Fay Canyon
Discover the Fay Canyon Arch, a stunning natural wonder nestled amidst Sedona's iconic red rocks. Easy to moderate hike with optional scrambles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Fay Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Fay Canyon Arch, a stunning natural wonder nestled amidst Sedona's iconic red rocks. Easy to moderate hike with optional scrambles.
"A must-visit for breathtaking red rock views and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure."
Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking fills fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to snag a spot. :car:
Extend Your Hike
Hike past the arch for a secret viewpoint! Scrambling involved, but worth it. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fay Canyon Arch
Mid-trail
Discover a stunning natural arch carved into the red rock, a rewarding sight after a gentle hike.

Canyon Floor Exploration
Fay Canyon
Wander through the serene canyon, surrounded by towering red rock cliffs and desert flora.

Scramble to Viewpoint
Beyond the arch
For the adventurous, a short scramble leads to an epic viewpoint overlooking the canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Parking
Trail Difficulty & Extensions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking fills fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to snag a spot. :car:
Extend Your Hike
Hike past the arch for a secret viewpoint! Scrambling involved, but worth it. :hiking_boot:
Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed pups are welcome, but be mindful of the rocky terrain. :dog:
Download Trail Map
Cell service can be spotty. Download your map beforehand! :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking fills fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to snag a spot. :car:
Extend Your Hike
Hike past the arch for a secret viewpoint! Scrambling involved, but worth it. :hiking_boot:
Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed pups are welcome, but be mindful of the rocky terrain. :dog:
Download Trail Map
Cell service can be spotty. Download your map beforehand! :iphone:
Hydrate Well
Arizona sun is strong! Carry plenty of water, even on shorter hikes. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fay Canyon is praised for its accessible beauty, particularly the iconic arch and scenic canyon floor. Visitors appreciate its dog-friendly nature and the option for a more challenging scramble to a viewpoint. However, parking can be a significant challenge, with the lot filling up quickly.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fay Canyon Trailhead is located off Boynton Pass Road near Sedona, Arizona. While some sources suggest a 4WD vehicle is needed for the road leading to the trailhead, many visitors report that a regular car is sufficient, especially if you arrive early. Parking is free but limited.
Currently, there is no direct public transportation to the Fay Canyon Trailhead. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have your own car, but confirm drop-off/pick-up points in advance.
The parking lot is directly off Boynton Pass Road. Look for signs indicating the Fay Canyon Trailhead. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday is highly recommended to ensure you find parking.
Yes, the drive along Boynton Pass Road itself offers beautiful red rock scenery. Many visitors combine a trip to Fay Canyon with other nearby trails and viewpoints, making for a scenic exploration of the Sedona area.
Hiking in the rain can be beautiful but also slippery. The red rocks can become slick, so exercise extra caution. Winter snow can transform Fay Canyon into a magical, albeit potentially icy, landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access the Fay Canyon Trail. The parking lot is also free, but it is a popular spot and can fill up quickly.
Fay Canyon is an open trail within Coconino National Forest and does not have set operating hours. You can visit from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No permit is required for hiking the Fay Canyon Trail. It is a public trail managed by the Coconino National Forest.
Since there is no fee and no specific entry time, you cannot book tickets in advance for Fay Canyon. Access is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
To avoid crowds, visit Fay Canyon on a weekday morning. Early morning hours are generally the least crowded, allowing for a more peaceful hiking experience.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main Fay Canyon Trail is considered easy to moderate. It's relatively flat for the first mile, making it accessible for many. The hike to the arch is straightforward, but extending the hike to the viewpoint involves some scrambling.
The round-trip distance for the main Fay Canyon Trail to the arch is approximately 1.5 to 2 miles. If you continue to the viewpoint, the total round trip can be around 2.4 miles.
While the description mentions a waterfall, it's important to note that Fay Canyon does not typically have a permanent waterfall. Seasonal rains might create temporary water flow, but it's not a reliable feature.
Yes, Fay Canyon Trail is dog-friendly! However, the trail is rocky, so keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of their paws and footing.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy athletic shoes, as the trail is rocky. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the desert climate. Don't forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
📸 📸 Photography
Fay Canyon offers stunning red rock formations, the iconic Fay Canyon Arch, and panoramic views from the higher viewpoints. The canyon floor itself provides beautiful shots with desert flora. Golden hour light is particularly magical here.
Yes, Fay Canyon is excellent for photography during golden hour. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow on the red rocks, creating dramatic lighting. Sunrise can also be beautiful, though access might be limited by parking.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views and the arch. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the rock formations. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures.
The Fay Canyon Arch itself is a prime photo spot. For more expansive shots, consider the scramble to the upper viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the canyon and surrounding red rocks.
Try different angles to capture the arch's scale. Shooting during golden hour can add warmth and depth. Consider including people in the frame to give a sense of scale to the natural formation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the scramble to the upper viewpoint might be too challenging for very young children, the main trail and the arch itself offer plenty of wonder. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember that the trail is rocky, so it's important to be mindful of your dog's paws and ensure they have good traction. Always carry extra water for your pet, as desert temperatures can be high. The moderate difficulty of the main trail makes it enjoyable for both you and your canine friend.
🚶♀️ Easy Hike Enthusiasts
This trail is perfect for those who want to experience the magic of Sedona's red rocks without a demanding trek. You can enjoy the natural beauty, take photos of the arch, and still have plenty of energy for other activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Fay Canyon Arch Trail
What sets Fay Canyon apart is the option to extend your adventure. Beyond the main arch, the trail continues deeper into the canyon. For those feeling more adventurous, a scramble up the rocks leads to a higher viewpoint offering spectacular panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. This extension adds a moderate challenge but rewards hikers with breathtaking scenery.
Dog owners will appreciate that Fay Canyon is a pet-friendly trail, allowing leashed dogs to join the exploration. However, the rocky terrain means owners should be mindful of their pets' paws and ensure they have adequate water, especially during warmer months.
Navigating Fay Canyon: Parking and Access
There's some conflicting information regarding the road to the trailhead. While some sources suggest a 4WD vehicle is necessary, many visitors have successfully reached the trailhead with standard vehicles. If parking is full, you might have to park further down the road and walk, which can add to your overall hike.
Given the parking situation, it's wise to have a backup plan or be prepared for a short walk to the trailhead. Checking local conditions or arriving with flexibility can significantly improve your experience.
Fay Canyon's Natural Beauty and Vistas
The main attraction for many is the Fay Canyon Arch, a magnificent natural bridge carved by erosion. Capturing this iconic landmark is a highlight for photographers and hikers alike. The arch is easily accessible from the main trail, offering a clear reward for your efforts.
For those who venture further, the scramble to the upper viewpoint provides an unparalleled perspective of the vast red rock country. This elevated vantage point offers sweeping panoramas, making it an ideal spot for photography and simply soaking in the grandeur of Sedona's landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit