Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff
With numerous limestone caves, ancient sand dune rock formations and acres of alpine meadows, Arizona’s other Fay Canyon is a joy to explore. Unlike the famous (and crowded) Fay Canyon located in Sedona’s high desert, this trail sees much less activity. Conveniently located in the Mormon Lake area, this route through a shallow valley connects with the Walnut Canyon Passage of the Arizona Trail, Flagstaff Urban Trails System and Sandy’s Canyon. The trail is almost completely shaded as it travels the margins of a lush gorge flanked with bizarre geological structures and deep canyon drop offs. To add length; include a side trip to Fisher Point. Here’s how: from the trailhead, hike 0.3-mile along the double-track dirt road paralleling Lake Mary Road. At the gate and fence located where the road makes a sharp right hand turn, pass the gate and continue straight (north) along a footpath. From here, the trail is well maintained and easy-to-follow. At two points along the route, the trail splits—in both cases, stay to the left and take the higher paths. At the 2.6-mile point, Fay Canyon Trail ends at a “Y” intersection with the Arizona Trail. Here, head right (east) along a well-signed path to continue on to Fisher Point.
LENGTH: 8.2 miles roundtrip as described here. Fay Canyon alone: 2.6 miles one way
RATING: moderate
ELEVATION: 6,220 – 7,033 feet (to Fisher Point), Fay Canyon only: 6,620 -6,950 feet
GETTING THERE
- From Flagstaff, go 4 miles south on Lake Mary Road to S. Wildlife Road.
- Turn left and drive a few yards to a “T” intersection, veer left and continue less than 0.1-mile to the sign that reads: “ Walnut-Skunk-Fay Closure Area, No Motor Vehicles”.
- Parking is very limited.
- Please respect private property in the area by not blocking roads or driveways.
FACILITIES: none
HOURS: n/a
FEE: none
