Forrest Allen Overlook

Forrest Allen Overlook is a short hike located in Manitou Section 16 Open Space near Manitou Springs, Colorado. This hike leads you through Manitou Section 16 Open Space to an overlook. This out and back hike is 1.6 miles long and gains 331 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from Section 16 Trailhead. This is a small parking lot that has portable toilets available. Begin hiking north on Section 16 Trail. You will be hiking uphill amongst small trees and shrubs. After 0.3 miles, you will encounter 2 junctions. Go left at both of these to stay on Section 16 Trail. As you head uphill, you will have views of rock formations and the city of Colorado Springs. Continue uphill for 0.1 miles to reach another junction. Go left here to stay on Section 16 Trail. The trail heads slightly downhill here. This lasts for about 0.1 miles before the trail heads uphill again.

Continue uphill on Section 16 Trail for 0.1 miles to reach another junction. At this junction, go left onto Parallel Trail. The trail switches back up a slope here. You will be walking amongst larger trees now. Another 0.1 miles of hiking will bring you to a junction. Go left here onto Forrest Allen Overlook Trail. The trail is a bit faint, so be sure to keep a watchful eye on your map. 0.1 miles on this trail will bring you to Forrest Allen Overlook. From the overlook, you will have a great view of the city of Colorado Springs. You will also be able to see multiple Front Range peaks. Once you have taken ample time to enjoy the views, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

Manitou Section 16 Open Space is open for hiking year round. There are no associated fees to hike here. You may encounter bikers on this trail. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but they must be on a leash at all times.