Black Canyon Trail 3-Day Singletrack Tour
RIDING TYPE
Advanced
DURATION
3 Days
SEASON
February - March / October - November
Black Canyon Trail 3-Day Singletrack Tour
Conquer the Black Canyon Trail: IMBA Epic Singletrack
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day Black Canyon Trail bike trip, a premier Arizona mountain biking adventure with Western Spirit Cycling. This world-class trail system, nestled in the Bradshaw Mountain foothills of central Arizona, offers nearly 80 miles of exhilarating, purpose-built singletrack that’s perfect for a multi-day escape. Designated a National Recreation Trail and awarded “Epic Trail” status by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA), the Black Canyon Trail promises flowy descents, challenging climbs, and breathtaking desert landscapes.
We understand the desires of experienced mountain bikers: you seek hassle-free adventures where all logistics are expertly handled, allowing you to focus purely on the ride and the stunning desert surroundings. Our all-inclusive Black Canyon Trail Bike Trip is a rewarding and memorable Arizona mountain bike tour.
Advanced Challenge, Saguaro Immersion & IMBA Epic Status
This Black Canyon Trail Tour is tailored for Advanced riders seeking technical challenges, featuring:
IMBA Epic Status: Ride a trail recognized by IMBA as an “Epic Trail,” signifying its world-class status and unforgettable experience.
Technical Singletrack: Conquer nearly 80 miles of expertly designed singletrack, known for its addictive flow, rolling descents, and short, punchy climbs.
Unique Desert Immersion: Experience captivating technical singletrack in Arizona amidst stunning mountain vistas and the vibrant flora of the Sonoran Desert, including iconic Saguaro cacti.
Fully Supported: All-inclusive logistics, gourmet meals, and support are handled by expert guides, ensuring your focus remains on the challenging BCT singletrack.
-DAY-BY-DAY
Itinerary
Your adventure begins at our Phoenix meeting point, followed by a scenic shuttle north to the Black Canyon Trailhead, near the charming town of Mayer.
We’ll navigate the varying desert terrain between the tiny towns of Cleator and Cordes, heading south.
The day culminates in a picturesque camp among the majestic Saguaro cacti near Bumblebee.
The trail today is fun, engaging, and a perfect introduction to Arizona mountain biking.
Today’s ride takes us deeper into the heart of the Black Canyon.
We’ll traverse the deeply incised canyons of the Agua Fria River and explore the foothills of the Bradshaw Mountains.
Passes and ridgelines will offer expansive views east towards Black Canyon City, complemented by rugged landscapes and distinctive flat-topped mesas.
Expect the addition of a few more technical sections and a potentially thrilling river crossing!
Our final day culminates in a ride that truly embodies the Black Canyon Trail’s heart and soul.
Experience another memorable river crossing, fantastic panoramic views, and vast Saguaro forests.
As we transition from the rugged, higher elevations to the rolling hills of the Emery Henderson area, the trail gradually becomes flatter and faster, providing a perfect, exhilarating finish to our trip.
We’ll conclude our adventure with a comfortable shuttle back to Phoenix, where we’ll share our goodbyes and memories.
-TRIP NOTES
The fine print
Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.
Road Surface
Mostly singletrack. Includes packed sediment, some rocky and sandy sections and smooth dirt sections.
Overall Rating
Intermediate/Advanced
Technical Difficulty
Advanced—rocky, loose and sometimes steep singletrack, some moderate exposure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate/Advanced— short but steep climbs, longer days and technical sections make this ride a challenging one.
Altitude
1,000 - 4,000 feet
Biking Mileage
22-25 miles per day
Hiking Mileage
22-25 miles per day
–Travel Logistics
Getting there.
Phoenix, AZ. Meets at 8:30 AM local time at Holiday Inn Express, 3401 E. University Dr. & I-10 (free parking during trip).
Taxi Service
Paul’s Taxi 602-222-2227; Ejecutivos Taxi 602-678-1444; Discount Cab 602-200-2000.
Lodging Before Your Trip
Holiday Inn Express, Phoenix Airport
3401 E. University Drive & I-10
This is where the trip meets. We recommend making reservations here ahead of time.
The Clarendon Hotel
401 W. Clarendon Ave
www.theclarendon.net
For transportation from the airport either call Discount Cab (602-200-2000) or use the Uber app on your smartphone.
Paul’s Taxi: 602-222-2227
Ejecutivos Taxi: 602-678-1444
Discount Cab: 602-200-2000
PACKING
Bring or rent
Bringing or renting
- Bike (rentals come with flat pedals)
- Helmet (gratis w
- Rental bike)
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
Cycling clothing
- Cycling shoes
- 3-5 pair cycling shorts
- 3-5 cycling shirts
- Long sleeve cycling shirt
- Long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
- Cycling socks
- Windbreaker
- Tights or leg warmers
- 2 pair cycling gloves
- Rain jacket & rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
- Warm layer
- Sunglasses
Camp clothing
- Camp shorts/shirts
- Warm socks
- Long underwear
- 2 pair warm long pants
- Fleece/sweater
- Pile or down jacket
- Warm gloves and hat
- Brimmed hat
- Bathing suit
- Hiking shoes
- Sandals
- Rain gear
Personal
- Toiletries
- Medication
- Towel
- Biodegradable soap
- Wet-wipes
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Optional day bag
- Stuff sacks
- Cash for tipping (10-20% of trip price)
Optional
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Favorite beverages
- Books
- Maps
- Portable USB charger
Need more information about our bike trips?
Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page, what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by subscribing to our newsletter.
Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732.
Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page, what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by subscribing to our newsletter.
Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732
Gallery
-A DAY WITH-
Western Spirit
Three chapters to every day on the trail. We sweat the details so you can simply ride, eat well, and look up.
Wake to cowboy coffee on the rim, fresh fruit, pancakes and granola. Unforgettable sunrises over the canyon — every single morning.
Learn More ↗
From the Rainbow Rim Trail to the White Rim Road in Canyonlands, our guides put you on the right line for breathtaking Grand Canyon views.
Learn More ↗
We pick camps for a reason. Rivers, lakes, sunset vistas — and a chef-prepared meal under one of the darkest skies in the lower 48.
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