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.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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Free access to the trail; Red Rock Pass required for parking ($5/day)
More than 500 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

The visitor center suggested this as one of the most interesting hikes in the area. Without a doubt there were so many different types of train and vegetation until you get to the end. It was easy to do under two hours without crowds. Very beautiful.

Hot, dusty and challenging, but so worth it for the views and the feeling of accomplishment once finished. There are some really steep parts if you want to go up to the ledge to see the keyhole. Lots of picturesque views for photo ops. Wear appropriate hiking footwear and bring plenty of water. I drank my 32 oz jug and filled it up again, so at least 3 bottles of water.

Prepare for a hike in to see the Subway Cave. Bring lots of water and snacks. You will come to a point where you will take the trail on the right. Keep your eyes open for it. You will see a large log with an arrow. To see the cave, prepare for 2 ways of getting into it. Climb up on your left and walk around the edge on the right to see it. Or shimmy up a large rock surface into the cave.. it is challenging.

Beautiful and scenic hike. 2.5 hours out and back to the subway cave (~6.2 miles). The view from the subway cave is amazing, totally worth the time and efforts. For best pictures, I’d recommend arriving at the cave before 11am so that the cave is well lit. Energy is good here (maybe because it’s near the vortex?) 😅 My mind felt cleansed and I am ready to put things behind me now. 😇 About parking, you don’t really have to buy the parking pass ($5), there are spaces near the roadside that you can park your car.

Level medium beautiful hike, back and forth about 6 miles. Limited parking but we parked on the side of the street located little before public paid parking. No shops or anything around so bring some Aqua for sure. One of the Vortex is supposedly here not far from parking lot, and I didn’t know that, can’t even tell where that was, didn’t see any particular sign. Definitely will come back

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