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Enjoy this route through an outstanding canyon that only gets better with spring blooms.


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Map Key

3.1

Miles

5.0

KM

Point to Point

3,411' 1,040 m

High

2,047' 624 m

Low

1,363' 416 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

14%

Max Grade (8°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

Black Canyon is a truly magical place that hosts a collection of wildlife, waterfalls, and bountiful plant life (some of which can't be found anywhere else in the world). The canyon is nestled into the east side of flat-topped Sutton Mountain, which rises above the surrounding foothills. The ridges and grooves of the terrain always make for an interesting experience, but the area really shines in the spring when wildflowers begin to bloom.

The trail starts out with a fairly mellow grade along the bottom of the gulch. However, as hikers climb higher, the grade continues to slowly steepen. There are also plenty of opportunities to press on to the summit from the assorted drainages and ridges that make up the grass-covered hills. Once on top, the surrounding panoramic views make a fantastic backdrop while you catch your breath.

Flora & Fauna

There are plenty of wildflowers to enjoy in the spring. In particular, look for the hedgehog cactus in April and May of each year.

Contacts

Shared By:

Eric Ashley

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 3 votes

#12164

Overall
  4.0 from 3 votes
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Trail Rankings

#373

in Oregon

#12,164

Overall
10 Views Last Month
1,242 Since Feb 1, 2017
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Photos

Entrance to upper section of Black Canyon trail approx. 1 mile from trailhead. Lots of brush in narrow canyon for about 1/4 mile.
Jan 26, 2021 near Mitchell, OR
Section of trail that squeezes through narrow canyon (6-14-2021)
Jul 15, 2021 near Mitchell, OR
One ravine which can be used to access Sutton Mountain plateau.
Jan 27, 2021 near Mitchell, OR
Exit from brush-choked section about 1 1/2 miles from trailhead (04-12-2019)
Feb 26, 2021 near Mitchell, OR
Black Canyon
Feb 21, 2021 near Mitchell, OR
Upper section where intermittent stream flows down canyon (04-12-2019)
Feb 26, 2021 near Mitchell, OR
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