Mountain Biking on the Highline Trail in Sedona

The Highline Trail in Sedona, Arizona, is quickly becoming a very popular trail. Originally a “user-built” trail, it has since been adopted into the Forest Service trail system. As a result, there has been some work done to bring it up to current trail standards. This has included some re-routes of sections that were prone to erosion or resource damage.

The start of the Highline Trail. The trail sign makes it very clear this is Double Black Diamond.
The start of the Highline Trail. The trail sign makes it very clear this is Double Black Diamond.

What it did not do is make it easier. This trail is classified as “double black diamond” and you had better believe it! Portions of the trail are very narrow with serious drop-offs to the side. Other sections include very steep descents on both loose gravel and rock. It’s OKAY to get off the bike and walk some of these sections.

Made it from the steep and narrow section to the steep and slightly wider section.
Made it from the steep and narrow section to the steep and slightly wider section.

Along one long stretch of very narrow trail with steep drops is this slightly wider section. Wide enough, actually, for me to hop off the bike and take a photo. Notice that big, happy smile? That’s because she made it through the narrow section to the “wide” section.

Steep downhill sections on the slickrock make it worth the effort.
Steep downhill sections on the slickrock make it worth the effort.

Once you ride over the saddle you begin a long, amazing, and fun descent on the red rock. And, yes, it’s worth it.