Boynton Canyon Trail: Everything You Need to Know
Boynton Canyon is one of Sedona’s most popular and scenic hikes, known for striking red rock views, lush desert vegetation, and powerful vortex energy. The trail offers gorgeous canyon views, shaded forest sections, and glimpses of Arizona’s diverse flora and fauna, including manzanita, Arizona cypress, and canyon wrens.
About Boynton Canyon In Sedona
Boynton Canyon Trail is widely recognized as one of Sedona’s major vortex sites, believed to radiate a balance of masculine and feminine energy from the earth.
Along the trail, you’ll also encounter ancient Sinaguan ruins, evidence of a pre-Columbian culture that inhabited the Verde Valley from approximately 650 to 1400 A.D. Also keep an eye out for desert wildlife such as whitetail deer and a variety of bird species that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
The Trail
The Boynton Canyon Trail is a moderate 6.6 mile out-and-back hike with 980 feet of elevation gain. The trail itself is well-marked and easy to follow.
- The first mile runs alongside a luxury resort and offers little shade
- After this section, the path descends about 100 feet to the canyon floor, where trees provide more coverage
- The final mile is heavily forested with towering Ponderosa pines, creating cool shade
- The trail officially ends at Boynton Box Canyon, though hikers seeking a deeper vortex experience can continue slightly beyond
- Adventurous visitors may also branch off to nearby landmarks such as Kachina Woman Rock of the Subway Cave, a tunnel-shaped cavern tucked within the canyon walls
Where to Park
From the intersection of State Route 89A and Dry Creek Road, head north on Dry Creek to the stop sign. Turn left onto Boynton Canyon Road, then right at the next stop sign at Boynton Pass Road. The Boynton Canyon Parking Area will be on your right.
- A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park in the official lot
- If the lot is full, free roadside parking is available by turning left at the stop sign on Boynton Pass Road
- This is a high-traffic hike, so aim to arrive early, especially on weekends
What to Bring
- Hiking shoes or boots for rocky terrain
- Plenty of water
- Sunscreen for exposed sections
- A camera (to capture the amazing red rock views)