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Adobe Village Inn, 150 Canyon Circle Dr, Sedona, AZ (2026)

01/22/2022

FAY CANYON January Hike of the Month
Fay Canyon
Take in blue skies and red rock views on this easy West Sedona hike. Hike after snow for even better vistas. By Erika Ayn Finch, Updated by Teresa K. Traverse. Photos by Deb Weinkauff.

Photo above: West Sedona’s Fay Canyon Trail is relatively flat trail that offers stunning red rock and canyon scenery. Be sure to check out the Fay Canyon Arch, a side jaunt that’s about one mile from the trailhead.

Fay Canyon has long been one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock Country and for good reason: There’s plenty of parking at the trailhead, the route is relatively flat until the end and the views are remarkable. If you’re looking for solitude, however, you probably won’t find it out here. We hiked Fay Canyon midweek after a snowstorm, and even though the trail was muddy, snowy and icy, there was lots of foot traffic. The trail begins to enter Fay Canyon almost immediately, but after 0.5 mile, you really start to notice the steep, redrock canyon walls soaring on either side of you. Keep an eye out for interesting spires and pinnacles. The further you hike, the more the sky becomes just a narrow ribbon of blue high above you. At the 0.66-mile point, a side trail leading up to the Fay Canyon Arch begins on your right (rock piles on either side of the side trail make it easy to locate). We’ve been up to the arch before, and it’s worth the brief jaunt to be able to actually sit inside a sandstone arch. We decided to forgo the side trip during our most recent hike. But even if you skip it this time, look through the brush along the right side of the trail for views of the arch. It can be a bit difficult to see the formation because it looks like a rock overhang, but it’s actually a natural arch.

Fay Canyon
Looking back at the mouth of Fay Canyon from the slick rock ledge at the end of this West Sedona trail. We hiked this trail not long after a snow storm and enjoyed seeing the trail all dusted with snow.

The trail remains level with manzanita, prickly pear cactuses and juniper growing on either side. After hiking 1.32 miles, you’ll reach a rock slide. Some hikers choose to turn around at this point, but the best views can be won if you climb up the boulders and rocks to a slick rock ledge. It’s not difficult to climb up and around the boulders – there’s a well-worn path that’s easy to follow. Once you get to the ledge, look behind you for views that stretch all the way to Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. The canyon walls are even narrower up here, making GPS and cell phone reception all but nonexistent. During our hike, two foot-long icicles hung from the canyon walls and the sound of heavy snow falling from the evergreens echoed throughout the area. We kept hiking, and the ledge only became more picturesque and inviting. In the spring and summer, this would make for a great picnic or reading spot. The trail winds its way along the ledge of a small rock amphitheater and continues up the canyon. We were forced to turn around after hiking about 1.5 miles because the ice and overgrown bushes made navigation precarious. We headed back to the trailhead for a nice and easy three-mile jaunt.

Fay Canyon
The out-and-back Fay Canyon Trail takes hikers inside a sandstone cliff canyon with towering walls all around you. Look forward to unique red rock views like the one above. This trail is relatively flat and is a great hiking option for families and those with dogs.

DIRECTIONS: From West Sedona, drive 3 miles to Dry Creek Road. Turn right onto Dry Creek Road. Follow this road for about 3 miles. Dry Creek Road becomes Boynton Pass Road. Turn left onto Boynton Pass Road when it intersects with Boynton Canyon Road. Follow Boynton Pass Road for about one-half mile until you reach the parking lot on the left. The large parking lot features vault toilets. Cross the street to reach the trailhead.

12/19/2021

MESCAL TRAIL -December Hike of the Month
Mescal Trail
The Mescal Trail is a perfect hike to take on a winter’s day. Hikers can enjoy red rocks and green trees all dusted with white snow on this West Sedona trail.
West Sedona’s meandering Mescal Trail makes for a relatively easy hike. The trail is even more enchanting after a dusting of snow. By Teresa K. Traverse. Photos by Deb Weinkauff.

Although originally built for and by mountain bikers, the 2.5-mile Mescal Trail is a relatively easy, mostly flat trail that makes for an easy going hike. Mescal is most likely named for the mountain it skirts and not the tequila. We must admit we’re fans of both this hike and the smoky beverage. This West Sedona trail is also even better after a fresh dusting of snow. When we hiked this trail one crisp winter morning, we were one of the few hikers on the trail. Hiking in Sedona is magical anytime of year, but there’s something especially pristine about tackling a trail after a snow storm.

Mescal Trail
A scene from West Sedona’s Mescal Trail after a snowstorm. We loved hiking this trail in the winter. It’s typically not as busy than other neighboring trails. We couldn’t get enough of the red rocks, expansive skies and green trees that were covered with white snow.

We’ve long felt that Mescal is underrated as a hiking trail. Many hikers will only use this trail to access Devil’s Bridge or Boynton Canyon. But Mescal is a worthy hike in its own right. When we hike in the snowy weather, we’re typically searching for an easier trail that’s not hard to follow. Mescal is a relatively meandering trail that only ascends about 200 feet but also offers stellar red rock views. The trail starts off relatively flat, but at about 1 mile from the trailhead, you’ll enter a Red Rock bowl at the base of Mescal Mountain. You’ll see a trail marker that says difficult or extreme. Don’t worry about these signs though. They’re intended for mountain bikers. No matter what direction you pick, it’s easy for hikers. Although the extreme option is a slightly narrower trail. From that 1 mile marker, look forward to expansive views of the Secret Mountain Wilderness and vistas that stretch all the way to Courthouse Butte.

The single-track trail offers plenty of space to hike, and you’ll have no trouble staying on trail as it’s relatively flat. But snow can make the trail slick. When we hiked, there was a healthy dusting, but we could still see the trail. No matter how much snow has fallen, be sure to mind your footing. Turn around early if you don’t feel comfortable continuing on.

Mescal Trail
A red rock formation all dusted in snow on the Mescal Trail. The relatively easy West Sedona trail is an ideal snow hike since it’s mostly flat throughout.

What we loved most about this trail were the views located throughout. Enjoy expansive skies, red rocks up close and the green trees all dusted with snow. It’s magical, and a rate site that you won’t forget anytime soon. Be sure to take time to really take in these breathtaking views while you’re on the trail. Mescal gradually heads downhill as it nears its ends at Deadman’s Pass. Turn around the way you came for a hike that’s just less than 6 miles.

DIRECTIONS: From West Sedona, drive West on AZ-89A and turn right on Dry Creek Road. Stay straight on Dry Creek Road as it becomes Boynton Pass Road. When Boynton Pass Road ends, turn right onto Long Canyon Road. The Mescal Trailhead will be on your right. The lot on the side of Long Canyon Road has a limited number of spaces and can fill as many use this trail to reach Devil’s Bridge. The trail begins across the street from the parking lot.

10/26/2021

Sedona Secret 7 Hiking

The Sedona experience takes on many forms. Profoundly spiritual, invigoratingly physically or mentally rejuvenating, Sedona is the perfect place to refresh the mind, body and soul. Once you arrive, with the unique Arizona light bathing your senses and the clear air making every breath a cleansing one, your personal Sedona sojourn begins.

Of course, the spires and canyons of red rock country are a stunning, unforgettable sight, infusing the landscape with unique energy you will find both soothing and energizing, not to mention astonishingly beautiful.

Hiking is one of the best ways to absorb all these Sedona sensations at once; it is by far our most popular activity. With more than 400 miles of local trails offering experiences from shaded creekside paths to demanding climbs that take you high above the desert floor, hiking in Sedona is like nowhere else. Along the way, you will encounter our world-famous vortexes, evidence of ancient habitation dating back thousands of years, rare desert flora and unique wildlife.

But for the truly passionate hiker seeking trails less traveled, we offer a special treat – a passport to Sedona’s out-of-the-way treasures seen by few. These handful of memorable hikes are part of Sedona’s Secret 7, a collection of experiences that take you inside Red Rock Country as few ever see it. Sedona’s Secret 7 opens the door to seven experiences in seven groupings - hiking, biking, picnicking, stargazing, arts and culture, spiritual journeys and inspiring vistas. Each group is curated by knowledgeable locals who want to share with adventurous visitors the special places they take their friends and relatives. We only ask that in delving deeper into your Sedona sojourn, you commit to the Sedona Cares Pledge, affirming your commitment to join us in preserving our landscape, respecting our environment and acting sustainably every day.

Sedona’s Secret 7 hiking experiences are tailored to appeal to everyone with the soul of an explorer, embracing all levels of ability and respecting your limited time to savor Sedona. For example, a short, moderate out and back hike with your leashed pet will take you to basaltic lava fields and dazzling views of Cathedral Rock on the Schuerman Mountain Trail, a 2-mile round trip. If you are up for a long, strenuous hike with over 2,000 feet of elevation change and sweeping panoramas, Jack’s Canyon is the trail for you. This 12.4 mile out and back is a heart-pounding cardio thriller. Be sure to hike to the very end to access the unique views the locals love. The Chimney Rock Loop Trail is a 2-mile, moderate hike around the base of Chimney Rock, which locals also call Three Fingers Rock (you will see why). Leashed pets are welcome on this trail. See if you can spot the Lizard Head formation. Hint: look up when you pass the intersection of Chimney Rock and Lizard Head trails.

Whether you select one - – or choose to do them all – the Secret 7 hikes reflect Sedona’s partnership with the US Forest Service to keep public lands accessible to all, free of trash and expertly maintained. We’re committed to keeping this ancient landscape, with its stunning view, delicate flora, unique wildlife, and awe-inspiring evidence of long since passed inhabitants – sustained for the generations that follow ours. Please review the Sedona Cares Pledge before embarking on these precious natural resources and take a few moments to review the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace, a Sedona Chamber & Tourism Bureau partner with valuable advice on interacting with our lands.

Don’t forget the additional Secret 7 adventures. From deeply moving experiences gazing into the infinite night sky to relaxing picnic spots for the family or just the two of you, Sedona’s Secret 7 will surely have something – or many things – to fire your imagination, desires and spirit.

Now, get out there! Enjoy all Sedona – and Sedona’s Secret 7 – offer our visitors.

10/16/2021

OUR FAVORITE SEDONA HIKES NEWSLETTER, SEDONA HIKE OF THE MONTH OCTOBER 13, 2021
DEVIL’S BRIDGE
Devil's Bridge
The sandstone arch – the largest in the Sedona area – that gives this hiking trail its name.
Named after the must-see sandstone arch, Devil’s Bridge is a moderately challenging hike. It’s also a perfect fall hike that’s not nearly as spooky as it sounds. Text by Erika Ayn Finch, Updated by Teresa K. Traverse. Photos by Deb Weinkauff.

The sandstone arch that gives this trail its name has become a star on social media. The arch’s visual appeal is undeniable. Many hikers flock here to see this incredible arch with their own eyes, and it’s easy to see why they return. The short, 0.9-mile trail that leads to the top of the arch is absolutely divine and not nearly as scary as its name implies. Hike out early to avoid the crowds.

Devil's Bridge
Soak up the red rock views if you hike this trail.

When you start hiking to Devil’s Bridge, you get the feeling you’re hiking into a canyon because the red rock cliffs tower above you, but you’re not. The trail climbs gently in the beginning with broom snakeweed, juniper trees, manzanita bushes, prickly pear cactuses and banana yuccas growing on either side. After hiking 0.41 mile, you’ll reach a trail registry on your right. Make sure you sign in. Look across from the registry at the cliffs. The black patina, or “desert varnish,” on the red rocks is mineral (manganese oxides, iron and silica) deposits.

Devil's Bridge
Enjoy classic Sedona hiking scenery like trees, red rocks and blue skies on this trail.

About a half-mile into your hike, the trail begins to climb more steeply, and it becomes rocky. At 0.68 mile, the route narrows dramatically. You’ll reach a fork in the trail 0.71 mile from the trailhead – stay to the left. Walk another couple hundred feet and then climb up the rock staircase on your right. The staircase levels out on a rock shelf that offers amazing views of the Seven Canyons area. Keep hiking, duck under a tree at 0.84 mile, and suddenly the bridge appears parallel to you on the left.

Devil's Bridge
A short side trail will give you this view. Don’t miss it.

The trail continues out onto the bridge, though a sign at the trailhead posted by the Forest Service warns against walking across the bridge due to the inherent instability of sandstone arches. Proceed with caution and at your own risk. Walk back down the staircase and instead of turning left to head back to your car, turn right and follow the short path that leads to the base of the arch. You’ll have to scramble over some boulders, but you’re rewarded with a view of the bridge’s underside, 50 feet above you. It’s all downhill back to the trailhead, and our entire hike clocked in at 1.89 miles round trip. Add 2.6 miles to that total if you walk in from the road.

Devil's Bridge
A unique view from underneath the Devil’s Bridge sandstone arch – the largest one in the Sedona area.

DIRECTIONS: From Uptown Sedona, head 3.2 miles on AZ-89A and turn right on Dry Creek Road. Drive for two miles to where FR152 forks and take a right, leaving the paved road. This road is rough and requires a high-clearance vehicle. Drive about 1.3 miles to the parking lot. The Forest Service advises that drivers should not drive down this road if it’s wet. If you don’t have a high clearance vehicle, you also can park at the Mescal Trailhead on Long Canyon Road or the Dry Creek Vista Trailhead on Dry Creek Road.

09/27/2021

Some fun things to do this October in Sedona:

Slide Rock Fall Fest
DATE
October 01 - October 30
TIME
9:00am - 3:00pm

DESCRIPTION
Slide Rock Fall Fest October 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Learn to attract monarch butterflies to gardens, enjoy blacksmithing, and taste delicious honey while learning about bees! Check out Sedona Fire District fire engines, learn about snakes, and visit with US Fish & Wildlife. Tommy Rocks & the Jerome Ukulele Orchestra will perform! Kids can make a scarecrow, create a lavender wand, become a Junior Ranger, & wish Smokey Bear HBD! $10 per vehicle parking.

Saturday, October 09
LOCATION
Sedona at Sedona, AZ @ 995 UPPER RED ROCK LOOP Rd Sedona, AZ 86336

October 2021. At the Sedona Red Rock High School – a favorite in the Southwest, the festival showcases 126 juried artists, the Gourmet Gallery, an international guest artist, and KidZone, as well as great music, food, and raffle prizes. Admission supports arts education in our community.

Sedona Annual Rock, Gem and Jewelry Show
DATE October 16
TIME 10:00am - 5:00pm

DESCRIPTION
October 2021. Annual Sedona Rock, Gem & Jewelry Show On Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Sedona Red Rock High School off SR 89A at 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road. Admission $3, Children under 12 are free with free parking. Forty-five vendors, dazzling Crystals, alluring Amethyst, amazing Agates, unusual Minerals, rare Fossils and Meteorites, custom Jewelry, gorgeous Gemstones, Beads, hourly Raffle Prizes, Kids Adventure and more. Food and beverages available. Event benefits the non-profit Sedona Gem & Mineral Club.

Sedona Plein Air Festival
DATE Saturday, October 23
LOCATION
Sedona at Sedona, AZ 86336

DESCRIPTION
October 2021. Sedona Arts Center invites you to be inspired and experience master artists painting at the 17th Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival. Artists will gather from around the country to celebrate our beautiful and unique landscape through an eight-day painting event. This is an opportunity to include studio and plein air work. Paintings done during the festival are integrated into the ongoing exhibition throughout the week. Paintings are available for sale to patrons all week long.

Fall Arts & Crafts Show
DATE October 23
TIME 9:00am - 3:00pm
LOCATION
Sedona Heritage Museum at 735 Jordan Rd Sedona, AZ 86336

DESCRIPTION
October 23, 2021. At the Sedona Heritage Museum, free admission. This show is an old-fashioned arts and crafts show like you remember them to be. All items are hand-made. The artist or craftsman sits behind each table to personally tell you how they make their pieces, where they find their unusual materials or what inspires them. Many of these people do only this show or a very limited number of other shows making their items unusual and uncommon.

Red Rocks Oktoberfest
DATE October 23
TIME 4:00pm - 9:00pm
LOCATION
Posse Grounds Park at Sedona, AZ 86336

DESCRIPTION
October 2021. Oktoberfest will support many local causes and will benefit the Rotary Club of Sedona Red Rocks and our efforts within the community. This event is produced by and benefits The Rotary Club of Sedona Red Rocks, a local charitable organization whose purpose is to demonstrate “Service Above Self.” Oktoberfest will support many local causes and will benefit the Rotary Club of Sedona Red Rocks and our efforts within the community.

Dia de los Mu***os Celebration
DATE Saturday, October 30

DESCRIPTION
October 30, 2021. Dia de los Mu***os celebrates the Mexican tradition that honors friends and family who have passed on. The celebration culminates with a full day of music, food, fire dancing, and more. Everyone is encouraged to place personal memorabilia on the beautiful altars. There will be fun activities for kids and face painting artists working in motifs. Costumes are strongly encouraged! “El Mercado” will feature traditional Day-of-the-Dead food.

Haunted History
DATE October 31
TIME3:00pm
LOCATION
Sedona Heritage Museum at 735 Jordan Rd Sedona, AZ 86336

DESCRIPTION
October 31, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of ghostly tales with Michael Peach’s original stories: “Peoria’s Runaway Pumpkin”, “Little Bill”-the unsolved murder of Bill Fredricks at the Van Deren cabin; “The Hauntings of the Red Ghost”, a true story of a 19th Century Arizona monster; “The Cactus Killer”, murder and revenge in the AZ desert; and “The Ghosts of Wilson Canyon” based on the death of a bear hunter in 1885. $6

Safe & Fun Trick or Treat
DATE October 31
TIME 5:00pm - 8:00pm

DESCRIPTION
Postponed until 2021. October 31 from 5:00-8:00 p.m., in Uptown Sedona, merchants welcome ghouls and ghosts at store fronts for treats! Community dance performance, safe environment, lots of fun. Free event presented by the City of Sedona Parks and Recreation Department.

09/27/2021

OUR FAVORITE SEDONA HIKES NEWSLETTER, SEDONA HIKE OF THE MONTH SEPTEMBER 24, 2021
CHAPEL TRAIL
Chapel Trail

The Chapel of the Holy Cross sits in Sedona’s red rocks and is nearby the Chapel Trail trailhead.
The quick and easy Chapel Trail kicks off at one of Sedona’s most iconic sites, offers red rock views and is part of Hollywood history. Feel free to bring Fido, too.

ARTICLE BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE. PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEB WEINKAUFF.

Summer’s high temps generally linger in September, and if you’re looking for an easy and short trail that features stunning red rock views, try the quick and easy Chapel Trail. Although dogs are not allowed inside the Chapel of the Holy Cross – one of the most iconic Sedona attractions that’s embedded into the red rocks and is an architectural gem to behold – the best views of the Chapel are all found outside of the building, anyway. Take time to admire the views before or after your hike, but don’t miss this legendary spot. Per Coconino National Forest policy, dogs must be on a leash during your entire hike. As a courtesy to other hikers, be sure to pick up after your dog too. We love experiencing Sedona with our dogs in tow, and this hike offers views of one of the city’s most famed attractions and is an easy hike that you can both enjoy.

Chapel Trail
Chapel Trail hikers can look forward to sweeping red rock views, a relatively flat trail and evergreens all along the path.

Be mindful of the mountain bikers and the somewhat rocky beginning of this trail. The trail is narrow, and you normally don’t find a glut of hikers in this area. The history of this area is fascinating too. Many films were also shot in this area largely due to its scenic beauty. As you hike, you’ll see stunning views of Cathedral Rock, Castle Rock, Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock that inspired Hollywood directors so many years ago. Evergreens are the only thing that (seemingly) is between you and the red rocks. Between 1930 and 1968, 36 movies were filmed around here. This includes flicks like “Johnny Guitar” starring Joan Crawford, “Angel and the Badman” with John Wayne and “Stay Away, Joe,” featuring Elvis Presley.

Chapel Trail
The red rock formation that sits just “above” the one that’s home to the Chapel.

If you’re short on time, your dog is tired or the temps are too high, turn back when the Chapel Trail intersects with the Little Horse Trail. When you’re at the trail’s end, don’t miss the view of the double red rock spires Nuns rock formation – named, in part, due to the nearby Chapel. Turn back the way you came for a trail that clocks in at about 1.3 miles total. If you’re up for more adventure, stay straight on the Little Horse Trail. The trail will curl around to the left, and you can climb up to the breathtaking and can’t-miss Chicken Point viewpoint. Take in 360 red rock views all around before you head down and return to the Little Horse Trail and eventually wind up back at the Chapel.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross stands out in Sedona’s red rocks. Completed in 1956, the Chapel was inspired and commissioned by local rancher and sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude. This Village of Oak Creek attraction is one of the most visited places in Sedona.

DIRECTIONS: From the Village of Oak Creek, head north on AZ-179 for roughly 4.2 miles. Turn right on Chapel Road. Stay on this road for 0.8 miles. The Chapel will be on your left. The trailhead will be on your right in the parking lot at the bottom of the hill that leads to the Chapel. Parking is somewhat limited, and the lots can fill. Be sure to arrive before 5 p.m. when the gates close. If the lot is full, you can try parking at the Little Horse Trail lot and access the Chapel Trail from there. As of press time, Coconino National Forest is open, but that could change. Visit fs.usda.gov for the most accurate and current information.

06/20/2021

OUR FAVORITE SEDONA HIKES NEWSLETTER, SEDONA HIKE OF THE MONTH JUNE 15, 2021
ALLEN’S BEND
Allen's Bend
Allen’s Bend is a short, shaded hike that follows Oak Creek and is an ideal hot-weather hike.
It's hot. For a quick, easy and mostly shaded trail, hike Allen's Bend.

ARTICLE BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE. PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEB WEINKAUFF.

When those temperatures rise in June, many Sedona hikers will stick to shorter trails until the cooler weather returns. And that’s why we love a quick hike like Allen’s Bend. The trailhead for Allen’s Bend starts at the southeast side of the parking lot for Grasshopper Point, one of Sedona’s most-visited swimming holes. Swimmers can cool off in clear blue waters while they’re surrounded by red rocks. It’s a beautiful place to spend time cooling off during those hot summer months. Take a dip before or after your hike. Grasshopper Point tends to be popular, and hiking Allen’s Bend can give you a nice break from the crowds and some exercise besides swimming.

Allen's Bend
Grasshopper Point Swimming & Pinic Area is one of Sedona’s most popular swimming holes and is located near the Allen’s Bend trailhead.

When you’re ready to hike, find the trailhead sign at the kiosk near the covered picnic table. This trail is essentially level throughout. Best of all, the trail is mostly shaded meaning you can hike it even when the heat is oppressive. During the spring, see wildflowers. In the fall, the trees are alive with color. Year-round, you may spot wildlife. This relatively flat trail is also a great one for young children or novice hikers since it’s so easy.

Allen's Bend

A rock wall will be on your left during the entire hike. On your right is Oak Creek, which you can hear flowing but can rarely see. As you hike, look forward to short paths that can give you access to areas where you can fish, swim or picnic. Watch out for poison ivy along this trail. At about the halfway point, the trail moves away from the cliffs and opens up into the site of a former orchard. On your left, see if you can find a small Indian ruin in a shallow cave.

Allen's Bend
If you hike Allen’s Bend, Oak Creek will be on your right, red rocks will be on your left.

At about 0.4 miles, you’ll find a fork. Take a left to follow Allen’s Bend. Take a right to go down to Oak Creek. The trail ends at the Casner Canyon Trailhead. Turn around for an out-and-back hike that clocks in at 1 mile. Head into Casner Canyon for a longer jaunt. If you want an even longer hike, the trailhead for the 1.2-mile out and back Midgley Bride Trail is at the other end of the parking lot. The Huckaby Trail also intersects with the Midgley Bride Trail. Don’t miss seeing Nancy Rock if you take this path.

DIRECTIONS: From Uptown Sedona, head north on AZ-89A into Oak Creek Canyon for 2.3 miles. Grasshopper Point Swimming & Picnic Area will be on your right. There’s a fee required to park at Grasshopper Point. Grasshopper Point features bathrooms.
Hiking Alert
Please check with the Red Rock Ranger District of Coconino National Forest before planning your hike. For more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=54892
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06/05/2021

Boynton Canyon Trail
The trail kicks off with a sandy start. Take a left when you reach the sign for Deadman’s Pass and Boynton Canyon Trail. Enter Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness at roughly 0.27 miles. Just a few steps from there, take a right to head up to a red rock mesa that leads to the Boynton Pass Vortex trail that takes you near the Kachina Woman vortex. Vortexes are supposed energy centers. Take time to appreciate the sweeping and stunning West Sedona views from the top.

Boynton Canyon Trail
An outstanding view from this box canyon.

As you hike, Enchantment Resort will come into view on your left. On your right, get up close to red rock formations. Appreciate the red rocks in front of you too. With a few uphill exceptions, the trail is largely flat. At about the 2-mile mark, you’ll hike beside a dry creek bed on your right. The temperatures drop here and stay chilly until the end. Bring a light jacket to combat the “cold.” For the most part after that 2 miles, you’re hiking with tall trees on either side of you – giving this a woodsy feel that we loved. Stop and inhale the pine.

Boynton Canyon Trail
Hikers can look forward to red rock views on this hike.

Although largely level, the last quarter mile of this trail is one tough uphill slog. Your reward when you reach the trail’s end – marked by a wooden sign – is a stunning view of Boynton Canyon. Red rock walls dotted with green vegetation rise all around you. Take time to rest and eat a snack on the red rock mesa. This is a vista you can only capture on this trail. Watch your footing as you head back down and return the way you came for a trail that clocks in at around 6 miles round trip.

DIRECTIONS: From West Sedona, turn right on Dry Creek Road. At 3 miles, take a left onto Boynton Pass Road. Take a right onto Boynton Canyon Road at 5 miles. The parking lot will be on your right. You must purchase a Red Rock Parking Pass and display it in your dashboard. Day passes cost $5. There’s a restroom at this trailhead.

04/27/2021

BREWER TRAIL
Brewer Trail
The short and sweet Brewer Trail offers expansive views of the sky and red rocks.
Seeking solitude, a short hike and stellar red rock views? Then hike this trail.

ARTICLE BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE. PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEB WEINKAUFF.

Believe it or not, there is a trail you can hike if you’re searching for solitude and happen to be on Airport Road: the Brewer Trail. We only spotted two couples on our short hike. After parking on Airport Road, head to your left to start your journey on the Brewer Trail. Almost immediately on your jaunt, you’ll see a tremendous view of Capitol Butte or Thunder Mountain on your left. Be sure to pause to take it all in. It’s quite the sight and one of our favorite in all of Red Rock Country. At about 0.1 miles, the Brewer Trail intersects with the Sedona View Trail. Head to your left and hug the base of a red rock formation.

Brewer Trail
A red rock view of the Village of Oak Creek as seen from the trail.

Not long after that, you’ll spot some of the Village of Oak Creek’s signature red rock formations like Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Take the time to appreciate those views. What amazed us here was how quickly we left behind bustling Airport Road and were immersed in nature. Expect to just hear the sound of your footsteps on the ground as you hike. We even heard a person playing a wood flute. There’s almost no shade so be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.

Brewer Trail
Cactus and red rock vistas.

You’ll begin to descend at about 0.4 miles. The trail gets rocky and steep here. At 0.6 miles, you’ll see a wire fence on your right. The trail then winds to the left. Even if you don’t see any mountain bikers, you’ll for sure see their tire tracks. The Brewer Trail comes to an end at Brewer Road. Turn around and head back the way you came. Anticipate a rocky, uphill climb that’s blessedly short.
When you reach the red rock formation, stay to your left to continue on the Brewer Trail. Return to the parking lot for a hike that’s 1.5 miles. If you’d like a longer hike, consider trekking the 1.2 mile out-and-back Sedona View Trail. Or you can complete a longer 3.2 miles long Airport Loop Trail. No matter what trail you pick, all of the views are magnificent.

Brewer Trail
A red rock scene from the Brewer Trail.

DIRECTIONS: From West Sedona, head east on AZ-89A and turn right onto Airport Road. From there, park in one of the parking spaces on your left. If there aren’t any left, you can head to the top of Airport Road and turn around. Many people park, get out to take pictures and then leave. You also can park at the Sedona Overlook Parking Lot for $3. You just have to complete the short Sedona View Trail to reach the Brewer Trail.

Hiking Alert
Please check with the Red Rock Ranger District of Coconino National Forest before planning your hike. For more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=54892

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