San Benito mountain, Mountain summit in Diablo Range, California
San Benito Mountain is a summit in California's Diablo Range that rises to about 5,267 feet above sea level. The peak stands out as the tallest point in this mountain range spanning central California.
The mountain sits within an area that was historically mined for minerals like cinnabar and chromite, with operations continuing until the early 2010s. These extractive activities left marks on the surrounding landscape and land use patterns.
The San Benito Mountain Research Natural Area protects a collection of rare plant species adapted to the mountain's serpentine soil conditions.
Access to certain areas requires special permits due to naturally occurring asbestos in the soil and rock. Visitors should check regulations before planning a visit and follow all guidance provided by local authorities.
The serpentine rock formations create unusual soil conditions that support plant species found nowhere else, adapted specifically to the mineral-rich environment. These rare plant communities are now protected as part of a research natural area.
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