SF Bay Area Peaks
Overview
Black Mtn. and Nicasio Reservoir from the south
Sitting pretty on the west side of Nicasio Reservoir in the rolling terrain of west Marin County this shapely lone mountain easily catches the eye and dominates the scene. Also known as Elephant Mountain it is one of countless "Black Mountains" throughout the state and country.
Either some dude named Black and his descendants went on a nation wide rampage naming mountains in his namesake or people should develope a little imagination. If anything it looks more like an elephant than it is black.
Characterized by steep slopes divided into ribs by evenly spaced gullies this symetrically balanced hill draws the lense of photographers to capture it's serene beauty especially from the shores of the reservoir.
Unfortunately it sits on private property. On the other hand there is a free annual hike open to the public organized from Point Reyes Station.
There are many higher points in the county but Black Mountain's isolated position affords one of the finest views in Marin.
See the Red Tape section for the information needed to participate in the hike.
Getting There
Black Mtn and Nicasio Reservoir from Shroyer Mtn to the southeast
From Petaluma: From downtown Petaluma take Petaluma Point Reyes Road southwest 16 miles past the reservoir to the junction with Platform Bridge Rd. and go right 3 miles to Point Reyes Station.
Red Tape
Lupine view southeast from Black Mtn
Poppy view northeast from Black Mtn
Click this link for info on the annual hike organized by the Marin Agricultural Land Trust.
Camping
Black Mtn from Point Reyes Hill across Tomales Bay on the Inverness Ridge to the west
Black Mtn from the south with Point Reyes Hill back left
Current weather and 5 day forecast
Sky over Nicasio Reservoir from Black Mtn
