Black Canyon Trail #72

Black Canyon Trail #72 is a strenuous one-way hiking route in the Gila National Forest, within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. It runs about 12 miles and climbs along Black Canyon Creek from the rim area to higher country on the Black Range crest, with major elevation change over the course of the day.

Because there’s no access to Trail #72 from Upper Black Canyon Campground across private property, the normal approach is via Trail 72B. Trail 72B starts at a turnout on Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) on the north side of Black Canyon.

From that turnout, Trail 72B follows along the canyon rim for roughly 1 mile, then turns south and drops down a steep ridge nose through switchbacks to connect with Black Canyon Trail #72 at the canyon bottom.

Once you’re on Trail #72, the route ascends along Black Canyon Creek. Along the way it intersects Aspen Canyon Trail #75, which is part of the same high-elevation wilderness trail network.

Trail #72 ultimately connects Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74. Near that end, Trail #74 follows Trail #72 from the top of the Black Range toward Aspen Canyon Trail #75.

Expect rough, high-elevation backcountry hiking on an unpaved trail: the route is designated for non-motorized, non-mechanized use, and wilderness ethics apply throughout. Water is available from stream or spring sources, but water quality isn’t tested, so treat or filter before drinking.

For logistics, the trailhead access depends on Forest Road 150; sections of the road can be rough (especially through Rocky Canyon), and high-clearance 4WD is recommended. Black Canyon Campground flooded after the 2022 Black Fire, and the drainage can still produce higher stream flows during wet periods.

Within the trail network, Trail #72 connects with Aspen Canyon Trail #75 and shares tread with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 along the Black Range crest section, making it useful as a segment for thru-hike planning. Permit requirements apply for commercial or organized uses.

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Aldo Leopold Wilderness in Winston | Map and Routes