Boynton Canyon Trail

Route Description for Boynton Canyon Trail

Boynton Canyon is a box canyon perched in the mountains above Sedona, and it offers a very unique hiking experience with its dramatic red walls and gorgeous views. This trail provides access to the Subway Cave, a popular photo spot for hikers in Sedona. It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty and a great hike to add to your list if you’re exploring Sedona.

This trail is suitable for adventurous families, although very small children may struggle a bit with some of the rockier sections. The trail can also be a difficult one to follow, so we recommend downloading a trail map and GPS track before heading out.

Begin from the trailhead. You’ll cross the Boynton Canyon Creek and turn left. Go right where the trail splits to hike up a red rock with a great view of the canyon. Head back down to the main trail and hike past the resort. There are excellent views of the red canyon walls here.

Check out the caves in the trail before crossing the creek again, hugging the other side of the canyon. Where the trail splits, you’ll want to stay right to check out the Subway Cave. This long tunnel-shaped cave is a one of a kind formation and it is the highlight of the trail for most visitors.

There are two routes to the Subway. You can either go straight up the rock “ramp” if you’re a bit more confident, or you can stick to the left of the ramp for an easier trail.

After the Subway, return to the main trail. For most visitors, the highlight of the hike has passed, so you may consider returning to the trailhead at this point. If you’re keen to keep going, go left at the split to finish the trail.

You’ll hike along the creek to the trail’s end underneath Bear Mountain at the end of the canyon. Head back to the main trail and then take the same route to the trailhead that you came up on.

Trail Highlights

Subway Cave

The Subway Cave is a fascinating tunnel-shaped cave in Sedona, Arizona. The cave is shaped like two Cs facing each other with a gap in between, as if a train could run right through the middle. This cave is a popular hiking destination and can be accessed on the Boynton Canyon Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boynton Canyon Trail scary?

Most hikers enjoy this route and find it safe, but it’s very important that you stay on the trail in this canyon. Not only can deviating from the trail damage the fragile surrounding environment, but there is very unsafe terrain that you wouldn’t want to accidentally stumble into.

Why is it called the Birthing Cave?

Hopi women used to give birth in the cave.

Is Boynton Canyon Trail okay for kids?

Adventurous children should be able to complete this trail. It’s not the best fit for very young kids and it’s not stroller-friendly.

Insider Hints for Boynton Canyon Trail

• Arrive at the trailhead early as the parking for this hike is limited and the cave can get busy.
• Bring lots of water and avoid the hot middle of the day if you plan to hike in the summertime.