Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
2,210.00 ft (673.61 m)
Trail type
Shuttle
Distance
14.00 mi (22.53 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

BCT: Black Canyon City to Table Mesa Road is a 14-mile point-to-point segment of the 80-mile Black Canyon Trail (BCT). This segment runs from the Black Canyon City Trailhead to Table Mesa Trailhead located north of Phoenix, AZ. This is a non-motorized trail that is open to hikers, trail runners, backpackers, equestrians, and mountain bikers. 

There are scenic vistas, lush riparian zones, and some challenging ups and downs in this section. The trail is entirely singletrack throughout the beautiful Sonoran Desert. It dips in and out of canyons, traverses rocky segments, and crosses the Agua Fria river twice. Throughout the route, there are steep climbs and descents along loose rock. 

Common vegetation in this section includes a variety of cacti, mesquite, and ocotillo. The trail passes through stands of saguaro and desert chaparral. 

PERMITS
There are no permits or fees required to hike or bike this trail.

WEATHER AND SEASON
This desert trail features hot summers and little shade. In the winter the temperatures can drop below freezing at night, but during the day the averages are around 60-70 degrees making it the perfect winter getaway for anyone craving the sun while most of the country remains dark and cold. 

HISTORY
The BCT follows a route that was once used for Native American travelers and traders. In 2008 the trail received its National Recreation Trail designation. This designation came as the result of it’s  rugged nature, natural beauty, and historical significance. To learn more about the history of the trail and surrounding area please visit: History of the Black Canyon Trail

MORE INFORMATION

Black Canyon Trail Coalition: https://bctaz.org/

Bureau of Land Management: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/mountainbike/blackcanyon.

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall
Winter

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Riparian Zones. Desert Landscapes. Singletrack Trail.

Cons

Loose, rocky terrain.

Trailhead Elevation

2,088.00 ft (636.42 m)

Highest point

2,501.00 ft (762.30 m)

Features

Wildlife
Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking
Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

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