Boynton Canyon Trail, Sedona
Distance: 6.1 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 810'
Dog Friendly: Yes
Permit/Pass Required: $5 to park.
Getting There: See Map.
Tips: The main steep climb is at the end of the trail. It's worth it though to sit in the canyon and soak in the views and the good vibes. Dress accordingly as it gets very hot in the sun and unpredictably cold in the shaded areas. Winter here can result ice and snow so plan ahead. Get there early if you want to find a parking spot!
About the Hike: The Boynton Canyon Vortex is one of the few vortexes you can allegedly reach out and touch. It’s located just over one half of a mile from the Boynton Canyon parking area and very easy to get to. Look for the Boynton Spire (also known as Kachina Woman) just 5,200 feet from the trailhead. The center of the vortex is said to be located in a knoll south of the spire. If you're feeling adventurous you can climb to the top and soak in vortex energy. (Side note - if you are wondering what this vortex energy entails, Sedona is known for having several. It is said that these places are where one should go to pray, meditate and heal because the energy is said to "interact with one’s inner self." Vortexes are also said to "increase psychic energy and make you more self aware.")
Boynton Canyon is supposed to be a mix of both masculine and feminine energies - bringing a person like myself some much needed balance. So off I went, pup in tow, to get centered and see if we could witness some magic.
The hike is absolutely breathtaking. From the red rocks to the soft earth, the canyons, the abundance of trees and how the landscape changed from mile to mile, there wasn't a moment that didn't have me in absolute awe of what mother nature had in store for me that day. The trail itself is relatively flat, with a few rocky climbs scattered throughout to keep you on your toes. A passer-by mentioned seeing a javelina but all I witnessed were over-fed squirrels, a couple deer and a bunny.
You'll know where the trail ends by the sign alerting you to the fact. This is where I saw numerous hikers spread about the smooth canyon walls enjoying lunch and taking in the afternoon sun. My dog and I followed suit and I watched as even she seemed to be mesmerized by the beauty Boynton Canyon had to offer...or was it the energy? I guess we'll never truly know.
One added bonus of this hike is the man with the flute...if you are lucky enough to encounter him, he'll give you a heart shaped rock, "The Heart of Mother Earth" and a sign of unconditional love. Keep it, or pass it on. Whatever you do, take pause for a moment and appreciate the gifts that were given you on this beautiful trail in the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness. I sure did.
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