Black Canyon Donkey Derby 2025

🏇 Welcome to the Black Canyon Donkey Derby 2025!

Get ready for the 5th annual Black Canyon Donkey Derby, held at Deep Canyon Ranch, in Black Canyon City, Arizona! The race will be Saturday, March 8th, but be sure to come for a full weekend of FUN (events listed below).

🎉 Family Fun and Activities

• Variety of Vendors: Enjoy shopping and local goods.
• Food Trucks: Satisfy your appetite with delicious options.
• Petting Zoo: Fun for the kids to interact with animals.
• Face Painting: A creative activity for children of all ages!

🐴 What is Burro Racing?

First, let's talk about what a burro is. “Burro” is the Spanish word for donkey.

“Pack burro racing is a sport in Colorado, Arizona, California, and New Mexico that is rooted in the various western state's mining histories. In the early days of the mining industry in Colorado, miners would take donkeys (burros in Spanish) through the mountains of Colorado while prospecting. Because the burros were carrying supplies, the miners could not ride the animals and so they would walk, leading the donkey. Burro races are held throughout small towns in Colorado, Arizona, California, and New Mexico to commemorate the miners and their burros. In 2012, pack burro racing was recognized as the official "summer heritage sport" in Colorado.

🚩 Course Information

At the Black Canyon Donkey Derby, there will be a 3-mile course, a 6-mile, or a 9-mile course.

• 3-Mile Course: Great for beginners or those wanting a casual experience.
• 6-Mile & 9-Mile Courses: Designed for more experienced participants.
• Experience: Jog/walk and bond with your burro on the trails.
• Rentals: Burro racing donkeys can be rented for all levels of racing experience!

📜 The Rules

Lead Ropes

• Fit and Length: All burros must be properly fitted with a halter and lead rope no longer than 15 feet.
• Attachment: The lead rope must be attached to the halter at all times.

Control of Burro

• Control Required: Participants must maintain control of their burro through handling of the lead rope.
• Trail Etiquette: Keep to the designated trail and be aware of other racers.

Jack/Stud Chains

• Usage: Chains may be used with a pressure/release technique for control.
• Disqualification: Injuries resulting from these chains may lead to disqualification.

🏕️ Camping & Schedule of Events

Camping

• Dry Camping: Available at the facility, no reservations needed.
• Fees: $10/spot per night.
• Box Stalls: Available for rent, $15/night or $25/night for cleaning services.
• Contact: Jacie Greer for stall reservations 602-885-9369.

Schedule of Events

Please check back for the schedule as we get closer to the Race!

Join us for the thrilling adventure of the Black Canyon Donkey Derby! For more details, visit Black Canyon Donkey Derby 2025.