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Scorpion / Pyramid Loop

Sedona

A loop connecting some of the newest singletrack that Sedona has to offer.

Mountain Biking Severe

Distance
14 km
Ascent
310 m
Descent
309 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.2 km
High Point
1.4 km
Gradient
Scorpion / Pyramid Loop Map

Not willing to rest on their laurels, the riders in Sedona continue to build more and more mountain bike trails, leading to an ever-expanding—and improving—trail system. This loop incorporates a few of the oldest trails in Sedona, but also some of the newest, providing a very stark contrast in trail types.

Description

The primary ascent is via Sketch to Ridge—middle-aged singletrack that’s technical, demanding, and exposed, and yet still eminently rideable. Sketch is a noteworthy trail, with intense exposure and airy views of the valley. Once at the top of the main climb, consider turning right on Bandit to add in the Airport Loop for more mileage.

As you turn left at the top of the loop, you’ll pedal along the Old Post trail, and you’ll immediately be able to feel the age of the trail. From its eroded trail bed, to short, steep climbs with rocky waterbars situated right at the top, Old Post is definitely rideable… but it wasn't built with bikes in mind.

Then, you’ll reach the Skywalker trail. Here begins the newer construction in this area—the rolling dips and flowing turns of Skywalker are a breath of fresh air after the awkwardness of Old Post. Despite the well-built trail tread, Skywalker isn’t a walk amongst the stars—this trail climbs significantly to reach the top of the Scorpion trail.

Finally, it’s time to truly descend! Scorpion—newer still than Skywalker—flows down the mountainside through a mix of chunky rocks and red dirt singletrack. Rated intermediate by the locals, Scorpion could be considered an advanced trail in some other areas of the nation, but it’s still quite approachable.

For advanced riders, take a turn off the Skywalker trail to drop into Pyramid. An almost brand-new (as of 2018) black diamond trail in the legal Sedona trail network, this riotous route mixes flowy singletrack with steep downhill bombs, ledge drops, and gnarly rock gardens. Some sections are a bit exposed, but not nearly as much as other routes in Sedona.

The only negative aspect to relate about Pyramid is it’s brevity—at only just over a mile long, it’s over way too soon! All too quickly you’ll find yourself back at your car, itching for another rip down the mountainside.

Difficulty

Severe

Widely variable, narrow trail tread with steeper grades and unavoidable obstacles of 15in/38cm tall or less. Obstacles may include unavoidable bridges 24in/61cm wide or less, large rocks, gravel, difficult root sections, and more. Ideal for advanced-level riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between March and December

Features

  • Technical
  • Picturesque
  • Singletrack
  • Road sections
  • Drops
  • Rock Rolls
  • Rock Slabs
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area