Exploring Fay Canyon Sedona: The Hidden Canyon and Natural Bridge
We thought Fay Canyon would be an easy, end-of-the-day hike — a quiet walk in the woods before heading back to the van. After a long morning on the trails, we were looking for something light and shaded. What we didn’t expect was that this short hike would deliver two of our favorite Sedona discoveries: a secret box canyon and a natural bridge tucked high on a red rock ledge.
Trail Detail: Fay Canyon
Distance: 2.6 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: ~200 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Hidden canyon, natural bridge, quiet red rock views
Best Time: Early morning, spring or fall
Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Quick Answer:
Fay Canyon is an easy, mostly flat hike in Sedona that follows a shaded canyon floor to a scenic dead end. An unmarked, optional connecting trail leads to a hidden natural bridge for those who want a short side adventure.
The Official Trail
From the parking lot off Boynton Pass Road, the Fay Canyon Trail begins gently through a canopy of cottonwoods and junipers. The soft red dirt winds between tall canyon walls, offering plenty of shade and a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere compared to some of Sedona’s busier routes. Birds echoed through the cliffs as we made our way deeper into the canyon — it felt more like a nature walk than a desert hike.
About a mile in, the path ends abruptly at a wooden sign that reads “End of Trail.” For most hikers, that’s the turnaround point — snap a picture, sip some water, and head back. But as we rested there, we noticed a few people scrambling up a rocky slope to the right. Curiosity got the best of us.
The Rock Scramble
The climb was short but steep, a fun little adventure that rewards you with an elevated view of the canyon floor. From the top, we looked back toward the trailhead, watching the afternoon light shift across the sandstone walls. It’s the perfect spot for a snack and a few photos before descending. If you’re feeling adventurous, continuing deeper into the canyon beyond the “End of Trail” sign.
The Hidden Box Canyon
Beyond the sign, the real Fay Canyon begins. The path narrows and the walls rise dramatically on both sides, forming a natural amphitheater of red rock. There are no trail markers, just a faint path and a few cairns that guide the way forward. We only saw four other people in this stretch, which made the stillness even more magical.
This section is wilder — no signage, no clear endpoint — just a sense of discovery around every turn. The light filtering through the canyon changed from golden to soft pink as the sun dropped lower, and it was here that I captured some of my favorite photos of the entire trip. If you’re comfortable with a bit of off-trail exploring, this hidden box canyon is absolutely worth the detour.
The Natural Bridge Detour
On our way back toward the trailhead, we kept an eye out for the turnoff to the Fay Canyon Natural Bridge — a short, steep detour about halfway between the “End of Trail” sign and the parking lot. Like the Subway Cave off Boynton Canyon, it’s easy to miss unless you know what you’re looking for. There’s no official sign, just a faint path leading up the hillside on your right.
The climb is quick but rocky, and you’ll know you’re close when you spot other hikers perched beneath the bridge. When we arrived, there were around fifteen people scattered around the area, relaxing in the shade and taking photos. The natural bridge arches gracefully above the canyon floor — a red rock sculpture formed by time and erosion. It’s a stunning spot and well worth the extra effort.
How to find the Natural Bridge:
- From the “End of Trail” sign, head back toward the trailhead.
- About halfway back, watch the right side for a faint path angling uphill through slickrock and brush.
- Follow the worn track/cairns up to the ledge. It’s short but steep—good shoes recommended.
Expect a small crowd at the bridge (we saw ~15 people); the box canyon beyond the sign is much quieter.
Heading Back
The return trip felt completely different now that we had seen Fay Canyon’s hidden side. What began as a simple walk in the woods turned into one of our favorite Sedona adventures, complete with a box canyon, a scramble, and a natural bridge that most visitors never see.
Fay Canyon was a good reminder that Sedona isn’t just about iconic viewpoints and crowded trailheads. If you’re looking to mix in quieter hikes, scenic drives, and easy-to-access trails like this one, our Sedona Travel Guide: The Ultimate Van Life Adventure pulls together the routes, trailheads, and planning details that helped us experience a slower side of Sedona.
Fay Canyon Sedona – FAQ
Is Fay Canyon an easy hike?
Yes — Fay Canyon is considered an easy to moderate 2.6-mile out-and-back trail with minimal elevation gain. The optional climb to the natural bridge is steeper and requires careful footing.
How long does the Fay Canyon hike take?
Most hikers complete it in 60–90 minutes, depending on whether they climb to the arch and how long they explore the hidden canyon at the end.
Is the Fay Canyon Arch on the main trail?
No — the natural bridge is easy to miss. It sits on an unmarked spur trail on the right side about 0.6 miles from the trailhead.
When is the best time to hike Fay Canyon?
Fall and spring offer the best conditions. Early morning provides shade, cooler temperatures, and an empty trail.
Do I need a Red Rock Pass?
Yes — Fay Canyon uses the Red Rock Pass / America the Beautiful Pass at the trailhead unless you arrive via the Sedona Shuttle.
Related Sedona Adventures
If you’re exploring more of Sedona’s red rock country, check out these nearby hikes:
- Devils Bridge Sunrise Hike: Magic in the Morning Light
- Subway Cave Sedona: How to Find This Hidden Gem off Boynton Canyon Trail
- Jordan / Soldier Pass Scenic Loop to the Seven Sacred Pools
- Cathedral Rock Sedona: A Short Climb with Big Rewards
- Sedona Parking, Shuttles & The Red Rock Pass Explained
Sometimes (often) it pays to get off the beaten path and to carry one’s camera! The scenery is breathtaking.