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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
179 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
Directions to Trailhead

Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop Route Guide

Show us your best shot of this amazing tail!
The beauty in the Cheyenne Mountain State Park is revealed along the Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop. Located to the east of Cheyenne Mountain, this trek exhibits breathtaking vistas of the looming peak and the lush wilderness.

Route Description for Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop

The Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop is a great escape into nature. Disengage from the stressors of the real world as you wander along the forest-lined path. Impressively picturesque, this trek warrants countless photo opportunities, so make sure to charge your camera! Traveling through the wilderness provides wonderful scenery but also the possibility of an encounter with wildlife, so keep an eye out! Note that Cheyenne Mountain State Park charges an entrance fee which typically costs $9USD per vehicle.

Embark on your adventure along the Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop from the Boulder Run Trailhead. Once your shoelaces are tied, begin hiking south along the Boulder Run Trail. At the first intersection, keep right, and you will be diverted onto the Blackmer Loop. Now traveling through the woodlands, you will reach another fork in the road. Here, keep right onto the Cougar’s Shadow Trail.

At the next junction, take the rightmost Blackmer Loop Trail. This path will weave between forests and meadows, exposing mountain views. At the route’s end, reconnect with the Boulder Run Trail and venture along this route back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop Trailhead

The Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop is accessed via the Boulder Run Trailhead off JL Ranch Heights Road.

Route Information for Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Swift Puma Campground

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop Elevation Graph

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