The Fay Canyon Trail is a true gem in Sedona, perfect for those seeking a short, scenic hike.
This trail winds through a beautiful canyon, where towering red sandstone walls create a stunning backdrop.
The lush canopy of oaks offers refreshing shade, making it a great hike year-round.
This easy, mostly flat trail is great for casual hikers and families and pairs well with other nearby hikes, such as Doe Mountain and Subway Cave.
The true highlight is the Fay Canyon Arch, a natural arch-shaped rock formation hidden along a side trail.
Reaching the arch requires a short but steep scramble over rocky terrain, but the effort is well worth it.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to find the Fay Canyon Arch, what to expect on the trail, the best time to visit, and key hiking tips for an unforgettable adventure!
Fay Canyon Trail to Fay Canyon Arch: Overview
Length: 1.5 miles (to arch and back) and 2.4 miles (entire trail + arch)
Elevation Gain: 250 to 330 feet
Difficulty: Fay Canyon Trail is easy, and Fay Canyon Arch Trail is moderately challenging
Hiking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Hike Features: Fay Canyon Arch, red sandstone walls, and a secret overlook 🤫
Is a Red Rock Pass required?
No, a Red Rock Pass is not required to park at the Fay Canyon Trailhead.
Sometimes things change, so make sure to check the official website for updates regarding which trailheads require a Red Rock Pass.
Fay Canyon Arch Parking and Trail Map
Fay Canyon Trailhead
The Fay Canyon Trailhead is located about 20 minutes from Sedona off Boynton Pass Road.
The trailhead has a spacious parking lot, but keep in mind that this is a popular and heavily trafficked hike – spots fill up quickly, especially during peak hours.
With that being said, for a better chance of finding a parking spot, arrive early or later in the day.
Pit toilets are available at the parking area.
You might be a bit lost trying to find the trail once you get to the parking lot.
Don’t worry, I got you – it’s located across the street. 🫡
Fay Canyon Arch Map
Best Time to Hike the Fay Canyon Trail
The best times to hike the Fay Canyon Trail are typically in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
During these months, the weather is usually perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities.
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This is also peak season for Sedona so expect busy trails – hiking early or later in the day will help avoid crowds.
Seasonal Considerations
🍂 Fall (September – November): This is a popular time to visit Sedona due to ideal weather conditions making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
❄️ Winter (December – February): This season is probably my favorite time to explore Sedona because the crowd-level is at its lowest.
My husband and I have spent two weeks exploring Sedona in January, and almost every day we started our hikes before sunrise.
The temperatures were FREEZING!
But with proper layers we were comfortable.
If you are lucky, you’ll be rewarded with the stunning sight of Sedona blanketed in snow.
We have yet to witness this, but hopefully one day!
🌷 Spring (March – May): This season offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful desert blooms, but trails will be busy as it’s a popular time to visit Sedona.
☀️ Summer (June – August): Visiting Sedona in the summer is not recommended due to extreme heat.
Many of the trails are exposed, and when combined with a challenging hike it can quickly lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.
Most of the Fay Canyon Trail is shaded, but the side trail to the Fay Canyon Arch is exposed.
If you do attempt to hike to the Fay Canyon Arch in summer, start early or later in the day, bring plenty of water, and wear sun-protective clothing.
How to Get to the Fay Canyon Arch: Trail Directions
Fay Canyon Trail
From the Fay Canyon Trailhead, carefully cross the road to begin your hike.
The Fay Canyon Trail is a well-defined, dirt path.
You might notice a side trail to the right – don’t go that way.
The main trail is easy to follow, winding through a canopy of oaks with views of stunning red cliffs.
In about 0.6 miles, there will be an unmarked side trail to the right.
I recommend downloading the AllTrails offline maps, so you don’t miss the turn.
You can see the arch from the trail – it looks more like a cave from afar.
Once you see the location of the arch, it will be easier to reach.
Fay Canyon Arch Trail (social trail)
The social trail crosses a wash and heads straight for the Fay Canyon Arch.
Unlike the main trail, this path is narrower, rougher, and less defined, but it’s still fairly easy to follow.
The arch is just 0.1 to 0.2 miles from the turnoff, but reaching it requires a steep climb over rocky terrain, with plenty of cacti lining the path.
Although the Fay Canyon Trail is great for hikers of all skill levels, the Fay Canyon Arch Trail is not for everyone – know your limits!
Fay Canyon Arch
If you do decide to tackle the side trail, the reward of standing beneath (or on top) the massive, hidden arch makes it well worth the effort.
The up-close view of the arch is absolutely breathtaking, and the distant red rock scenery makes it even more spectacular.
Relax in the shade beneath the arch and take it all in – you’ve earned it!
Climbing to the Top of Fay Canyon Arch
For those feeling adventurous, a side trail to the right of the arch leads to the top.
While some sections are a bit sketchy requiring some rock scrambling, it’s nothing too extreme – but as always, know your limits and use good judgment.
If you’re up for the challenge, the views from the top are absolutely worth it, offering a unique perspective of the canyon below.
Finish the Fay Canyon Trail
After exploring the arch, retrace your steps to rejoin the main trail.
If you have time, I recommend completing the rest of the Fay Canyon Trail.
The official trail ends at a red Supai sandstone cliff, marked by a sign.
If you want panoramic views of the canyon, and you’re comfortable with climbing, make your way up the giant rocks for a better view.
There is also a “secret overlook” somewhere beyond the end of the Fay Canyon Trail.
My husband and I were not aware of this overlook when we went, but we ended up following a side trail that apparently leads to the overlook.
Unfortunately, we did not go far enough and missed it.
It’s on our bucket list for next time!
To return to the parking lot, retrace your steps back down the Fay Canyon Trail.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
🥾 Have the time and energy for another hike? Check out these nearby trails:
Essential Hiking Tips and What to Bring
1. Start Early: Avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
2. Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks: Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the summer.
Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel and help maintain your energy during the hike.
3. Footwear and Gear:
- The side trail towards Fay Canyon Arch is very rocky, so wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots) with good traction.
- Wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
- Hiking poles may be beneficial for navigating the rocky section.
4. Keep Sedona Pristine for Future Generations: Take the Sedona Cares Pledge and follow Leave No Trace principles.
5. Follow the Most-used Social Trail and Avoid Creating New Ones: Social trails are common in Sedona, and many hikes involve following these unmarked paths.
Whenever possible, stick to the most-used trail.
Sometimes you might find multiple side trails branching off, so it can be tricky to stay on track.
Try your best to avoid creating new social trails, as they contribute to erosion and damage the fragile desert ecosystem.
6. Summer Safety Tips:
- Take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
- Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Eat high-carb and salty snacks to help keep your energy levels up and replenish electrolytes.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Try to hike during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.
Pack the 10 Essentials:
- Navigation – A map, compass, or GPS device to help you stay on course and find your way in unfamiliar terrain.
- Water – Sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
- Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
- First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
- Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
- Insulation – Extra layers of clothing (such as a jacket or fleece) to stay warm in changing weather conditions.
- Rain Gear and Emergency Shelter – A rain jacket or poncho and an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
- Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency.
- Multi-tool or Knife – A versatile tool or knife to handle any tasks, from preparing food to making repairs.
- Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.
Discover More Great Hikes in Sedona
Soldiers Pass Trail – This trail is perfect for families and beginners plus it’s pet-friendly! You’ll encounter remarkable features like Devils Kitchen Sinkhole, the Seven Sacred Pools, and the intriguing Soldiers Pass Cave.
Cathedral Rock – This is a short but steep hike to one of the most magical spots in Sedona. Also, it’s an incredible spot to watch the sunset!
Keyhole Cave – Tackle this off-the-beaten-path hike to one of Sedona’s largest caves, offering an adventurous challenge for experienced hikers.
Wilson Mountain – If you’re up for a challenging climb with unmatched scenery and fewer crowds, tackle this hike to the tallest peak in Sedona!
Conclusion
Hiking the Fay Canyon Trail is a rewarding experience, offering a perfect mix of scenic beauty and adventure.
With its towering red cliffs, shaded path, and lush desert landscape, it’s an excellent choice for hikers of all skill levels.
For those looking to add a challenge, the climb to Fay Canyon Arch provides a thrilling detour with incredible views.
If this guide inspires you to hike the Fay Canyon Trail and find the Fay Canyon Arch, I’d love to hear about your adventure.
Leave a comment and share your experience!
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