This Gorgeously Scenic Easy Hike With Colorful Cliff Views Is An Arizona Favorite

Arizona is known around the world for its stunning red rock scenery and world-class resorts. The desert town of Sedona is a hiker's paradise, with an endless array of trails winding around massive buttes and spires and through the ponderosa pine forest and picturesque desert. If you're looking for a relaxing hike to whet your appetite for all the natural wonders the area has to offer, consider the Fay Canyon Trail No. 53, a 2.4 mile out-and-back trail northwest of the city center. 

This trail has only a few hundred feet of elevation gain, making it suitable for children and novice hikers. While it's an easier hike, it doesn't skimp on scenery, and the views start the moment you start walking, with awe-inspiring red rock formations towering above the trail, contrasting with the dark green pine forest. In some places, brave trees are precariously perched on tiny ledges on the cliffs. The canyon narrows as you progress down the trail and ends at a boulder field. Keep going a little ways beyond this point and climb up the boulders for some incredible views of the valley below. 

One highlight many hikers miss on this trail is the Fay Canyon Arch. This is an incredible stone arch located less than half a mile up the trail from the trailhead. As you're walking, keep your eyes peeled for the arch near the rock face on the north side of the trail. A short side trail leads to the arch for those who want a closer look, but know that some rock scrambling required to reach the arch.

While the trees provide welcome shade on this trail, the high desert can still get pretty hot on sunny days. Therefore, bring plenty of water for the whole family, including any furry friends who happen to be joining you (dogs are allowed on this trail). Another tip: wear supportive shoes, especially if you want to do the short trip to the arch, as the trail is rough and rocky in certain sections. 

The scenic road to the trailhead takes you through the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness and one of the most gorgeous areas of Sedona. From the city center, drive west on 89A for around 3 miles and then go north on Dry Creek Road, which becomes Boynton Pass Road. Stay on this road for a few more miles until you reach the Fay Canyon Trailhead, which will be on the left side of the road. Something that's important to know is that you need a Red Rock Pass to leave your vehicle here. You can purchase these in town or use cash/credit card to purchase one at the nearby parking lot for the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, which is under a mile from the Fay Canyon Trailhead. 

As you're heading back into town after the hike, consider stopping at the Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park along the way. This lovely park with its impressive Buddhist shrine and colorful prayer flags is a truly special place that many tourists don't know about. It's a great spot to breathe and unwind after a hike and reflect on the magnificence of your surroundings. To reach the Peace Park from the Fay Canyon Trailhead, follow Boynton Pass Road south to Dry Creek Road and turn left on Thunder Mountain Road shortly before reaching 89A.