Tucked away in Sedona’s Red Rock–Secret Mountain Wilderness of northern Arizona, the Fay Canyon Trail is one of the area’s most rewarding short hikes. It offers an intimate walk through a stunning sandstone canyon, framed by high cliffs and dotted with desert flora. Unlike many Sedona trails that climb steeply to a viewpoint, Fay Canyon keeps things level — making it perfect for casual hikers, families, or anyone seeking a quieter experience amid Sedona’s famous red rock scenery. For those craving a touch of adventure and a stunning view, a short scramble at the trail’s end leads to one of the area’s most breathtaking hidden viewpoints. To help you plan your visit, we’ve put together this Fay Canyon Trail hiking guide, covering everything from trail difficulty and estimated hiking time to what to expect along the route.
Fay Canyon Highlights – At a Glance
A serene canyon walk – Hidden away in Sedona’s Red Rock–Secret Mountain Wilderness, the Fay Canyon Trail offers a peaceful, mostly level walk beneath towering red sandstone cliffs. It’s one of Sedona’s most accessible hikes, ideal for those who prefer immersive scenery over strenuous climbs. The trail winds gently through a shady desert canyon filled with juniper, prickly pear, and agave, offering a sense of quiet seclusion just minutes from town.
Surprising rewards – Though it begins as an easy stroll, Fay Canyon hides a few surprises. Near the end of the main trail, an unmarked path leads to the base of the canyon wall, where a short scramble reveals one of Sedona’s most spectacular hidden viewpoints — a dramatic overlook framed by rugged cliffs and sculpted rock formations. There’s also a side path to the Fay Canyon Arch, a graceful natural bridge that blends almost invisibly into the cliff face.
Easy, scenic, and family-friendly – This trail is short and gentle enough for families and casual hikers, yet still offers the signature red rock beauty Sedona is known for. With its mix of shade, scenery, and optional adventure, Fay Canyon delivers an experience that feels both relaxing and rewarding.
A favorite local escape – Beloved by Sedona residents and repeat visitors, Fay Canyon offers a quieter, more intimate hiking experience compared to busier trails like Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock. It’s a perfect choice for a calm morning walk, a midday break from the crowds, or an easy afternoon adventure surrounded by sandstone cliffs glowing in the desert light.
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Fay Canyon Trail & Sedona: Location and Map
The Fay Canyon Trail is located in west Sedona, Arizona, within the beautiful Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness area.
How to Get to the Fay Canyon Trail in Sedona
The Fay Canyon Trail is easily reached by car, located along Boynton Pass Road in West Sedona. There is no public transportation or shuttle service to this trailhead, so driving is the only practical option.
Driving times to Sedona, AZ
- Phoenix, AZ: 190 km / 120 mi – about 2 hours
- Flagstaff, AZ: 50 km / 30 mi – about 1 hour
- Grand Canyon (South Rim): 180 km / 110 mi – about 2.5 hours
- Prescott, AZ: 95 km / 60 mi – about 1.5 hours
- Page, AZ: 250 km / 160 mi – about 3 hours
- Las Vegas, NV: 475 km / 300 mi – about 5 hours
These times assume good weather and minimal stops.
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Utah, Nevada and Arizona.
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Fay Canyon Trail Access, Fees, and Parking
Trailhead location: The Fay Canyon Trailhead is located along Boynton Pass Road (link to Google Maps), about 15 minutes from downtown Sedona and a short drive from popular spots like Boynton Canyon and Doe Mountain.
Parking lot: A medium-sized paved parking area, with space for about 30-40 cars, is located directly at the Fan Canyon Trailhead. It often fills up by mid-morning, particularly on weekends and during peak spring and fall seasons. If the lot is full, roadside parking along Boynton Pass Road is limited, so aim to arrive early or visit later in the day
Facilities: Basic amenities are available — vault toilets are located at the trailhead, but there is no water or shaded picnic area, so be sure to bring your own supplies.
Trail opening Hours: Open daily 24/7.
Fay Canyon Trail Entrance Fees
The trail lies within the Coconino National Forest, and a Red Rock Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Passes can be purchased at the parking kiosk, at visitor centers in Sedona, or online at recreation.gov (5$ for a daily pass, $15 for a weekly pass).
If purchasing online, your license plate will need to be entered; if purchasing a physical pass, it must be displayed while parked.
Holders of an America the Beautiful Pass can enter free of charge. You can purchase your pass ahead of time through the REI store.
Fay Canyon Trail Details and Map
Distance: 2.1 miles (3.4 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation change: 150 ft / 46 m (difference between trail high and low point)
Elevation gain: 150 ft / 46 m (cumulative elevation gain; additional 100 ft / 30 m if climbing to the viewpoint)
AllTrails rating (2025): 4.7, 11673 ratings
Duration: Most hikers complete the main canyon trail in 45–60 minutes round trip; allow for 1.5 hours if including the optional rock scramble to the viewpoint at the canyon’s end.
Not an AllTrails member yet? We highly recommend signing up for either their free or paid membership plans. The free plan allows you to find new trails and plan routes but it can only be used while hiking if you have access to mobile data. The paid membership plan (AllTrails+) allows you to download trail maps for offline use and provides live progress updates and off-route notifications.
If you are still uncertain – you should know that the All Trails mobile application was voted the 2023 iPhone App of the Year by Apple.
We find that AllTrails is a great tool to have when hiking, particularly for assisting with navigation when the trail is hard to locate and to help monitor your progress along the trail, which helps estimate how much time you’ll need to complete the trail.
Additional Trail Details
Canine companions: Dogs are welcome on the Fay Canyon Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. The route’s shaded environment and lack of major elevation gain make it a good option for hiking with pets.
Summit: Fay Canyon doesn’t have a defined summit. The highest point is at the end of the unofficial extension, where a short scramble brings you to a panoramic overlook at roughly 4,800 ft (1,460 m).
Trail environment – The trail travels through a lush, red-walled box canyon typical of Sedona’s Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. Expect a mix of soft red sand, scattered slickrock, and stretches shaded by oaks, junipers, and Arizona cypress. The canyon’s cool, enclosed feel contrasts beautifully with the wide-open views found on nearby hikes like Doe Mountain or Bear Mountain.
Route signage – The main trail is clearly marked and easy to follow, though the short detour to the Fay Canyon Arch is unmarked and easy to miss. Watch for a faint side path on the right roughly halfway between the trailhead and where the trail ends at a Forest Service signpost — continuing beyond this point is optional but common, as many scramble up a short rocky section to a spectacular viewpoint.
Trail surface / Technical aspects – The path is mostly smooth and sandy with occasional rocky patches. No scrambling is required on the main route. If you choose to ascend the slope at the canyon’s end or climb closer to the arch, expect loose rock and steeper footing — caution is advised.
Average trail slope grade: Approximately 4%, which classifies the main trail as very easy in terms of incline (except for the final slope).
Trail difficulty level assessment (based on our personal assessment, taking into account the trail length, slope grade and trail surface) :
Very Easy | Easy | Moderate | Moderately Challenging | Challenging
Overall, the Fay Canyon Trail is rated Very Easy. The distance and elevation gain are minimal, and the well-defined path makes it accessible to nearly all hikers.
The optional scramble to the upper viewpoint, however, adds a short but steeper challenge — this section is best described as moderately challenging, though most hikers will find it manageable and well worth the effort for the panoramic view at the top.
Fay Canyon Trail Description and Summary
From the trailhead, the Fay Canyon Trail (#53) immediately immerses you in one of Sedona’s most photogenic box canyons. Unlike many of Sedona’s climbs to mesas or buttes, this route stays mostly level, winding beneath towering red sandstone walls and shaded stands of juniper, manzanita, and pinyon pine. The canyon gradually narrows as the cliffs rise around you, creating a quiet, sheltered atmosphere that feels far removed from Sedona’s busier trailheads.
Although it was rather warm during our mid-March hike, it had snowed the night prior, creating a spectacular contrast between the landscape’s vibrant red rock and bright white snow — a rare and unforgettable sight in Sedona!
Roughly halfway along the trail, look for a small, unmarked side path on the right — this short detour leads to the Fay Canyon Arch, a graceful natural span partially hidden within the cliff face. It’s easy to miss if you’re not watching for it, but it’s worth the few minutes’ detour. The arch is best viewed from below, though some hikers choose to scramble up closer (the slope is steep with loose rock, so caution is advised). We didn’t venture closure since we had recently seen more than our fair share of arches in Arches National Park.
Back on the main trail, continue deeper into the canyon as the walls close in dramatically. The path remains easy to follow, with minimal elevation change. About 1 mile (1.6 km) in, the official Forest Service trail ends at a signpost near the small Fay Canyon creek— but many hikers continue beyond this point for a short unofficial extension.
From this spot, a short scramble up the north side along a rockier route before reaching the base of a sandstone slope, which will reward you with one of Sedona’s finest hidden viewpoints — a broad perch overlooking the entire canyon, with sweeping views toward Bear Mountain and the surrounding red cliffs.
The view from the top of the ledge is simply jaw-dropping and spectacular. One of our favourites in Sedona.
After soaking in the scenery, simply retrace your steps back through the canyon to return to the trailhead.
Fay Canyon Trail Hiking Tips
Hiking Experience
The Fay Canyon Trail is well-suited for beginners and casual hikers, requiring no prior hiking experience. The route is short, clearly marked, and nearly flat for its entire length. Even first-time visitors to Sedona will find it approachable and easy to follow.
The optional scramble to the upper viewpoint, however, introduces a bit more challenge. While it’s only a few minutes long, it involves climbing over loose rocks and steep sandstone ledges. This section may feel moderately challenging for those without much hiking or scrambling experience — but most reasonably fit hikers will find it manageable and rewarding.
Cell Service
Cell service is limited to weak or intermittent coverage near the trailhead and disappears quickly once inside the canyon. Download offline maps in advance and let someone know your plans if hiking solo.
Leave No Trace
Stay on the established trail as much as possible, especially near the canyon floor, where delicate desert vegetation and cryptobiotic soil are easily damaged. Avoid carving initials into rocks or climbing on fragile sandstone slopes. Always pack out all trash, including fruit peels and tissues.
Bugs
Insects are rarely an issue along the Fay Canyon Trail. You might encounter a few gnats or flies in the warmer months, especially after rain, but mosquitoes are uncommon. Ticks are very rare in this area. Insect repellent is optional but can be helpful if you plan to rest or picnic in shaded areas within the canyon.
Equipment
No special gear is required for this hike, but sturdy shoes with traction make walking through sandy and rocky sections more comfortable. Bring plenty of water, even for short hikes, as the canyon can still get warm.
In summer, temperatures remain slightly cooler here than on exposed trails, but afternoon heat and sun can still be intense. Trekking poles are optional but helpful for the scramble section to the viewpoint.
Weather and Exposure
Fay Canyon is one of Sedona’s more sheltered hikes, with partial shade provided by canyon walls for much of the day — a welcome relief compared to Sedona’s more exposed trails. However, the final viewpoint scramble is open and fully sun-exposed, so sunscreen, a hat, and water are still essential.
Summer temperatures in Sedona can exceed 95°F (35°C), making early morning or late afternoon the most comfortable times to hike. Spring and fall offer the best conditions overall, with mild temperatures and vibrant red rock color under softer light. In winter, expect cooler mornings and occasional icy patches in shaded sections after rain or snow.
Current Trail Conditions
Check the Coconino National Forest Alerts page for updates on trail conditions or temporary closures.
Wildlife
Fay Canyon offers a good chance to spot Sedona’s desert wildlife. Keep an eye out for lizards, chipmunks, and rock wrens darting between the red rock walls. Mule deer occasionally appear in the early morning or late afternoon, especially near the canyon mouth. Rattlesnakes and other desert snakes inhabit the area but are rarely seen — they prefer to avoid hikers. Always watch where you step or place your hands when scrambling near rocks or ledges.
Best Time to Hike the Trail
The Fay Canyon Trail can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a slightly different experience:
Spring (March–May):
Ideal conditions with mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and vibrant greenery along the canyon floor. One of the best times to hike Fay Canyon.
Summer (June–August):
Expect high heat, especially midday, but the canyon’s partial shade provides some relief. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and rising temperatures. Watch for monsoon storms and possible flash flooding from late July to early September.
Fall (September–October):
Another excellent season — cooler days, crisp air, and golden light in the late afternoon make the canyon especially photogenic.
Winter (November–February):
Generally quiet and peaceful, with daytime highs around 50–60°F (10–16°C). Occasional frost or ice can appear on shaded slickrock, but the trail remains open and pleasant year-round.
Quick Summary – When to Visit
For the most comfortable conditions and best lighting, spring and fall are ideal.
Summer is manageable with an early or late start and proper sun protection.
Winter offers solitude and crisp air — just dress in layers and watch for icy spots on the descent.
Hiking Packing List
All Trails subscription – This comes in really handy for areas with little or no cell reception, as the annual subscription allows you to download trail maps for offline use.
External Battery – If you are using your phone to track your progress along the trail or to help with navigation, you certainly don’t want your phone to die on you. That’s especially true in the unlikely event that you might get hurt or need assistance.
Hiking poles – These can be particularly useful in steep trails or muddy/boggy trail conditions.
Water Filter Bottle – The Life Straw bottle is an advanced water bottle with a filter that not only improves water taste but more importantly filters out bacteria and parasites, chemicals and microplastics.
Headlamp – very practical and a smart choice if you plan to start your hike before sunrise or finish it after sunset.
About Sedona & Red Rock Country
Where the Desert Meets the Pines: Nestled among Arizona’s iconic red rock formations, Sedona sits at the crossroads of desert and highland forest. Towering sandstone spires rise above juniper-covered plateaus, while oak-filled canyons hide cool streams and shaded trails. The contrast of vivid red cliffs against blue skies and green pines makes Sedona one of the most photogenic landscapes in the American Southwest.
A Landscape Shaped by Time: Sedona’s red rocks are part of the ancient Schnebly Hill Formation — layers of iron-rich sandstone sculpted by millions of years of erosion. The result is a wonderland of mesas, buttes, and cliffs that glow deep crimson at sunrise and sunset. This dramatic geology forms the heart of the Coconino National Forest and the Red Rock–Secret Mountain Wilderness, protecting hundreds of miles of hiking trails and viewpoints.
A Hub for Outdoor Adventure: From short, scenic walks to challenging summit climbs, Sedona offers hiking for every level. Iconic trails like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Bell Rock draw visitors from around the world, while lesser-known routes such as Doe Mountain and Fay Canyon reveal quieter corners of the landscape. Beyond hiking, Sedona is a hub for mountain biking, jeep tours, and stargazing under some of Arizona’s clearest night skies.
A Spiritual and Cultural Destination: Long before it became a modern resort town, this region was home to the Yavapai and Apache peoples, whose history remains deeply tied to the land. Today, Sedona is also known for its vibrant arts community and its reputation as a place of renewal, with “energy vortexes” and meditation sites attracting visitors seeking connection and calm amid the red rocks.
Gateway to Northern Arizona: Located between Flagstaff and the Verde Valley, Sedona makes an ideal base for exploring the broader region — from the ancient cliff dwellings of Montezuma Castle to the scenic switchbacks of Oak Creek Canyon and the high desert plateaus beyond. Whether you’re here to hike, photograph, or simply take in the views, Sedona captures the essence of Arizona’s wild beauty.
Some of Our Other Nearby Favorite Trails
Doe Mountain Trail – Just down the road from the Fay Canyon Trailhead, this short but rewarding hike climbs to the top of a broad sandstone mesa overlooking Sedona’s red rock country. The ascent is moderately steep but well-maintained, leading to a flat summit where hikers can wander freely and enjoy panoramic views of Boynton Canyon, Capitol Butte, and the Mogollon Rim. It’s a compact adventure that feels both scenic and peaceful — a perfect companion to Fay Canyon for those wanting to experience Sedona’s red rocks from above and below in the same outing.
Teacup & Sugarloaf Loop – A local favorite that combines moderate climbing with panoramic views, this loop connects the Teacup and Sugarloaf trails right in the heart of Sedona. The short ascent up Sugarloaf Mountain rewards hikers with 360° views of Coffee Pot Rock, Thunder Mountain, and the greater Red Rock range.
Soldier Pass Trail – A must-do for those seeking a mix of natural landmarks, geological wonders, and classic Sedona red rock adventure. The trail begins in a scenic desert wash before climbing gradually into the rugged foothills of the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of Sedona’s most iconic features — the dramatic collapse of Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole, the reflective pools of Seven Sacred Pools, and towering cliffs of vibrant sandstone layered with desert vegetation.
Boynton Canyon Trail – Just a short drive from Fay Canyon, Boynton Canyon offers a longer and more varied hike that contrasts nicely with the easier, shaded Fay Canyon walk. The trail climbs gradually through juniper and pine forests before opening onto wide desert vistas framed by towering red cliffs. Hikers are rewarded with expansive views of the canyon floor, spires, and distant mesas, making it feel more like a classic Sedona backcountry experience. Compared to Fay Canyon, Boynton Canyon is longer, less enclosed, and offers more elevation gain, making it a better option for those seeking a more challenging day hike with sweeping vistas rather than the gentle, intimate canyon experience Fay provides.
For more hiking inspiration, check out our complete guide to Sedona’s Best Hiking Trails, featuring detailed descriptions, difficulty levels, and local tips for planning your adventures.
Where to Stay Near the Fay Canyon Trail
If you’re looking for comfortable, well-located lodging in Sedona without splurging on luxury, here are four of the best mid-range options. These hotels and resorts put you within easy reach of popular hiking trails, the Red Rock Scenic Byway, and Sedona’s shops and restaurants. Most include free WiFi, parking, and convenient amenities, making them solid bases for exploring the area.
GreenTree Inn Sedona
What sets it apart: affordable comfort with a quiet, convenient location near Uptown Sedona.
Clean, well-appointed rooms, complimentary breakfast, and friendly service make this a reliable choice for hikers and families alike. Its easy access to main roads ensures a quick drive to trailheads while still offering a peaceful stay.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club – Sedona Ridge
What sets it apart: Spacious suites ideal for families or longer stays.
Featuring full kitchens, separate living areas, and a resort-style outdoor pool, this property combines convenience with extra space. Guests can enjoy easy access to nearby trails and Sedona’s scenic viewpoints, making it perfect for those who want both comfort and flexibility.
Arabella Hotel Sedona
What sets it apart: Classic mid-range hotel with a touch of style and excellent amenities.
Offering outdoor pools, on-site dining, and clean, comfortable rooms, Arabella is an easy pick for travellers seeking a balance of affordability and quality. Its central location also makes it a convenient home base for exploring both Uptown Sedona and nearby Red Rock trails.
The Wilde Resort and Spa
What sets it apart: A modern, boutique-inspired option with a spa and scenic views.
The Wilde combines well-designed rooms with amenities like a hot tub, fitness center, and easy access to nearby hiking. Ideal for those who want a bit more flair without going full luxury.
Booking Tip: Sedona lodgings can fill up quickly, particularly in spring and fall when temperatures are ideal for hiking, as well as on weekends. Early reservations are strongly recommended to secure the best rates and rooms.
Fay Canyon Trail – Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Doe Mountain?
Most hikers complete the out-and-back official route in about an hour. Plan for an extra half an hour if you want to scramble up to the unofficial viewpoint.
Is Fay Canon suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes! The trail is short and mostly straightforward. Families and first-time hikers can enjoy it safely.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash.
When is the best time to hike Doe Mountain?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant desert colors. Summer is hot but manageable with early morning starts, and winter is quiet and scenic but can be cool in the mornings.
Do I need a permit?
Yes — a Red Rock Pass is required for parking at the trailhead. Daily and weekly passes can be purchased at the kiosk, visitor centers, or online. Holders of an America the Beautiful Pass are exempt.
Are drones allowed on Doe Mountain?
No — drone use is prohibited in Fay Canyon and throughout much of the Coconino National Forest Red Rock District. This is to protect wildlife, preserve the natural experience for all visitors, and comply with federal regulations in national forest and wilderness areas.
Is there shade along the trail?
Yes, much of the trail is partially shaded by canyon walls and vegetation. However, the scramble and arch detour are fully exposed, so bring sun protection.
Explore More Arizona
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Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
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Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Sedona Hiking Guide for the Fay Canyon Trail and that it will prove useful for planning your hiking trip.
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