Black Mountain Trail

You've heard of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, but Phoenix has many other fantastic trails. 

One challenging, but oh-so-rewarding trail is Black Mountain Trail.  It begins off Schoolhouse Road in Cave Creek, and climbs 1.25 miles up (what else?) Black Mountain.

At the summit, there are stunning 360 degree views of Phoenix and the surrounding area. We've hiked a lot of Phoenix trails, and have yet to find views to rival these.  If you enjoy hiking, and haven't tried this trail, it is a must.  And Outdoors lover- this would be a memorable place to propose; it feels like the world is under your feet!

The trail starts off following a jeep road.  It is fairly steep.   A ways up the road, the trail forks off to the left.  It is easy to miss this fork, but don't worry.   The road eventually narrows and turns into the trail at a point farther up the mountain.  From here the trail is steep and quite rocky in places.   Be ready for a vigourous climb, but there are lots of places to rest and take in the views.  As on any hike, take plenty of water and let someone know where you are going.

This is the easy section of the trail. 

To get to the road, go north on Cave Creek Road, (exit 28 on the 101) for about 11 miles. Turn right on School House Road. Continue on for about 1/4 mile, and you will see the area where you park along side the road. Just start walking up the road from there.

        The turn-off.                                                               The parking area.

View of Phoenix from the summit.