Black Canyon City Overlook

Total Miles 1.8
Technical Rating
5 Moderate
Best Time Spring, Fall, Winter
Trail Type High-Clearance 4x4 Trail
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

This little shortcut from New River Trail to the Road to Nowhere will not disappoint. There are great views and steep climbs and descents. Some of this trail is a shelf road and has some washouts. High-clearance vehicles are required. Make sure you close the gates and watch out for the horses and cows.

Photos of Black Canyon City Overlook

Difficulty

Expect a steep climb and descent, loose rock, shelf road sections, washouts, and some flexy spots. This is a high-clearance vehicle road, but you don't need a locker.

Technical Rating

5

Status Reports

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Spiggy Shaw
Apr 22, 2025
Open
Dangerous wash out on this hill, FR 41. Big drop off on left side about 20ft down into that shute. Only narrow vehicles at this spot, about 64" wheel width.
Chuck Waters
Feb 05, 2025
Open
The trail starts out behind a closed gate that is legal to open, drive thru, and close behind you. From there, it is a sandy and light rocky path to the next gate. After that, you will encounter a couple narrow trails, and a spot that is technical enough to make sure you don't roll sideways off the trail, and may be a bit tricky for vehicles over 50". Also encountered are steep rocky and rutted grades that Low range will be a huge benefit. Once on top of the lookout, it is a 360° view of gorgeous mountainous terrain. Once you pass the lookout, the trail is not for those who fear heights, as you are about 6" from the edge of the mountain for about 1/4 mile. I rated this trail up to a six, just due to the spot that isn't for the beginning off-roader, as one mistake could turn your great trail riding to a bad experience.
Mike Sterr
Dec 21, 2024
Open
Three close wash outs at top of trail. All three are aggressively dangers looking

Black Canyon City Overlook Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance

Black Canyon City Overlook Map

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