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Sedona, AZ

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Fay Canyon Trail

4.8 (48 reviews)

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view from inside the arch
Jay P.

Very easy hike but you can also take some detours to make it more exciting, the actual trailhead is across the street from the parking lot, just cross over and look for a wooden sign nailed to a tree. I would describe this as much less visited than some of the trails nearby but that doesn't take away from some gems you can find. The path is very soft sand so you'll tire more easily, there is an arch that is off-path about halfway through the hike on the right side. You can see the upside down "U" from the trail and it looks like a cave, it's not till you are inside you realize there is a small gap between the Arch and the mountain. The scramble going up is fun, when you get close make a right at the large angled rock for an easier path or climb up the angled rock for some fun scrambling. A lot of people miss this and I heard a lot of people asking where the arch was at the end of the trail. The end of the trail does have a small mountain you can climb that is slightly more challenging, if you head to the left there is a ledge you can sit on and yell Into the canyon to hear your echo. On the way up you'll have a fun rock scramble in between rocks and cactus.

Michelle C.

The desert is calling, and I must go! While visiting Phoenix, we took a quick road trip out to visit Sedona and the beautiful red rock formations. Our group decided to try Faye Canyon Trail, which is a relatively easy 1.5 mile hike that takes you through some shaded areas and up the red sandstone walls to a natural stone arch and viewpoint. I definitely recommend going early in the morning, as the parking lot can get full and the heat ramps up in the afternoon. The hike itself was pretty well maintained, with the trail end clearly marked. There are a few extra spots that you can hike out to, like the natural arch and the second viewpoint, which require a little bit of maneuvering up the red rock. Once you get to the trail end sign, you can scale up the rock to the left for a beautiful view of the canyon and foliage. I think next time though, I would visit with shoes that had more traction because coming down was a bit sandy for me. Overall, it was well worth the drive out!

Gordon V.

Nice trail with a scramble at the end. Starts out very wide and easy, with beautiful views of rock formations. Part way in the hike there is a dry rock bed to your right. Look to the right you will see an arch up on a hill. You can take a small trail off the main trail and climb up to the arch. It's a scramble. Steep and big rocks, but it's worth the view at the top. Then back down to continue on the regular trail. You come to a spot where you can only climb up. It's gradual. Loose stones and big rocks. There is a flat part, but then you can go a bit further up to another flat spot wit a spectacular view. Bring lots of water. Perfect time to hike right now it's not too hot.

Trail map of Sedona, Oak Creek etc
Renee N.

For a break from challenging trails, this is a beautiful and leisurely trail to just get outside an get up close and personal with some of the gorgeous red rocks of Sedona. Easy parking located across the street from the trailhead. We had hiked long and hard the day before so this was a nice break. Heavily trafficked with lots of people but there are times if you get up high enough to escape the crowds and just take in the beauty all around you. Trail is short, only 2.6 out and back. Fay Canyon is just incredible and also a great spot for a picnic. Children can easily hike this trail as it is mainly flat but they can run and explore. Remember to pack in/pack out and leave no trace.

Maria E.

Lovely trail. Just a heads up, you will reach a point where there is a sign that says "TRAIL END." Ignore it and climb up, continuing toward the left side. This is where you will find some magnificent views. Also, you can add the short arch trail to this one. About halfway through, there is a turn. Honestly, I felt the views were better at the end of this trail versus the arch. But, if you have the time and energy, why not. We did it on our way back. Easy parking in the lot (across the road from the trailhead).

Mike B.

After talking with the gentleman at the Red Rock Ranger Station we decided we would check out this short hike because it would take us deeper into a canyon and we were looking for a leisurely hike. We drove Northwest of Sedona following the directions on the map provided. The area also seems to be popular with the local tour companies and "pink jeeps" as well and we can see why. It allows you to get a closer look at the scenery and there are many trailheads along the road leading to Fay Canyon Trail. The parking area was well marked with plenty of parking, vault toilets and a map detailing the length of the trail and elevation changes. We decided we would likely only do the first half of the trail before it began ascending since we had done a more aggressive hike yesterday. The beginning of the trail takes you through a wooded area full of various pine trees with a mixture of cactus varieties. The ground itself is a soft red sand with some rocks as you navigate what look like dry creek beds. The temperature on this particular day was 60 degrees and sunny and felt wonderful. We did approximately half of the trail but know there is an arch at the end and likely very worth checking out. We really enjoyed ourselves and would highly recommend to people of all ages and physical abilities.

Trailhead
Steph B.

Easy 2 mile in and out trail for all ages. My son and I burned a lot of calories the day before and wanted to enjoy an easy trail while we recovered. Fay Canyon Trail is very easy, well shaded and also a social trail as we seemed to talk to every we met. The trail write up said there was an arch and a waterfall. We found the arch which is accessible by a spur trail but never saw a fall (probably intermittent). It took us about two hours to go out and back. The trail guide said the trail was over 2.5 miles but my odometer only measured 2 miles - maybe that's why I missed the falls?

Linda O.

Great hike for beginners or inexperienced hikers. Trail is well maintained. Entrance is across road from parking area, not well marked. Restrooms at parking.

View from the Fay Canyon Trail parking lot
Grace B.

It is 3rd day in Sedona. Our legs are tired from all the hiking and walking so we chose Fay Canyon Trail since it is supposed be an easy hike. Driving up to a trail head just before 9 AM on Thursday morning, we see lots of cars parked on the Boynton Pass Road and start to worry. Will there be a parking at the Fay Canyon trail head? And yes, there is! Parking lot is packed but still has more than few spots remaining. There is a small restroom. Trail is covered with red sands in the beginning and starts to be little pebbly and rocky. It has lots of shades until you see the end of trail sign pinned on a tree. It is fairly crowded but not too crazy. People on the trail are all very nice and pleasant saying morning, excuse us, and thank you constantly. Then, we saw a big red rock and people coming down from the side of rock. What's up there? We wonder as always. And we climb and scramble up and up not knowing what to expect. And we come up to a little clearing and we are rewarded with the breathtaking view. The view that I will remember for a long long time.

The view back into the canyon from the top of the boulders.
Katie O.

This trail is dog friendly and family friendly. If you just complete the trail without the cut off to the arch or climbing the boulders after the trail ends it is for all levels of hiking. Dogs are allowed on a leash. This is the rule for almost all National Forest hikes. The trail has a little bit of elevation change but it is very gradual. It is a Sandy wide trail for most of the hike. There are two options for making the hike more challenging. There is a cut off trail to the right that goes up to an arch. It is a short but steep climb and had loose rocks/sand so make sure you have the correct shoes and hiking poles if you need them. The other place that requires good balance and strength is at the end of the trail if you want to hike the boulders. I would caution that portion for super small kids or elderly adults who aren't super confident in their balance. Just remember what you go up you have to be able to come back down which is where most get stuck. BUT....if you have the ability to climb the boulders it gives you a spectacular view. You will see ours on hikes a lot of dogs won't be on due to how technical they are. Be cautious taking your pups up the rocks if they aren't used to that technical skill. These two have been hiking and bouldering since they were tiny and my husband is very confident in his training to go up and down with them safely (for both of them and himself).

Majestic views at the top
Yonnie C.

Hiked this trail today - the full 2.4-2.6 mile round trip route. So fun to get shade along the way and then reach the top with magnificent views. Even a 4-year old toddler made it to the top! Just don't be afraid of heights. You'll be rewarded with something great. Ample parking in the trailhead lot. One of 11 trails that remain open during covid19 shelter in place.

Tim K.

A relaxing hike for any skill level! Fay Canyon features a level trail out in a canyon north of Sedona. After a long morning of hiking some busier, more difficult trails, we went with a calm hike into Fay Canyon to round things off for the day. Along the way, we say lots of families with children and dogs, getting a hike in without stressing anyone out. While the trail is easy, it's still really beautiful and worth the trip. There's also lots of parking at the trailhead, so that's one less thing to worry about. Overall, a great trail to relax and get out in nature!

Kaori M.

Really beautiful place and loved it. Go early morning to beat the crowd. I started before 8 and checked out secret Fay Arch as well. It was nice before yahoos came. I love quiet peaceful hike, if you are such person I recommend starting like 7 am.

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Nice trail for a novice hiker. Pretty flat with little rise with nice views. Good parking area with a bathroom.

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Ask the Community - Fay Canyon Trail

Would a jogging stroller work on this trail? Not to go jogging with , just so I dont have to hold my baby the whole time.

I wouldn't. There are several spots that are completely rocky, appears crossing dry river beds. I doubt a jogging stroller would work.

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Review Highlights - Fay Canyon Trail

“My son and I burned a lot of calories the day before and wanted to enjoy an easy trail while we recovered.”

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Cathedral Rock - Red bee hive looking

Cathedral Rock

4.8(351 reviews)
7.1 mi

This is the best hike I have ever been on! Quite challenging but soooo worth it! The views all…read morethe way up and at the summit are just insane. I would say my hubby and I are average skilled hikers and it took us 1.5 hours to walk to the very top and back. For sure bring water and hiking shoes and your camera. You will need your hands free for certain rock climbing areas. Check out my photos- they are all real life, no editing! P.s. parking is tight and thurs-sun you have to take the shuttle or an uber there

Cathedral Rock is a moderate trail. I highly recommend that if you're not used to using all hands,…read morefeet and your butt to climb, hike and walk through then don't attempt to go far here. You have to park in a lot, take the metro rail to the entrance and then make sure you use the bathroom first thing because there are no other bathrooms. Watch others to see how they tackle the rocks and hills and different areas. Also, trust when I say that you will get red dirt all over you and what you carry. Make sure you have a backpack and water bottle that you can just carry on your person. When you reach the top, it is truly a masterpiece! Going down was harder than going up by the way. Be very careful on your way down. Took us about 1.5 hours to get to the top and then about the same going back down. Watched a few people slip and fall, walk barefoot, and even touch the cactus. We're so glad we took this trail as beginners in Sedona.

Photos
Cathedral Rock - Gorgeous views

Gorgeous views

Cathedral Rock - Ledge you can walk out on

Ledge you can walk out on

Cathedral Rock

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Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa

4.4(146 reviews)
5.7 mi

Most places give you a sunset. Airport Mesa apparently felt that was underachieving…read more Sharon and I headed up there in the evening to catch the famous Sedona sunset, which on its own would have been worth the trip. The sky started doing that Sedona thing -- layers of orange, pink, and gold spreading across the horizon while the red rocks glowed like they had their own internal lighting system. Just when we thought the show had hit peak beauty, we turned around. And there it was. One of the most majestic moonrises I've ever seen slowly lifting over the horizon like it had been perfectly scheduled to steal the second act. The sunset painting the sky one direction... and the moon rising bright enough in the other that I briefly wondered if I should've brought sunglasses. It felt like Sedona decided to give us the best of both celestial worlds. Sunset in front of us. Moonrise behind us. Nature's version of surround sound. The overlook itself is easy to access and well worth the stop. People gathered quietly, cameras out, everyone sharing that universal look that says, "Are you seeing this too?" Moments like that remind you why places like this are special. Beauty that stops you mid-sentence. The kind that makes everyone pause, breathe, and just take it in. Pro tip: arrive a little before sunset and stay a little after. You never know when the universe might decide to put on an encore. Five stars, no question.

What a beautiful morning for a nice 3 mile hike. A glorious day and my 66th. God is good. The trail…read moreis a bit rocky so wear some good hiking shoes or trail runners. The views are fantastic and parking at Airport Mesa is only $3 and they have vendors and a food truck for those looking for Indian jewelry and crafts or a quick bite. The parking lot host also sells bottled water for those in need. Great hike and trail options. The parking at the trailhead is limited so drive up to the airport lot. Highly recommended

Photos
Airport Mesa - On top of airport mesa

On top of airport mesa

Airport Mesa
Airport Mesa

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Fay Canyon Trail - hiking - Updated October 2026

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