Black Forest sits just north and a bit east of Colorado Springs. This area is known for tall ponderosa pine trees, open land, and quiet living. If you like privacy, space, and a slower pace, Black Forest is worth checking out.
The name comes from the dark shade made by all the pine trees. Not every part has thick woods; some spots have rolling hills without trees. Black Forest is not a city or town. It is an unincorporated area loved for its natural beauty and unique landscape.
Most houses here sit on large lots, usually five acres or more. It is common to find land zoned for horses and homes with water wells. Water matters in Colorado—before buying, read about water rights and wells. Rules can be tricky, so learning about them will help you make smart decisions.
Black Forest gets about 100 inches of snow each year. That is nearly twice as much as downtown Colorado Springs, which averages about 57 inches. Snow makes the pines look magical, but plan ahead for winter driving. Main roads are plowed often, but some dirt roads may take longer. Ask locals about snowplow schedules before moving.
Two favorite spots are Black Forest Regional Park and Fox Run Regional Park. Together, these parks cover over 560 acres. You will find trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and beautiful views. If you love hiking and biking, try the Pineries Open Space Trail, which runs for more than 8 miles in the northeast part of Black Forest.
Black Forest spreads across several zip codes, including 80908, 80132, and 80921. Kids often go to schools in the Academy D-20, Lewis-Palmer D-38, or Falcon D-49 districts.
Living here means being prepared for nature’s ups and downs. In 2013, a wildfire destroyed many homes and acres of forest. Most areas have recovered, but some scars remain. The elevation is higher, about 7,300 feet, so the air is thinner and the weather can change quickly. Views of Pikes Peak are sometimes blocked by trees, but open land offers big sky and mountain scenery nearby.
Black Forest offers peace, space, and a close-knit feel. If you want land, quiet, or easy access to outdoor fun, it is a great place to explore. You can see current homes for sale and learn more about buying or building in the area. Always check water rights, road conditions, and community rules before you decide.