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.