Black Canyon Trail: Table Mesa to Emery Henderson

BCT: Table Mesa TH to Emery Henderson is a 12-mile point-to-point segment of the 80-mile Black Canyon Trail (BCT). This segment runs from the Table Mesa Road Trailhead to the Emery Henderson Trailhead located north of Phoenix, AZ, off of Interstate 17. This is a non-motorized trail that is open to hikers, trail runners, backpackers, equestrians, and mountain bikers. This section of the Black Canyon Trail is characterized by rugged terrain, sandy trails, and a variety of Sonoran Desert vegetation, such as cacti lining the trail. The grade is fairly gentle and easy following a mostly downhill trend. PARKINGTable Mesa Trailhead: A small parking area with a kiosk. Extra parking may be available a short distance up a side road.Emery Henderson: Paved parking area with spaces big enough for trailers. The trailhead also features picnic tables, restrooms, and a kiosk. PERMITSThere are no permits or fees required to hike or bike this trail.WEATHER AND SEASONThis 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. HISTORYThe 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 INFORMATIONBlack Canyon Trail Coalition: https://bctaz.org/. Bureau of Land Management: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/mountainbike/blackcanyon.