Nothing like a hike for your birthday!
Started in a local neighbourhood and the elevation climb starts immediately.  The first mile, mile and a half are steep. As we gained the ridge the trail continues to climb but with a manageable grade for several miles.  The views towards Black mountain are amazing, but the views towards the valley get better and better as you climb. We noticed the trail change from a red gravelly path to a dark dirt path as we switchbacked onto Black Mountain and left the ridge behind. The switchbacks revealed a good amount of water flowing down the creeks and a few were rather muddy but there was plenty of places to place our feet that kept us dry.  The weather was sunny, cold at times (40’s much of the day) but in the sun it was glorious. As you near the summit the trail descends about 100 feet of elevation, and then climbs very steeply for the final mile of the hike up.  The summit is on the back side of Black Mountain which limits the views of the valley and the cities, but we were rewarded with a clear day that revealed views from Mount Umunhum to the big blue Pacific Ocean.  We found the “moon rocks”, the geological marker, and some shelter from a strong wind to have our burrito lunch. (I really just like for the lunches) We ate quickly as it was cool and we noticed our hands getting cold.  The hike down (this is an out and back) was challenging as well with some steep declines  that remind you just how steep the hike up was. The views on the decent are just unbelievable. Truly a stunning hike that my legs felt for a few days after.  I agree with the trail rating of strenuous, but I will add that it is absolutely worth the effort! This is one of my favourite Bay Area hikes to date. We are 2 down for the challenge and looking forward to the next one.  The wild flowers and waterfalls after a wet winter will keep us heading out every week. This week was a recovery 8 miles in Wilder Ranch. Happy hiking to you all, see you on the trails! ✌🏻