The best walks and hikes in Larimer County

Yes, the region offers many options for families and beginners, with over 150 easy trails to choose from. A great choice within Rocky Mountain National Park is the Mills Lake via Glacier Gorge loop, which is a relatively gentle walk to a scenic alpine lake. Many of the county's open spaces, like Devil's Backbone, also feature flatter trails suitable for all ages.

For a truly demanding day out, the Longs Peak via Keyhole Route is a classic mountaineering challenge that requires experience and an early start. This strenuous 13.4-mile (21.6 km) trek involves significant elevation gain and scrambling to the summit of the park's highest peak.

Absolutely. One of the most popular waterfall hikes is located in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. The trail to Horsetooth Falls is a rewarding trek that leads to a beautiful cascade, especially in the spring and early summer. The area is a local favorite for its accessible trails and scenic beauty.

Dog policies vary by location. Dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Rocky Mountain National Park. However, they are welcome on-leash in many of Larimer County's Open Spaces, such as Horsetooth Mountain and Devil's Backbone, as well as in Lory State Park. Always check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go.

Larimer County is home to several highly-regarded hiking destinations.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a local favorite near Fort Collins, offering 29 miles of trails with scenic vistas. For a unique geological landscape, Devil's Backbone Open Space near Loveland provides trails for hiking and wildlife viewing amidst its iconic rock formations. For a quieter experience, consider Red Mountain Open Space, a preserve known for its peaceful atmosphere and panoramic trails.

Yes, Larimer County has many excellent circular routes. For a moderate loop with fantastic views, the Twin Sisters Peaks trail offers a steady climb to a rewarding summit. Many of the county's parks and open spaces are designed with loop trails in mind. You can find more options on the county's official loop trails page.

The best time to see wildflowers depends on the elevation. In the foothills and lower elevations, such as Lory State Park, wildflowers typically peak from late spring to early summer (May and June). In the higher alpine environments of Rocky Mountain National Park, the wildflower season is shorter, usually from late June through July.

There are over 360 designated hiking routes in Larimer County, offering a vast range of experiences. These trails cover everything from easy strolls in the foothills to difficult ascents in the Rocky Mountains, ensuring there's a path for every skill level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible variety, from the iconic rock formations at Horsetooth Mountain to the stunning alpine lakes found on trails like the Sky Pond & The Loch Trail. The well-maintained trail networks in the open spaces are also frequently mentioned.

Yes, entrance and parking fees are required for most managed areas. Rocky Mountain National Park has its own timed-entry permit system and entrance fees. For county-managed areas like Horsetooth Mountain and Devil's Backbone, you will need a Larimer County Parks pass. You can find more information on purchasing daily or annual passes at the official Larimer County website.

Larimer County's diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife. In the foothills and open spaces, it's common to see mule deer, wild turkeys, and various birds of prey. At higher elevations within Rocky Mountain National Park, you have a chance to spot elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots, especially on trails like the one to Mount Ida.

While most trails in the open spaces and national park are unpaved with natural surfaces, some areas offer accessible options. The trail around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is a flat, packed-gravel path that is generally suitable for strollers. Additionally, many of the city parks in Fort Collins and Loveland feature extensive paved trail systems.