Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona
Adventure Destination

Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona

Explore the moderate 6.1-mile round-trip trail to the Subway Cave near Sedona, AZ. Known for its stunning rock formations and breathtaking views, this hike offers a unique photography experience in the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Hiking8.2/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

The Subway Cave is a hidden gem located in the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, Arizona. For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this spot has become increasingly popular due to its Instagram-worthy views and the unique rock formations that make it stand out. Offering breathtaking vistas and a moderate hike, discovering the Subway Cave is more than just a trip—it's a journey into one of Sedona's most scenic locales.

Editorial Assessment

The Subway Cave in Sedona offers a unique outdoor adventure with its impressive red rock formations and picturesque views. While it's an iconic spot for hikers and explorers within the region, it doesn't quite reach the global uniqueness of the world's top natural landmarks.

Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona

Adventure Guide to Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona

1

- Location and Trail:

  • Overview:

    The Subway Cave is accessed via the Boynton Canyon Trail, located approximately 20 minutes northwest of Sedona by car. The trail is about 6.1 miles round-trip with medium difficulty, so plan for a few hours. Make sure to look for the faint spur trail that leads to the cave—it isn’t marked but is distinguishable by its well-trodden path.

  • Details:

    What Makes It Special: The cave's interior features large archways and a concave ceiling resembling a subway tunnel, providing dramatic photo opportunities. Early mornings offer fantastic light filtering into the cave, ideal for photography. The natural acoustics and panoramic views of Boynton Canyon add to its allure, making it a favorite for hikers and visitors.

  • Details:

    Key Features: The hike offers diverse scenery, from shaded forest to iconic red rock formations. The entrance to the Subway Cave provides a surreal moment as you step into the expansive open area within the rock.

2

Local Insights

  • Details:

    Cultural Significance: Boynton Canyon holds special meaning for local Native American tribes, such as the Yavapai and Apache. It is considered a spiritual site, so visitors are encouraged to tread respectfully and leave no trace.

  • Details:

    Geological Context: The fluted formations that define the cave were eroded over millennia, representing Sedona’s rich geological history.

3

Visitor Tips

  • Details:

    Best Times to Go: Mornings or late afternoons are ideal, especially to avoid Sedona's peak heat and hiking crowds.

  • Details:

    What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, and a wide-brim hat. Don’t forget your camera for photos and a flashlight if visiting late.

  • Details:

    Getting There: From Sedona, take Dry Creek Road to Boynton Canyon Road, following signs for the trailhead. Parking at Boynton Canyon is limited, so arrive early.

Reviews

L
Lacie Granstromin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

G
Gilly Stonein the last week

Very nice food

M
Mike Roseliusin the last week

First hike we made in Sedona, we as family enjoyed the hike, our son is 18 month old , around 10kg, with an osprey stl baby carrier we had no issues, we are both super fit (gym,yoga, extrem sports) the last stretch of the hike was a 6-8 m climb, it was slippy and hard with the baby on the back to get up. Suggest you have good shoes , maybe a rope for assistance, on arrival I saw that almost 40% of ppl who arrived stayed downstairs. You need the sun to shine right into it! Time your journey well!

R
Ross Fraser2 weeks ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

S
Scott3 weeks ago

Should be renamed to Devils Slide to complement with Devils Bridge considering how sketchy it is to get up the cave. Still worth it.

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