Ride the Hiline Trail in Sedona, Arizona
Ride the Hiline Trail in Sedona, Arizona
Hiline Trail in Sedona, Arizona, is a standout destination for experienced mountain bikers and hikers seeking thrilling challenges and exceptional views. Known for its technical sections and striking scenery, this trail offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure paired with jaw-dropping vistas of iconic Sedona red rock formations. Its combination of terrain difficulty and spectacular scenery makes it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Adventure Guide to Ride the Hiline Trail
- Location and Trailhead: The Hiline Trail starts near the Yavapai Vista point, located off Highway 179. The trail connects to the Bell Rock Pathway and encourages riders to traverse through Sedona’s diverse desert landscape. The full trail is approximately 9 miles out-and-back and is classified as black-diamond difficulty.
- What Makes It Special: The trail is known for its narrow singletrack sections, steep drops, technical switchbacks, and agave-filled landscapes. The crest of the trail rewards adventurers with stunning panoramic views of Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, and the surrounding Verde Valley. This sense of verticality complemented by the dramatic red rocks creates a striking contrast against the open blue sky.
- Key Intersections: One highlight is the Cathedral Rock viewpoint, where the trail briefly flattens to accommodate breathtaking photo opportunities. Also worth noting is the descent into Baldwin Trail, where more technical abilities come into play.
Local Insights
- The Hiline Trail was originally a social trail developed by dedicated Sedona locals; it later became officially sanctioned due to its popularity.
- The area is rich in Indigenous history, with nearby vistas bearing spiritual significance to the Yavapai-Apache Nation. Visitors might notice the sense of serenity present in these untouched landscapes.
- Expect lighter crowds compared to more beginner-friendly trails like Bell Rock Pathway, as Hiline draws a seasoned outdoor community.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late fall and early spring offer the most comfortable weather conditions, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.
- What to Bring: Mountain bikes with full suspension, a helmet, gloves, snacks, and 2–3 liters of water. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes and bring trekking poles.
- Directions: From Sedona, drive south on Highway 179 for about 10 minutes, turn onto Bell Rock Blvd, and park near the Courthouse Vista parking lot.
Reviews
Rich Ball6 years ago
Great trail with views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Rock, Wilson Mountain, Cathedral rock and much more. Trail access is via Slim Shady trail at the Yavapi trailhead and via Baldwin trail at the other end. Bikes can enter only through the Yavapi point access. The elevation gain is at both ends of the trail with the section between generally level ridge, ledge walk. The descent/ascent near the Baldwin trail intersection is steep. Overall a great trail.
Artem Nosulchyk7 months ago
Corey McLaughlina year ago
Great trail. Had a blast hiking some of it with my 10 and 13 year old.
Brock Zagela year ago
We hiked this trail from the Yavapai Vista Trailhead. Follow the Yavapai Vista Trail at the beginning. When it ends, turn left and your first right will be The Hiline Trail. The signs are marked pretty well except for all the brown signs only show Slim Shady and not the Highline Trail. You just have to look for the actual Trail arrow. There is one uphill section at the beginning where you don't have views but the whole rest of the trail has great views. About 1 mile in you will get to the first point of the hike that faces North and has a view of Cathedral Rock. There is a nice shady spot there to stop for water or a snack. If you want a short hike you can turn around there.
Ralph Kristopher8 months ago
This is one of the best mountain bike trails in the world! If your going to hike this, you really need to be careful, mountain bikers in technical terrain like this, it’s not safe for them to stop, they don’t want to hit you or fall off a cliff trying to avoid you. Know that in some areas once a biker commits; it’s do or die for them! Listen closely for mtn bikers and have heads on a swivel for everyone’s safety if you dare to hike this!! 🙏 technically a multi use trail, Just don’t be ignorant to what’s up with this trail if you are to hike it. Very beautiful. No E-Bikes allowed on any of this trail system fyi
