A forum that'll feed your need for exploring the limitless adventure possibilities found in "other" places. Post trip reports or ask questions about outdoor adventures beyond the Sierra Nevada here.
With all the beautiful weather making it seem more like April than January I decided it was a good time for a quick overnight backpacking trip with the kids. We went to Black Mountain backpacking camp, which is about 2 miles from the road, just off Skyline Blvd above Mountain View. We were treated to a beautiful sunset and sunrise, but had a very windy night in between. One advantage of the long nights is that it isn't quite so painful getting up to see the sunrise!
Its amazing how few people take advantage of the camp, despite the incredibly convenient location and wonderful 360 degree views from the top of the mountain 5 mins away. You could see the entire Bay Area from San Francisco to San Jose (including Mt Tam, Mt St Helena, Mt Hamilton etc.) plus the ocean from Monterey Bay to the Marin Headlands, with a glimpse of the Sierra in the distance just before sunrise. I'd highly recommend it for a first outing for kids (my 10 year old twins are veteran backpackers, but we took my 5 year old this time for his first trip).
Thanks for sharing. I've visited the camp quite a few times but never for an overnight. Sure is beautiful up there, and what great weather to enjoy it.
