Best Hiking Trails Near Black Hawk, CO

Looking for unforgettable hikes near Black Hawk, Colorado? You’ve come to the right place. Just minutes from The Nest, this mountain town is surrounded by some of the most scenic and diverse hiking trails in the Rockies. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful forest stroll or a challenging alpine climb, Black Hawk offers something for every skill level—and the best part? Most trails are dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can tag along.



With landscapes ranging from shady pine forests and wildflower meadows to rocky ridgelines and panoramic mountain overlooks, every step brings a new view worth the effort. So grab your boots, leash up your pup, and hit the trail—adventure is waiting just outside your dome.

1. Maryland Mountain & Quartz Valley Open Space

📍 Practically in our backyard
🥾 Moderate hiking and mountain biking
🐾 Pet-friendly (on leash)
🗓 Best in spring through fall; gorgeous golden aspens in autumn

For a trail system that offers both sweeping bluff views and peaceful pine forests, Maryland Mountain and Quartz Valley Open Space is a must-explore. With direct access just outside of Black Hawk, this extensive network of trails features well-maintained paths perfect for moderate hikers and intermediate mountain bikers alike.

You’ll encounter scenic overlooks of Black Hawk, Central City, and the broader Gilpin County area. There are gentle switchbacks, shaded forest sections, wildflowers in warmer months, and some satisfying elevation gains that offer panoramic payoffs—without being too intense. It’s a fantastic trail system for locals and visitors alike, with options to keep you exploring for hours or just a quick scenic loop.

🌄 Why it’s lovely:

• Proximity! Walk or drive just 2 minutes from The Nest
• Forested trails mixed with exposed bluff-top views
• Great for a morning hike, sunset ride, or a midday family adventure
• Fall colors light up the whole valley—don’t forget your camera!

Bonus: You can link trails together here like building your own adventure. Start on a short loop, then add miles if you're feeling ambitious.

2. James Peak Trail

📍 30 minutes from The Nest (near St. Mary’s Glacier)
🥾 Challenging full-day hike (~8 miles round trip, +2,300 ft elevation gain)
🐾 Dog-friendly on leash
🗓 Best in summer through early fall (June–September for snow-free access)



If you're craving big alpine views and a true summit experience, James Peak Trail delivers. Located just outside Black Hawk near the iconic St. Mary’s Glacier, this trail climbs above the tree line to a stunning 13,294-foot summit with panoramic views stretching from the Indian Peaks Wilderness to Rocky Mountain National Park.

You'll start your journey near the glacier, ascend through wildflower-filled meadows and rocky switchbacks, and eventually reach the wide, wind-swept ridgeline leading to the peak. It’s a workout—but the sense of accomplishment (and the views) are worth every step.

Expect cool temps even in summer, and prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather. Pack layers, bring plenty of water, and plan to start early—this trail is exposed and afternoon storms are common.

🌄 Why it’s lovely:

• Endless mountain views from the summit
• Wildflowers and alpine lakes along the way
• One of the best nearby high-altitude hikes for those ready to go the extra mile
• Fewer crowds than nearby 14ers—so you can enjoy a more peaceful peak experience

3. Clear Creek Canyon Park – Big Easy Trailhead

📍 20 minutes from The Nest (off Highway 6 near Golden)
🥾 Easy to moderate hiking, paved and gravel options
🐾 Very pet-friendly (on leash)
🗓 Great year-round, especially spring and fall for mild temps and golden foliage



Looking for a laid-back hike with gorgeous canyon views and easy access? Clear Creek Canyon’s Big Easy Trailhead is a gem. It’s one of the most accessible areas within Clear Creek Canyon Park, featuring well-maintained multi-use trails that run alongside the rushing creek, surrounded by dramatic rock walls and shady cottonwoods.

This trail is ideal for a relaxing nature walk, family outing, or stroll with your pup. The mostly flat path includes a mix of paved and soft gravel surfaces, making it great for all skill levels, including kids and casual walkers. It’s also a popular spot for fly fishing and beginner rock climbing nearby, so there’s plenty to see and do.

🌄 Why it’s lovely:

• Easy, scenic riverside path through the canyon
• Peaceful and accessible—perfect after brunch or before dinner back in Black Hawk
• Beautiful year-round with vibrant fall colors and cool summer breezes
• Great for stretching your legs without committing to a full-day hike

4. Raccoon Trail (Golden Gate Canyon State Park)

📍 25 minutes from The Nest (inside Golden Gate Canyon State Park)
🥾 Moderate hiking loop (~3.3 miles, +700 ft elevation gain)
🐾 Pet-friendly (leash required, dogs love it)
🗓 Best in late spring through fall — especially stunning in September for fall colors

Tucked inside Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Raccoon Trail is a picturesque 3.3-mile loop offering the perfect blend of forest serenity and mountain views. The trail winds through aspen groves, dense pine forest, and open meadows, with occasional lookout points where you can catch sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Evans on a clear day.

This loop is well-marked and ideal for a half-day outing—it’s a manageable challenge for most hikers, including families with older kids or energetic pups. With mild inclines, gentle switchbacks, and a well-maintained path, it's the kind of trail that leaves you feeling refreshed, not wrecked.

🌄 Why it’s lovely:

• One of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes near Black Hawk
• Excellent birdwatching, wildflowers in summer, and brilliant gold aspens in fall
• Quiet and peaceful—especially on weekday mornings
• Dogs love the terrain and natural shade

Note: A Colorado State Parks pass or daily entry fee is required for Golden Gate Canyon State Park, but the well-kept trails and amenities (restrooms, maps, parking) make it well worth it.

5. St. Mary’s Glacier

📍 35 minutes from The Nest (near Idaho Springs)
🥾 Short but steep hike (~1.6 miles round trip, +400 ft elevation gain)
🐾 Pet-friendly (on leash; dogs LOVE the snow)
🗓 Beautiful and accessible year-round—summer for alpine sun, winter for snowshoeing

A true Colorado classic, St. Mary’s Glacier is not technically a glacier anymore—but it is a permanent snowfield that draws visitors in every season. Just a short drive from The Nest, this trail offers a high-reward, relatively short hike that feels like stepping into a snow globe, even in summer.

The trail is rocky and climbs steadily to a small alpine lake surrounded by evergreens and towering cliffs. From there, a bit more elevation takes you to the snowfield itself, where hikers, sledders, and adventurous skiers often play year-round. It’s a go-to destination for couples, families, and Instagram lovers looking for that iconic snowy shot.

🌄 Why it’s lovely:

• Jaw-dropping views in under a mile—perfect for a quick alpine fix
• Permanent snow means sledding and snowballs even in July
• Picture-perfect alpine lake and a real "Colorado postcard" feel
• Excellent year-round access, especially for snowshoeing in winter or wildflower spotting in summer

Note: There is a small private parking lot with a $5 cash fee—arrive early, especially on weekends, as it fills up quickly.