E-Biking Through the Red Rock Wonders of Sedona, Arizona
One of the most unforgettable highlights of any Sedona visit is exploring the iconic red rock country on an e-bike. My daughter and I enjoyed a three-hour e-biking tour in Sedona in mid-April. The weather could not have been more beautiful, with sun and cool breezes perfect for biking.
Although Sedona doesn’t allow e-bikes on its trails, the ride took us through quiet neighborhoods, wide bike lanes, and scenic backroads that meandered through red rock country. We stopped often to soak in the scenery, drink water, and make quick adjustments to our bikes as needed.
E-biking Company in Sedona
I decided on Cathedral Rock E-Bike Tours as their shop in West Sedona is close to the Red Rock canyons. They also focus more on the natural areas in Sedona. In contrast, other bike companies visit the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. So if you are looking for shopping in a traditionally styled Mexican village, check out the other e-bike companies in Sedona.
On the Cathedral Rock Vortex E-Bike tour, we rode winding roads through surreal desert canyons, caught breathtaking views, and soaked up the quirky charm that makes this place so magical.
The owner of the company is Max, a lively and effortlessly cool 70-something spirit with loads of local knowledge. As our small group gathered, she handed us quality helmets, safety vests (which brought back school crossing guard memories!), and radios with earpieces so we could stay in constant contact as we rode through the stunning red rock landscape. The company also provides water and a snack in your bike bag.
Max gave a solid rundown on how to operate the Rad Power e-bikes. The bikes have step-through frames and fat tires for a smooth ride. There are racks with bags for water bottles, phones, sunscreen,and extra layers. A few bikes even had padded seats (my backside was grateful). One pro tip she offered: “If your bike tips, ditch it and save yourself!” Later I saw that advice in action. A woman on the trip dumped her bike and emerged with no injuries.
You don’t need e-biking experience for the tour as Max teaches their use. However, prior biking experience is advised.
Sedona E-biking Ride
The ride starts at the shop and runs through quiet neighborhood streets. We could stop and make quick adjustments to our bikes as needed. Max knew exactly where to ride to find easy routes and maximize safety.
The Seven Canyons & Hidden Gems
One of the first big highlights was the lookout near the Cultural Park, where we had an epic panoramic view of the Seven Canyons of Sedona. Max gave us the lowdown on each one—Secret Canyon, Fay Canyon, Long Canyon (home to a pristine golf course), and the more rugged terrain around Bear Mountain and Coxcomb. She told stories and gave hiking recommendations.
From the lookout, Max pointed out Jerome in the distance—a quirky old mining town clinging to the mountainside. I’ve visitied it before, and it’s definitely one to add to the road trip list.
Unique Homes of Sedona from an E-bike
We rolled past Max’s own home and got a crash course in Sedona real estate. She explained about skyrocketing home values and architectural gems tucked into the red rock. Certainly, she knows every neighborhood like the back of her hand. At one point, we passed the historic Wings of the Wind house owned by Jack & Helen Frye, the founder of TWA airlines.
While many of the gorgeous rock formations in the area are protected by federal and local agencies, private ownership of stunning massive rocks also occurs. Max told the story of a man who built a modernist house that looked like a giant pizza oven on top of one of the buttes. Since he had no view of the prime red rocks, he built a garganuous deck on the other side to look out. There is a tram to access this mansion on the cliff.
These wild feats of architecture are as jaw-dropping as the views themselves.
Hollywood in the Red Rocks
As we cruised, Max sprinkled in tales of movies filmed in the area and the celebrities who passed through. John Wayne, Elvis Presley, Walt Disney, and Lucille Ball have all stayed in Sedona. The rugged landscapes are perfect for Western styled movies.
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Cathedral Rock
Crescent Moon Ranch was a highlight of the e-bike trip. Cathedral Rock E-bike company covers the $4 entry fee. We locked the bikes and hiked along the riparian green of Oak Creek. Max stopped at hand-picked places to take photos. One photo site was in front of a bent branch of a sycamore tree. If you raised your arm toward the end of the branch, it would look like you had composed a heart.
Soon, we wandered onto a broad, smooth red rock ledge with a full view of the awe-inspiring Cathedral Rock. The area was the vortex at Cathedral Rock. Sedona’s famed vortexes are believed to be swirling centers of energy that enhance meditation, healing, and self-discovery.
Cathedral Rock E-Bike Tours is the only bike company that includes Crescent Moon Ranch in their tour, therefore this peaceful experience felt like a true hidden gem.
Red Rock Loop E-biking
Back on the bikes, we tackled the swooping curves of Red Rock Loop Road, a scenic, lightly trafficked route. Thrilling dips and climbs punctuated every twist and turn. Shifting into an easier gear or using the throttle made climbing the hills a breeze.
Our guide told interesting stories and information throughout the tour. I really enjoyed the stories but also wished for a little time to ride in silence to soak in the surrounding beauty. The epic views are certainly worth a moment of quiet meditation.
As the adventure ended we stopped from a group photo with the towering spires and layered rock formations of Cathedral Rock in the background.
Logistics of E-biking in Sedona
As the bike tour starts at 9 am, it makes sense to stay in the Sedona area. Additonally, a car is essential to get around Arizona. If you are flying into Phoenix, it’s about a 2 hour drive to Sedona.
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Accommodations in Sedona
Sedona’s beauty draws visitors from all over the world, which means accommodations book up fast—especially if you’re aiming for something reasonably priced. Plan ahead and reserve early to secure the best spots.
The Sky Rock Sedona has breathtaking views of the red rock from its four-terraced promenade deck. Take a dip in the outdoor heated pool or hot tub, or enjoy one of the daily yoga or meditation classes.
You can’t beat the location of the Sky Ranch Lodge. You can see different rock formations from every window. Beautifuly landscaped grounds and easy access to local hikes are other highlights.
Car Rental in Arizona
I rented a car at the Phoenix airport and drove to Sedona for the bike tour. I use and recommend Discover Cars for your Arizona rental. Discover Cars works with reliable local car rental companies to give you the best price and rental experience. I’ve used them often and have always been happy with the car rental.
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Wrap Up of E-biking in Sedona
This wasn’t just a bike ride—it was a full-on immersion into the beauty of Sedona. Every stop was packed with insight and stunning scenery based on Max’s passion for the land and her infectious energy.
Cathedral Rock E-bikes does rent the bikes for 3 hours or longer if you want to do it yourself. They provide a map with highlights noted. However, the many stories and perfectly curated route makes the tour worth it. Book early so you aren’t disappointed.
If want a true experience of the majesty and fascination of Sedona, I highly recommend this Cathedral Rock Vortex E-Bike tour. Say hi to Max if you go!
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Disclaimer: I was a guest of Cathedral Rock Vortex E-Bike on this trip. I was not compensated or asked to write a positive review. All opinions are from my honest experience.
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