May 21, 2022, trip to Black Mountain summit for lunch.

If you live in North San Diego County, Black Mountain is a great destination. It’s out of town, but no so far that you need to set aside a whole day (or paychecks worth of money for fuel). I’ve done this run several times, taken different routes, and didn’t always make it all the way to the summit. This spot is a little nostalgic for my son and I – it was our first real offroad adventure after purchasing the D2. It’s never disappointing.

The main draw to Black Mountain is the fact that it isn’t boring. This trail is beautiful year-round and offers just the right amount of challenge – off-camber sections, narrow stretches with sheer drops on one side, steep ascents and descents, and a memorable amount of elevation change (330-3950ft.) – but nothing that will have you worried about vehicle damage. The summit is picturesque with plenty of parking and space to setup to enjoy the views. On days with perfect conditions, I’m told, you can see the ocean from the summit.

Trip Description: 

Distance:                                ~61 miles total, 15+ offroad.
Rating:                                    Moderate (low-end)
Damage:                                 Possibility of minor scratches from brush/branches
Mandatory Equip.:                  N/A
Recommended Equip.:           All-terrain tires, HAM radio

This is a pretty fun route; great views, good amount of accent/decent, not too technical, but still engaging. Great trail to bring the family and dog(s).

From the meeting point (On The Border Mexican Grill (Westfield Mall grounds)), we’ll travel East into Ramona, then North East to Lake Sutherland, following Lake Sutherland road past the Northwest side of the lake, briefly traveling on Black Canyon road to Forest Route 12S07. Once on the trail we’ll travel to the summit, break for lunch, then head back to the meeting point – exiting the trail onto Pamo road.