This hike explores the real Boynton Canyon. The popular maintained trail actually takes you to a tributary box below Bear Mountain.

The hike starts from the Boynton Trailhead and follows Boynton Trail in 2.15 miles. Here you will see the trail departing left from a well defined (light colored gravel) usually dry creek bed. Jump off trail and follow the creek up.

It's 1.65 miles up to the turn around point. I found it remarkably easy hiking up the creek. Along the way are several beautiful views of the canyon walls and some sizable spires. A few times on the way up cairns lead you out of the creek to avoid obstacles. A bathroom size boulder blocking the creek is encountered first. The later two or three scrambles out of the creek didn't appear as necessary. On the other hand the trail through the woods is so well defined it's a nice change of pace.

There's plenty of bear scat throughout the canyon. However I didn't find it as evident as going off trail in the Dry Creek labyrinth of canyons. At one point a few rocks fell from a wall where an animal was scurrying above. Later I was practically run down by a few bucks bolting through the canyon. I heard them from a distance and went to grab my camera. Next thing I know they took an unexpected turn towards me. I went from oh cool grab my camera mode to quickly find a blocking tree mode.

Good shade is provided by the canyon walls and trees in the beginning. Approximately two-thirds in from the turnoff the shade gives way to an impressive open view of a high canyon wall on your left. Tree cover soon returns and the final leg is on a well defined trail to creek left. The incline steepens a tad but nothing to be concerned about.

The payoff for this hike is impressive views back down the canyon. The vantage points aren't plentiful but you will know the sweet spot when you come to it. The bonus for this hike is to continue on into what could only be described as Coconino Valley. The walls are 800 feet high on both sides. The sheer wall on your left is Lost Mountain, to your right is Secret Mountain. Oh, by the way, you are standing in heaven.
- Mar 07 2007 joe bartels