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A Pleasant Surprise at the Top of Black Mountain

12/14/2019

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I awoke with the intent to revisit Red Rock Canyon but I searched "Best hikes around Vegas" and up popped Black Mountain.  Finding the trailhead is a challenge as my initial effort placed me in front of a massive gate entering a private community.  I rechecked descriptions and discovered the parking lot is on Shadow Canyon Drive off Anthem Parkway, Sun City, Henderson, NV.  Odd to begin a hike on a paved walkway. Yes, that's Black Mountain in the distance.
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Once you approach a small concrete building you'll see signage that directs you to Black Mountain.  I cross over a large, manmade drainage at the base of a ravine and find the above sign so I am good to go.
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Folks, this is barren.  That any plant can emerge from this landscape is a minor miracle.  Black, volcanic rocks, boulders and gravel everywhere.
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Again, black rocks abound.  The good news is there are 0 side trails where people sought to create their own routes.  Even in your wrong mind, you won't want to venture off the official trail.
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The trail is always climbing but not steeply.  It parallels the above ridge before eventually emerging on top of the ridge.
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Once you leave the pavement and begin the real climbing, it is 2.25 miles having an average grade of a measly 17% but don't be fooled because.....
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….the final 1/2 mile is almost a 30% grade.  There are a few places where route finding is a small challenge but overall, easy to follow.  Some kind of nasty looking, white cacti plant can be seen so if you fall, don't reach for that thing for relief.
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How about that? A Joshua Tree and there are a few others on this alien landscape.  After 3.5 miles I reach.....
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….the peak and discover a well maintained American flag.  In the distance is Mount Charleston.
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Great views in all directions.
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So many mountain peaks to explore, so little time. Finished with 7.4 miles and 2100' of climbing.  Well, back to Oro Valley and a new effort at The Cleaver!
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    Mark is a long-time cyclist, hiker, golfer and plays some table tennis...ok, it's ping pong.

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