3 Best Hiking Trails in Fort Collins, CO

“Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a 2,711-acre mountainous park that offers 29 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as scenic vistas. The elevation gain of the trail is 5,430 to 7,255 feet. This trail is generally considered a moderately challenging path, and it takes approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes to complete the entire trail. This open space is famous for its Horsetooth Falls in the spring and its Front Range views. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space trails are perfectly maintained and are easily accessible with a dog, and drinking water is available along the trail. Visitors can also experience the adventures on the longer trails and the short trails with friends and family.”

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“Coyote Ridge Natural Area provides excellent views of the Front Range, the eastern plains, and the Cheyenne Ridge to the north. The views to the west from the top are breathtaking. At this stunning location, visitors can experience the slopes meeting the plains. This is a 6.6 km out-and-back trail, with an elevation gain of 172 meters. This is generally considered a moderately challenging route, and it takes an average of 1 hour and 46 minutes to complete. This trail is a perfect spot for experiencing a diverse array of recreational opportunities, such as mountain biking, horseback riding, or long-distance hiking. Visitors can spot mule deer, coyotes, mountain lions, bears, and rattlesnakes.”

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“Riverbend Ponds Natural Area is an ideal destination to have a pleasant and relaxed time with friends and family. This is a 4.0-km loop trail, with an elevation gain of 4 metres. This is generally considered an easy route, and it takes approximately 43 minutes to complete the trail. This is a perfect place to enjoy numerous recreational activities like birding, hiking, mountain biking, and running. The trail also showcases an elegant view of natural rivers, wetlands, and old gravel mine ponds. The trail offers various opportunities for visitors to witness a variety of birdlife in this wildlife-rich habitat. Riverbend Ponds Natural Area ensures a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, public restrooms, and kid-friendly hikes for more comfort.”

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