If you think that Black Forest sounds like something out of a fairytale, you are absolutely right. Many of Grimm's most beloved stories involved dark and impenetrable woods, generally thought to be Germany's Black Forest.
As far as we know, there are no princesses exiled in Colorado's Black Forest, though we can't be certain. This gorgeous census-designated town on the northern outskirts of Colorado Springs does seem fairytale perfect. Named for the dense collection of Ponderosa Pines in the area, Colorado's Black Forest was once a haven to Native Americans. It was then later a critical natural resource for the American pioneers.
Coming Home
As you conduct your apartment search in Black Forest, it is important to know that the rental market is pretty tight. That means you are better off filling out multiple applications and, if you need to relocate to the area right away, you should take the first option you are offered as long as it meets your minimum requirements. If you plan to stay in Black Forest permanently, you can always keep looking once you are safely settled and the pressure is off.
You will need the usual things while searching for places such as rental history and enough money saved for a deposit and first and last months' rent. Having additional selling points ready on the quick draw like printed credit scores and references will put you at an advantage over the competition, especially since most times places will ask for these things anyway, so it's best to just already have them with you at the time of a showing in case you happen to stumble upon your dream place.
Neighborhoods in Black Forest
Though there are some apartment complexes with vacancies, you will find that three-bedroom houses for rent are most common, closely followed by townhouses for rent. The houses to rent that are most popular (and therefore hardest to get into) are found in lovely gated communities that have been designed for safe, upscale living. If that sounds just right to you, check out these possibilities:
Black Forest Reserve: So-called because house lots weren't cleared of the Ponderosa Pines, which means you will enjoy grown-up trees despite the fact that your house is quite new.
High Forest Ranch: If you are marching to your own beat, you might not be inclined to rent a home that looks the same as other houses in your neighborhood. High Forest Ranch boasts custom lots and custom homes, so you will live on a unique property in a community located just a few minutes from downtown Colorado Springs.
Flying Horse: This large development has three distinct neighborhoods, and there is a wide range of home styles and prices. The most important consideration is the fabulous Flying Horse Golf Course right in the center of the community.
Life in Black Forest
It's true that Black Forest is a mecca for lovers of the outdoors, and it follows that lots of the most fabulous activities and excursions take advantage of the region's natural beauty. If you weren't a horseback rider before your move, it is time to take up the sport. There are trails throughout Black Forest. When you get more confident, you should try some of the trips known for being the very best Colorado has to offer.
It's difficult to keep an accurate count of Black Forest residents; the number keeps climbing. The community currently estimates the population at about 13,000. If you are moving to the area, you probably already know that one of the biggest attractions is the small-town feel. Folks come to Black Forest to be close to nature and to enjoy a lifestyle centered on the great outdoors. Many are stunned by the extraordinary array of wildlife that shares the land. Because typical single-family homes are set on five or more acres, you get to see all sorts of critters passing by your back window. Loads of people in Black Forest enjoy horseback riding, so there are all sorts of amenities in the community to support this activity.
First on your list? Go directly to Academy Riding Stables in nearby Colorado Springs. You will be outfitted and on your way to a one- or two-hour guided tour of the Garden of the Gods Park.
Do you have the winter blues? Head off to Aspen, where winter is the most wonderful time of the year. It's only a three-hour drive and, if you fly, the trip is so short that your descent starts the moment you reach cruising altitude.
If all the fresh air has you famished, try the best barbecue Black Forest has to offer at Firehouse on the Run. Delicious American fare is paired with the hilarity of karaoke at Good Company. Dining guide winner Shangri La has the best Asian food you can find in the state. For a more casual night out, you can't beat the pizza at Borriello Brothers. Since there are eight locations, you are always close to one.