Subway Cave Exploration: Sedona's Off-Path Adventure

Embark on a journey to Sedona's Subway Cave for an exhilarating hike filled with stunning red rock views and a secret cave exploration.

Free access to the trail; Red Rock Pass required for parking ($5/day)
369 Miles from you
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Description

Embark on a journey to Sedona's Subway Cave for an exhilarating hike filled with stunning red rock views and a secret cave exploration. The Subway Cave hike in Sedona is an off-the-beaten-path adventure that begins on the Boynton Canyon Trail. This 6.1-mile roundtrip trail offers breathtaking vistas of Sedona's iconic red rocks. The hike to the Subway Cave includes navigating through a residential area, following the trail marked by the unique Alligator Juniper tree, and a climb into the cave itself. Inside, hikers are rewarded with stunning views from the cave's interior, making it a memorable part of any Sedona visit. This hike is recommended for those with a sense of adventure and in good physical condition due to the scrambling and steep sections.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

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Itinerary

Start at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, with a Red Rock Pass for parking.
Follow the Boynton Canyon Trail, keeping an eye out for the Alligator Juniper tree as your cue to turn off towards the Subway Cave.
Navigate the trail to the cave, which includes a scramble up to the entrance.
Explore the cave and enjoy the views, then return via the same path.
Optionally, hike the Boynton Vista Trail near the trailhead if time and energy allow.

Location

Boynton Cyn Trl, Sedona, AZ 86336

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Packing List

Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
At least 2 liters of water
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Camera or smartphone for photos
Snacks for energy

4.8 ● Google reviews

Was a very peaceful hike we were able to see some deer 10 foot from the trail. It has many different aspects of hiking. You start off in a desert Sedona feeling vibe and changes to a hike you would see in Georgia in the Smokies then back to red rocks. Definitely recommend this hike don’t forget to stop at the Subway hike before you make your way back out. Arrive early to eliminate parking on the road.

One of the easiest trails to go it is just a 20 minute one-way to go to the vortex and enjoy the beautiful view. Unfortunately, I could not make it as we reached here quite a bit late it was going to Sunset and I was not sure. The route is very pretty must go place in your bucket list , there are signs everywhere. Do not feed the bear so be careful don’t carry food along with you, there is a public restroom at the parking area which is very dirty, so if possible, finish your personal job before heading towards the trail and try to drink as much water as possible so you can avoid using this restroom.

Great trail, most can do it, would say it's moderate. Has a nice pace, and just before the key cave and lookout ledge it's a little challenge, just step over step, slow to get up the narrow side , and your good. Yes I would do this trail again. Great place to take out of towners.b

I loved this hike. The last 20% of the main trail and the cave are incredible. We saw a large javelina, acorn woodpeckers and hummingbirds. I suggest at least 1-1.5 liters of water per person.

Parking is limited. Nice hike once you get past the resorts. Moderate most of the way. Little tougher getting up to the dwellings. Off shoot trail to the dwellings is easy to miss Take twice as much water as you think you will need. Loved it ! Worth the time and effort

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