Hike up to a large arch nestled against the cliffs in Fay Canyon. From beneath Fay Canyon Arch, you’ll have a shady resting spot and nice views into the canyon. Those who are craving a little more adventure can get up on top of the arch. The trail starts out very flat, but becomes looser and steeper as you approach the arch, and there are some big steps up. After visiting the arch, you can continue your adventure by exploring the rest of Fay Canyon.

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Trail Description

If you tried your luck at finding parking for Subway Cave, and it was too much of a circus, you can always drive a little farther down the road and visit Fay Canyon Arch instead.

Fay Canyon Trail

From the Fay Canyon Trailhead, carefully cross Highway 89 to get onto the Fay Canyon Trail. This trail is so flat and easy that you might be able to take your 90-year-old grandma on it, plus it’s very wide and easy to follow.

Just over half a mile in, you’ll want to keep an eye out for an unmarked trail that breaks off to the right and crosses a wash. This is the trail to Fay Canyon Arch.

Fay Canyon Arch Trail

This trail is noticeably narrower and more rough, but it should still be pretty easy to follow. You’ll be able to see Fay Canyon in the distance, set against the cliffs ahead.

As you approach the arch, the trail gets a lot steeper, and there are loose rocks and a few big steps up. To complicate the matter, the hikers before you have blazed multiple trails, so you’ll have your choice of routes to get up there. Want to brave the cactus-choked way, go up the slippery slide, or climb over the giant boulder? It’s all up to you!

(Okay, it’s not too bad, but joking around always makes it feel better.)

Soon you’ll find yourself underneath this massive arch with plenty of shade and places to rest. Enjoy the view!

If you find yourself unable to sit still, you can make your way to the top of the arch. To do so, find the path to the right of the arch that follows along the base. Keep going until you get to a spot where you can climb up.

Once level with the top of the arch, make your way back across it. It’s very flat and wide enough that you won’t feel like death is imminent.

There’s a nice place to sit up there where you can contemplate why you weren’t satisfied with just being under the arch. Me too, my friend, me too.

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Map & Directions

Location Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness, Sedona, Arizona

From West Sedona, head west on Highway 89A. Turn right on Dry Creek Road, which turns into Boynton Pass Road. Keep left at the T’s. The Fay Canyon Trailhead will be on your left.

Fees/Passes A Red Rocks Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required

Trailhead Facilities Pit toilets

Download KML or GPX

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