Boynton Canyon Sedona -

Boynton Canyon Vista Trail is a good option if you’re looking for a short hike with fantastic canyon views. My daughter and I hiked this trail in April when it was about 60 degrees. We didn’t find the hike particularly difficult, but you’ll climb about 150 feet to reach the vista.

At the top, we had open views toward the Mescal Mountains and Bear Canyon. On the vista there are twisted junipers that surround the vortex area. Boynton Canyon is one of Sedona’s four main vortex sites. If you’re interested in visiting another one of them see my guide to Sedona vortex hikes.

Here’s what you should know before deciding if Boynton Canyon Vista Trail belongs on your list of things to do in Sedona.

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Boynton Canyon Vista Trail

Originally published September 8, 2026— Last updated

Distance: 1.1 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs must be on a leash.
Facilities: Yes, there are bathrooms in the parking lot
Fee: Yes, this is a fee site. Use a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass. Read my Sedona Travel Tips guide for more information.

There is a large parking lot for Boynton Canyon, but it does fill up quickly. You’ll need a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass to park here. To learn more about parking and Red Rock passes check out my Sedona Travel Tips guide.

The trailhead is near the Boynton Canyon resort about 8 miles from uptown Sedona. Despite the parking lot being full, the trail was relatively quiet. We only saw a few people on the vista trail. Unlike some trails, it didn’t feel crowded.

Watch for the sign to Boynton Vista Trail. From here it is about an additional 10 minute walk to the vista.

You’ll notice the Kachina Woman rock. It is a 80-foot tall spire on the Boynton Canyon Trail. This is where many say the vortex can be felt the strongest.

Kachina Woman - sandstone spire at Boynton Canyon Vista Trail in Sedona

To reach the vista you’ll need to hike up the side of the hill. This is where you’ll gain elevation on this trail.

As you approach the top we saw a lot of stacked rocks.

Views from the vista point are gorgeous. From this area you can view the Mescal Mountains and Bear Canyon. The payoff is an open view toward the Mescal Mountains and Bear Canyon. If you want red-rock scenery without spending half the day on a trail, this is the part that makes the hike worthwhile.

Views from Boynton Canyon Vista Trail in Sedona

and on the other side you can see the land is covered with shrubs.

Lots of twisted juniper trees are at the top of the vista and vortex site. Read my post on other Sedona vortex sites if you want to compare the area’s four main vortex trails.

Juniper Tree at top of Boynton Canyon Vista Trail in Sedona

How Long does the Hike Take?

The Vista Trail takes about an hour, although you’ll want more time if you stop to take photos and enjoy the view. The trail is short, but the climb to the vista is where you gain most of your elevation on this trail. It isn’t a completely flat walk. Don’t forget to bring water. The hike is not shaded.

Want a longer Boynton Canyon hike?

Boynton Canyon offers three hikes different choices in hikes.

The main hike is about 6.5 miles round trip. It is a moderate hike that gains an elevation of 900 feet and ends at a box canyon.
Subway cave is a 5.5 mile hike. It is considered a strenuous hike to reach the cave.

Is Boynton Canyon Vista a good hike for you?

Choose Boynton Vista if you want: a relatively short hike that combines unobstructed view of Sedona’s red rock. A vortex location without committing to a long hike.

Skip Boynton Vista if: you’re looking for a dramatic canyon hike, creek, or a strenuous challenge.

Map on How to Get to Boynton Canyon

Boynton Canyon is 8 miles west of uptown Sedona. Take 89A west for 3.5 miles. Take a right on Dry Creek Road. Follow this road for 4.5 miles. The parking lot will be on your right.