Black Mountain loop via Stevens Creek

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

This loop run shows off the best of Monte Bello Open Space - from the cool, shady evergreen forests of Stevens Creek to the sunny, wind-swept summit of Black Mountain.

From the big, unpaved parking lot, take the Stevens Creek Nature Trail south through the grasslands. At the first junction, turn right and head downhill toward the forests along Stevens Creek.

After a mile or so, the trail climbs again and ends at the Canyon Trail. Turn right and take the Canyon Trail to the intersection with the Indian Creek Trail. Take the Indian Creek Trail uphill toward Black Mountain. The landscape gets more open and you're treated to some awesome views of the Stevens Creek valley. When you get to Monte Bello Road, turn right and continue on about a half mile to a short spur trail that leads to the summit.

After enjoying the views from the summit, head back on Monte Bello Road, but instead of turning on the Indian Creek Trail, stay straight, running past the Black Mount trail camp. At the intersection with the Bella Vista Trail, take the Bella Vista Trail downhill. As its name implies, this trail, too, has some great views. After a steep descent, the Bella Vista Trail joins the Canyon Trail, which you can follow back to the Stevens Creek Nature Trail and the parking lot.