Mountain Biking the Herkenham Trail

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.