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    West Fork Trail

    4.6 (125 reviews)

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    Great lunch spot
    Kris L.

    This is a must do visit in the Fall for fabulous color with red, orange and yellow maples, yellow ash, burgundy oaks and of course red rocks. The trail has little elevation gain and is relatively easy. There are some river crossings and hiking poles are helpful. We went just before Halloween and the colors were nearly at peak. It is hard to find a parking spot so go just after lunch on a weekday as most people go in the morning.

    We took our Littles 2 and 4. They loved the creek crossings! We went 3 miles in and 3 back. Minimal elevation. A little rocky and can be hard to get around if you want a more flat terrain. Very rocky at some areas. Not hard to cross creeks since the water was not high. Used the rocks or logs. Hiking sticks are helpful!

    Danyelle F.

    The West Fork hike in Sedona is absolutely beautiful! We must have come at a drier time (mid-September), because we didn't need to wade ankle- or knee-deep in water to get through the trail. Though there are some water crossings if you want to take them. For us, water shoes weren't really necessary at that time of year. The weather and water level felt perfect. The trail is mostly shady, with no real incline, and we saw people of all ages enjoying it. My friend and I even ended up trail running back and found it quite easy. Overall, a gorgeous and accessible hike that I'd definitely recommend!

    Kendoll C.

    One of the more crowded trails we experienced in our Arizona hiking exploration- but we enjoyed the incredibly scenic and diverse experience Arriving the park, it was a bit frustrating to discover this particular trail was outside all the trail park system passes we purchased- requiring it's own $12 parking entry fee- on top of that, the woman told us there were currently not spots available but we could pay & wait- unsure how long the wait was, we decided to park about half a mile up along the roadside on a pull off & walked down to the entrance, paying $3 per person for entry walk-ups instead- At the beginning of the trail, we encountered the remnants of old stone foundations, and abandoned homesteads, with intriguing historical story signage providing insight- The trail then weaves through rocky outcroppings, dense forest, and open meadows moving back and forth along the creek- Arriving in the winter season, we luckily didn't have to experience much snow, there was a decent amount of ice build up within the river, but luckily was still easy to cross- though with the higher level of crowds, & most crossing areas only having 1-2 passable paths this created a bit of a bottleneck (I agree with fellow reviewers on the lack of trail etiquette, as an avid hiker there was a bit of frustration navigating this trail with the average tourist non-hikers out on a walk) The end of the trail was a beautiful expansive viewpoint of the river-a stunning panoramic surrounding scenery- Overall, I loved the shaded creek ambiance after so many AZ trails in the hot open dessert- it felt very immersive nature exploration, and while crowded offered its own element of solitude

    Greg F.

    Nice change of scenery, away from all the red rock views in sedona. This hike is like the narrows, not nearly as good, but also not as crowded. The parking was full when we went and we had to wait for someone to leave to go in.

    Hiking the last mile of the trail up the creek was spectacular!
    Quincy V.

    This place is very crowded and the path is super sandy for a while, but it's worth it for the views at the end. It's just getting there that can be annoying. The first half was bad, second half was much better. What I liked: I hiked in the water toward the end and it was very quiet. The slot canyon past the "end" was beautiful. Almost the entire hike was shaded. Most people seemed to turn back before the better views. What I didn't like: It was very crowded. Trail etiquette was basically non-existent. The sand was so deep in spots, that it was difficult to maintain a steady pace. Every water crossing was a bottleneck, even though you can stay dry on most crossings, people couldn't seem to figure that out. Parking gets full very quick, you need to get there at sunrise for a close spot. Let me share a longer story. I arrived at 9 AM on a Thursday and the main lot was already full and closed. I went up the road for another short hike at Harding Springs. I got back to my car and there were vehicles lined up everywhere. Knowing there was no shot to get closer parking, I walked about just under a mile to the trailhead. Luckily, there was a makeshift path on the west side of the road, on the safe side of the guardrail. Don't even attempt to walk on the east side, as it's mostly cliffs and you'll be walking in the road. Once I arrived, it was only $2 to walk in, so that was nicer than having to pay for parking. The trail started paved and shaded, then it turned to a wide (maybe 8 feet) sandy path in the sun. It was very crowded at 11 AM on a Thursday. The path gradually got narrower and more sandy, but at least the shade returned before too long. The first thing that I noticed was that there was virtually no trail etiquette. It seems like a lot of newbie hikers, tourists and families come here. That's fine, but you had people blocking the path taking selfies, while kids literally sat in the sand like it was a sandbox, blocking your way. It felt very weird and frustrating. When you wanted to pass, many groups wouldn't move aside to let you. About a mile before "the end" I got in the water to hike up the rest of the way. This is when things got much better. Not a single person was walking up the creek. It was peaceful and quiet. The water was generally no higher than knee deep. When I got to the end, there were several people hanging around a pool of water. I continued up and once again, I was the only person there. Within a few hundred yards, I was treated to a beautiful slot canyon. The water was almost waist deep in a few spots here, but you could keep it shallower if you were careful. I kept hiking for maybe a mile or so up. The views were stunning. I probably could have gone further up, but I didn't have a ton of time and I think I already saw the best views. On the way back, I started to see a few people walking in the water. I also noticed several people lose the trail. Apparently the trail gets harder to follow around the last mile, but since I was in the water most of the time, I didn't notice that. I walked back at a fast clip, power walking really, to get by the crowds of people. Once I hit the deeper sand, it was difficult to go fast. Every water crossing was frustrating, as people were either overly cautious or downright confused. I wore hiking shoes and barely got them wet at all. Yes, I wore water shoes while hiking UP the creek at the end, but crossing it is easy if you stay on the rocks or walk over one of the many logs. By the end, I had clocked in just over 9.4 miles. Keep in mind that I added nearly 2 miles for where I parked and I went beyond the end of the trail to explore the slot canyon. If I hadn't made it to the end, I might have rated this trail 3 or even 2 stars. There's not much to see for the first half and it's so crowded that you can't really enjoy it. I like kids, but there were too many of them here. Kids playing in the sand, blocking the path taking selfies and families who had trouble making it over the shallow water crossings. The end felt like a mini Narrows-like adventure. I didn't see a single person past the end of the trail, so I had the slot canyon all to myself. This was definitely a roller coaster experience, between no parking and inconsiderate crowds, then having spectacular views at the end. If I came here again, I'd probably arrive at sunrise. Even if you get there ahead of the crowds, you'll have to hike up a sandy mess for a few miles, before getting to the best views.

    Beautiful red rocks
    Heidi A.

    Beautiful hike. Mostly flat so it wasn't hard on my legs nor my lungs that much. Although I love hiking, elevation gain still kicks my behind so this wasn't too bad of a hike. We did not finish though. The creek was very beautiful as well. The distance was pretty long and we didn't allot that much time for the hike so we had to turn around. Someday we may finish this hike :)

    Ruins of an old hacienda
    Louis B.

    One of the nicest trails in Sedona. Perhaps one of the most scenic in the nation. Your jaw drops upon entering and you pick it back up when you leave. Breathtaking. This is also a great trail to take on a hot day as there is almost constant tree cover as well as the possibility of swimming at the end in one of the several pools. Some caveats: 1. Either wear waterproof hiking shoes or bring a set of water shoes. You will cross the Brook repeatedly. 2. Bring a camera. You'll be upset if you miss the scenery 3. Bring plenty of drinking water. 4. Come early and miss the crowds There's plenty of parking at the state park. Once ready, there are many signs for the trail. It initially goes through an old apple orchard before getting into the canyon area. Then it meanders more or less upstream around the river. There are some climbs through rocks as the trail continues, each step seeing the canyon becoming narrower and the cliffs becoming taller. The halfway point is a huge - HUGE - rock. The end is where a sign stating that the trail is not maintained, meaning you'll have to bushwhack your way. The rock formations form several pools in beautiful surroundings. Then you go back. Unforgettable hike.

    Ed T.

    This review is for the West Fork Of Oak Creek Trail #108 (~5.6 miles, ~3.5 hours to complete). Limited parking availability and $12 entry fee. Plenty of beautiful greenery and canyon wall views throughout the hike. Most of the river crossings can be done without getting wet. Soft sand for the majority of the trail making it difficult and longer to complete. Unfortunately, couldn't find any accessible trail near the end without getting completely wet in the river. Short video of the hike for those interested: https://youtu.be/qQAIO2agZkY

    Travis T.

    I have introduced so many people to this hike. It's probably the most popular Fall hike to do in Arizona and my personal favorite hike. If you come here in October, you'll see the leaves turn yellow and red. It is just a short drive north of Sedona on State Route 89A. The drive on 89A is gorgeous with huge trees that shade your drive with little mom and pop stores along the way. The nice thing about this hike is you can make it a long hike or a short slow scenic one. You will see lots of people (all ages) and pets on this hike. At the start of the trailhead is a bridge that goes over Oak Creek. It's a popular spot for pictures. There is also a bathroom at the start of the trailhead. The trail itself is easy to moderate and about 7 miles round trip. West Fork Trail has an entrance fee of $11 cash to park (as of 2021). They will close the parking area if it gets full and will only allow a car in when another car leaves. You can drive up further and park on the side of the road and walk in. They do charge a couple bucks to walk in. I would say that the best time to get here for a parking spot is early morning or late afternoon. Keep in mind that weekends are very crowded at West Fork Trail. But making the trek up here is all worth the hassle for this beautiful hike. There are some spots on the trail that you have to cross over the creek by walking on strategically placed rocks. The water is usually about ankle deep unless there was a huge rainstorm the night before. I personally think it adds to the fun of the hike when you slip and step in the water. The canyon walls will begin to close in as you continue on the hike and will provide shade. This is the part where you might want to bring a light jacket. People like to pick up and collect the colorful leaves during Fall season. You will also notice that people will actually smile and say hi to you as they pass. There is just something about being in nature that brings out the good in people. Overall this is amazing hike and makes for a fun day trip if you are coming from the Valley. I highly suggest bringing a nice camera. The cool part is you can stop in beautiful Sedona afterwards and grab lunch or an early dinner before you head home.

    John H.

    A scenic thirty minute drive North of Sedona towards Flagstaff. The trail is little over 6 miles in and out. It would be a great trail during the summer in the shade of the many deciduous trees. You feel like you are in a canyon with the mountains rising above you. You pass the creek 13 times. Don't worry it is only ankle deep, but they do seem like obstacle courses along the way as you judge the best way to cross. I brought a change of clothes just in case but did not need it. In March it was a trail of two seasons. At 70 degrees it was spring-like until you reached the last mile, it turned into a wintry forest. A nice contrast with snow laden crests and paths. I did not do the last quarter mile when it became a solid sheet of ice. Relatively flat throughout. On a Tuesday morning at 9AM there were about five parking spaces left and a few more three hours later. The parking fee is $11 plus fee for additional people in your car. There are pull out sections outside the park but it is a switchback area so I don't recommend it unless you get the three outside the gate. Walk-ins pay $2 per person. Pleasant woman at the kiosk as you check in.

    Sergio m.

    Give your self a good 3 hrs. 30mins to sit and r only the area. We took pictures along the way, but only did 2miles of the total 3.

    Marilu S.

    What an incredible trail! It gets more beautiful the further on you hike! Going again and soon!!!

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    Beautiful trail. Soft trail is easy on the knees. I made all 13 creek crossings without getting my feet wet (Oct 27, 2022).

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    Page 1 of 4

    Ask the Community - West Fork Trail

    Can I take a stroller on this trail?

    I would say no. There's a small portion at the start that's flat and could handle a stroller but after that there are numerous creek crossings and rocky trails. For strollers I'd try either Bell Rock Pathway or there's a great park at Red Rock… Read more

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    Review Highlights - West Fork Trail

    It is an absolutely stunning hike along Oak Creek surrounded by the towering red walls and many trees.

    Mentioned in 8 reviews

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    Devil's Bridge Trail

    Devil's Bridge Trail

    4.7(479 reviews)
    7.3 mi

    Beautiful hike! You…read morewill need to start really early if you don't want to wait in line. When I say early I mean start hiking in the dark and watching the sunrise as you get there. This is what my friend and I did, and we were the third group to make it to Devil's Bridge. We were able to take our pictures without waiting more than 5 minutes. By the time we were done though, there was already a line forming. For the hike itself, it is pretty easy, especially for the first mile out. Be aware that if you do not have a car that can off-road this is a 4 mile hike, not 2. The first mile out is just walking on this dirt road. Closer to Devil's Bridge there is a small amount of scrambling, so you will need to be able to pull your weight upwards. Devil's Bridge is an iconic sight to see and is definitely worth it if you plan ahead!

    NEED TO KNOW: If you want a picture on the bridge, you will wait at LEAST an hour in line. So,…read moregive this some consideration before you head out. This is a VERY popular hike. We got to the parking lot around 7:00 a.m. on a WEEKDAY and the lot was already full. Thankfully, there are signs which direct you to the overflow parking lot at the Mescal trailhead. Parking here will add to the distance you hike but you can eat more Cheetos afterward, so there is that. There is very little to no shade on this trail so plan accordingly. It is not a particularly difficult hike except there is a little bit of climbing up some rocks in some areas (although I certainly wouldn't categorize this as "rock climbing"). Overall, I would say this is a moderate hike. If you are terribly unfit, you may not make it all the way. Sorry about that. If it were not for the hourlong wait in line for the photo opp, we probably would have been up and back within about two hours. Th bridge itself looks scarier and skinnier than it actually is. But if you were to fall, I don't think it would go well for you. The views are gorgeous but the views from just about everywhere in Sedona are gorgeous. You can be standing at the gas station and see amazing views. This was an enjoyable hike, and I would probably do it again, but I already got my picture on the bridge, so I ain't waiting in another hourlong line again.

    Photos
    Devil's Bridge Trail - Devil's bridge (angle one)

    Devil's bridge (angle one)

    Devil's Bridge Trail
    Devil's Bridge Trail - Another view from Devil's Bridge Trail, Sedona's most popular trail.

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    Another view from Devil's Bridge Trail, Sedona's most popular trail.

    Airport Mesa

    Airport Mesa

    4.4(146 reviews)
    9.6 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)
    9.7 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.

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    Oak Creek Canyon
    Oak Creek Canyon
    Oak Creek Canyon

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    Bell Rock - Daily Pass

    Bell Rock

    4.7(237 reviews)
    13.8 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)
    10.1 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)
    8.0 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!

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    Boynton Canyon Trail
    Boynton Canyon Trail
    Boynton Canyon Trail

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    Red Rock State Park

    Red Rock State Park

    4.4(181 reviews)
    13.2 mi

    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.

    A beautiful state park in Sedona, often overlooked by nearby popular trails. Make sure you drive…read morethe loop road through the park! The best thing you could do when you first come to Sedona to get a feel for the area is come to red rock State Park! You could see many of the famous sites from here as well as get a really good feel for the area. Sunsets cannot be beat up here also! The one other thing you should do first when coming to Sedona area for the first time is to stop at the chapel of the Cross on your way to Sedona from Phoenix. The state park is beautifully maintained with plenty of parking! They even have their own gift shop there. Plenty of bathrooms, and lots of trails. Some of them are very easy for all ages right next to the parking lot. You can also take a more moderate trail called eagle nest, which I loved, which is also very close to the parking lot. Highly recommend adding red rock State Park as a must when visiting the area in addition to other popular areas!

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    Red Rock State Park
    Red Rock State Park - Nightshade

    Nightshade

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    Snoopi

    West Fork Trail - hiking - Updated May 2026

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