Black Canyon (3BIV)

Location: Prescott National Forest
Rating: Intermediate 3B IV (advanced route finding and variable conditions)
Length: 8 to 12 hours
Mileage: ~11 miles round trip
Longest Rappel: ~140 ft (43 m) *4-6 rappels depending
Start: Ogden Ranch Rd
End: Loop
Permits: None
Wet Suit: Recommended to required depending on conditions
Shuttle: Not required

*Note: This route should not be confused with other canyons named Black Canyon in Arizona. This description refers to the route located southwest of Verde Village accessed via Ogden Ranch Road.

Overview: Black Canyon offers a more advanced and committing canyoneering experience than it may first appear. While portions of the canyon can be bypassed, the full descent includes significant rappels, cold water exposure, and a narrow technical section.

Flow conditions are critical. If water flow exceeds a light stream level, the canyon can become significantly more hazardous and should be avoided.

The canyon begins with larger vertical drops that may be bypassed by scrambling along the canyon edges. However, the true technical nature of the canyon is found deeper within the narrows, where cold water, confined spaces, and limited escape options increase the difficulty.

While many of the early rappels can be bypassed, these alternate routes can be more physically demanding and exposed. The direct canyon route is often safer, more efficient, and reflects the intended canyoneering descent.

Approach: From I-17, take Exit 287 (Hwy 260) and drive northwest approximately 9.5 miles toward Cottonwood. Turn onto Ogden Ranch Road at the southeast end of Cottonwood (Prairie Lane intersects opposite direction).

Follow Ogden Ranch Road for approximately 5.3 miles to its end and park.

From the parking area, continue north along the dirt road for about 150 yards to an intersection and turn left. Follow the ATV trail for approximately 4.5 miles until it drops into Black Canyon from the north.

Route Description: Once in the canyon, begin your descent downstream through a mix of open sections and narrower canyon features.

Rappels: The canyon begins with a series of larger drops and pools before narrowing into a more technical section. Estimated 2 to 4 rappels. The largest rappel is approximately 140 ft and may be bypassed. Shorter rappels in the narrows (around 15 to 20 ft) are more likely to require rope depending on conditions. Expect:

Rappel count and sequence may vary depending on route choice and conditions. Bypassing rappels is possible in several sections, but these routes often involve steep scrambling, loose terrain, and increased exposure. In many cases, the direct canyon route provides a more controlled and efficient descent, and represents the true canyoneering experience.

• Rappel 1: ~140 ft (often bypassed via scrambling)
• Rappel 2: ~12 ft
• Rappel 3: ~90 ft
• Rappel 4: ~125 ft
• Rappel 5: ~20ft
• Rappel 6: ~10ft

The canyon typically contains water and pools throughout much of the year, though conditions may vary seasonally.

Approximately 1 to 1.5 mile after the canyon opens, exit canyon right and bushwhack north back to the trail and your vehicle. The creek bed often provides the easiest travel route when navigating within the canyon.