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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
153 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
10.6 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop explores three canyons. It’s an easy-moderate route that makes for a super convenient adventure for campers at Canyon Vista Campground. While the three canyons make for a satisfying adventure, you can also use some of the offshoot trails in the area to lengthen or customize your adventure if you’d like. Expect moderate traffic on this route.

Route Description for Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop

The Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop is a pretty adventure not far outside of Flagstaff in the Coconino National Forest. You’ll make your way through three canyons, appreciating the rock layers and the interesting habitat that the canyons support. There is a stretch of less interesting hiking along Lake Mary Road, but it’s worth it.

There is semi-frequent horse traffic on this trail, so remember to give horses the right of way. Some of the footing is uneven as a result of horse traffic so just watch your step.

Beginning from Canyon Vista Campground, you’ll bear right twice to drop into Sandys Canyon. Continue onto AZT-Walnut Canyon. Keep left where the canyons meet and then left again where Skunk Canyon intersects. Stroll through Fay Canyon, climbing out and following Lake Mary Road back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop is off Lake Mary Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Canyon Vista Campground

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Sandys Canyon, Walnut Canyon, and Fay Canyon Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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