PS - Hike - Black Mountain Fire Tower

Black Mountain Fire Tower Hike
Arrive time: 5:45am  

Start time: 6:00am 
Duration:  Around 4.5 hours or more depending on pace/# or breaks
Distance: About 7.2 miles up and back
Pace: Slow (uphill) to Moderate pace (mostly downhill)
Difficulty: Strenuous -- Total Elevation: About 2600ft (some steep areas) -- Warning: Be in good physical condition for this hike.
Location: Just off of Hwy 243 (left side of road) in Banning (a mile past the Forest Service Station--right side of the road). Map Click Here
Hike Leader: David Stewart

Details: The trail begins in chaparral at 5140 ft. and ends on the forested slopes of Black Mountain, elevation 7772 ft. at the Lookout Tower. There are excellent views of the Banning Pass and Mt. San Gorgonio. This trail passes through a Research Natural Area containing ecosystems used for research and study purposes.
Additional info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sbnf/recarea/?recid=26471
 
IMPORTANT: Please bring a face mask, wear appropriate hiking shoes, adequate amount of water (at least 2 liters recommended), snacks, a hat (or sunscreen), and a wonderful attitude. Thanks. Also, pets are NOT allowed.

Location/directions: Parking will be about 200ft. off of Hwy 243 in Banning on a paved dirt road, close to the trailhead. An Adventure Pass on the dashboard is suggested.  

Bring: Face mask, Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

Please call 760-320-2774 or email David at dhs321@gmail.com for inquiries.

Health Problems/Allergies:  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.

Special COVID Related Requirements:

Participants must comply with the following requirements as a condition of registering for this event:

1. I will follow Federal, State and local COVID guidelines as well as the directions of the leader.
2. I will maintain social distance (min. 6') and wear a face mask if social distancing is not possible
3. I will not attend if feeling ill or have any symptoms of COVID.

4. I will contact trip leader if I test positive for COVID within 14 days of the event 

 ‘I Accept’ and will comply with these requirements as a condition of participating in this event.

NOTE:  Due to COVID restrictions, please DO NOT show up for this hike unless you have completed a registration process here and have answered the required COVID questions. Also, do not bring any unregistered guests on this hike.