AdvancedHike Detail SheetHikes

Black Cross Butte to Salt River Overlook (A)

By March 20, 2026 No Comments
Approx hike distance (miles): 7.0 Area: Canyon Lake
Accum.  elevation gain (feet): N/A Park Entry Fee: No
Low to high elevation gain: 2,100 SCAMR All Trails Map: Yes
Recommended gas donation: $10 Website for reference info: N/A
Unpaved miles: 3.0 Trailhead GPS Coordinates 33.56021, -111.35456
Road Conditions: Fair High clearance vehicle req’d: No

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure to check -in

Trail Conditions
Maintained Trail: No Uneven footing Yes
Steep side drop-offs Yes Steep Trail: Some
Off Trial (scratchy) Yes Slippery Trail Surfaces: No
Use of hands required: No Boulder Hopping: No
Difficulty: Moderate Water Crossings: No
Restrooms at Trailhead: No Gloves Required: No

 

Special Instructions:

This an out back hike following non-maintained trails, that skirt Black Cross Butte and lead to overlooks of the Salt River between Canyon Lake and Apache Lake. This is a very scenic hike of the area and the Salt River canyon. Bring plenty of water and food for both a snack and lunch.

Directions:

Take Felix Rd north to Arizona Farms Rd and turn right. Turn left (north) onto AZ 79. Take the left ramp onto Hwy 60 west towards Phoenix. Drive 12 miles to Mountain View Road (just past Silly Mountain). Go right on Mountain View, go 4.6 miles to AZ-88 (Apache trail). Turn right, go 18 miles on Apache trail. Turn left on Forest Road 80, go approximately 2 miles, until the gate. There is no formal parking lot, park where possible.