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Horsetooth Mountain Open Space Conditions

Current Conditions

For up-to-date information straight from the field:

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Park Elevation 7255'
Report Last Updated:5/17/2012
These reports are updated only when conditions change

Spring at Horsetooth Falls

Trail Conditions

If people go around muddy areas, the trail widens and vegetation is trampled. A widened trail is very difficult and expensive to restore. When wet and muddy conditions exist, please stay on the Tower's trail or Southridge trail to help prevent trail damage. Thank you for helping to keep your open spaces beautiful!

Snow and ice are present on some of the trails on north-facing slopes in the open space. Please use caution. You may find traction-enhancing devices, such as Yak-trax, to be extremely helpful in keeping solid footing.

Horsetooth Rock Trail and Horsetooth Falls Trail are foot travel only due to the high use.

Trail maintenance is an ongoing project at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. All trails remain open, however, you may encounter workers during weekdays, or select weekends. To assist with Larimer County's Adopt - a - Trail program please call (970) 679-4552

Please report any concerns or trail problems to a ranger. Rangers can be contacted at (970) 679-4570.

Park Situation

Check out the new automated pay station at the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space trail head. The pay station accepts credit and debit cards for purchasing daily passes. Daily passes are $6.00 for the day.

Trailheads have been very busy. If the trail head is at capacity, please have a plan B in place. You may try the Soderberg or Blue Sky trailheads an alternative

Trail Conditions - All trails are currently open and well maintained. For Natural Resources events and activities, check out the Events Calendar!

If extremely muddy conditions exist, please recreate only on the Towers, Swan Johnson and Southridge roads/trails to help protect single track trails from damage.

Weather conditions can change rapidly in backcountry areas. Dress in layers, carry extra clothing, and be prepared for windy & wintery weather.

Camping

Backcountry camping is permitted at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space for $15 per night. Three designated campsites have been built at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Backcountry camping permits are available at the gate house or at the self service kiosk. This is low impact, leave no trace camping. Fires are not allowed. To contact a County Ranger or for more information call 970.679.4570

Wildlife

Mule deer, black bear, bobcat, foxes and coyotes are fairly common sightings.

Mountain lions also reside within the property of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space; they are a rare sight even though they are year-round residents. Keeping small children close while hiking is always a smart precaution.

Wildflowers

Activities

See the Parks and Open Lands Event Calendar