Boynton Canyon Trail Vortex
Hike through Sedona's red rocks to a powerful energy vortex and the iconic Subway Cave.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Boynton Canyon Trail Vortex
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through Sedona's red rocks to a powerful energy vortex and the iconic Subway Cave.
"Stunning red rock views and spiritual energy make this a must-do Sedona hike."
🚗 Parking is Limited!
Arrive early or on a weekday. Roadside parking is now prohibited.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 6.1-mile hike requires hydration. 2-4L per person is recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boynton Canyon Vortex
Midway along the main trail
Experience the spiritual energy of Sedona at this renowned vortex site, a blend of masculine and feminine energies.
Subway Cave
Detour off Boynton Canyon Trail
Discover a unique natural archway with stunning views, a popular photo spot requiring a short climb.
Red Rock Scenery
Throughout the trail
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Sedona's iconic red rock formations and lush canyon landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Secure Parking
Hydration & Trail Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited!
Arrive early or on a weekday. Roadside parking is now prohibited.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 6.1-mile hike requires hydration. 2-4L per person is recommended.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly flat but can be uneven. Good grip is essential.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markers can be scarce, especially for the Subway Cave detour. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited!
Arrive early or on a weekday. Roadside parking is now prohibited.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 6.1-mile hike requires hydration. 2-4L per person is recommended.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly flat but can be uneven. Good grip is essential.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markers can be scarce, especially for the Subway Cave detour.
🕸️ Watch for Spiderwebs
Early hikers might encounter fresh webs, especially near the Subway Cave.
🧘♀️ Embrace the Energy
Many visitors seek spiritual connection at the Boynton Canyon Vortex.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Boynton Canyon Trail for its stunning red rock scenery and the unique spiritual energy of its vortex. The hike is generally considered easy to moderate, with the Subway Cave detour being a popular highlight. However, parking is a significant challenge, often requiring very early arrival, and the trail can become crowded, diminishing the sense of solitude for some.
"The trail is a beautiful scenic view of the Red Rocks. The trail is mostly flat with some steady incline and declines. Take a detour to Subway Cave off the main path for one of the best views."
Jordan
"Beautiful trail. Bring plenty of water! Turn off to Subway Cave is ~2miles in. See my review for the Subway Cave for detailed instructions.
Come early, y’all. Parking fills up quickly. It’s $5 (as of 2025) to park for the day.
Trail is easy to moderate. Views are fabulous. Bring 2-4L of water!"
Ryan
"Somewhat of a nature walk, off the Enchantment, into the canyon. Lots of bugs in June and if you are the first to head toward the subway cave, you'll also be the first to clear the spiderwebs created the night prior. All is worth it, and the influencers may thank you. Epic views with magical properties await."
Michael “Maranara” Maragliano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trailhead is accessible via Boynton Canyon Road. Parking is extremely limited and fills up quickly. Roadside parking is no longer permitted. Consider arriving very early on weekdays or weekends.
Public transportation options directly to the Boynton Canyon Trailhead are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for a shuttle service if you don't have a car.
No, the Subway Cave is accessed via a hike off the Boynton Canyon Trail. You'll need to park at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead and hike to it.
Parking is very scarce and fills up rapidly. There is a $5 fee for day parking as of 2025. Roadside parking along Boynton Canyon Road is prohibited.
While ATVs can be rented in Sedona and explore various trails, access to the main Boynton Canyon Trailhead is typically for passenger vehicles. Some off-road routes may be accessible from nearby forest roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee for the Boynton Canyon Trail itself. However, there is a parking fee of $5 per day at the trailhead.
The trail is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, access to the trailhead parking lot may have specific opening hours, often around 9 AM on certain days.
The Boynton Canyon Vortex is located along the public trail, so there is no separate fee to visit it. The only cost is the parking fee at the trailhead.
Yes, many local tour operators in Sedona offer guided hikes to Boynton Canyon, which can be helpful for navigating and learning about the area's history and energy.
Yes, Boynton Canyon Trail is accessible year-round. However, weather conditions can vary, with summer being hot and winter potentially bringing cooler temperatures and occasional snow.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main Boynton Canyon Trail is approximately 6.1 miles round trip. The detour to the Subway Cave adds to the total distance.
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It's mostly flat with some steady inclines and declines, especially as you approach the Subway Cave.
The turn-off for the Subway Cave is about 2 miles in. Look for a less-defined path to the right. It requires some scrambling up rocks to reach the cave itself.
Vortices are believed to be areas of concentrated spiritual energy. Boynton Canyon is considered one of Sedona's most powerful vortex sites, known for its blend of masculine and feminine energies.
Yes, there is a restroom facility at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead parking lot. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
The Subway Cave offers iconic shots with its natural arch. The red rock formations throughout the canyon also provide stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red rocks. Midday can be harsh.
Drone usage in national forest areas like Boynton Canyon is often restricted. Check with the Coconino National Forest Service for current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive red rock landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
While there are no specific photo restrictions on the trail itself, be mindful of other hikers and avoid blocking paths. Respect the natural environment and practice Leave No Trace principles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Consider starting early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The spiritual aspect of the vortex can be a fascinating topic to discuss with children, sparking curiosity about nature and energy.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Wellness Enthusiasts
+1Recommendations: Allow ample time to sit and meditate at the vortex site. Consider bringing a journal to record any insights. Some visitors even encounter spiritual practitioners, like flute players or energy healers, adding to the unique atmosphere.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Tips for photographers: A wide-angle lens is ideal for the expansive views. Be prepared for crowds, especially at the Subway Cave, and practice patience for the perfect shot. Remember to respect the environment and other visitors while capturing your content.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Boynton Canyon Vortex
+1While the main trail offers a glimpse of this energy, some visitors venture further into the canyon for a more immersive experience. The atmosphere is often described as serene and grounding, even amidst the popularity of the trail. It's a place where many find solace and a renewed sense of well-being.
+1Remember that the experience is subjective and personal. Whether you're a seasoned spiritual seeker or simply curious, approaching the vortex with an open mind can enhance your visit. Take time to breathe, observe, and feel the unique energy of this sacred landscape.
Navigating to the Secret Subway Cave
+1Once you're on the path to the cave, you'll need to navigate some rocky terrain and do a bit of scrambling to reach the actual cave opening. It's not a technical climb, but sturdy footwear is essential. The effort is rewarded with a unique natural archway and fantastic photo opportunities.
+1It's crucial to download offline maps or study the route beforehand, as trail markers can be scarce. Many visitors emphasize the importance of respecting the environment and practicing Leave No Trace principles when visiting this popular, yet delicate, natural feature.
Understanding the Parking and Access Changes
Given the limited capacity of the trailhead lot, arriving very early, ideally before 8:45 AM, is highly recommended, especially on weekends. Weekday visits are also a good strategy to increase your chances of finding parking. The parking fee is $5 per day as of 2025.
These changes underscore the importance of planning ahead. If you're unable to secure parking, consider alternative transportation options or exploring other nearby Sedona trails. The popularity of Boynton Canyon means that flexibility and early arrival are key to a successful visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit