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ForestMatters, LLC

Black Canyon Wilderness Trail

Ochoco National Forest, Oregon · 3 min read

Distance
9.2 mi
Elevation Gain
800 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
April through October
Est. Time
4.5-6 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
No Lot
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Black Canyon Wilderness, 13,400 acres of old-growth canyon in the remote south Ochoco
  • Perennial wilderness creek through old-growth ponderosa pine and juniper canyon
  • Very low visitation even in peak summer season
  • Good wildlife corridor for elk, mule deer, and black bear
  • Canyon character with basalt rimrock on both sides of the drainage
riverold growthwildlifeviews

Overview

The Black Canyon Wilderness Trail follows a perennial creek through one of the most remote canyon systems in Ochoco National Forest, passing through old-growth ponderosa pine and juniper forest between basalt rimrock canyon walls. The 9.2-mile out-and-back stays close to the creek throughout, with very few other hikers even on summer weekends. The Black Canyon offers a level of solitude that is increasingly rare in accessible day-hiking country.

No permit required. Dogs are welcome on leash.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Lower Black Canyon. From the FR-58 trailhead, the trail descends to the creek and follows it downstream into the canyon. The forest here is ponderosa pine transitioning to juniper as the canyon deepens. The creek is audible throughout. The canyon walls are basalt rimrock, reaching 200 to 400 feet on both sides by mile 2.0. Wildlife sign, especially elk tracks along the creek corridor, is common.

Miles 2.0 to 4.0: Middle canyon. The trail continues through the widening canyon, with old-growth ponderosa increasing in size. Several small tributary canyons enter from the north. The creek has deeper pools in the middle section, suitable as cooling stops in July and August. Wildlife movement corridors are concentrated near water.

Miles 4.0 to 4.6: Upper wilderness and turnaround. The canyon narrows and steepens slightly in the upper section. The trail becomes less distinct as it continues upstream. The turnaround is at a wide gravel bar near mile 4.6 that provides a good lunch and rest spot before the return.

Return. Retrace the canyon route back to the trailhead.

When to Hike

April through June for the fullest creek and spring green in the canyon. Temperatures are mild and insects light.

July through September for dry trails and the best creek pools for cooling. The canyon provides shade and the creek keeps temperatures lower than the surrounding plateau.

October for elk rut activity and fall color in the willows along the creek. This is one of the best months for wildlife watching in the canyon.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. The creek is a reliable source that should be treated. Gaiters are useful in spring when the trail can be wet near creek crossings. The canyon provides shade but sun protection is important for exposed sections.

Trailhead Access

Forest Road 58 southeast of Prineville. Take US-26 east from Prineville and follow FR-58 south. The trailhead is about 30 miles from Prineville. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for portions of FR-58. Download offline maps before leaving; no cell service in the canyon.

Nearby

The Twin Pillars Trail is another remote Ochoco experience in a different drainage. The Ochoco Divide Trail provides the high-ridge contrast to this canyon route. See the full Ochoco National Forest guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles in the remote wilderness canyon.

Trailhead Parking

Black Canyon Trailhead on Forest Road 58, southeast of Prineville. Gravel road. Pullout for 6-8 vehicles. No fee. High-clearance recommended for portions of FR-58.

← Back to Ochoco National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How remote is the Black Canyon Wilderness?
The Black Canyon Wilderness is one of the most remote and least-visited wilderness areas in Oregon's national forests. The combination of a long gravel access road, no developed facilities, and limited trail information online means the wilderness sees very few visitors even in summer. A day in Black Canyon without seeing another hiker is the norm. The wilderness has no maintained campsites but dispersed camping is permitted throughout.
Is there water in Black Canyon?
Yes. Black Canyon Creek is a perennial stream, meaning it runs year-round in the lower and middle sections of the wilderness. Water is available throughout most of the trail in spring and early summer; the upper reaches can slow to a trickle by August. All water should be filtered or treated before drinking. The reliable creek is one of the features that makes extended backpacking in the wilderness practical.
Is the Black Canyon Trail good for backpacking?
Yes. Black Canyon is well-suited for a one- or two-night backpacking trip, with a perennial creek for water and dispersed camping allowed throughout the wilderness. The 9.2-mile out-and-back can be extended for longer trips by continuing up the canyon beyond the main turnaround. No permit is required (as of 2026). Bear canisters are recommended but not currently required in this wilderness area.