Rhus Ridge Trailhead

Jeff B (Jeffery)

Wonderful trail for a warm September day. The trail has a lot of incline within the first mile. You will find a smooth trail with lots of shade and some wildlife. I was able to see deer, a snake and lots of lizards. No bathroom or water fountains, but lots of parking for this trailhead that is off the beaten path. You will not find this trail unless you are looking for it.

Tina Nguyen

(January/22/2021). I’m learning that hiking in the rain is as much fun as hiking when the sun is out. “ There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!” There are so many different ways to hiking up to Black Mountain Summit. I took Rhus Ridge parking,no entrance fee, parking lot is tiny, it holds about 10 cars max. I assume it would be difficult parking on weekends. My hike was 9.5 miles out & back, and 2,506 feet of elevation gain. Only one way to the summit and it’s almost 5 miles. Directions is easy to follow, I started with Rhus Ridge trail to Black Mountain Trail, then continue on Black Mountain Trail to reach the summit. With the ground all muddy, slippery, and some puddles from the rain, make it a little harder to hike so I had to take more time. The trail has a very gradually incline, first and last mile are quite steep, so it’s tough workout, but it’s manageable for all hikers, and the rest of the trail is nicely graded. Not too much of views exist on the way hiking up since the rain was strong,It was so wet and cold, I can only able to see 50 feet in front of me. But on the way back down the rain was stopped and the sun out, it’s expansive incredible views of Silicon Valley. All trees are naturally washed so I can see the beauty of them. Hiking in the rain is loving every minute of it, it’s totally changed my attitude.

Jason Teng

Beautiful hike. Initial leg of the hike is quite hilly and steep, but the views on the way up are gorgeous. Downside is that the parking is very limited and I’ve frequently had to turn away because the lot is full.

Sharon

Spring promises lush rolling hills. Dandelions, miner’s lettuce and poison oak popped out along the wide trails. On a fine day wild turkeys and deers out about on the pastures. The hike to Black Mountain is 10 miles 250 feet gains, great training trails. Especially during the weekend many Scout troops leading the hike training for Philmont or 50-miler.