Horsetooth Rock Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Some roots and loose rocks can be dangerous for runners.

Start by follow the well signed trail through some scrubland and begin to steadily climb into the ponderosa forest. Continue through the beautiful rock outcrops and trees until you poke out onto a slope with a wonderful view of Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins.

From this slope there is an option to scramble up the north or south end of Horsetooth Mountain to reach its peak. If you choose to scramble to the top, you'll discover an incredible view of Long's Peak to the west and Fort Collins to the east.

On a particularly clear day you can look down along the front range all the way to Denver.

Mule deer are common along this trail and in the spring wildflowers found in ponderosa forests are prevalent.