From the top of Black Mountain, one can see an incredible view of Santa Clara Valley and over to the Mt. Hamilton range. The 3,177-acre preserve is one of the District's richest in wildlife and ecosystem diversity. The preserve encompasses the upper Stevens Creek watershed from Monte Bello Ridge to Skyline Ridge. The Stevens Creek riparian corridor is considered to be one of the finest in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Approximately fifteen miles of trails are available for you to explore. For example, The Stevens Creek Nature Trail, with a self-guided 3 mile loop with interpretation, which descends into the forested canyon, continues along the creek, and heads back up through grasslands.

Black Mountain Backpack Camp

The Black Mountain Backpack Camp , the only campsite on District lands provides visitors with a camping experience just one half-hour away by car from the cities below. The camp is a 1.5-mile hike from Page Mill Road, including a 500-foot uphill climb from the parking lot. A permit is required and the fee is $2 per night per camper. Please call the District office for more information or to obtain a permit; permits applications are also available online.

HOW TO GET THERE

The preserve's main entrance is on Page Mill Road, 7 miles west of Highway 280 and 1.5 miles east of Skyline Boulevard. Parking is available for 45 cars. Additional parking is available at the Los Trancos Open Space Preserve parking area, located directly across Page Mill Road.

Download a map of Monte Bello Open Space Preserve