Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Fay Canyon Trail

    4.8 (48 reviews)

    Fay Canyon Trail Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Fay Canyon Trail

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    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.

    See all

    3 months ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 3
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mark V.
    431
    354
    1936

    6 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 27
    Thanks 6
    Love this 26
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

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

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 35
    Thanks 0
    Love this 34
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Maria E.
    1294
    2741
    822

    4 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 1
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mike B.
    370
    1480
    23255

    4 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tim K.
    758
    644
    4756

    5 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 0
    Love this 11
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kaori M.
    269
    1738
    1482

    5 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Meg M.
    647
    559
    1429

    7 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 0
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kurt M.
    11
    60
    566

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ken S.
    13
    33
    4

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Pork N.
    2
    95
    204

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Stephanie D.
    239
    121
    74

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    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.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    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.

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Hiking 1,021 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

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

    Horsin Around Adventures

    4.6(198 reviews)
    9.4 mi

    Matt and Marina and Stan were the best!! I've been horseback riding at several locations and this…read moreone was the best!! Great staff! Great horses!! Great time!! Thank you! Judy

    We were off to a bit of a chaotic start but we got moving along. There were smaller children- 7…read moreyear old triplets- that led the group so we had to take it slow. I think we were a mixed group of about 18 guests. All of our tour guides were professional, knowledgeable, fun, and lighthearted people. They made absolutely sure we were all safe and having a great time. If you don't want to wait on other people and prefer a smaller group, get the private tour. There wasn't much shade but we were dressed for the heat and had plenty of water and our guides made sure we stayed hydrated. Each horse has a saddle bag for water and small personal items. Jalynn (I think that was her name) did an excellent job rounding up the group and taking charge. She knew what she was doing and how to handle her horse. Chaz and Marina were also our guides and they did a great job of us staying in line. Friendly and personable. I rode Cody and my husband rode Blue. They provided water and Gatorade. There is only one outhouse. They have Clorox wipes, toilet paper and a hand washing station with soap. (And paper towels. ) The lady at our bed and breakfast recommended this place. I hadn't seen it online and they had same day availability. We were on the 2pm tour so if you don't want to be so hot, go in the morning. Lots of dust so be prepared.

    Photos
    Horsin Around Adventures - Family on horseback

    Family on horseback

    Horsin Around Adventures - Our photo

    Our photo

    Horsin Around Adventures - With dog  friend

    See all

    With dog friend

    Horse Affinity - Simon & Helen

    Horse Affinity

    5.0(21 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.

    Photos
    Horse Affinity - Koh and Thumper

    Koh and Thumper

    Horse Affinity
    Horse Affinity

    See all

    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

    See all

    Fay Canyon Trail - hiking - Updated June 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...