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Colorado
6.8 mi
Distance
3,747 ft
Gain
Excellent conditions for Black Cloud hike
Checked 8/6/2026 · openweather, snotel, scoring_engine
Weather is ideal with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal wind. No snow at elevation and a 96/100 scoring engine rating confirm safe hiking conditions. Proceed as planned.
Why you'll love it
Black Cloud
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
Black Cloud Trail is a 7.7-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado near the San Juan National Forest's Columbine Ranger District (East). The trail is managed by the U.S. Forest Service under the San Juan National Forest. This moderate-distance trail offers hikers a full 15.4-mile round-trip experience. The out-and-back format means you'll retrace your route, making it straightforward for navigation. The trail explores terrain within the scenic San Juan mountain region, providing access to the natural landscape characteristic of this part of Colorado's national forest system. Black Cloud Trail is suitable for hikers looking for a day hike with reasonable mileage. The trail passes through forest service-managed lands, which typically feature maintained pathways and established use corridors. Being situated in the Columbine Ranger District, the trail falls within an area known for its wilderness character and mountain scenery. For current conditions, trail maintenance updates, and any seasonal closures, contact the San Juan National Forest Columbine Ranger District directly before planning your visit.
Willis Creek
~3 min drive
2.6 mi · Easy
Echo Canyon
~3 min drive
4.9 mi · Hard
North Fork Lake Creek
~11 min drive
7.8 mi · Moderate
La Plata Peak
~6 min drive
Standard route to La Plata Peak (14,343 ft) from La Plata Trailhead (Northwest Ridge).
Twin Lakes
~4 min drive
1.7 mi · Easy
Big Willis Gulch
~5 min drive
6.6 mi · Hard
Mcnassar Gulch
~13 min drive
2.6 mi · Moderate
Mount Massive
~9 min drive
Standard route to Mount Massive (14,428 ft) from Mount Massive Trailhead (East Slopes).
Mountain Boy
~11 min drive
5.4 mi · Easy
Collegiate West
~8 min drive
159 mi · Hard
