In the Belly of the Red Rocks: Hiking Boynton Canyon Trail
A quiet, honest red-rock canyon where geology, culture, and outdoor play converge
You arrive before dawn, when the red cliffs read like a low-relief painting against a sky still steeped in navy. The trailhead sits quiet, a handful of cars—headlamps folding into the dark—then you push off onto packed dirt that smells faintly of juniper resin and dusty summer. The canyon swallows the highway noise; the cliffs angle inward and seem to lean toward you, as if listening. On Boynton Canyon Trail the landscape doesn’t merely frame the walk, it converses with you: sandstone fins whisper of ancient seas, pinyon pines cough small clouds of sap, and a narrow wash occasionally dares you to cross a scatter of sun-bleached boulders.
Trail Wisdom
Start early
Parking fills and temperatures surge—aim to begin before 8 a.m. in spring through fall.
Carry enough water
Bring at least 2 liters per person and an electrolyte snack for the return; there’s no reliable water on route.
Respect archaeological sites
Do not enter or touch cliff dwellings or artifacts—observe from a distance and follow guide directions.
Layer for changing conditions
Mornings can be cool and afternoons hot; a light insulating layer and sun protection keep the day comfortable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The upper Boynton mesa for late-afternoon silhouettes
- •Short side-arches and alcoves one mile in that are great for quiet contemplation
Wildlife
Rock squirrels, Ravens and prairie raptors
Conservation Note
Boynton sits on environmentally and culturally sensitive land—practice Leave No Trace, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing archeological features.
The broader Verde Valley was home to Sinagua peoples (ca. 600–1400 CE), whose cliff dwellings and terraces are still visible in nearby canyons.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower displays, comfortable hiking temperatures, photography at golden hour
Challenges: brief afternoon storms, variable trail muddiness early season
Spring offers mild temps and vibrant desert bloom—ideal for comfortable, full-day hikes but watch for sudden showers.
summer
Best for: early-morning hikes, less crowded trails at dawn, long daylight hours
Challenges: high heat midday, monsoon storms with lightning and flash-flood risk
Start at dawn to avoid heat; monsoon season (mid-July–August) brings thunder and a risk of flash floods in narrow washes.
fall
Best for: crisp air and clear skies, photography with saturated colors, pleasant daytime temps
Challenges: shortening daylight, cool nights
Autumn is a top season—temperatures are ideal and the light is often the richest of the year for red-rock photography.
winter
Best for: quiet trails, dramatic frost or light snow on red rocks, short hikes and reflective photography
Challenges: icy patches after freezes, colder winds on exposed sections
Winter brings serenity and occasional snow dusting; carry traction devices if ice is present and layer for cold winds.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail shoes with good treadEssential
Handles sandy sections and short scrambles while providing ankle support.
2–3 liters water reservoirEssential
Hydration is critical; desert heat can deplete you faster than distance suggests.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreenEssential
Sun exposure is intense on exposed canyon ramps and mesa viewpoints.
Light insulating layer and wind shell
Cool mornings and windy rims require a breathable layer you can pack away.
Common Questions
How long is Boynton Canyon Trail?
The common route is approximately 6.1 miles round-trip with about 600 feet of elevation gain, typically 3–5 hours depending on pace and stops.
Are there restroom facilities at the trailhead?
Trailhead facilities are limited—some lots have vault toilets, but don’t count on running water; plan accordingly.
Is Boynton Canyon suitable for dogs?
Dog policies vary by trailhead and land manager; if you bring a dog, keep it on leash and be prepared for hot surfaces and limited shade.
Do I need a permit to hike Boynton Canyon?
No hiking permit is required, but a Red Rock Pass or equivalent parking pass may be required for trailhead parking—confirm current regulations before you go.
Can I visit the Sinagua ruins inside Boynton Canyon?
Ruins are protected archaeological sites—do not enter, climb on, or remove artifacts; observe respectfully from designated viewpoints.
What’s the best time of day to hike for photography?
Early morning or late afternoon offers the warmest light and the best shadows for depth; sunset on the mesa can be particularly striking.
What to Pack
Water (2–3L), sun protection (hat + SPF), sturdy trail shoes, light insulating layer—hydration and sun protection are essential; shoes handle varied terrain; layers guard against temperature swings.
Did You Know
Sedona’s red rock color comes from iron oxide (rust) coating the Coconino and Schnebly Hill Formations; the Sinagua people occupied the Verde Valley from roughly 600–1400 CE, leaving cliff dwellings in nearby canyons.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early to secure parking; 2) Purchase or display a Red Rock Pass if required; 3) Tell someone your route and ETA—cell service is patchy; 4) Combine hike with a late-afternoon jeep or helicopter tour to see the canyon from different perspectives.
Local Flavor
Uptown Sedona and Village of Oak Creek host small cafes and Southwestern eateries where local guides and visitors swap route tips—order prickly pear or green-chile dishes to keep the regional flavor on your palate.
Logistics Snapshot
Trail: 6.1 mi RT, ~600 ft gain; Difficulty: Moderate; Parking: limited—Red Rock Pass may be required; Amenities: limited; Best time: early spring/fall mornings.
Sustainability Note
Respect archaeological sites and stay on designated trails—avoid trampling fragile cryptobiotic soils, pack out waste, and support local outfitters who follow Leave No Trace and cultural-protocol best practices.