A Hidden Gem Near Central City: Summit Trail Hike

Today I set out on a hike that surprised me in all the best ways. Just outside of Central City and Black Hawk, tucked into the hills behind the casinos and old mining roads, I found a trail that delivered both solitude and serious elevation.

Trailhead: Hidden Treasure Trailhead

Trail: Summit Hiking Trail

Distance: 1.4 miles to the summit (2.8 round-trip)

Elevation Gain: ~1,000 feet

No Mountain Bikes on Summit Hiking Trail – and I loved that.

The trail starts at the Hidden Treasure Trailhead in the Maryland Mountain Quartz Valley Park, just outside the heart of Black Hawk. There’s good signage, and the trail is listed as intermediate, but I’d say it’s on the steeper side of that category due to the elevation gain.

Once I got going, I quickly appreciated that this was a hiker-only trail—no mountain bikes buzzing by, which made the climb feel peaceful and personal. The trail winds through tall pine forest, with views peeking out now and then as you gain altitude.

You’ll want to bring water—the first half climbs steadily with switchbacks and loose gravel in places. But once I reached the summit, I was rewarded with expansive views over the valleys below, including the winding road through Black Hawk. The elevation and effort made the views feel earned.

What stood out most to me on this trail was the balance of effort and reward. At just under 3 miles round-trip, it’s a manageable distance, but the elevation gain adds a satisfying challenge. And with fewer people than some of the more well-known trails nearby, it’s easy to enjoy the peace of the forest.

If you go:

Park at the Hidden Treasure Trailhead off Highway 119 Bring sturdy shoes—the trail can be rocky in sections Be prepared for steady uphill Pack water and a snack for the summit view Cell service is spotty, so download a map ahead of time

Yet This trail was a reminder that sometimes the best hikes are right off the beaten path—close to civilization, but far from the noise.