Black Brush

The Black Brush trail is one of the highlights of our “backyard”. This hike is part of the extensive Santa Clara River Reserve trail system, containing miles and miles of fantastic hiking and world class mountain biking.

We love the Black Brush trail for its meandering nature, it winds along hills, into the gullies, and down to the edge of the canyon. At this point of the trail, you can see petroglyphs and look down into the canyon carved by the Santa Clara River. In the summer, the river bottoms are green and lush; in the fall, brilliant yellow leaves adorn the trees along the river banks. 

As you gain elevation on the balloon portion of the trail, look westward and enjoy the sweeping vistas of the uninhabited foothills and onward to the Beaver Dam Mountains. Look north and east to see Pine Valley Mountain, Snow Canyon state park area, and even further in the distance you will see the cliffs and peaks near Hurricane and Zion. There are also many fine specimens of impressive sized Barrel cactuses along the trail as well.

This hike is a great option for some exercise and also relaxation and good views.

Difficulty: Mild to moderate related to elevation changes.

Trail Stats: 4.3 miles, balloon loop, 531 elevation gain

Trail Finding: Easy.

Conditions: Packed dirt, some rocks.

Would I Repeat This: Yes, this hike is worth the repeat.

Parking: Parking lot present at Cove Wash Trailhead.

Timing: There is no shade, so take this into consideration for time of day you complete the hike if done in the warmer months.

Downloaded Map: Helpful at trail forks or to generally know ‘how much longer’.

Fees: None. 

Trails: Santa Clara River Reserve has numerous options, including Upper and Lower Graveyard, Enepitsi, Tempipo’op, and Cholla trails. Cove Wash Trailhead, where Black Brush begins, also is the start of some epic mountain biking/hiking trails. These include Sidewinder, Barrel Roll, and Precipice.