Logistics
Getting there.
Black Mountain is on Route 243 in the San Jacinto Mountains, which is approached either from I-10 at Banning on the north or via Route 74 about 15 miles east of Hemet. If you take 243 from Banning, the large signed turn-off for Black Mountain, on your left, is about 20-25 minutes from the freeway. From Hemet, turn left onto 243 at Mountain Center, pass Idyllwild, and continue north to the signed turn-off at 12.5 miles, on your right.
About three miles up the dirt road, the first area you reach is the OK Corral, my personal favorite, which features the tightest circuit, the best warm-ups, and the most variety. Boulder Basin Campground is up the road another mile and features the highest highball problems — some over 30 feet, i.e. well past ankles and femurs. Some of these can be toproped with a little creativity. A short walk from the campground toward the Forest Service lookout tower is the Summit, located at about 7000 feet and more exposed than the valley areas, it can have a nice breeze. A fourth area is found another mile or two past the turn off to Boulder Basin near the group campsite. The group camp area has many problems, as does the next turn-out on the left past the group camp. These boulders are smaller and a bit grainier, but may be a welcome relief from the taller, more polished areas.
Seasons.
Spring and fall are best. The Black Mountain road is locked from the first snow in December until the Forest Service gets around to opening it, so even on sunny winter days, chances are you will be hoofing it about three miles to OK Corral. If in doubt call the Idyllwild ranger station at (909) 659-2117. Summers are a bit warm, but the bouldering can still be good
in the afternoon.
Camping.
There is pay camping at Boulder Basin Campground, but most climbers drive out the road to the free spots a few miles past Boulder Basin. Camping is also available at the state and county parks in Idyllwild.
Fees.
All cars parked in the National Forest must display a Forest Service Adventure Pass for $5 a day or $30 for the annual pass. For more information, log on to www.fsadventurepass.org. You do not need a pass if you are parked in the campground and have paid the camping or day-use fee. If you pay the campground fee and drive to the OK Corral you still need an Adventure Pass, unless it is the last Saturday of the month, which is a pass-free day.
Guidebooks/climbing gear.
The closest climbing gear is in Idyllwild at Nomad Ventures, a full-service climbing shop. The old Southern California Bouldering Guide (by Craig Fry, 1990) has most of the old problems at Black Mountain, as well as other excellent Idyllwild bouldering areas such as South Ridge. Dr. Topo. has a free downloadable topo with maps and many of the newer problems.

Dave Struthers has donated his share of skin to Black Mountain, but has recently gone East to pursue a doctorate in American history.