Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon

Mountain Biking

Given the red-rock splendor, challenging terrain, miles of single track, and mild weather, you might think Sedona would be a mountain-biking destination on the order of Moab or Durango. Inexplicably, you won't find the Lycra-clad throngs patronizing pasta bars or throwing back microbrews on the Uptown mall, but all the better for you: the mountain-biking culture remains fervent but low-key. A few strategically located, excellent bike shops can outfit you and give advice.

As a general rule, mountain bikes are allowed on all trails and jeep paths unless designated as wilderness or private property. The rolling terrain, which switches between serpentine trails of buff red clay and mounds of slickrock, has few sustained climbs but be careful of blind drop-offs that often step down several feet in unexpected places. The thorny trailside flora makes carrying extra inner tubes a must, and an inner-tube sealant is a good idea, too. If you plan to ride for several hours, pack a gallon of water and start early in the morning on hot days. Shade is rare, and with the exception of (nonpotable) Oak Creek, water is nonexistent.

Bell Rock Pathway. For the casual rider, Bell Rock Pathway is a scenic and easy ride traveling 3 mi through some of the most breathtaking scenery in red-rock country. Several single-track trails spur off this one making it a good starting point for many other rides in Sedona. Trailhead: 5 mi south of Sedona on AZ 179, Sedona, AZ, 86351.

Submarine Rock Loop. There's good reason why Submarine Rock Loop is perhaps the most popular single-track loop in the area. The 10-mi trail is a heady mixture of prime terrain and scenery following slickrock and twisty trails up to Chicken Point, a sandstone terrace overlooking colorful buttes. The trail continues as a bumpy romp through washes almost all downhill. Be wary of blind drop-offs in this section. It wouldn't be overly cautious to scout any parts of the trail that look sketchy.

Rentals

Absolute Bikes. Close to several biking trails, Absolute Bikes is an excellent source for rentals, equipment, and advice on trails and conditions. 6101 Hwy 179, Village of Oak Creek, Sedona, AZ, 86351. 877/284-1242. www.absolutebikes.net.

Bike and Bean. A few hundred yards south of Bell Rock Pathway, Bike and Bean offers rentals, tours, trail maps, and their own blend of coffee. 6020 Hwy 179, Village of Oak Creek, AZ, 86351. 928/284-0210. www.bike-bean.com.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Ballooning
• Golf
• Hiking and Backpacking

• Horseback Riding
• Jeep Tours
• Mountain Biking