Located approximately only 15 minutes outside of Flagstaff, Arizona, the Sandy’s Canyon Trail is a hidden gem within the Coconino National Forest, offering an ideal day hike for those seeking an escape from the usual tourist attractions. It could easily be overlooked or missed if you didn’t know it was there. When you pull into the parking lot and start down the path, you’d never imagine the beauty awaiting you in a short, 1.5-mile hike (3-miles round-trip). Starting off rocky down through the woods, the Sandy’s Canyon trail quickly transitions to an easy, flat, relatively rock-free path leading to the caves.
The round-trip distance to the caves is approximately 3 miles, but the adventure doesn’t have to end there. The Arizona Trail, a massive trail spanning from Mexico to Utah, intersects this area, offering extended exploration. Additionally, numerous splinter trails branch off in various directions, providing opportunities for further hiking and exploration of the area. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must always remain on a leash.
As for the location, there is no exact address 🤷🏻♀️. The GPS coordinates are 35°07’42.0″N 111°36’10.3″W and the USDA website states, “Just south of Flagstaff near Lower Lake Mary on paved forest roads. Drive Southeast out of Flagstaff 5.5 miles on Lake Mary Road (Forest Highway 3). Follow the signs for Sandys Canyon Trailhead to the north (left from Flagstaff). Follow Forest Road 9478Y for ¼ mile to the parking area.”
Further along the trail, you’ll encounter two caves in close proximity. The first cave, visible from a distance, sits at the base of an massive, protruding rock formation. Although not particularly deep or protective, it offers a unique spot to enjoy lunch or find refuge from unexpected monsoon.
The second cave, situated farther along the trail in a narrower and rocky section, is much deeper, somewhat creepier, and exactly where I’d want to be if I needed shelter for the night. Featuring a private walkway, a foyer, a lengthy hallway, a small nook tucked in the back that could pass as a closet, and even a master bedroom with a cathedral ceiling, it would’ve been prime real estate “back in the day”. Sadly, like too many other places in Mother Nature, people simply cannot leave it alone and must deface it with unfortunate graffiti. Nonetheless, the cave the cave remains a very cool and worthwhile destination to hike to.
Overall, Sandy’s Canyon is a wonderful, easy, and enjoyable daytime hike near Flagstaff, Munds Park, or Williams. It’s also located less than 30 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument., making for a perfect combination day outing. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, though the initial rocky section might pose a challenge for some, the trail quickly transforms into an easy, wide-open path with smooth sailing. We visited at the end of May and were blessed with perfect weather 🤌🏼. Don’t miss out on this wonderful hike!
