Beginner Mountain Biking Sedona? That May Be an Oxymoron
I have to admit—I’ve been looking forward to Sedona. Like, really looking forward to it. If you spend five minutes on Instagram, the beauty of the Red Rocks makes it look like a world-class (and world-famous) MTB destination.
I actually spent my 46th birthday here just hiking and getting a feel for the place. But that was “B.S.” (Before Shredding). That was before I was a self-proclaimed “awesome intermediate” mountain biker and a certified Good Day Optics Shred Friend ready to dominate these trails… Right?
Well. Maybe that’s not exactly what happened.
Sedona has a way of taking your ego, poking it with a cactus, and sending it tumbling down a sandstone ledge. I’m going to give you my suggested progression for a week in Sedona—a fun intermediate challenge that starts easy and scenic and progresses to “Holy crap, why am I doing this?”
(Also, if you need a break from the saddle, check out some of the other fun things I did in Sedona here).
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Table of Contents
Intro to Sedona MTB: Why the Rocks are Red (and Hard)
Before we get into where to ride, let’s get nerdy for a second. Sedona isn’t just pretty; it’s a geological layer cake.
The "Nerdy Stuff" Geology Corner
Most of what you’re riding on is the Schnebly Hill Formation—that vibrant orange and red sandstone. The color comes from iron oxide (basically rust) coating the grains.
Why it matters for your tires: This sandstone is “Slickrock.” When it’s dry, it’s like riding on sandpaper—velcro-level grip. When it’s wet? It’s a slip-and-slide. The “Vortex” energy everyone talks about? In MTB terms, that’s just the feeling of your heart rate hitting 180 as you stare down a “Blue” trail that looks like a staircase designed by a giant.
While Sedona mountain biking can be broken down into about seven distinct areas, for us mortals (the intermediates), there are basically three core zones for beginner/intermediate mountain biking. I’m also adding a Bonus Area—partly because it’s close to Thousand Trails Verde Valley (check out my BaseCamp strategy here), and partly because no one seems to acknowledge its existence even though it’s a whopping 20 minutes from West Sedona.
The Sedona "Blue" Truth
Here’s the truth: there is very little “beginner” mountain biking in Sedona. What passes for “Intermediate” here is a full step above anything I’ve encountered across the nine other states I’ve biked.
A Sedona “Easy Blue” is a Georgia “Easy Black.” I’m not exaggerating. Local bias is real—ratings are often crowd-sourced by locals who ride these trails daily on apps like TrailForks or MTBProject. To them, a 2-foot vertical drop is a “feature.” To me, it’s a reason to update my will.
If you want a professional’s take, check out Two Wheel Wanderer. I don’t know her personally, but her guides are top-tier—though she’s a seasoned pro, so remember she’s looking through “expert eyes” while I’m looking through “please don’t let me fall” eyes.
The 5-Ride Progression Strategy
Rides are subjective. Pure and simple. However, I did a lot of research. I stopped by and visited the amazing folks at Absolute Bikes seeking local wisdom and advice – and after much discussion – here are the rides I picked to be the most “intermediate” friendly rides. Hint: They were still challenging.
1. Intro to Sedona (Village of Oak Creek)
Level: True Beginner / Warm-up Link: Big Park Loop on MTB Project
This is true beginner territory. If you’re looking for adrenaline, you’ll wonder why I sent you here. But honestly? This is what makes MTB great. It’s beautiful, you get amazing views, and you sample slickrock without high risk.
Pro Tip: Practice dodging tourists. You will encounter many. As a biker, you yield to everyone, but most hikers with experience will give you the uphill courtesy. If they don’t, just smile—it’s an “uphill battle.” See what I did there?
2. Dead Horse Ranch State Park (Cottonwood)
The “Secret” Stash Link: Dead Horse Ranch State Park
This is my bonus area. It isn’t as “Red Rock gorgeous” as Sedona, but it’s empty. I rode here on a holiday weekend and saw four people total.
You basically have two options for beginner/intermediate mountain biking here.
- Option A: Lime Kiln (Beginner Friendly): This 18-mile trail connects Red Rock State Park to Dead Horse Ranch. It follows an old 1800s wagon road used to haul lime for chimneys. It’s long, but the tech is low.
- Option B: The Real Intermediate Loop: Follow the MTB Project instructions for a clockwise figure-eight. You’ll hit Lower Raptor, Upper Raptor, Rust Bucket, and Thumper.
Fair Warning: There are steep, punchy climbs. I lost momentum and walked my bike. If you don’t go clockwise, you’ll be descending those punches, which is less “fun” and more “over the handlebars.”
BaseCamp Thousand Trails!
My absolute favorite part of this Park is that it is near Cottonwood – about 15 minutes from Thousand Trails Verde Valley! If you aren’t familiar with Thousand Trails – you should be! Thousand Trails is a membership camping pass that allows me to camp 365 days a year for as cheap as $5 a day! Its amazing. Check out My post on How I Use Thousand Trails as My BaseCamp by clicking here!
Thinking of Joining? Explore Your Options.
BaseCamping in Cottonwood, AZ!
I loved RV Camping in Cottonwood. Substantially cheaper then Sedona. Far less crowded. Best of all -within 30 minutes of major fun, Cottonwood is the way to go! Read my Article on Why Cottonwood Is a Better Place to Stay Then Sedona and all the amazing adventures you can have while staying in Cottonwood, Arizona!
The Sedona Secret: Why Cottonwood is the Better Basecamp for RVers
Skip the Sedona crowds! Discover why Cottonwood is the smarter, cheaper RV basecamp, featuring Thousand Trails Verde Valley reviews, Jerome ghost town, and epic mountain biking.
3. Adobe Jack
Level: Solid Intermediate (with a side of humility) Link: Adobe Jack Trail
This might have been my favorite! The beauty is staggering. Yes, there are rocky sections. Yes, I walked over a “cliff” (okay, it was a 3-foot drop, but it felt like El Capitan at the time). Some folks say this ride is harder then the Dry Creek Area. And I can see that. But for me – I thought most of the trail was on the easier side with a few sections that were “holy cow” moments. And those holy cow moments – all walkable. Here is the one section that scared the be-jeesus out of me.
Note on Parking: The trailhead is next to a fancy hotel and has about seven spots. Get there early or prepare to practice your “I’m just looking for a spot” slow-crawl.
4. Dry Creek / Mezcal
Level: Advanced Intermediate Link: Dry Creek Area on Trailforks
Many call Mezcal the “easiest” intermediate ride in Sedona. I call those people “liars.” Okay, maybe not liars, but very talented. Seriously joking.
I rode the West Sedona Tour (about 17 miles) and I’ll be honest: I walked my bike at least 10 times. Sometimes I lost momentum; sometimes I decided the risk-reward just didn’t line up. I’m 48. I’ve learned a few things since I was 28. While I’m still partially invincible, I realize there’s a chink in the armor.
Seeing Clearly Through the Dust
Speaking of those marbles on the dance floor—you really don’t want that dust in your eyes while you’re trying to navigate a rock garden. This trip was the perfect testing ground for my Good Day Optics goggles.
Honestly, they were a lifesaver. When you’re 48 and riding a bit “hesitant” like I am, the last thing you need is a squint-induced navigation error. The clarity is top-notch, and they handled the Texas glare and the swirling dust without fogging up once. If you’re going to tackle the rocks, do yourself a favor and actually see them coming with some Good Day gear.
5. Llama / Lower Slim Shady (Village of Oak Creek)
Level: “Is this actually a Black?”
Think of this as the final boss of your week. While classified as intermediate, anywhere else, this is a Black trail. It’s technical, it’s physical, and it will demand every bit of your attention. Upper Slim Shady is definitely a step above everything else and you might seriously do a risk/reward assessment at this pointl
This is definitely a step above Mezcal and the West Sedona Tour. So boss up or bow out – either way. You’ve earned the right. And if you bow out, check out my post by clicking here on Other Awesome Things to Do Around Sedona!
Hanging Around Arizona and Want More MTB Info?
Let’s be honest, Arizona is a hotspot for awesome mountain biking. Especially in the winter when the temps are perfect and the rest of the the world is shut down! Check out my other two Arizona mountain biking Adventures: A Beginner/Intermediate Guide to Awesome Mountain Biking in Tucson and my Guide to RV Living and Riding in Catalina State Park. These guides are intended for beginer/intermediate mountain bikers and walk you through my favorite progressions!
A Week of Biking and Basecamping at Catalina State Park
Trade the Vegas lights for desert heights. We’re diving into mountain biking “The Chutes,” Arvie booking hacks, and why Catalina State Park is the ultimate
Tucson MTB: The Old Pueblo’s Secret Sauce
Ditch the Sedona crowds for Tucson’s jagged beauty. This intermediate MTB progression covers Sweetwater, 50-Year Trail, and Starr Pass with local lore and RV tips.
Ty’s Takeaways
Conclusions: Should You Go?
Sedona is amazing, but it’s a specific flavor. You won’t find the “pure flow” of places like DuPont State Forest in North Carolina (check out my article on that here!). Everything in Sedona feels like a commitment. I’m 48 and I’ve never been married—commitment clearly isn’t my strong suit.
But those views? They burn into your memory. If you don’t mind a dose of humility and the occasional “hike-a-bike” when you lose momentum, it’s a bucket-list destination. Just don’t be afraid to walk. Your collarbones will thank you.
Until next time: Go Well. Do Well. Live Well.
~ Ty & Odie
Chasing great mountain biking, camping smart, and living full-time in an RV. Hard-won wisdom. Zero fluff. Live Free. Adventure Often
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I started writing this blog as a way to capture the adventurous and free lifestyle I’m privileged to live. I’ve traveled to over 28 countries and 35 U.S States. I’ve lived aboard in multiple countries and averaged over 100 days a year of travel for work. I’ve skied and hiked all over the world – and my new obsession is mountain biking.
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