Trail Map of Black Mountain from Rhus Ridge, Rancho San Antonio
Great hike from Los Altos Hills, towering 2812' over Silicon Valley.
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Overview
Difficult:
9.8 miles, Full day
Overview:
Towering over Silicon Valley, waaaay back to the rear of Rancho San Antonio, lies 2812' Black Mountain. Starting at the little-known Rhus Ridge parking lot, you can enjoy a healthy workout and a grand panoramic view of Silicon Valley!
The unusual snow picture was taken in December 2008. Your hike is much more likely to be sunny and dry!
Other access routes are from upper Page Mill Road to the northwest, and a much easier hike from Permit-only parking on upper Montebello Road. (Call the Midpeninsula Open Space District for a "Waterwheel Creek" Montebello Road parking permit, 2 business days prior. See provided link for details)
Tips: Sturdy shoes, water, sun protection, and maybe some additional clothing, as the summit can be much cooler and more breezy than the starting point. This area of California typically has mountain lions, rattlesnakes, ticks, and the occasional scorpion. Staying on the trail, during daylight hours only, will help you avoid these critters.
The unusual snow picture was taken in December 2008. Your hike is much more likely to be sunny and dry!
Other access routes are from upper Page Mill Road to the northwest, and a much easier hike from Permit-only parking on upper Montebello Road. (Call the Midpeninsula Open Space District for a "Waterwheel Creek" Montebello Road parking permit, 2 business days prior. See provided link for details)
Tips: Sturdy shoes, water, sun protection, and maybe some additional clothing, as the summit can be much cooler and more breezy than the starting point. This area of California typically has mountain lions, rattlesnakes, ticks, and the occasional scorpion. Staying on the trail, during daylight hours only, will help you avoid these critters.
Rhus Ridge Parking
Quarry View!
The Towering Towers!
The Rocky Summit
POIs: numbers | icons
