Chutes, drops, gnar, hucking … do these words mean something to you? If yes, then come join us at The Arabella in March, one of the best hotels near the Sedona Mountain Bike Festival, March 14-16, 2025. This annual gathering of mountain bike enthusiasts highlights not only the joy of riding, but the beauty of Sedona’s famous red single-track trails – 250 miles of it!
What to Expect at the Festival
The Sedona Mountain Bike Festival is a three-day event that brings together cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. With over 200 miles of world-class trails to explore, riders of all skill levels can enjoy guided rides and tackle terrain suited to their abilities. From adrenaline-pumping downhill tracks to scenic beginner paths, there’s something for everyone.
Off your bike, explore the bustling expo area with over 90 industry-leading exhibitors regaling you with their latest gear, gadgets, and bikes. Test ride a cutting-edge bike or upgrade your own kit. Or, attend a skills clinic and up your tricks game.
Live music fills the air each evening, as local bands and performers create a convivial atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails. Food trucks and craft beer stations are set up, too, so be sure to stick around.
Where to Bike
The event will host several shuttled rides, but if you want to tackle some trails on your own while you’re here, try these local favorites within the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest around Sedona:
Aerie (Lower)
Great for intermediate mountain bikers, this 2.7-mile-long trail takes off from the Boynton Canyon parking lot. If that lot is full, head to the west end of the trail and the large parking area called Aerie. Expect mainly dirt trail with some rock chunks. If you’re starting at the east end, you’ll weave up and down through red soil drainage for a fun ride.
Mescal
This super popular, 2.6-mile-long trail starts at its south end at the Chuck Wagon intersection on the south side of Long Canyon Road. If you’d like to start at the north end, go to the Deadmans Pass trailhead. Expect slickrock and dirt, including some slickrock ledges. Higher skilled riders have access to two alternate lines.
High on the Hog
For the technical rider, this long-time favorite features mainly slickrock. You’ll reach a steep technical off-camber section, at which point the trail turns to dirt before reading the large slickrock area. Hog Heaven climbs to a rock shelf about 50 feet high.
What a weekend for mountain bikers! Join us at day’s end at The Arabella to soak in our two heated pools or chill by the cozy fire pit. We look forward to seeing you.