The Agua Fria contains one of the most significant systems of prehistoric sites in the American Southwest, including Pueblo La Plata, a major settlement of stone masonry pueblos. The area is the home to coyotes, bobcats, antelope, mule deer, javelina, a variety of small mammals and songbirds. Eagles and other raptors are also a draw for birdwatchers.
Brochure and Map for Black Canyon National Recreation Trail (NRT) at Agua Fria National Monument (NM) in Arizona. Published by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Agua Fria NM
https://www.blm.gov/visit/agua-fria
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agua_Fria_National_Monument
The Agua Fria contains one of the most significant systems of prehistoric sites in the American Southwest, including Pueblo La Plata, a major settlement of stone masonry pueblos. The area is the home to coyotes, bobcats, antelope, mule deer, javelina, a variety of small mammals and songbirds. Eagles and other raptors are also a draw for birdwatchers.
Black Canyon National Recreation Trail
General Location
The trail is 40 miles north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The northern end
is 40 miles east of Prescott, Arizona.
Brief Description
Hikers, horse riders and mountain bikers are welcome on this 80-mile trail, which is
designed and designated for non-motorized use. The Copper Mountain Loop, an 8-mile
connector loop, has recently been built east of Mayer and is accessed at Big Bug TH.
National Recreation Trail Designation
Trails with this designation are recognized as having exemplary local and national
significance. The Black Canyon National Recreation Trail (NRT) received the designation
in 2008 because of its scenic beauty, rugged features and historic importance. As you
hike or ride this trail, you are following a route used continually since the times of
prehistoric Native American travelers and traders. Some stretches are part of the Black
Canyon stagecoach and historic livestock driveway.
Access
Here are four ways to access the Black Canyon NRT from Interstate 17:
Emery Henderson Trailhead: Take Exit 232 at New River Road. Go west about two miles
on New River Road and turn right at the developed area.
Black Canyon City Trailhead: Take Exit 242 at Rock Springs in Black Canyon City. Go
west. Turn right at the stop sign and then take a quick left onto Warner Road. Follow the
road to the white tank which sits near the trailhead.
Gloriana Parking Area: Take Exit 248 to Bumble Bee and Crown King. Proceed about a
half-mile to the trailhead on the left. The dirt parking area accommodates five to eight
vehicles.
Big Bug Trailhead: Take Exit 262 toward Prescott on Highway 69. Proceed 4.2 miles and
turn left into the entrance on the south side of the highway. The trailhead will be just
beyond mile marker 266.
Permits, Fees, Limitations
There are no use fees. Segments of the trail are not recommended for novice horseback
riders. Some terrain is challenging for mountain bikers. New River, Black Canyon City,
Bumble Bee, and Cleator U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps are pertinent.
Contact
Hassayampa Field Office
BLM Phoenix District
21605 N. 7th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85027
(623) 580-5500
www.blm.gov/arizona
www.blm.gov/visit/az-black-canyon-trail
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National R.ecreation Trail
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