02 Black Hill Trail
Saturday, August 20, 2022
Start time: 10:30 AM
Start Location: Black Hill trailhead, northeast corner of Morro Bay State Park Campground.
Directions
From 101, take Hwy 41 west in Atascadero to Morro Bay. Proceed south on Hwy 1 to South Bay Blvd. Exit and turn right. Veer right on Main St (Morro Bay State Park Rd) and continue until you see the marina parking lot on your left. See map below.
Distance and hiking conditions
Moderate and popular 2.5 mile out and back. Beautiful view from the top, weather permitting. There is a 600 foot elevation gain. It should take 1.5-2 hours to complete.
Dogs?
Yes, on leash, beware poison oak.
Lunch option?
Other Activities?
Yes, Morro Bay Farmer's Market runs from 2:30 - 6:00 for a post lunch shopping adventure just one block from Grape Leaf.
Weather conditions
Mid-70s
Trail Description
(from AllTrails.com)
Black Hill is the second to last of nine volcanic plugs that lie between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay (the last being Morro Rock itself). The hike to the top travels through Fleming's Forest, a hillside of Monterey Pine trees that were planted by John Fleming (a former park superintendent). It is rumored that Black Hill received its name due to the tar seep on the north side of the hill. This scenic and enjoyable hike can be done in just a couple of hours.
