Went on a 9-mile hike this morning at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve -- Black Mountain Trail. Started at 10:00am, finished at 2:00pm. Its description on BA Hiker is spot on:

This 9.4 mile out-and-back hike to the top of Black Mountain has two very different segments. Although the first mile, on Rhus Ridge Trail, is a bit steep, the initial stretch of Black Mountain Trail is a nicely graded footpath winding through woods and chaparral. Then suddenly, 3.3 miles up the mountain, the footpath widens to fire road width, and shoots nearly straight uphill, with little shade. The ascent is worth it, for the amazing views at the top and the feeling of accomplishment -- an over 2300 foot climb all the way up the mountain!

My buddy and I unknowingly didn't finish the bit of the hike, so perhaps we may have to give it another go at some point in the future. But until then, we'll just have to suffice with the views that we did capture.