BLACK MOUNTAIN #1

Black Mountain#1 is the highest of eight Black mountain summits in Southern California. It stands tall at 7,772 feet. 

On Memorial Day, Sean and I decided to take a drive towards the San Bernardino Mountains with no real plans in mind, we decided on Black Mountain. 

Even though it is only four miles one way, this trail is very steep, but well maintained. However, there are a few small sections where the path is flat, so it gave us a chance to catch our breath. The entire area was really beautiful. We were surrounded by huge granite boulders, with a variety of fir trees and thriving manzanita bushes. 

Approaching the last mile towards the summit was the most strenuous. At the top of the ridge there was a road and the final climb to the summit is paved with railings. 

The lookout tower was intact. I climbed more than half way up the stairs but couldn't go any further because at the top some of the steps were removed. The summit views were impressive and breathtaking. There was a summit marker but no register. San Jacinto, Fuller ridge and Castle rocks could be seen from the peak. We ate lunch and admired the views for an hour before descending the tralil back to our cars.  

Stats: 8 miles r/t,  2800' gain (approximately)