What Makes Subway Cave Sedona So Popular?

You probably wouldn’t notice it if you didn’t know what to look for. Just a narrow crack in the towering red walls of Boynton Canyon, a subtle detour off an already scenic trail. No flashy signs, no tour buses idling nearby. But somehow, Subway Cave Sedona has quietly slipped into the spotlight… and yeah, it’s kind of earned it.

Maybe it’s the way the sunlight spills into that sandstone tunnel around noon, glowing like something out of a dream. Or the fact that you can sit inside the cave, lean back against its cool wall, and feel like you’ve stumbled into a hidden world—one that isn’t even officially marked on most maps.

Whatever the reason, it’s become one of Sedona’s most talked-about spots. This guide digs into what makes it so special—from trail tips and geological quirks to ancient ruins and the photos everyone seems to chase. It’s not just another hike... it’s one of those places that sticks with you.

Let’s explore what makes Subway Cave more than just a viral photo op.

📍 What Is Subway Cave Sedona and Where Is It Located?

Overview of the Subway Cave

So what exactly is Subway Cave? Well, it’s not an actual subway and it’s not technically a cave in the deep, dark sense. Think of it more like a wave of sandstone that curled in on itself—shaped over thousands of years by wind, rain, and the slow but relentless passage of time.

It’s tucked away off the Boynton Canyon Trail, one of Sedona’s most scenic and spiritually significant hikes. From the outside, the formation looks a bit like a slot in the red rock, easily overlooked. But step inside, and the walls rise around you in smooth, arching layers, forming a tunnel-like chamber that feels oddly intimate. The way the light pours in? Unreal.

It’s one of those natural spaces that make you pause... not because it's grand or vast, but because it feels personal, like it wasn’t meant to be found by everyone.

Map Coordinates & Access Info

Here’s where it gets a little tricky: Subway Cave Sedona isn’t officially listed on most trail maps. There’s no sign saying “this way to the cool photo spot.” It’s part of what keeps the place feeling like a secret—although, with the number of tagged Subway Sedona photos on Instagram, the secret’s definitely out.

The exact GPS coordinates to the cave entrance are:
📍 34.9022° N, 111.5066° W

Fina Subway Cave on Google Maps.

It sits at an elevation of roughly 5,000 feet, nestled into the canyon wall about two miles from the Boynton Canyon trailhead.

Getting there means knowing where to turn off—and we’ll get into that in the next section. Just know that once you reach it, the layout is simple: one curved chamber, open at both ends, shaped like a sandstone smile in the rocks.

So yeah, it’s not marked. It’s not official. But it’s unforgettable.

🥾 How to Get to Subway Cave – Trail Info & Route Guide

Starting Point: Boynton Canyon Trailhead

The journey to Subway Cave starts from the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, located in Sedona, Arizona. It’s one of those trails that doesn’t seem like much at first... a wide, sandy path winding gently between trees and red rock walls. But don’t let the calm beginning fool you. The full Subway Cave Sedona hike is roughly 6.1 miles round trip if you include the cave detour. And while it's not extreme, it’s not a walk in the park either.

The trail is rated moderate, mostly due to the final stretch. There’s a short, steep scramble near the cave entrance where you’ll be doing some actual climbing—not intense, but enough to make you wish you wore proper hiking boots. Slippery at times. Hands-and-feet required. Not recommended in flip-flops. Just trust me.

Key Markers Along the Way

Here’s where it gets interesting. The Subway Cave Trail itself is an unmarked offshoot of the main Boynton Canyon Trail. No official signage. No big arrow pointing you left. Most hikers pass it without even realizing.

So how do you know when to turn?

Somewhere around the 2-mile mark, keep an eye out for a wide path veering off to the right. You’ll likely spot other hikers heading that way—or notice a few cairns (those small rock stacks people use to mark trails). That’s your sign.

On the way, you’ll pass a few things worth slowing down for:

• Alligator Juniper trees (one of Sedona’s more unusual flora—chunky bark, twisty limbs)
• Scenic overlooks with views of towering red sandstone rock walls
• And if you’re paying attention… some Sinagua ruins tucked into the canyon, resting in quiet layers of time

This area’s rich with history. The Native American ruins here are fragile and sacred. So if you see roped-off zones or faded signs, don’t step over them. It’s not just about rules—it’s about respect.

Safety & Navigation Tips

Because the trail splits are unmarked, your phone will likely be your best hiking buddy. But don’t rely solely on Google Maps. It flakes out here.

Instead:

• Download AllTrails or Gaia GPS in advance (offline maps are a must)
• Screenshot or print a Subway Cave Sedona map with trail indicators
• Save the GPS coordinates to the cave beforehand

A few more quick things:

• Bring at least 2 liters of water per person
• Wear grippy hiking shoes or boots
• Watch your footing on the rock chute scrambling section near the cave entrance
• Don’t go solo unless you’re confident with unmarked trails

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure whether you’ve passed the turnoff... you probably have.

🪨 Why Is Subway Cave So Popular?

1. Its Unique Geology and Formation

There’s a reason people are calling it one of the best hidden caves in Arizona. Subway Cave isn’t just scenic—it’s weirdly perfect. Carved by wind and water erosion over thousands of years, the cave looks like something crafted more by design than by nature.

Its smooth walls and curved ceiling mimic the shape of a subway tunnel—hence the name. Some even compare it to The Wave in Arizona, though it’s not as wide or colorful. Still, the similarities in texture and form make it a rare find in Sedona’s already striking collection of rock formations.

And here’s the twist: the cave feels oddly symmetrical when you’re inside, even though nature definitely didn’t use a ruler.

2. It's an Instagram Hotspot

It’s not just hikers coming here anymore—it’s photographers, influencers, and folks with ring lights strapped to their backpacks. Why? Because the light inside this cave... it does magical things.

At midday, when the sun is at just the right angle, golden beams spill through the front opening, bouncing off the back wall and glowing like candlelight. It’s become the iconic shot: someone standing in silhouette at the rear of the cave, looking out. You’ve probably seen it.

Tagged Subway Sedona photos are everywhere now—on Instagram, Pinterest, even travel posters. The glow, the frame, the colors... it’s the kind of scene that turns a regular hike into a photography pilgrimage.

Pro Tip: The lighting peaks between 12 and 2 pm, but it depends on the season. Cloudy days? Still cool, just softer shadows.

3. A Sense of Discovery and Seclusion

Maybe the most unexpected thing is how quiet it feels up there. You’re only a short detour from one of Sedona’s most popular trails, and yet, inside the cave, everything feels still. Cool. Hidden.

Because it's not on official maps, finding Subway Cave feels a bit like solving a mystery. And once you’re inside, sitting on that back ledge, looking out over the desert—it’s hard not to feel like you’ve found something special.

It’s not exactly untouched... but it hasn’t been overbuilt or commercialized either. No fences. No ticket booth. Just you, the rock, and maybe a stranger or two quietly sharing the view.

🕰️ The Best Time to Visit Subway Cave

Seasonal Considerations

Timing matters more than you’d think. The Subway Cave Sedona hike isn’t shaded much, and the trail—though beautiful—can feel brutally hot under the midday sun. So yeah, when you go makes a big difference.

Generally, the best months are:

• Spring (March–May): Wildflowers along the trail, mild temps, fewer bugs
• Fall (September–November): Crisp mornings, golden leaves in the canyons, and fewer crowds than summer

Winter? It’s doable, but mornings can be icy, and the trail gets slick. And summer... honestly, unless you’re starting at dawn, it’s rough. The heat bakes the red rocks, and there’s hardly any shade past the first mile. Not ideal unless you really love sweating buckets.

Also worth noting: monsoon season (late July into August) can turn the trail sketchy with flash floods and mud. Just something to keep on your radar if you're planning a visit during those months.

Time of Day

There’s a small window when everything aligns—the light, the temperature, the crowds. But honestly, that sweet spot depends on what you’re looking for.

Here’s how it breaks down:

If you’re in it for the Subway Sedona photos, aim for midday, when the sun shines straight into the cave’s opening and lights up the walls. It’s surreal, especially in person. But if you’re more into peace and fewer people, morning hikes are the move.

Pro Tip: Want good light and fewer crowds? Try a weekday around 10:30 am. That way you hit the cave just as the light’s starting to work its magic—before the selfie sticks show up.

📸 Subway Cave Photography Tips

How to Capture the Light

You don’t need a pro camera to get a decent shot here—your phone will probably do just fine. But there are a few little tricks that’ll make your photos pop.

• Shoot facing outward from inside the cave to frame the sky and red cliffs
• Use portrait mode to highlight the curve and depth of the cave walls
• If you’ve got one, a polarizing filter helps reduce glare on bright sandstone
• Try tapping to expose for the outside light, not the cave walls—it keeps your sky blue, not blown out

Timing is everything. Around noon, sunlight flows into the chamber and makes everything glow orange-gold. It doesn’t last long—maybe an hour or so before the angles shift—but it’s totally worth planning around.

Most Photographed Angles

Some spots just hit different on camera. Here’s where most people get their shots:

• The iconic back-of-the-cave silhouette: person standing in the center, looking out
• Side angles showing the carved layers of the rock
• Looking up from inside the cave toward the sky (great on clear days)
• With someone sitting on the ledge—it gives nice scale and adds a human touch

If you’re visiting solo and want that classic shot, don’t be shy—ask someone nearby, or set a timer. Most folks here are happy to help, especially if you offer to trade photos.

Pro Tip: Step back and include more of the rock walls, especially the curve above the entrance. That’s what makes it look like a real subway tunnel.

Social Media Impact

Let’s be real—Subway Cave Sedona didn’t become popular because hikers stumbled across it by chance. It blew up thanks to social media.

One striking photo, then another, and suddenly it was everywhere. People started searching for Subway cave Sedona map, directions, even tickets—even though there aren’t any. Word spread fast.

It’s now one of Sedona’s most geotagged hidden spots. You’ll see it listed in almost every Sedona travel guide or hiking blog, often with a glowing review and ten edited photos.

That said, don’t let the hype scare you off. It really is as photogenic as people claim... just remember, the real magic happens when you pause, breathe, and take it in without the camera for a second.

🏺 Ancient Ruins & Cultural Significance Nearby

Sinagua Cliff Dwellings Close to the Cave

Just off the trail, not far from where you’d scramble up to Subway Cave, sits something… quieter. Something older.

The Sinagua ruins are easy to miss if you’re rushing to the photo spot—but if you slow down, you’ll notice them tucked into the rock walls just a short climb from the cave turn-off.

These ancient Native American ruins—built by the Sinagua people, who lived here centuries ago—aren’t grand temples or big monuments. They’re more subtle. Stone alcoves, a few remaining walls, and time-worn structures built into the cliffs. And yet, they carry weight. You feel it. Even if you’re not spiritual, there's something about standing there that makes you speak a little softer, step a little lighter.

They’re accessible, but also fragile. So yeah, don’t climb on them. Don’t touch. Definitely don’t leave your name scratched in the stone or anything ridiculous like that.

Some parts of the detour loop around these ruins before reconnecting with the trail. You’ll likely spot them before reaching the final scramble to the cave. That detour? Totally worth it.

Importance to Native American Tribes

The Boynton Canyon area is more than just scenic—it’s sacred. The land, the trees, even the wind... all hold meaning for the Yavapai-Apache and other tribes who consider this canyon part of their spiritual history.

That includes the Subway Cave area and especially the neighboring Boynton Canyon Vortex, which many believe is a source of calming or healing energy. Some say it balances masculine and feminine forces—others just say it feels peaceful. Honestly? It’s different for everyone.

But what’s clear is that these places deserve respect. They’re not just photo ops or trail markers on a Subway Cave Sedona map. They're living pieces of cultural heritage. If you go, be present. Be quiet. And maybe take a second to just… listen.

Pro Tip: If you’re drawn to this kind of history, also check out Fay Canyon or Deadman's Pass, where more ruins and ancient energy linger in the rocks.

🎒 What to Bring & How to Prepare for the Hike

Gear Checklist

This isn’t one of those show-up-in-sandals trails. The hike may look manageable on paper, but there’s enough uneven terrain, exposed rock, and elevation to make gear matter. Here’s what you actually want to bring:

• Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes (grippy soles are a must)
• 2+ liters of water per person—there’s no refill along the way
• Sunscreen, hat, and light layers (it heats up quick)
• Snacks or a packed lunch if you want to linger
• A small first-aid kit, just in case
• Optional but helpful: hiking poles, especially for the rock chute scrambling

Also bring your curiosity. And maybe a little patience—especially if you hit the trail on a crowded weekend.

Apps & Offline Maps

Cell service out there is spotty at best. Sometimes it works near the parking lot, and then... nothing. So if you’re relying on your phone for Subway Cave Sedona directions, make sure you prep it before you leave town.

Download these:

• AllTrails or Gaia GPS with offline maps of the Boynton Canyon Trail
• A saved screenshot of a clear Subway Cave Sedona hike map showing the turnoff
• Optional: Sedona Travel Guide app, if you want info on nearby trails or lodging

Don't forget to check whether your pass is valid. You’ll need a Red Rock Parking Pass or America the Beautiful Pass to park legally at the trailhead. There’s usually a kiosk nearby, but it’s smarter to buy ahead if you can.

Pro Tip: Some hikers start from nearby inns like Alma De Sedona Inn, Sedona Real Inn & Suites, or Casa Sedona Inn—they’re within a short drive and offer early breakfast options for those trying to hit the trail before it heats up.

🚫 Tips for a Safe & Responsible Visit

Respect the Environment

Let’s just be honest for a second: the popularity of Subway Cave Sedona is kind of a double-edged thing. On one hand, it’s amazing that more people are discovering Sedona’s beauty. On the other... too many boots, too fast, can really mess up the landscape.

The red rock trails, delicate sandstone structures, and surrounding ecosystems are way more fragile than they look. You’ll see social trails (those random little paths people make when they go off-course), and yeah—it’s tempting. But don’t. Stick to the main track and Subway Cave trail, especially around the sensitive rock formations and ancient sites.

Leave wildflowers where they are. Don’t touch carvings or cliff dwellings. And definitely don’t climb on the ruins. Even if it feels harmless—it isn’t.

Leave No Trace Principles

You’ll see reminders posted at the trailhead and maybe even a faded sign near the c, but it’s worth repeating:

• Pack out everything you bring in—trash, food wrappers, even fruit peels
• No carving into juniper trees or rock walls
• Stay on durable surfaces (that includes not veering off for “shortcuts”)
• Don’t feed wildlife or leave food behind
• Skip the loud music and Bluetooth speakers—it ruins the vibe for everyone else

It’s basic, but crucial. The Leave No Trace principles exist because places like Subway Cave are too special to let tourism trample them into something unrecognizable.

Pro Tip: Carry a small zippered bag for your trash—it’s easy, and you’ll feel better not stuffing crumpled wrappers in your pocket.

Crowd Management

Here’s the thing: Subway Cave Sedona gets busy. Like, Instagram-busy. Especially during weekends and school breaks. The cave itself is narrow, so when even a dozen people show up at once, it gets cramped fast.

To avoid the chaos:

• Arrive early—before 9 am if you want a quiet experience
• Go on a weekday, especially mid-week
• Be patient when others are taking photos inside the cave
• Take your shot, enjoy the moment, then give someone else the space

And if you show up and it’s crowded? Don’t be afraid to pivot. Nearby hikes like Vista Spur Trail or Deadman’s Pass offer plenty of views—and you can loop back later if things calm down.

🛎️ Nearby Attractions to Explore After Subway Cave

Boynton Vortex Site

If you’ve already made it to Boynton Canyon, you’re super close to one of Sedona’s more mystical spots: the Boynton Canyon Vortex.

Some people hike right past it, but those who stop often say they feel something... different. A kind of energy. Calming. Uplifting. Weirdly grounding.

The site is a short detour off the Boynton Vista Trail, not far from the main trailhead. The path takes you past Juniper trees—some of which grow in twisted, spiraling shapes, which locals say is a sign of vortex energy.

Even if you're skeptical about that stuff, it’s a beautiful view. And honestly, kind of a nice mental reset after climbing in and out of the cave.

Pro Tip: Look for the Kachina Woman rock formation. It’s said to symbolize feminine energy and balance—and makes a cool addition to your photo collection.

Devil’s Bridge & Doe Mountain Trails

Still have energy to burn? Or maybe Subway Cave whetted your appetite for more red rock adventures? There are a couple of excellent trails nearby:

• Devil’s Bridge Trail: Sedona’s most famous natural rock arch. A little crowded, but worth it for the views.
• Doe Mountain Trail: Short but steep, leading to panoramic views over the canyons. Bonus—it’s usually less packed.

Both are within a 15–20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Bring your Red Rocks Pass or America the Beautiful Pass, as both require parking permits.

Sedona Town

If you’re ready to wind down instead, head back to Uptown Sedona. It’s full of cafés, art galleries, and quirky shops selling everything from crystals to cactus candy. A few good post-hike spots:

• L’Auberge de Sedona for a riverside drink
• Local crystal shops if you’re feeling the vortex vibes
• Or grab lunch at a low-key café before heading out

This is where you let the dust settle. Maybe flip through your Subway Sedona photos, sip something cold, and start planning the next trail.

📝 Conclusion: Is Subway Cave Worth the Hype?

Honestly... yeah. It really is.

Even if you've seen it in a hundred Instagram posts, nothing quite compares to that moment when you climb into the Subway Cave, lean back against the sandstone, and look out. The way the light plays on the curved walls, the quiet of the canyon, the feeling that you’ve found something a little secret—it's not just hype. It’s real.

Sure, it’s gained popularity fast. Some might even call it overdone. But once you're there—feet dusty, heart pumping a bit from the climb—it doesn't feel like a tourist trap. It feels like a reward. A pocket of calm carved into red rocks and shadow.

Whether you're into photography, Native American ruins, Arizona cave hikes, or just want to experience something that feels slightly off the grid (but not too far off), Subway Cave Sedona checks a lot of boxes. It’s a reminder that some places still manage to feel wild, even after the world has found them.

So… is it worth it?

If you’re into hiking, discovering hidden paths, and soaking up natural beauty that somehow feels personal—absolutely.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions