About Black Canyon National Recreation Trail
The 80-mile Black Canyon Trail provides visitors with a long-range backcountry trail riding, mountain biking, and hiking opportunity. This historic National Recreation Trail is of national significance, following a route used since the times of prehistoric Native American travelers and traders. This trail provides a challenging mountain biking ride experience characterized by rough, unstable soils and rocks, with various trail grades and numerous elevation changes within a harsh desert climate. The trail meanders through the Sonoran Desert landscape, including saguaro forests and rugged canyons. There are several trailheads to access the trail, including the Emery Henderson Trailhead, Table Mesa Trailhead, Black Canyon City Trailhead, Gloriana Trailhead, and Big Bug Trailhead. Please note that Black Canyon City Trailhead is under the management of Yavapai County.Access and parking vary depending on which trailhead is used. Due to its length, the trail is often broken into segments and can be accessed from multiple trailheads along the route. Depending on your vehicle situation, both out-and-back rides and point-to-point routes are possible.One of the Bureau of Land Management's "Backyard to Backcountry" treasures, information on the Black Canyon Trail was developed between the International Mountain Bicycling Association and the Bureau of Land Management Hassayampa Field Office to provide world-class riding experiences. International Mountain Bicycling Association's data on the trail includes elevations, ratings, current conditions, photos, and comments.Hours and SeasonsTrail can be used year-round; however, it is recommended for use from November through April. At other times of the year, the trail is not used as often due to high temperatures. Features and ServicesDrinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.Toilets: Restroom access varies depending on which trailhead is used.Big Bug Trailhead has one accessible toilet.Black Canyon C
How to Get There
Emery Henderson Trailhead: From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north and exit at New River Road, Exit 233. Head west (left) and continue approximately three miles. The Trailhead is on the north (right) side of the road. From Prescott, take State Route 69 to Interstate 17, and head south. Take New River Exit 233. Head west (right). Travel about three miles on the New River Road and turn right at the developed area.Table Mesa Trailhead: From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 to the Table Mesa Road Exit 236, turn west (left), then right on the frontage road. Drive approximately 1.65 miles to the "Y" and bear left, drive approximately 1.4 miles and look for the side road on the right. Turn onto this road and the trailhead is immediately to the left. From Prescott, take State Route 69 to Interstate 17, and head south. Take the Table Mesa Road Exit 236, turn west (right), then right on the frontage road. Drive approximately 1.65 miles to the "Y" and bear left, drive approximately 1.4 miles and look for the side road on the right. Turn onto this road and the trailhead is immediately to the left.Black Canyon City Trailhead: From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north and exit at Rock Springs/Black Canyon City Exit 242. Head west (left). At the stop sign turn right then quickly left onto Warner Road. Follow the road to the white tank which marks the Black Canyon City Trailhead. From Prescott, take State Route 69 to Interstate 17, head south. Take the Black Canyon City/Cold Water Road Exit 244. Driv
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Black Canyon National Recreation Trail
Heading to Black Canyon National Recreation Trail? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Black Canyon National Recreation Trail?
No central reservation system listed for Black Canyon National Recreation Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/10382181) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Black Canyon National Recreation Trail?
Emery Henderson Trailhead: From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north and exit at New River Road, Exit 233. Head west (left) and continue approximately three miles. The Trailhead is on the north (right) side of the road. From Prescott, take State Route 69 to Interstate 17, and head south. Take New River Exit 233. Head west (right). Travel about three miles on the New River Road and turn right at the d…
How do I contact Black Canyon National Recreation Trail?
You can reach the park at phone: 602-867-5400 or email: blm_az_pdoweb@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
