Black Canyon (3BIII)

Location: Prescott National Forest
Rating: Intermediate 3B III
Length: 8-12 hours
Mileage: ~11 miles
Longest Rappel: 100ft (30m)
Start: Ogden Ranch Rd
End: Loop
Permits: None
Wet Suit: Preferred
Shuttle: No

Overview: Black Canyon offers forest, falls, narrows, pools, rappelling, etc. The most significant rappel is 100ft but can be bypassed by scrambling. The longest rappel that would be hard to bypass is about 20ft high within the narrows of the Black Canyon. Always go prepared. Finding a natural anchor within the narrow section might prove complex and unanticipated changes that can occur during flash floods.

Approach: From I-17, exit 287 Hwy 260 and drive northwest 9.58 miles to Ogden Ranch Rd. Ogden Ranch Rd. is the intersection at the very southeast end of Cottonwood. Head southeast on Ogden Ranch Rd. The opposite direction is Praire Ln. Follow Ogden Ranch Rd straight for 5.3 miles to the end and park.

Completing the Canyon: Continue North on the small dirt road 150 yards to an intersection and turn left. Follow the ATV/pathway for about 4.5 miles, where it enters the Black Canyon from the north. Begin your descent down Black Canyon. A total of 11 miles round trip. When the canyon opens again, you can exit about 1 mile down the canyon and bush-whack it north to the trial and your car, or you can simply follow the wash until another dry wash enters from the north—Head north to find your car.

The canyon offers a small water flow and nearly has pools all year round. Anticipate at least one swim. The creekbed will offer the least resistance on your way back.