Horse Thief Canyon

Total Miles 8.3
Technical Rating
2 Easy
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

This 8.5-mile trail runs north to south. It can be ridden either way. It drops from 5,358 feet down to the valley at 3,418 feet. Starting from the top in the Piper Mountain Wilderness, the trail is a nice dirt double track. It starts fairly wide with good views of the desert flora and canyon walls. But be cautious, there are sharp cacti all around and sometimes close to or on the path itself. The track does get narrower at times and has some rocks, but nothing too difficult. There are a few cool rock formations. As it emerges from the canyon, you come to the valley floor. It winds through the desert. Eventually, you come to the sandy washes and enter BLM land.

Photos of Horse Thief Canyon

Difficulty

This is a dirt trail with some rocky spots. It gets narrow between rock formations. It's almost a 2,000-foot elevation drop.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

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Eric S
Oct 15, 2024
Open
South portion is pretty sandy, gets easier on higher altitude. Overall easy trail for the 4Runner.

Horse Thief Canyon Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Horse Thief Canyon Map

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