Boynton Canyon & Subway Cave — Into the Canyon

Sedona, Arizona · Boynton Canyon · Part 3 of a Sedona Series

Boynton Canyon, along the trail to Subway Cave, was a hike we were excited to explore during our time in Sedona, and it lived up to our expectations. We set out in the morning while the air was still cool, with early light beginning to catch the canyon walls and bring out the deep red tones of the sandstone. Having completed most of our hikes at sunrise, we only ran into one or two other people along the way, which made the hike even more enjoyable. It was just us, the canyon, and the red rocks.

The trail follows the canyon floor with steep rock walls rising on both sides. Along the way, the layered formations shift in color and texture depending on how the light reaches them. The hike is moderate, with a steady climb in places, but nothing overly strenuous.

Layered sandstone walls along the Boynton Canyon trail in Sedona.

Morning light on the red rock walls along Boynton Canyon Trail in Sedona.

Our main destination was Subway Cave. A large natural alcove set high in the canyon wall along a side path near the end of the trail. Standing inside and looking back out toward the canyon creates a natural frame formed by the curved rock above. It’s one of those compositions that almost arranges itself. The cave itself is quiet and sheltered, with cool air and smooth sandstone shaped by years of erosion.

We took a few photos and made our way to the outer edge of the cave, where the canyon opened up in front of us. We sat for a while, had a snack, and watched the light slowly move across the red rock walls. One of those moments where there’s nothing to do but just be there.

Boynton Canyon also ranks among Sedona’s four energy vortex sites and often appears as a combination site, with both upflow and inflow energies present. Whether you feel it or not, the canyon’s calm encourages you to slow down and take in the surroundings. For us, it was one of the most memorable mornings of the trip.