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    Fay Canyon Trail

    4.8 (48 reviews)

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    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!

    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.

    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.

    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).

    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.

    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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    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.

    Airport Mesa is located near the airport, but has a viewing area to see…read more panoramic views of Thunder Mountain, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. It's one of Sedona's vortexes. There is an overlook area and a trail. The trail is moderate and not very difficult. A easy stop in Sedona to see beautiful views. There is parking lot and the fee is $3.

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    Airport Mesa
    Airport Mesa - On top of airport mesa

    On top of airport mesa

    Airport Mesa

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    Oak Creek Canyon

    Oak Creek Canyon

    4.8(9 reviews)
    4.2 mi

    Oak Creek Canyon is the gateway to Sedona. Take SR89A for a scenic tour of the beautiful red rock…read moreformations and into the town of Oak Creek. You will ohhh and ahhh at the view that is just breathtaking. Pull outs along the way.

    Every summer we come up north because Phoenix is just too hot for my mother after her heat stroke…read morein 2024. We were parked off the side well away from the road and had just eaten a lovely lunch when 3 vehicles(2 trucks. One was black and one was silver. An SUV dark gray with a man and woman) with Nevada plates pulled off and blocked the road and the flow of traffic and practically on top of us. I'm beginning to see and understand the very real complaints from people who live in Sedona when they talk about entitled and aggressive behavior from tourists. My mother exited the vehicle and spoke to the small man in the SUV(around 4'2 and he was very aggressive) I didn't hear that conversation and was on the phone when all of the sudden the small angry man popped up in front of my window spouting off about delusional scenarios where I'm taking pictures of his kids(I saw no children) and acting unhinged. I verbally ripped into the person because I don't respond well to unhinged weirdos standing right next to my window. He kept rambling incoherently about his delusions and then mentioned the litter box for the cat(yes, I bring my cat when I leave for 6 months). Apparently the lunatic thought depriving a cat of a bathroom while traveling seemed reasonable. His delusions were all over the place because he was mad for being called out for dangerously blocking traffic, being entitled and acting like an unhinged lunatic because they said they just needed to take a minute. And that's another thing I'm tired of is tourists peeing all over this area when there are bathrooms and rest stops!! Definitely the weirdest behavior I've seen up north and that's saying a lot. But!!! They are from Nevada so this can't be blamed on Arizonans. But the scenic drive is still spectacular.

    Photos
    Oak Creek Canyon
    Oak Creek Canyon
    Oak Creek Canyon

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    Bell Rock - Daily Pass

    Bell Rock

    4.7(237 reviews)
    9.8 mi

    I'm not saying Bell Rock called my name... but if you'd heard it too, you probably would've shown…read moreup. There's something about Bell Rock that pulls you in. Maybe it's the shape. Maybe it's the energy. Maybe it's just that classic Sedona magic. Whatever it is, I felt it. Now let's start with the one challenge: parking. Limited spots and a bit of patience required. It took a while to find a place, but I decided to call that my warmup. Pro tip: arrive early or later in the afternoon if you want better odds at a spot. Once you hit the trail, everything changes. The path is wide and welcoming. No punishing climbs. No technical scrambling. Just an easy walk surrounded by those famous red rock views that make Sedona feel like another planet. And the quiet. That's the part that sticks with you. Step onto the trail and the noise of the world fades away. You're left with open sky, towering rock, and that peaceful stillness that reminds you why people come here in the first place. Whether you're a seasoned hiker chasing summits or someone who just wants a beautiful walk through nature, this trail delivers. Put this one on your Sedona list. Because sometimes the best hikes aren't the hardest ones... they're the ones that simply make you stop, breathe, and look around. Some places you visit... and some places feel like they were waiting for you. Bell Rock might just be one of those.

    Bell Rock is the best place to hike in Sedona. It's a flat and easy trail for about half way up,…read moreand the signage makes it's easy to follow the path. The views are absolutely spectacle from all angles and places on the mountain and trail. There's truly nothing more beautiful than the red rocks in Sedona and Bell Rock is a place to see the true beauty. Parking can be tricky but patience is key, as people are always coming and going. Whether you're an avid hiker or a true rock climber, this mountain is for you!

    Photos
    Bell Rock - Banana yucca flowers/ Bell rock trail

    Banana yucca flowers/ Bell rock trail

    Bell Rock - Parking Lot View (05/22/25). #BellRock #CourthouseButte @VisitSedona #Sedona #Hiking #Traveling

    Parking Lot View (05/22/25). #BellRock #CourthouseButte @VisitSedona #Sedona #Hiking #Traveling

    Bell Rock

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    Broken Arrow Trail

    Broken Arrow Trail

    4.8(62 reviews)
    7.4 mi

    Another trip up and back on the famous Broken Arrow Trail. This is my 4th time running this trail…read moreand it never disappoints. It's a short trail but a really fun trail. We saw a stock Tacoma and a stick Jeep getting dirty today. Nit recommend but they made it. I was in a Raptor today with 37" tires and I think we bottomed out two or three times. Keep in mind that if your vehicle is stock make sure you have a short wheel base and absolutely must have 4 wheel drive.

    Overall a delightful hike-…read more We arrived early, so parking was easy (they had about 14 set spots)- however when leaving we noticed the lot was beyond packed & people were circling for spots (bit of advice) As we walked along the bumpy trails there was an element of rock climbing & inclined spots Also note- watch out for the Pink Jeep Tours; professional intense driving (they look like a great time) but their roads intersect with the trail a fair amount & they drive up certain viewpoint walks- The trail started off well marked, then hit a viewpoint area, and signage dropped off-while we thought we were scrambling up Chicken Point, we discovered we were just scrambling for fun & were able to view the real Chicken Point from the top of our mountain Then we wanted to take Hog Wash trail back-but couldn't find the loop connect at the end of Broken Arrow I still rate the trail very high because our random scrambles were quite challenging & entertaining- it's a great area to explore based on your capability- and offers many varying side paths

    Photos
    Broken Arrow Trail - Ford Raptor made it with no problems

    Ford Raptor made it with no problems

    Broken Arrow Trail
    Broken Arrow Trail - Ford Raptor made it with no problems

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    Ford Raptor made it with no problems

    Boynton Canyon Trail

    Boynton Canyon Trail

    4.6(99 reviews)
    1.0 mi

    We hit Boynton Canyon Trail early. And I mean early enough that the air still had a chill to it and…read morethe light was just starting to spill over the rock. That's not a suggestion, it's the move. Give this place a head start on the day or it'll make you pay for it later. The trail opens gently, almost deceptively so. Wide path, easy footing, a kind of calm that makes you think you're in for a casual walk. Then the landscape starts to shift. The canyon walls rise, the color deepens, and the space narrows just enough to pull your attention forward. It's not a straight shot either. The trail has a rhythm to it. It bends, it reveals, it hides just enough to keep you moving. What stands out is how the environment changes as you go. You're not just walking toward a viewpoint. You're moving through layers. Open desert gives way to pockets of shade, then back out into sun where the red rock feels almost alive under that early light. The contrast is constant, and it keeps the whole thing interesting without needing anything artificial. We went as a group, mixed pace, different levels of enthusiasm, and it worked. Some pushed ahead, some took their time, but nobody felt like they were struggling to keep up or being held back. That's a rare balance. It's approachable without being boring, and it gives you just enough challenge to feel like you earned the views. And the views are worth it. There's a moment where the canyon really opens up, and you get that full Sedona effect. Towering formations, deep reds, shadows cutting across the rock in ways that change minute by minute. It's the kind of scene that makes people stop mid-conversation and just look. Phones come out for a second, then go right back into pockets because you realize it doesn't translate. Silence shows up out there in a way that's hard to find. Not total silence, but a kind of quiet that feels intact. Wind moving through, the occasional bird, footsteps on the trail. That's it. It clears your head whether you planned on it or not. By the time we were heading back, the temperature was climbing fast. That early start paid off. You could feel the shift, the desert reminding you who's in charge once the sun gets high. If you go later in the day, it's a different experience entirely, and not in a good way. A few practical things. Bring more water than you think you'll need. Wear real shoes. This isn't the place to test your balance in something flimsy. And pace yourself. It's not a race, and the trail is better when you let it unfold. There are a lot of hikes around Sedona that get attention, and for good reason. This one earns its spot. It's not just about the destination. It's the progression, the way the landscape pulls you in and keeps revealing itself piece by piece. Get there early, take your time, and let it speak for itself. Five stars without hesitation.

    Started this hike a little later than planned (around 10AM), but it still turned out to be such a…read moregreat experience. If you're heading to the Subway Cave, I highly recommend downloading AllTrails beforehand. Once you're on the trail, it's not very clear where to turn off. We saw a few people along the way, but no one nearby when it actually mattered... which led to a little confusion. I only went off track for a few minutes, but my friends ended up going about a mile too far before turning back The hike is about 5 miles round trip. You'll spend roughly 2 miles on the Boynton Canyon Trail before reaching the turnoff for the Subway Cave. Overall, it's a pretty easy and enjoyable hike - mostly flat and shaded through beautiful forest scenery. The final stretch up to the Subway Cave involves some rock scrambling, but it's manageable. Once you're there, you've got a couple options: you can climb up to the left for an incredible view or head to the right and climb up a different way for another great vantage point. I saw some people (even toddlers!) navigating around the rocks, but personally that part felt a little nerve-racking for me. Parking fills up quickly so plan ahead. That said, there's plenty of street parking nearby off the street, and they run shuttles on weekends, which helps a lot. Definitely bring water. It can get hot, especially later in the day. Even though this is a popular hike, I didn't have to wait at all for photos. People were hanging out and soaking in the views, but it never felt crowded or rushed. Total time for me was about 2.5 to 3 hours, including time spent relaxing and exploring at the cave. Overall, such a beautiful and rewarding hike. Just don't miss that turn!

    Photos
    Boynton Canyon Trail
    Boynton Canyon Trail
    Boynton Canyon Trail

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    Red Rock State Park

    Red Rock State Park

    4.4(182 reviews)
    6.8 mi

    Red Rock State park was the passport to our Sedona adventure. I didn't realize there was such an…read moreextensive trail system. On my list now is to figure out how to stitch all these trails together and come back and do a mega hike. Please come and create your own adventure.

    We took the whole family out to Red Rock State Park, and it ended up being one of the most balanced…read moredays we've had out here. Not overwhelming, not chaotic, just... right. If you've spent time around Sedona, you know how quickly things can feel crowded and overrun. This place is the opposite. It feels more intentional, more preserved. You're still surrounded by those iconic red rock formations, but here they're framed by open meadows, clusters of trees, and the steady presence of Oak Creek winding through the park. We set out as a group, a mix of adults and kids, and found trails that worked for everyone. That's the beauty of this place. You don't have to be chasing a summit to enjoy it. The trails are well-marked, manageable, and still interesting enough to keep you engaged. You're moving through changing terrain the whole time. One minute you're walking through sunlit grass, the next you're tucked into shade near the water, then you turn a corner and the red rock rises up again like it's been waiting for you. The creek pulls you in. There's something about moving water in the desert that makes you slow down without realizing it. We stopped more than once just to sit for a minute, let the kids explore a bit, listen to the sound of it moving over rock. No rush, no pressure to keep pushing forward. Wildlife shows up if you're paying attention. Birds moving through the trees, the occasional lizard darting across the trail, subtle signs that this isn't just a scenic backdrop, it's a living system doing its thing. What stood out most was the pace. This isn't a place that demands anything from you. It lets you take it in at your own speed. Some of us pushed a little farther down the trail, others hung back and soaked it in. Nobody felt like they were missing out. It's also one of those rare parks that feels curated without feeling artificial. You can tell it's cared for. Trails are maintained, signage is clear, and there's a quiet respect for the environment that seems to carry over to the people visiting. By the time we looped back, nobody was checking the time. That's usually a sign you picked the right place. If Sedona at its busiest feels like a spectacle, this feels like a conversation. Same landscape, different tone. And sometimes that's exactly what you want.

    Photos
    Red Rock State Park
    Red Rock State Park - Nightshade

    Nightshade

    Red Rock State Park - Snoopi

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    Snoopi

    Fay Canyon Trail - hiking - Updated May 2026

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