Black Mountain Open Space Park

Although there is lots to do in San Diego, make time for a pawtastic hike in the Black Mountain Open Space. This area boasts over 2300 acres and is home to several trails which are pup-friendly and waiting for you to hike. Pack up your pup and let’s go!

The main trailhead in this open space is the Nighthawk Trail which runs for 2.5 miles. Pick up this trail at either of two locations - Hilltop Community Park or Black Mountain Community Park, both located inside the Black Mountain Open Space. Both trailheads offer a bulletin board with a trail map. A quick check and you are on your way!

Your climb will begin as a gentle ascent on this well-groomed trail that offers a natural surface, and is plenty wide for bicyclists, runners and hikers to pass each other. Quickly, the path will become steeper and will remain at that incline until you reach the summit. As you get closer to the top, the trail narrows to a single lane. Various spurs and trails are situated along the way and link to Nighthawk Trail, including the Miner’s Ridge Loop, Rim Trail and Little Black Loop. Together they will add an additional 1.5 miles to your journey, if you choose to take them off your main route.

Beautiful scenery of native brush is yours while hiking, but at the 1500-foot summit in the center of the open space, you will see ocean, mountain and city views! Just look around and congratulate your pup and yourself on your accomplishment.

Be sure to offer your fur-ever friend plenty of rest breaks along the way and pack plenty of water for your journey. Within either park, you will find restrooms and places to fill your water bottles at the entrance.

The Black Mountain Open Space Trails is your ticket to hiking fun in San Diego.