Blacktail Canyon, AZ

Note: Military Reservation

This remote, rarely traveled canyon stretches deep into the northern extent of the Huachucas. The narrow, rocky canyon provides excellent habitat for a diverse array of plants and animals.


Blacktail Canyon trail follows an abandoned two-track into the northern range of the Huachuca Mountains. Like many Huachuca trails it starts low at the mouth of the canyon and climbs steeply, eventually reaching the crest of the range. Numerous fire breaks, game trails, and possible migrant trails leave the main two-track at various points and signage is virtually non-existent. Blacktail Spring is located 2.7 miles from the trailhead at Canelo Rd and is reliable only during the monsoon season and perhaps a month or two following (September-October). The two-track trail reaches a T at the fence marking the western boundary of Fort Huachuca. Views open up to the west into the San Raphael Valley, Parker Canyon Lake, and the Canelo Hills. From this point a network of fire break roads branch out over the ridge tops to the southeast and northwest. Following a two-track fire break to the southeast of the west boundary fence (about .3 mile) leads to Blacktail Pond, perhaps more reliable than Blacktail Spring but not by much. It is advised that one keep good track of roads taken as many trails and two-tracks cut through this area.