Emery Henderson Trailhead

About Emery Henderson Trailhead

Emery Henderson Trailhead accesses the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail.The 80-mile Black Canyon Trail provides hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers with a long-range backcountry trail opportunity. This historic National Recreation Trail is of national significance, following a route used since the times of prehistoric Native American travelers and traders.This trail provides a challenging experience characterized by rough, unstable soils and rocks, with various trail grades and numerous elevation changes within a harsh desert climate. The trail meanders through the Sonoran Desert landscape, including saguaro forests and rugged canyons.The trail is recommended for use from November through April. At other times of the year, the trail is seldom used. The difficulty level is intermediate.

How to Get There

From Interstate 17, take exit 233 at New River Road. Head west and continue approximately three miles. The trailhead is on the north (right) side of the road.From State Route 74 (Carefree Highway), take New River Road for about seven miles. The trailhead is on the north (left) side of the road.

Plan Your Visit to Emery Henderson Trailhead

Heading to Emery Henderson Trailhead? A few things to know before you go:

• Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
• Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
• Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
• Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
• Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

References & Official Resources

• Official Recreation.gov page
• View on OpenStreetMap
• Driving directions (Google Maps)