Glider Port Trail to Black Mountain

Glider Port is one of the many trails within Black Mountain Open Space Park that leads to the summit of Black Mountain. Even though it is a relatively short hike, the route is quite steep, and there is little shade to be found. Despite this, the wildflowers along the way and the panoramic views at the top make it absolutely worth the trek. The trail starts at the northwest corner of Black Mountain Open Space Park and immediately begins its sharp ascent. After following a series of switchbacks through dense chaparral, views of the suburbs and surrounding countryside below open up. Just below the peak there is a saddle that is marked with a cairn. The final stretch to Black Mountain is the most challenging because it covers a very steep and eroded trail. Although antennas obstruct part of the view at the peak, hikers have the option to walk a short loop around the perimeter to see the whole picture. On a clear day the vista extends to the Coronado Islands to the southwest and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north.