At first glance, the Black Forest Area of Colorado Springs doesn’t seem to hold much promise for those looking for things to do or places to eat. This area is just like the rest of the Pikes Peak region, you need to know where to look. We know the Black Forest area well and want to share some of our favorite local finds.
Things to do Outdoors in Black Forest Colorado Springs
The Black Forest Regional Park is a great find right in the middle of Black Forest. The park is located at the intersection of Shoup and Milam Roads, and just a short drive from the north end of Colorado Springs. You can go hiking, biking, or horseback riding on miles of trails, mostly in the shade of towering Ponderosa Pines. On snowy winter days, you’ll find cross-country skiers gliding about as well. The park also offers picnic tables and pavilions, which you can reserve for your private use.
The park also has a great playground as well as tennis courts and playing fields. If you’re looking for something fun to do with the whole family, Black Forest Regional Park fits the bill.
Best Food in Black Forest
If you are a fan of great BBQ, we’ve got the place for you. Located at a gas station in the back of a convenience store at the corner of Black Forest Road and Shoup Road, you’ll find “Firehouse on the BBQ.” They offer all of the classic BBQ favorites like Brisket, Chicken, Pulled Pork, Hot Links, and Ribs. If you’re looking for a quick lunch while looking in the Black Forest houses, they also have a great selection of sandwiches.
The service is fast and friendly, but the owner’s Jeff & Kristin Schickler are always around to make sure it stays that way. Firehouse also caters, we have used them on several occasions and can say the food was excellent and went fast.
If you are looking for some great BBQ in Colorado Springs, Firehouse on the Run is well worth the drive.
Where to take your Pets in Black Forest
We love our pets here in the Pikes Peak Region, and if you are looking for things to do with them in the Black Forest area, the Section 16 loop is the perfect place to get a little exercise with your pet. Section 16 is a 640-acre park with a 3.8-mile loop around the perimeter. This trail is pet-friendly, and the shade provided by the towering ponderosa pines helps the pets beat the summer heat. Like all El Paso County parks, you’ll need to keep your pet on a leash and clean up after them, but once you visit this trail, your pet will want to return time and time again.
Drinks in Black Forest Colorado Springs
If you like a good craft beer, our pick for drinks is right up your alley. The Black Forest Brewing Company is a small veteran-owned, family-inspired brewery. Located at 11590 Black Forest Road, This is a great place to get together with neighbors and friends. They have a wide range of beers, including IPAs, Ciders, and Stouts. Our favorite is the rotating experimental IPA.
The brewery also has a great assortment of food trucks that provide great food to go with their drinks. If you like the place and we know you will, you can even join the “Mug Club” and receive additional perks. Stop by and have a drink, you’ll thank us!
Things to do for Families in Black Forest Colorado Springs
The Meadowgrass Music Festival is our pick for things to do with the family. We love this festival so much, we became a sponsor! The festival takes place every Memorial Day weekend at the La Foret Conference center.
Meadowgrass is more than just music, there is on-site camping with spots for RV’s, great views of Pikes Peak, the beer festival, activities for teens and kids, local vendors, and more!
The festival offers a wide range of musical styles and is much more than simply folk music, this is a great place to come hear emerging artists. Make sure to follow them on Facebook in order to stay updated as they put plans together for next year’s festival.
That wraps up our Black Forest, Colorado Local Lineup. There are other places we love in the area but we only had room for 5 in this video. If the Black Forest sounds like someplace you would like to live please give us a call, we would love to help you buy a home in this great area.
Check out our other Local Lineups for other parts of Colorado Springs.