Jenni returned for the Henderson Black Mountain trail which is a great day-hike, one to be repeated and often. When we got to the trailhead, a couple had returned from a short walk along the trail—many locals use the initial, relatively gentle beginning slope for exercise without going to the awesome and extremely steep peak. The fellow looked at us, made an internal calculation and asked, "How far up are you going?"
He took a look at Jenni's expression and added, "You going the whole way?" Smart comment, saving him the wrath of our dear editor.
I know I often say it but this is another of those hiking experiences not to be missed. It reaches an elevation gain of 2,200 feet, a sizeable portion in the last third. It has wonderful views of the valley, other mountains and of course, Las Vegas. Interesting flora on which to feast the eyes is in abundance, bighorn sheep wonder about although we missed them and best of all, some great physical challenges including rock climbing. The peak sits at an altitude of 5,100 feet, the distance is 6 miles.
The blog before this one shows a sunrise on Black Mountain in Boulder City. Both mountains provide excellent views and good hikes, the Henderson trail being much steeper and longer. However, the former provides unbeatable views at every moment of the day as it 'spies' on so many peaks, Lake Mead, Las Vegas, Boulder City and even interesting parts of Arizona. Two pictures at the end try to explain the link between them.
A little perspective of Black Mountain after walking an hour.
The big push to the peak of the volcano.
Editor fills in the 'visitors' book at the peak. (Black Mountain, Boulder City and Fortification Hill, Arizona
in the distance.)
Respect for the courageous at Iwo Jima, the scene reenacted (with humility). (The Frenchman Mountain to the right.)
Giving a salute at the peak to our adoptive country, especially the many fine people we have met.
The gambling city fills the background.
The town of Anthem below the editor.
Probably the 14th shot of Las Vegas from a different peak position this trip.
Slowly...on the way down.
Linking the two trails, very different but having the same names as well as being in different cities.
From about twenty miles by car, Red Mountain and Black Mountain (Boulder City) are visible. See white spot
which is a radar tower. Sloping mountain is Fortification Hill in Arizona (see previous blog.) Between the 'Hill'
and Black/Red Mountains lies part of Lake Mead and all of Hoover Dam.
The Frenchman Mountain, can be seen clearly from both locations. This picture was taken from Boulder City. The same
can be said for Lava Butte (not shown.)
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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