Top 3 Hiking Trails Near Wander Black Hawk

Colorado stands out as a prime location for outdoor escapades, and hiking is an excellent way to enjoy the invigorating mountain air. With numerous trails in the vicinity, including picturesque waterfalls, and pet-friendly options, here are our top three recommendations for accessible hikes in the area:

Boulder Falls 

Photo courtesy of Boulder Colorado

• Distance from Wander Black Hawk: 15 miles

• Location: Boulder Canyon Dr, Nederland, CO 80466

• Hours: Dawn-dusk daily

• Website:https://bouldercolorado.gov/trail/boulder-falls 

Discover the enchanting Boulder Falls, just off Boulder Canyon Drive, offering a brief and effortless stroll to a petite yet powerful waterfall. Embrace the tranquility as you picnic on the cool rocks and witness the cascade of water. Accessible via a 0.3-mile out-and-back trail near Boulder, this easy route is a popular spot for birding, hiking, and running. Visit between March and November for an optimal experience in this scenic locale.

Tip: Be sure to verify trail conditions online before your visit, as the trail may be closed due to wildfires or muddy conditions throughout the year.

Barker Reservoir Recreation Area Hiking 

Photo courtesy of State of Colorado, Town of Nederland 

• Distance from Wander Black Hawk: 8.5 miles

• Location: 27036 Boulder Canyon Dr, Nederland, CO 80466

• Hours: Dawn-dusk daily 

• Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/barker-meadow-reservoir--2 

Discover the beauty of the Barker Meadow Reservoir with a 2.3-mile lakeside trail near Nederland, Colorado. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, this popular route offers scenic views of the lake and the Rocky Mountains, enhanced by blooming flowers in the warmer seasons. It takes around 45 minutes to complete and attracts the most visitors from June to October. Ample parking is available for convenience.

Tip: Keep in mind that dogs are welcome but must be on a leash and are not allowed to swim in the reservoir.

Forsythe Canyon Trail

Photo courtesy of Jessica Christie Photography 

• Distance from Wander Black Hawk: 7.7 miles 

• Location: Forest Service Rd 359, Nederland, CO 80466

• Hours: Dawn-dusk daily

• Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recarea/?recid=28260 

Explore the Forsythe Canyon Trail, a scenic 2-mile round-trip hike with an easy difficulty level, taking you through a picturesque canyon alongside Forsythe Creek, surrounded by fir and spruce trees. The trail leads to a cascading waterfall, particularly enchanting when the snow melts in the spring. 

Tip: When accessing the trail, be sure to follow the route using Magnolia Road (Not Lakeshore Road) for access to the Forsythe Canyon Trailhead.

The great outdoors await you in Black Hawk and we can't wait to have you out. These trails are a great starting point for your next trip out and we can't wait to have you. If you have any questions, our 24/7 Wander Concierge is here for you. Just send them a text directly in the Wander app or via text at 737-377-3205. See you on the trails!