With all of the trails available to ride around Sedona, it is easy to overlook
some nice but lower profile trails south of AZ-89A in Sedona West. One
benefit of riding these trails is avoiding the commute and parking issues
along Bell Rock Parkway. You can ride the Ridge Trail down to Oak Creek,
ford the river (at low water) and access the Baldwin Loop Trail and other
trails behind Cathedral Rock.
When you start riding, you will see signs for several trails in this area: Old
Post Trail, Carroll Canyon Trail and Bandit Trail. Follow the signs for Ridge
Trail. When you cross the Chavez Ranch Road, look for a new trail exiting
on the other side. This will bring you to the “Secret Slick Rock” area and on
down to the Crescent Moon Ranch Park and the Red Rock Crossing. The
park will want you to pay $2.00 per bike to access the crossing. If you
would rather save that money for a mocha later, you can cross Oak Creek
above or below the park. On the other side of the river, find the trailhead
and map at the end of Verde Valley School Road.
The trail segment from the top of the ridge south towards the river is probably one of the best descents in the Sedona area ... or a tough climbing challenge if you're going the other way.* Review edited 3/16/2011
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