:
- Do Not Bike In Wilderness! There is a fine if you bike in the wilderness.
- Display courtesy on the trails, mountain bikers yield to both hikers and equestrians.
- Make your presence known when approaching others and going around blind corners.
- Stay on designated roads and trails – if it’s not signed, don’t ride it!
- Make sure to bring along food, water, first aid needs, extra tubes, patches and tool kit.
- Wear a helmet, eye protection, and other safety gear.
- Know your personal limits and riding abilities.
