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A popular local run with wonderful views of Fort Collins to the east and mountains to the west,


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Map Key

3.6

Miles

5.7

KM

90%

Runnable

5,727' 1,746 m

High

5,141' 1,567 m

Low

585' 178 m

Up

583' 178 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (4°)

15%

Max Grade (9°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

This is a quick but rewarding out-and-back through the Maxwell Natural Area. The run culminates in panoramic views.

Runner Notes

Watch for some rocks at odd angles in the steeper sections of this trail.

Description

From Banyan Drive, run west on the Foothills Connector out of the neighborhood north of Hughes Stadium. You'll soon arrive at a junction with Foothills Trail which continues west through the grassland and mahogany shrubland climbing towards a saddle in the hills just north of the 'A'.

After you climb to the saddle in the hills, the trail dips into a meadow before turning south and climbing up to the ridgeline above the 'A'.

This trail begins on flat, easy ground with few obstacles before climbing the hillside and passing through some more technical rocky sections. The views of the front range come when you reach the ridgeline above the 'A'.

Enjoy the views both from the top and on your descent. This is a great local option for any day in the Fort Collins Area.

Flora & Fauna

This trail runs through grassland, shrubland, and ponderosa forest. Wildflowers, including Bell's twinpod, grow in the area. Mule deer, prairie dogs, and various bird species, may also be spotted throughout your run. Watch for rattlesnakes.

Contacts

Shared By:

Nicholas Shannon

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 10 votes

#3236

Overall
  4.0 from 10 votes
5 Star
30%
4 Star
50%
3 Star
10%
2 Star
10%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#476

in Colorado

#3,236

Overall
11 Views Last Month
4,380 Since Jan 30, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Foothills Trail & Horsetooth
Feb 18, 2015 near Laporte, CO

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 93 days ago
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