The magical feeling upon entering Sedona is hard to describe, it is a breathtaking place, full of mind blowing scenery. You can understand why so many consider it a sacred place.
Sedona is full of many activities, but hiking tops the list. Our favorite hike was to the Subway Cave and Dream Speaker Cave. Even our kids talk about what an epic adventure it was.
Before You Go: Make sure you are well prepared to hike 6-8.5 miles. 6 if you just do the Subway Cave, 8.5 if you add in Dream Speaker Cave. This includes lots of water, food, sunscreen, proper clothing and shoes, emergency gear, and anything else you deem necessary for day hikes. The route to Dream Keeper's Cave will include steep paths, jumping over creeks, climbing up some rocks and brush. It is difficult but amazing.
I strongly suggest making a stop (or detour), as we did, to Romero's Panaderia in Cottonwood, AZ for delicious Mexican pastries. (right) We woke up early, stopped for pastries and ate them in the parking lot as the sun came up. If you have a large vehicle like we do, you must arrive early to the parking lot.
How to Get There: Subway Cave
Begin at the Boynton Canyon Trail Head. Don't forget you'll need your America the Beautiful or Red Rock Pass. If you are lucky you may even see a Javelina on the trail. We had been trying to see one for years so we were beyond excited to see one as we began our hike. You are going to stick with Boynton Trail for about 2 miles. Then keep an eye out for an unmarked trail that turns to the right. Since this is a fairly well known place you will probably see others coming and going. I plugged it in on google maps and set the route to walk, this worked great. When you reach the end of the trail veer left and you will see the spot to climb up! If it has rained or snowed recently expect a challenging climb, especially on the way down that will be a bit wet and muddy. I promise it is worth the dirt!
How to Get There: Dream Speakers Cave
The Dream Speaker Cave was hard to find and after awhile we really just ended up following a general direction as the trail becomes non-existent. If you make it to the top the views are incredible.
This is a map I found somewhere online and saved to my phone to find the dream speaker's cave. I don't know who the original creator was. I suggest pairing it with google maps or another GPS
map that you can see your location on. Also, there is no trail looping past the cave back to the trail, we tried and ended up returning the way we came.
Plan on taking your time to enjoy this beautiful area. We brought lunch and hung out at the top of the trail. This is not a place you want to rush. Not only to appreciate the area, but for your safety. Expect trails like this one to the left. It is important to note that our family, including the kids, is experienced in challenging trails. If you do not feel comfortable maneuvering on difficult terrain, I would not attempt the Dream Speaker Cave portion of this hike.
Don't forget to enjoy both the journey and the destination.
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