Black Canyon Trail 3-Day Singletrack Tour

RIDING TYPE | ◆︎ Advanced
TRIP DURATION | 3-Days
SEASON | March & October – November
PRICE | $1,495 pp

Experience the ultimate Black Canyon Trail mountain bike tour, where you’ll navigate nearly 80 miles of IMBA-designated "Epic" singletrack through the rugged Bradshaw Mountain foothills. This fully supported Arizona desert cycling adventure handles every logistical detail from gourmet meals to gear transport, allowing you to focus on the flowy descents and challenging climbs of this premier National Recreation Trail.

This tour contains some difficult riding on technical singletrack trails and a small amount of jeep roads. We will be without vehicle support during many sections

of the ride. Many cacti, sharp vegetation, and sharp rocks exist along trail.

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventures. 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
Total Mileage: 22-25 miles per day
Packing for your trip

Day 1: Desert Flow to Bumblebee Camp

  • 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.
  • Approx. 20 miles

Day 2: Canyons, Ridges, and Technical Thrills

  • 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!
  • Approx. 18 miles

Day 3: The Soul of the Trail & Fast Finish

  • 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.
  • Approx. 20 miles

Phoenix, AZ
The trip will meet at 8:30 AM local time at The Holiday Inn Express, 3401 E. University Dr. & I-10. You may park your car here, gratis, during the trip. You
will need to spend the night before in Phoenix.

ENDING TIME

We will return to Phoenix between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day.

Phoenix, Arizona is truly a diamond in the rough. Its active nightlife and beautiful scenery make for the sixth largest city in the nation to be a top choice for
anyone’s vacation! Inexpensive flights to Phoenix are quite often abundant from most any city.

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Phoenix is a popular vacation spot. It is a good idea to book your rooms several months in advance if possible; here are a couple of recommendations:

Holiday Inn Express, Phoenix Airport
3401 E. University Drive & I-10
602-453-9900
This is where the trip meets. We recommend making reservations here ahead of time.

The Clarendon Hotel
401 W. Clarendon Ave
www.theclarendon.net
602-252-7363

For transportation from the airport either call Discount Cab (602-200-2000) or use the Uber app on your smartphone.

TAXI SERVICE

Paul’s Taxi: 602-222-2227
Ejecutivos Taxi: 602-678-1444
Discount Cab: 602-200-2000

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 .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

RIDING TYPE | ◆︎ Advanced

TRIP DURATION | 3-Days

SEASON | 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.

This tour contains some difficult riding on technical singletrack trails and a small amount of jeep roads. We will be without vehicle support during many sections
of the ride. Many cacti, sharp vegetation, and sharp rocks exist along trail.

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventures. 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
  • Total Mileage: 22-25 miles per day

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Phoenix, AZ
The trip will meet at 8:30 AM local time at The Holiday Inn Express, 3401 E. University Dr. & I-10. You may park your car here, gratis, during the trip. You
will need to spend the night before in Phoenix.

ENDING TIME

We will return to Phoenix between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO PHOENIX, AZ

Phoenix, Arizona is truly a diamond in the rough. Its active nightlife and beautiful scenery make for the sixth largest city in the nation to be a top choice for
anyone’s vacation! Inexpensive flights to Phoenix are quite often abundant from most any city.

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Phoenix is a popular vacation spot. It is a good idea to book your rooms several months in advance if possible; here are a couple of recommendations:

Holiday Inn Express, Phoenix Airport
3401 E. University Drive & I-10
602-453-9900
This is where the trip meets. We recommend making reservations here ahead of time.

The Clarendon Hotel
401 W. Clarendon Ave
www.theclarendon.net
602-252-7363

For transportation from the airport either call Discount Cab (602-200-2000) or use the Uber app on your smartphone.

TAXI SERVICE

Paul’s Taxi: 602-222-2227
Ejecutivos Taxi: 602-678-1444
Discount Cab: 602-200-2000

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem. We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day.

For this trip, you will need a riding pack and optional day bag:

  •  Your riding pack may be a hydration pack, but needs to carry 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, other warm clothing, and food for the day. You may be away from camp and the support vehicle all day and need to be self-sufficient.
  • A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This day-pack will remain with the support vehicle and may not be accessible, depending on the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 1 cycling water bottle
✓ camp chairs
✓ solar showers
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o bike (Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.)
o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)
o tent
o sleeping bag
o sleeping pad

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling shirts
o long sleeve cycling shirt
o long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o tights or leg warmers
o 2 pair cycling gloves (1 pair full length for warmth)
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CAMP CLOTHING

o camp shorts
o shirts
o warm socks
o long underwear, top and bottom (wicking layer, not cotton)
o 2 pair warm long pants
o long sleeve fleece or sweater
o pile or down jacket (insulating layer)
o warm gloves and hat
o brimmed hat or visor
o bathing suit (for solar showers on the trip and at the hotel before/after your trip)
o hiking shoes
o sandals
o rain gear to wear in camp

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o towel
o biodegradable soap
o wet-wipes
o flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
o sunglasses
o optional day bag
o stuff sacks or reusable grocery bags (or separate compartments for your dry bag)
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, but if you cannot, please bring a way to charge them. We recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges. Also, putting your phone on airplane mode to save power is recommended.

Q: The itinerary mentions river crossings on Day 2 and Day 3. How deep are these crossings typically, and what is the protocol if water levels are high?

A: No more than ankle deep, usually we are able to safely cross walking on rocks and logs. In the event the water level is to high, we will turn around riding an 'out and back.' The following day we would shuttle south riding back towards the river crossing, from the southern side, to not miss any of the trail.

Q: What are the primary safety concerns regarding heat and sun exposure, and what is the support vehicle protocol for getting riders off the trail quickly if severe weather or heat is encountered?

A: We ride the BCT during the ideal weather windows, early spring and late fall. You wouldn't want to be here in the summer. In the event a rider becomes ill, due to prolonged sun exposure, your guides will bring in the support vehicle to the nearest trail/road crossing to evacuate the rider.

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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 .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

Black Canyon Trail 3-Day Singletrack Tour

PRICE | $1,495 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

See what guests are saying - click here:

I recently had the pleasure of embarking on the Black Canyon 3-Day Trip with Western Spirit, and I can confidently say it was an experience of a lifetime. From the moment I joined the group at the initial meet-up to the final drop-off, every aspect of the trip was nothing short of fantastic. One of the standout features of this trip was the outstanding team of guides provided by Western Spirit. Their knowledge of the trails, passion for mountain biking, and commitment to safety were evident throughout the entire journey. They not only guided us skillfully through the rugged terrain but also prepared some awesome meals to keep us moving forward. The Black Canyon 3-Day Trip with Western Spirit exceeded all expectations. It was a perfect blend of challenging mountain biking, stunning scenery, delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and wonderful companionship. If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of mountain biking with the beauty of the Arizona landscape, I wholeheartedly recommend this trip with Western Spirit. - David

The trip was great! The route was fun and challenging and the guides were personable and hardworking. I would recommend this trip highly! - Hal

A Day With Western Spirit

Rise & Shine
How do you like to start your day? If you like waking up to hot coffee and unforgettable sunrises you’re in luck. Delicious cowboy coffee, fresh fruit salad, pancakes, bacon, granola, yogurt and more.

>>> Read More

Hit The Trail
Whether your trip includes: riding
the Rainbow Rim Trail; enjoying breathtaking views of the
Grand Canyon; leading your
friends on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands; or ripping down.

>>> Read More

Apres
We base our itineraries around the trails that we love to ride, but also around great camp locations. We love to find the perfect place next to rivers or lakes , or by vistas
and sunset spots.

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BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam
“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”
~ Robin

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

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