If you’re looking for the best hiking trails near Fort Collins, CO, for easy spring walks, you’ll find plenty of options with stunning scenic views and comfortable routes. Many of these trails are known for their accessibility and beautiful surroundings, making them ideal for casual hikers and nature lovers.
Why Choose Hiking Trails in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins shows off many different landscapes—from thick forests to wide-open meadows. Local hiking routes fit many skill levels. So, whether you’re new or have some experience, you’ll find a trail here. Knowing trail difficulty levels helps pick a path that fits your skills and energy.
Trail Difficulty Levels
- Easy: Good for families or anyone who wants a relaxed walk.
- Moderate: Fits people with some hiking background; watch out for uneven paths.
- Challenging: Made for hikers ready to climb steep parts and push themselves.
Explore the Best Spring Hikes Around Fort Collins
Springtime near Fort Collins offers great chances to get outside. The trails here show off mountain peaks and beautiful views along the Colorado Front Range. You can find hikes for families or tough climbs for the more fit. These spring hikes near Fort Collins let you enjoy nature without going too far.
Lory State Park
Arthur’s Rock trail sits in Lory State Park and is a well-liked moderate hiking trail near Fort Collins. It covers 3.4 miles round trip with about 900 feet of elevation gain. The climb leads to nice views from the top. Families can enjoy the clear path that is easy to follow.
Things to note:
- Moderate level fits hikers with some experience
- Signs and parking spots at the trail start
- Chance to see wildlife and spring flowers
This trail gives a mix of challenge and ease for hikers who want views without too much strain.
Estes Park
The Gem Lake hike in Estes Park works well for beginners or those wanting short day hikes. This loop is about 3 miles long and mostly flat through the woods. It ends at a lake made of granite with cliffs all around.
Why pick Gem Lake?
- Easy trail with small elevation changes
- Good length for a few hours out
- Great spots for snacks or photos
Gem Lake lets you see Colorado’s mountains close to town with little effort.
Morrison/Red Rocks
Mt Falcon Castle trail near Morrison fits hikers who want a real workout plus some history. It goes about 5 miles with some steep parts inside Red Rocks Open Space. You pass old castle ruins on your way.
What stands out:
- Hard trail that needs fitness
- Views over Denver and natural sights
- Ruins from John Brisben Walker’s castle
This hike mixes physical work with cool ruins near Fort Collins.
Estes Park
The Kruger Rock hike in Estes Park suits horseback riders but also hikers who want quiet trails in pine forests. This route covers about 6 miles with steady uphill steps toward rock outcrops on Kruger Mountain.
Key points:
- Trails shared with horses, so the paths are wide
- Quiet, away from busy places
- Wide views are good for watching nature
Kruger Rock offers peace and varied ground for those avoiding crowded spots.
If you plan a hike soon, check out these top trails near Fort Collins, CO. And hey, if your car acts up on the way, Dedicated Towing and Recovery works around the clock to help out. Stay safe when you head out!
Discover Family-Friendly Hikes Near Fort Collins
Fort Collins has some of the best hiking trails near Fort Collins, CO, for families. You can find kid-friendly hiking trails here that are easy to follow. Many trails allow dogs, too, so your furry friend can come along. These family hiking destinations offer nice views and short distances. You get to spend time outside without feeling too tired or overwhelmed.
Here are some great spots to check out:
- Trails with easy paths
- Places for kids to explore
- Dog-friendly routes
- Scenic stops
Dixon Reservoir Loop
Dixon Reservoir Loop measures 2.1 miles and is an easy loop trail popular with families. It has no steep parts, making it smooth to walk around the reservoir. Dogs on leash are welcome here, so it’s a dog-friendly trail too. The scenery includes calm water views and open meadows.
Why families like it:
- Short round-trip hike length
- Flat, even terrain
- Friendly to pets on leash
You get fresh air and peaceful surroundings without much effort.
Horsetooth Falls Trail
Horsetooth Falls Trail is a top pick for family-friendly hikes Fort Collins offers. It’s a short day hike that takes you to a seasonal waterfall. Kids love seeing the water splash down rocks. The trail is smooth and safe for young ones. You might spot birds and small animals too on the wildlife viewing trails here.
Some perks:
- Well-kept path for all ages
- Wildlife spotting chances
- Parking and bathrooms are close by
It’s a good half-day trip if you want fresh air and nature without a long walk.
Coyote Ridge Trail
Coyote Ridge Trail suits those who want moderate hiking trails that Fort Collins can boast about. The trail shows off some scenic overlooks that Fort Collins locals enjoy. Parts of it have exposed trail sections, so watch your step carefully. Older kids who like a bit more challenge will do fine here.
This hike features:
- Moderate difficulty level
- Stunning views from high points
- A bit of exposed terrain
You’ll see wide-open spaces and get great views of Colorado’s landscape.
Overlook Trail via Foothills Trail
The Overlook Trail via Foothills Trail is an easy hiking Fort Collins. This route has shaded paths that keep you cool in warmer weather. It’s perfect for families wanting gentle exercise. Along the way, you might catch glimpses of wildlife on quiet sections.
Highlights include:
- Easy walk for everyone
- Lots of tree cover
- Good spots for watching animals
It works well for younger kids or anyone wanting less stress on their feet.
Planning a family outing? These best hiking trails near Fort Collins, CO, fit many needs in one place. From easy strolls to moderate climbs, each spot offers something special.
Explore the Poudre River Trail System
Fort Collins Poudre River Trail
The Fort Collins Poudre River Trail is one of the best hiking trails near Fort Collins, CO. It runs along the Cache la Poudre River and offers a paved path for walking, biking, or running. This trail is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along.
The trail stays well-maintained all year round. You’ll find several trailhead locations with parking spots, making access easy from different points. If you want to plan, check out the trail maps Fort Collins provides online or at local parks.
Riverbend Ponds Trail Loop
Riverbend Ponds Trail Loop is a favorite among local hiking routes in Fort Collins. It’s great for families since it’s easy to walk and suitable for all ages. The path goes through shaded areas and wetlands, which makes it cool and calm even on sunny days.
This multi-use trail allows hikers, cyclists, and dogs on leashes, so it’s very popular for dog-friendly trails Fort Collins offers. The terrain stays flat and gentle — no tough climbs here.
Pineridge Trail
If you want easy hiking near Fort Collins that shows off nature, Pineridge Trail fits the bill. This trail is short and simple to follow, perfect for casual walkers. You get to see local plants and animals up close during nature walks that Fort Collins locals enjoy.
Along the way, signs tell you about native flora and fauna found here — a nice way to learn something new while you stroll.
Riverbend Pond Loop
Riverbend Pond Loop is perfect for people who like wildlife viewing trails. It has spots where you can watch birds and deer quietly without disturbing them. The views around the ponds are peaceful, and scenic overlooks offer great places to stop and look around.
You’ll find public bathrooms nearby at main access points inside this loop, making your hike more comfortable.
Explore Top Parks Around Fort Collins
Lory State Park
Lory State Park has some of the best hiking trails near Fort Collins, CO. It’s great for people who like mountain hiking in Fort Collins, CO. The trails change in difficulty. So, both beginners and experienced hikers find good routes here. You’ll find scenic overlooks that Fort Collins visitors love.
They show wide views of hills and far-off peaks. The park follows Leave No Trace principles. This helps keep the area clean and wild. Hikers should respect animals and not leave trash behind.
Boyd Lake State Park
Boyd Lake State Park is a favorite spot for Fort Collins outdoor activities. Its reservoir hiking trails offer nice views of the water while you walk. The park has a dog-friendly trail too, so bring your pet along! Families will like the easy, family-friendly hikes near Fort Collins. The paths are gentle, making it safe and fun for kids and older folks.
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space has many Horsetooth Reservoir trails to explore. One well-known hike leads to Horsetooth Falls, a popular spot with a waterfall.
Trails here have different trail elevation gains, so you can pick how hard you want to go. You might see some local animals on the wildlife viewing trails during your walk.
Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Devil’s Backbone Open Space offers well-maintained trail options perfect for nature walks, which Fort Collins locals enjoy. You get close to local flora and fauna as you hike near strange rock formations that stand out in this place. The area blends easy walking with lots of plants and animals around.
Coyote Ridge Natural Area
Coyote Ridge Natural Area is home to the Coyote Ridge Trail, which gives panoramic views that Fort Collins outdoor trails don’t often show. From high up, you can see wide open spaces and Colorado’s rough land all around. It’s a good place if you like big views or want to take some photos.
Plan Your Spring Hike Near Fort Collins
Springtime is great for hiking near Fort Collins, CO. But you want to plan first to stay safe and enjoy your time.
Look at the trail maps of Fort Collins. Pick a path that fits your fitness and what you like. Some trails are easy, like walks around Horsetooth Reservoir. Others are tough, like the climb up Arthur’s Rock. Knowing the trail difficulty levels helps you get ready.
Check the weather before your hike. Spring can change fast. Wear layers and bring rain gear so you stay comfy.
Drink water while you hike. Temperatures can go up quickly. Bring enough water or a light hydration pack to keep hydrated. Also, pack important gear: strong boots, sun protection, a GPS or a compass, and first aid supplies.
Follow Leave No Trace principles:
- Stay on marked trails
- Take your trash with you
- Respect animals
- Avoid starting campfires if not allowed
Use good trail etiquette, too:
- Let others pass when needed
- Keep the noise down
Think about trail accessibility if you hike with kids or people who want easier paths. Many trails here fit different needs and still look nice. Keep these safety tips in mind. You’ll see the beauty of Fort Collins’ outdoors and help keep it clean for everyone.
Connect with Dedicated Towing and Recovery!
Hiking around Fort Collins, CO is a great way to enjoy the outdoors—but car trouble can quickly ruin your day. That’s why we’re here. Dedicated Towing and Recovery is the best towing company in Fort Collins, ready to help when things go wrong. If your vehicle breaks down, we respond fast. Whether you need a tow, flat tire help, a battery jump-start, lockout service, fuel delivery, or recovery from a tough spot, our team is ready.
We tow from parking spots near trails and recover vehicles from tricky mountain roads. Our equipment is strong, and our crew knows how to use it safely. We also handle winch-outs, long-distance towing, and emergency roadside help 24/7.
Ready to hit the trails? Pick your hike now—and save Dedicated Towing and Recovery’s number for fast, reliable help when you need it most!