The Subway Cave is definitely one of the most iconic sights in Sedona. Although it was tricky to find, the multiple instances of backtracking were worth the effort for the incredible views awaiting us in the end. Experience red rocks, ancient ruins & tunnel vision! Read on for the ultimate guide to hiking Sedona’s Subway Cave.
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LOCATION & PARKING
Park at Boynton Canyon Trailhead. Plan to arrive by 7:30 am, as the parking lot fills up quickly. You must purchase a $5 day pass if parking in this area. If the lot is full, there is overflow parking available on Boynton Pass Road. Make sure to read the street signs to avoid parking tickets! There are also vault toilets available for use in the parking lot.
DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY
HOW TO REACH THE SUBWAY CAVE
- Start hiking from the Boynton Canyon Trailhead. Keep left at the fork by Deadman’s Pass Trail.
- At the 0.3 mile mark, you’ll encounter a side trail called the Boynton Vista trail that leads to views of the Enchantment Resort and surrounding rocks. This side trail will add an additional 0.4 miles total to your trip. Some visitors opt to complete this on the way back.
- Around the 2 mile mark, look for a large alligator juniper tree on your left. A spur trail will lead towards the cave on your right. Depending on your visit, there may be some additional clues to help guide you in the right direction. Sometimes there are rocks spelling out “Subway” with an arrow pointing to the right.
- At 0.18 miles on the spur trail, look out for a tree stump. Make an immediate hairpin right turn. Do not make the same mistake I did by crossing the creek bed!
- Once you reach the cave, there are two ways to enter. One option is to head toward a rocky hill on your left that leads you to the far left side of the cave. Keep left to explore Sinagua ruins/additional caves or head right to the subway cave. Be careful when crossing the narrow ledge. The second option is to look for a narrow slit in the rocks and climb the steep incline. This route takes you directly into the mouth of the cave. I found the first option to be much less of a hassle.
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
- Sunscreen. The hot Arizona sun can be grueling, even when it’s not summer!
- Water. Always bring more than you think you might need! I like to use my Hydro Flask water bottle while traveling since it’s easy to clean and keeps water ice cold.
- Sneakers or hiking boots. I have these Salomon hiking boots and I love them! They’re extremely comfy and have lasted me for several years now. They’re stylish and well worth the price.
- Plenty of snacks. It’s important to stay nourished & energized for the duration of the hike!