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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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Horsin Around Adventures - Guides, will take pictures if you ask.

Horsin Around Adventures

4.6(202 reviews)
9.4 mi

I had THE best time with this company! They were so friendly & kind. The overall ride was 2 hours…read morelong & the views were unreal. Two hours may seem like a long time but it wasn't; it was the perfect amount of time! They take pictures for you so bring your phone if you can! They have pouches on the saddles for placement. I really enjoyed the fact they work with experienced & non-experienced riders so they are very user friendly! I will return here again!

Horrible experience. What should have been a fun horseback ride ended with my daughter and me in…read morethe hospital. We've ridden horses before, and this was by far our worst experience. The trail was steep, narrow, and rocky, with some of the horses slipping along the way. In my opinion, this is absolutely not a beginner-friendly ride. I also had concerns about how well the horses were cared for, and some appeared to have vision problems. My daughter was bucked off her horse, landed face-first on rocks, and rolled partway down a ravine. Then my horse bucked me off, injuring my shoulder--I felt something pop. My friend's horse also took off with her still on it. The fire department had to carry my daughter out, and we were both taken to the hospital. My daughter now has damage to her lower back at L5-S1, and we have to follow up with her doctor to find out what treatment she needs. We were told this was a rare occurrence. However, when the fire department came to rescue my daughter, I heard a firefighter tell the owner, "We need to stop meeting this way." That comment made me question how rare these incidents actually are. This was a terrifying experience that has left us dealing with injuries and follow-up medical care. I would never recommend this company.

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Horsin Around Adventures - Family on horseback

Family on horseback

Horsin Around Adventures - Our photo

Our photo

Horsin Around Adventures - With dog  friend

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With dog friend

Horse, Heart & Connection

Horse, Heart & Connection

5.0(14 reviews)
4.2 mi

This is a magical experience. It's truly unlike anything else I've ever done. I loved it. The time…read morewith horses is so special. And Andrea, the facilitator, is gifted in her knowledge and awareness with people and the horses. She helps guide each person's experience with kindness and loving. And she's a ton of fun, too. I've attending the horse sessions twice now. The first time, I brought my mom, who was very hesitant and a bit afraid of horses because of some childhood experiences with them. But once she arrived, she found she could relax and enjoy, even pet and adore the horses in the arena. And this most current visit, I attended with my best friend who's a skilled horsewoman. I was so impressed with her grace and ease with the horses... and in awe how she too could learn from their gentle guidance and wisdom. I'd heard of "equine facilitated learning" but never knew the profound loving and wisdom that would come from the closeness of being with these gentle giants. It felt like a week-long vacation in just a few hours. I love this experience and look forward to my next visit.

Andrea, Red, and Flash were incredible! I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from horse therapy,…read morebut I had heard so many great things that I trusted the process--and I'm so glad I did. My family of six all came away happy and grateful for the experience. For a while, it felt like the world slowed down, and we were fully present together with Red and Flash. Andrea is a highly skilled and experienced facilitator who guided us with care, building trust and intuitively adapting to our family's needs throughout the session. Everyone took away something meaningful, and there were smiles all around. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to slow down, be present, and open themselves up to something new.

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Horse, Heart & Connection
Horse, Heart & Connection
Horse, Heart & Connection - Deep connection with the horses, the participants, ourselves, and Andrea

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Deep connection with the horses, the participants, ourselves, and Andrea

Horse Affinity - Simon & Helen

Horse Affinity

5.0(20 reviews)
4.2 mi

We went on a Sunday ride with Saara , Daisy the dog, and three of her wonderful horses. Saara only…read morebrings out your group--no mixing of strangers--so she can customize the ride to exactly what you need. She also has a variety of horses to accommodate for any level of experience. I booked a ride with my mother in law, who had no riding experience. Saara was very attentive with her to ensure she had the proper riding form and felt safe in the saddle. By the end, she was a completely different rider with Saara's help. I grew up riding, so Saara let me take the lead for much of the trail and we went at the pace we dictated. She was taking photos of us throughout and send them promptly at the end of the ride. The trails she selects have magnificent views, and you truly get to ride--not like sitting in a horse caravan with a line of riders at the big riding places. Her horses are clearly happy and well cared for, and they are alert and fun to ride. Again, nothing like the big places with worn down, overworked horses that hate what they're doing day in and day out. This is by far the best riding experience you can pick in Sedona for groups of four or less.

5 stars is not enough to describe the incredible experience we had with Saara and her horses. It…read morewas my 12 year old daughter's first ride, and had been years since I had ridden. Having been on rote trail rides that left me feeling underwhelmed and sad for the horses, I was apprehensive. Saara put all of my anxieties at ease. She was so patient with my daughter, and did everything to ensure her first ride was was a spectacular mix of excitement & adventure, paired with calm nurturing that made her feel secure and comfortable. My daughter rode Easy, and he behaved perfectly. I rode Doodlebug and she was such a sweetheart. The trail was absolutely gorgeous with majestic views, red rocks, dips and inclines. It was just the right amount of challenge - keeping riders and horses engaged in the experience. Saara was so easy to talk to, and it felt like riding with a old friend even though we had only just met. Not only was she a fabulous guide and teacher, she also took terrific photos that we will cherish forever. I will ride with Saara again, and I hope that anyone looking for a truly unique and special Sedona experience will give her a call. An afternoon with Saara and her horses is worth every penny and then some. In fact, I'd say the afternoon was priceless.

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Horse Affinity - Koh and Thumper

Koh and Thumper

Horse Affinity
Horse Affinity

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Fay Canyon Trail - hiking - Updated October 2026

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