Black Mountain - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Black Mountain is located in Park County, Colorado and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. For those who love the outdoors, there are hiking and biking trails that wind through the area. In addition, Black Mountain is home to a number of wildlife species, making it a great place for bird watching or wildlife photography. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the park also offers picnicking areas and scenic drives. 

Black Mountain is a mountain peak in Park County, Colorado. The mountain is located within the Pike National Forest and has an elevation of 11,429 feet (3,487 m). The summit of Black Mountain is the highest point in Park County and the second highest point in the state of Colorado. Black Mountain was named by early settlers for its dark appearance when seen from a distance. The first recorded ascent of Black Mountain was made in 1869 by A.D. Wilson and W.A.H. Loveland. The mountain is now a popular destination for hiking, camping, and bird watching. Black Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, eagles, and hawks.

The best time to visit Black Mountain is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the vegetation is lush. During the summer, Black Mountain is a popular destination for hikers and campers, as well as picnickers and nature lovers. 

1. Black Mountain is one of the tallest peaks in the park, so be prepared for a challenging hike.
2. Black Mountain is located in the high country, so the weather can change quickly. Be sure to dress in layers and pack a jacket.
3. Black Mountain is a great place to see wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and even bears! 
4. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when you visit Black Mountain, such as packing out all of your trash and respecting wildlife. 
5.  Be aware of wildlife in the area and take precautions to avoid encountering dangerous animals.
6. Stay on designated trails. With so much natural beauty to explore, it can be tempting to wander off the beaten path. However, doing so can damage delicate ecosystems and put you at risk of getting lost. Stick to designated trails and refrain from picking any plants or flowers.

1. Black Mountain is the highest peak in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. its summit elevation is 12,441 feet (3,791 meters).
2. The mountain has been occupied by humans for thousands of years and there are many archaeological sites on its slopes.
3. Black Mountain was used as a training ground for United States troops during World War II.
4. In 1970, Black Mountain was declared a National Natural Landmark by the US Department of the Interior.
5. The mountain is named after the coal deposits that were found in the area by prospectors in the 1800s.
6. A variety of plant life can be found on the mountain, including aspen trees, Douglas firs, and Rocky Mountain maples.
7. Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also popular on Black Mountain .

The easiest route to the summit is about 3 miles round-trip and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. For those looking for a more challenging hike, there are longer trail options that can take 4-5 hours or more to finish. 

To reach Black Mountain, take highway 24 west from park county. The road will wind for approximately 20 miles before reaching a fork. Take the left fork to stay on highway 24, and follow the road for another 3 miles. At this point, you will see a sign for Black Mountain trailhead. Take the turnoff and follow the trail for 1 mile until you reach the summit.

It is free to explore this beautiful natural area. 

The hours of operation vary depending on the season. In the winter, the park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and in the summer, the park is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.