Snow in Sedona

Sedona sunshine gets most of the attention - but rainstorms and snow days?  They happen and we’re here to ensure it doesn’t negatively impact your time in town. 

Whether you're visiting for mountain biking, hiking, or just soaking in the red rock views, weather in Sedona can shift quickly. Winter storms and summer monsoons roll through, trails get wet, and suddenly your ride plans change.

Don’t worry. A little precipitation doesn’t ruin your trip - it just shifts the adventure.  Here’s what we recommend when it rains or snows in Sedona.

Sedona, Snow in Sedona, Snow in the Desert, Red rock snow storm,

Enjoy the Beauty

Some of the most breathtaking days in Sedona are the rare snow days.  Red rock formations dusted in white - just like a powdered sugar dusting!  Snow in Sedona doesn’t last long - which makes it even more special.

Find a cozy coffee shop. Take a scenic drive. Walk through town. Head to a safe viewpoint and soak it in.

Very few people get to experience Sedona in the snow. If you're here for it, consider yourself lucky.

Be Mindful of the Trails

As mountain bikers and trail users, we all share responsibility for protecting Sedona’s world-class trail system.  Thank you for playing a part in respecting our backyard.  After rain or snow, conditions can vary dramatically depending on elevation, sun exposure, and soil type. Before you ride reach out to us at Sedona Mountain Bike Academy or Thunder Mountain Bikes for local reports.

Know When to Turn Around. If your tires are leaving tread marks in mud, it’s time to head back.  We promise - one skipped ride is better than long-term trail damage! Those ruts:

  • Harden into permanent bumps

  • Channel water and increase erosion

  • Impact every rider who comes after you

Trails That Stay Wet Longer are Generally:

  • North-facing trails

  • Predominantly slickrock routes

  • Technical descents like the Hogs or Hangover when saturated

Some trail networks dry much faster than others. If you're unsure, ask. We're always happy to point you in the right direction.

Check out the Incliment Weather Guide from the Verde Valley Cyclist Coalition for more suggestion on routes, depending on how saturated the trails are.

Inclement Weather Guide

Hikers: This Applies to You Too

Please don’t widen the trail by walking around puddles or muddy sections. It may feel harmless in the moment, but over time it turns beautiful singletrack into road-width trail.  Stay on trail - even when it's messy.

Ride Somewhere Else

One of the best things about Sedona is its location. If conditions aren’t great here, they may be perfect just down the road.

Cottonwood (25 minutes away):

  • Blowout Wash

  • Dead Horse Ranch State Park

If Northern Arizona Is Saturated:

  • Black Canyon Trail

  • South Mountain (Phoenix)

  • Hawes Trail System (Phoenix)

Sedona sits at higher elevation than Cottonwood and Phoenix, so we often get more moisture. A short drive can save your ride day.  If you need help pivoting plans, our team can help you build a backup ride itinerary.

Red rock formations and cliffs in Sedona, Arizona, under a blue sky with scattered clouds, with green trees and residential houses at the base.

Rainy Day Activities in Sedona

If riding truly isn’t in the cards, here are a few local-approved alternatives:

The Silver Lining: Hero Dirt

Here’s the good news.

After light to moderate rain, Sedona can offer some of the best riding conditions of the year.  Tacky dirt for perfect traction. Reduced dust. Dramatic skies. Cooler temperatures.  Locals call it hero dirt for a reason!

When in Doubt, Reach out

We ride here year-round. We monitor conditions. And we care deeply about preserving these trails.  If you're unsure whether to ride, where to ride, or what to do instead, reach out.

A little flexibility goes a long way - and sometimes those unexpected weather days turn into the most memorable moments of your trip!  Not a bad backup plan at all.