Mountain Biking the Herkenham Trail in Sedona

The Herkenham Trail isn’t for those who want a leisurely cruise—it’s for the mountain bikers who crave the thrill of Sedona’s rugged red rock playground. This short but exhilarating singletrack winds its way through the hills just south of Airport Mesa, offering a dynamic mix of technical terrain, sweeping views, and heart-pounding descents.

The trail kicks off with a short climb that demands attention from the get-go. Loose rocks and tight turns test your handling skills, but the effort is quickly rewarded as the trail evens out and opens into a flowy section with jaw-dropping vistas of Sedona’s red rock skyline. From here, the trail becomes a dance of quick climbs and sharp descents, with terrain that challenges your technical prowess.

At just under 2 miles, Herkenham’s brevity belies its intensity. Rocky sections with uneven terrain keep you on your toes, while switchbacks demand precise navigation. It’s a trail that rewards those who ride with focus and fluidity. But don’t let the technical sections steal all your attention—pausing at the high points gives you panoramic views of Thunder Mountain, Chimney Rock, and the surrounding wilderness.

For those looking to extend their ride, Herkenham connects seamlessly with the Skywalker Trail, adding more climbing, stunning ridge views, and thrilling downhill sections. Together, the trails form a loop that packs plenty of variety for intermediate to advanced riders.

Pro Tip: Morning rides are ideal, as the rising sun bathes the red rocks in fiery light. Bring grippy tires and be prepared for sudden changes in terrain. And, as always, respect the trail and the surrounding environment—Sedona’s fragile desert ecosystem depends on it.

The Herkenham Trail may be short, but it’s a quintessential Sedona ride, delivering a concentrated dose of everything that makes this area a mountain biking mecca.

Adventure Guide Summary: Mountain Biking the Herkenham Trail

Trail Overview

• Starting Point: Herkenham Trailhead, accessible via Shelby Drive in Sedona. Parking is limited, so arrive early.
• Trail Length: 1.9 miles one way; connect to Skywalker Trail for a loop of about 5 miles.
• Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced, featuring technical sections, rocky climbs, and tight switchbacks.

What to Expect

• Terrain: Red dirt singletrack with rocky sections, sharp turns, and technical climbs.
• Scenery: Views of Sedona’s iconic formations, including Thunder Mountain and Chimney Rock.
• Connections:
  • Skywalker Trail: Adds more technical sections and scenic ridgeline riding.

Tips for Riders

• Best Time to Ride: Early mornings for cooler temperatures and softer light on the red rocks.
• Gear: A trail bike with solid suspension and grippy tires is recommended.
• Hydration: Carry at least 1-2 liters of water; the short distance belies the effort required.

Directions

From downtown Sedona, head west on 89A and take a left onto Shelby Drive. Follow the road to the Herkenham Trailhead; parking is minimal, so plan ahead.

Take on the Herkenham Trail for an intense and rewarding ride that captures the essence of Sedona’s mountain biking allure.