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    Fay Canyon Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1-1.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    4.2 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    117 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Fay Canyon Trail

    The Fay Canyon Trail is a popular trip for its beautiful natural arch bridge and box canyon experience. This hike is easy-moderate and suitable for most skill levels. It sees heavy traffic, but it’s worth it! We recommend downloading a GPS track for this hike as the trail isn’t always very well defined, especially close to the arch.

    Fay Canyon stretches towards Bear Mountain in the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness. The red walls towering overhead add a sense of grandeur to the trail, making it a fun hike for anyone wanting a very Sedona experience without needing to work too hard. An option off-trail scramble at the end provides excellent views from atop a red Supai sandstone cliff.

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    Route Description for Fay Canyon Trail

    Fay Canyon Trail is a lovely hike in the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness near Sedona. This hike takes you through a dramatic box canyon and to a natural sandstone arch. It’s a suitable hike for beginners and pairs well with the nearby Boynton Canyon Hike.

    This hike isn’t signed and the trail isn’t always very clear, so we recommend downloading a GPS track, especially to find the arch. While it may not always be clear which way to go, try to remain on previously travelled ground to minimize the impact on the environment.

    The canyon supports a diverse range of desert flora and fauna and shows off the unique geological features of this area, particularly the canyons and cliffs formed over many years by erosion.

    Beginning from the trailhead, hike along Fay Creek to the northwest. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to walk right past the arch. Keep an eye on your GPS track just under a half-mile into the hike.

    Turn right to hike to the arch. There isn’t a well-defined path, so choose what looks best. Check out the arch, snap some photos, and then return to the main trail.

    Take a right to continue hiking through the canyon. The sheer red walls rise dramatically around you in some places, and the canyon views are quite unique.

    The trail ends at a dead-end in front of a sandstone wall. Many hikers climb up this cliff to enjoy an expansive view, but this is an unsanctioned side trip and doing so may damage the off-trail environment.

    From the end of the canyon, you’ll return to the trailhead on the same trail.

    Hiking Route Highlights

    Fay Canyon Arch

    The Fay Canyon Arch is a small natural sandstone overhang just off of Fay Canyon. The arch may be small, but its precarious placement and unique shape make it a worthwhile stop. The path to the arch isn’t marked or well-defined, but it’s easy enough for beginners to hike to.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Fay Canton always open?

    Yes, the trail is open year-round.

    Do you need a Red Rock Pass for Fay Canyon?

    Yes. Grab a pass from any other trailhead with a kiosk in the area or from the ranger station.

    Is Fay Canyon busy?

    The trail is heavily trafficked, but not as severely as some other popular trails in the Sedona area.

    Insider Hints for Fay Canyon Trail

    • There can sometimes be a small waterfall in the canyon if it’s rained recently.
    • Bring lots of water and avoid hiking in midday if you’re visiting in the summertime.
    • The nearby Enchantment Resort has excellent food if you’re hungry after your adventures.

    Getting to the Fay Canyon Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for Fay Canyon Trail is on Boynton Pass Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Fay Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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    Fay Canyon Trail Reviews

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