Fay Canyon - Fork in the road
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Fay Canyon

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Fay Canyon - Fork in the road

Fay Canyon

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit for breathtaking red rock views and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fay Canyon Arch

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

Canyon Floor Exploration

Fay Canyon

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

Scramble to Viewpoint

Scramble to Viewpoint

Beyond the arch

For the adventurous, a short scramble leads to an epic viewpoint overlooking the canyon.

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Planning Your Visit

Trailhead Access & Parking

Fay Canyon Trailhead parking is free but can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Some suggest a 4WD vehicle is needed for the road to the trailhead, but others state it's unnecessary. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday to secure a spot.

Trail Difficulty & Extensions

The main Fay Canyon Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels. For a more adventurous experience, hike beyond the arch to a viewpoint, which involves some scrambling. Dogs are allowed but the rocky terrain requires caution.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Magical snowy wonderland
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🥾 Fay Canyon Arch Trail 📍Location: Sedona, Arizona ➡️ Length: 1.5 Miles RT Out and Back 🗻Elevation Gain: 246 FT 🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes, but it is a very rocky trail. 🚗 Parking: Free parking right outside of the trailhead. No 4x4 drive needed. 🏜️ Note: After hiking to the arch, be sure to hike through the rest of the canyon, it’s a beautiful easy trail and you’ll score some extra beauty! ⚠️ Warning...
natalienicosia
0 likes • 4.4K views

Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking fills fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to snag a spot. :car: Instagram

Extend Your Hike

Hike past the arch for a secret viewpoint! Scrambling involved, but worth it. :hiking_boot: Instagram

Fay Canyon nature’s artwork unfolds amidst ancient rock formation🪨 💡Fay Canyon Trail, located in Coconino National Forest near Sedona, Arizona, offers hikers a picturesque adventure. The trail is approximately 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers) round trip and showcases stunning red rock cliffs and towering ponderosa pines. What makes Fay Canyon unique is its hidden alcove at the end of the trail, where y...
arizona.explores
308 likes • 8.3K views
see caption for my Sedona favorites 😍 -Fay Canyon -Courthouse Butte Loop -Sugarloaf -Birthing Cave (little scramble at the end but not terrible) Let me know if you have any questions about planning a bachelorette or girls trip in Sedona AZ #sedona #sedonaarizona #arizona #girlstrip
tori.colli
23 likes • 968 views

Dog-Friendly Trail

Leashed pups are welcome, but be mindful of the rocky terrain. :dog: Instagram

Download Trail Map

Cell service can be spotty. Download your map beforehand! :iphone: Instagram

Hidden gems in the canyon: Fay Canyon is a relaxing 2‑mile round‑trip trail, and if you’re feeling adventurous, hike on to a secret arch and even scramble to a viewpoint for an epic finish. #FayCanyon #SedonaTrails #HiddenArch #vortex #sedonavortex #trails
arroyopinioninsedona
20 likes • 1.2K views

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: Instagram

Extend Your Hike

Hike past the arch for a secret viewpoint! Scrambling involved, but worth it. :hiking_boot: Instagram

Dog-Friendly Trail

Leashed pups are welcome, but be mindful of the rocky terrain. :dog: Instagram

Download Trail Map

Cell service can be spotty. Download your map beforehand! :iphone: Instagram

Hydrate Well

Arizona sun is strong! Carry plenty of water, even on shorter hikes. :droplet: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Beautiful Fay Canyon Arch
Scenic canyon views
Dog-friendly trail

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Crowded at peak times

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

No permit is required for hiking the Fay Canyon Trail. It is a public trail managed by the Coconino National Forest. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🥾 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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fay Canyon is a great option for families looking for an accessible hike. The main trail to the arch is relatively flat and short, making it manageable for younger children. The rocky terrain means keeping a close eye on little ones, and ensuring they have sturdy shoes is a must. Instagram

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. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Fay Canyon is a fantastic choice for hikers who want to bring their furry companions along. The trail is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to explore the beautiful red rock scenery. Instagram

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. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy Hike Enthusiasts

If you're seeking an easy hike with beautiful scenery, Fay Canyon is an excellent choice. The main trail to the arch is largely flat and well-maintained, offering stunning red rock views without strenuous climbing. Reddit

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Fay Canyon Arch Trail

The Fay Canyon Arch Trail is a popular choice for hikers seeking a relatively easy yet rewarding experience in Sedona's red rock country. The trail itself is approximately 1.5 miles round trip to the arch, making it accessible for families and those with moderate fitness levels. The path is generally well-defined, though it can be rocky in sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Navigating Fay Canyon: Parking and Access

Accessing Fay Canyon requires a bit of planning, particularly regarding parking. The Fay Canyon Trailhead offers free parking, but it is notoriously limited and tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Many visitors recommend arriving very early in the morning or opting for a weekday visit to secure a parking spot. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Fay Canyon's Natural Beauty and Vistas

Fay Canyon is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by towering red rock formations and a serene canyon floor. The trail winds through a landscape dotted with desert vegetation, including ponderosa pines and various desert plants, creating a picturesque environment. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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