Hike Boynton Canyon to Explore Mystical Native American Lands
Sedona is full of mystique and has a strong spiritual presence. Boynton Canyon is a place where the green trees and cacti contrast the burnt umber of the red rocks, and sacred ancient dwellings exist high in the mountains. Native Americans made this area of Sedona home thousands of years ago, where vortexes exist as centers of energy that promote healing, meditation and self-exploration. In this post, I’ll give you the info you need to hike Boynton Canyon Trail and some tours you can take if you want to explore Native American ruins.
Hiking Info
Trailhead location: Easy access via paved roads to the parking lot.
Out and back 2.4 - 4.8 miles
Rated: Moderate to hard
Admission: You need a Red Rock Pass to park at any trailhead in Coconino National Forest. Passes are $5 a day, $15 a week or $20 a year and can be purchased at all visitor centers and at many local stores.
There are bathrooms at this trailhead
Hiking Boynton Canyon Trail
Boynton Canyon Trail that stays on the path is about 2.4 miles, making it 4.8 miles total out and back. This trail is beautiful on its own, zig zagging through the canyon. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rock scramble off-trail high into the mountains. We wandered on cliffs edges and up steep slippery paths. I only recommend doing this if you have good balance and are an experienced hiker or climber. Wear shoes with good traction.
Our guide played the drums and flute for us inside some quiet coves. Sedona and its residents have a way with slowing down and enjoying the silent moments to energize the soul and meditate. It was lovely to sit among ancient sites looking over all the beautiful red-hued mountains.
Remnants of Native American pottery. If you see any of these pieces anywhere, do NOT remove them. Please leave them for future visitors to see.
If you want to see Native American ruins, you can book a tour with Pink Jeep tours to visit Honanki Heritage site, 700-year-old cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people. Alternatively you can visit Palatki Hertitage site. It’s open to the general public and has a visitor center and parking lot nearby.
More Sedona Activities
Explore mysterious and powerful vortexes on this 2.5 hour Small-Group Vortex Jeep Tour.
Go on an adventure over the red rocks while the magnificent canyon walls surround you on the Scenic Rim Pink Jeep Tour.
Book Your Trip
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Find A Tour
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Shop Comfortable Hiking & Athleisure
Shop Vuori for long-lasting comfortable hiking and workout apparel for men and women (my fave!)
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