Hiking Fay Canyon Trail in Sedona

Hiking the Fay Canyon Trail is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Sedona, Arizona. This trail is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its manageable difficulty level, rewarding views, and proximity to Sedona's iconic red rock formations. Unlike some of Sedona’s busier trails, Fay Canyon offers a quieter atmosphere paired with stunning rock walls, desert vegetation, and a hidden arch waiting to be discovered.

Adventure Guide to Hiking Fay Canyon Trail

• Trail Location and Details
  Fay Canyon Trail is located just off Boynton Pass Road, about a 20-minute drive from Sedona’s city center. The trail spans 2.4 miles round-trip and is rated as easy, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels. It is a relatively flat walk through a scenic canyon, with only a mild elevation gain of about 190 feet. Families, casual hikers, and photographers will enjoy its leisurely pace.

• Hidden Arch Feature
  One of the trail’s unique features is the Fay Canyon Arch, which is accessible with a brief detour off the main trail. Keep an eye out for a small, unmarked path on the right roughly 0.7 miles in. A short but steep scramble up rocks leads to the base of the arch, an impressive natural rock formation that many first-time visitors miss.

• Seasonal Beauty
  Fay Canyon is particularly striking in the spring and fall. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while the fall highlights the changing hues of the canyon’s deciduous plants. The cooler temperatures during these seasons make for comfortable hiking conditions compared to Sedona’s hot summers.

Local Insights

Fay Canyon was historically used by Native American tribes, who left marks of their presence in the form of artifacts and paintings hidden in the area. While no significant markings are directly visible on this trail, knowing the cultural history adds depth to your visit.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better lighting for photography.
• What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes (especially for exploring the arch), and a map or GPS if you're unfamiliar with unmarked detours.
• Directions: From Sedona, take 89A west, then turn onto Dry Creek Road. Follow signs for Boynton Pass, and the trailhead is on your left. Parking is free but limited.