Black Mountain (#47)

Jan. 24, 2011 -  Located in Rancho Penasquitos, Black Mountain is not far from the Penasquitos Canyon Trails (#46). The trail head is directly next to a very pleasant little park; Hilltop Community Park. First question:  Why is it named "Black Mountain?" Answer:  I really don't know. It doesn't look black to me. When I find out I promise to enlighten you (assuming you even care.) With its very straightforward trail (absolutely no frills), Black Mountain is a nice enough way to get your heart pumping. That fact is made clear immediately as you start your upward trek right from the get-go. The trail winds around and up, and up and around... There's the ultimate destination off in the distance. The pictures pretty much tell the story... Bestow the gates of entry (trumpets sounding, clouds parting). Why does my cell phone work so well here? And now the best part... ...the view from the top! And now for the downhill. A pretty cool hike.  By the way, I think I figured out why they call it "Black" Mountain. Check out the map. MAP