Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Black Forest, Colorado
Black Forest sits on a high plateau northeast of Colorado Springs, where ponderosa pine stretches in every direction and the elevation keeps summer temperatures noticeably cooler than the city below.
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Black Forest sits on a high plateau northeast of Colorado Springs, where ponderosa pine stretches in every direction and the elevation keeps summer temperatures noticeably cooler than the city below. The hiking here is low-key by Colorado standards — no technical scrambles, no above-treeline exposure — which makes it a solid choice for families, trail runners looking for a flat-to-rolling workout, or anyone who wants time in the woods without committing to a big mountain day. The Black Forest Section 16 Trail and its connected 16 Loop Trail are the area's most established options, both rated easy and well-suited to first-timers or those with kids in tow. The Pineries Trail steps it up slightly to moderate, offering a bit more distance and variation. Beyond those, routes like Hummingbird Lane, Windfield Road, and Arroya Lane give you quieter alternatives through the same ponderosa landscape. Pikes Peak looms to the southwest and shows up in trail names here, though the hiking in Black Forest itself stays in the forest rather than on the peak. With nine active listings in the area, you won't find an overwhelming trail network, but what's here is accessible, well-shaded, and genuinely pleasant for a half-day out.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest trail to start with in Black Forest?
The Black Forest Section 16 Trail and the Black Forest 16 Loop Trail are both rated easy and are the most straightforward options in the area. They stay relatively flat through ponderosa pine and are suitable for beginners, families with children, or anyone wanting a relaxed walk without significant elevation change.
Is there a more challenging hike available in Black Forest?
The Pineries Trail is listed as moderate, making it the best option if you want something with a bit more effort than the Section 16 routes. It's still not a strenuous hike by Colorado standards, but it offers more of a workout and a longer time on trail.
What is the best time of year to hike in Black Forest?
Late spring through early fall is the most reliable window. The plateau elevation keeps things cooler than Colorado Springs in summer, which is a genuine advantage on warm days. Winter brings snow that can linger on shaded forest trails, so traction devices are worth packing from November through March.
What time of day is best for hiking here in summer?
Morning is the better call. Afternoon thunderstorms are common across the Colorado Front Range from July through August, and while the Black Forest trails don't put you above treeline, you still want to be heading back to the trailhead by early afternoon. Starting at or before 8 a.m. gives you a comfortable buffer.
What gear should I bring for a day hike in Black Forest?
The trails here are shaded and relatively short, so you don't need heavy gear. Bring enough water for the full outing since there are no reliable water sources on these forest trails, wear sturdy shoes with decent grip for sandy or pine-needle-covered sections, and pack a light rain layer if you're hiking in summer. Sunscreen still matters in the clearings.
