Ascending Hikes – Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

This will be a lollipop-ish hike from the Horsetooth Mountain Trailhead along the Horsetooth Rock Trail to Horsetooth Rock. Once we achieve Horsetooth Rock our return route will include the Wathan, Spring Creek, Soderberg, Horsetooth Rock, and South Ridge Trails. If the group has a bit more energy and enthusiasm, then we can deviate a bit from our route to visit Horsetooth Falls (and add about 0.5 miles to our route). We'll then return to the trailhead. Horsetooth Rock is Fort Collins's most iconic landmark. The large, jagged peak is visible from just about everywhere in Fort Collins. On the trail as we get within sight of Horsetooth Rock we'll need to traverse slickrock to get to the northern base of the rock formation. Getting to the top of the ridge is where the fun begins with a brief class 3 climb to the top of the ridge. The summit ridge is exposed, but wide enough to be safe. We'll be rewarded with some marvelous 360 degree views. We'll find a comfortable spot to stop for lunch/snack. Our pace will be comfortable for all group members. Overall this hike is ~6 miles and ~1600 ft elevation gain. (Horsetooth Rock - CalTopo)

The Colorado Mountain Club's Ascending Hike Section (AHS) provides an opportunity to make new friends and explore new places in Colorado's backcountry, while increasing your personal hiking speed, strength, and stamina. The section is administered by CMC volunteers. There is no cost, fee, or scheduling commitment. There are no dues or elections. Open to all CMC members. To join the section, contact the CMC office. (Ascending Hikes Section — The Colorado Mountain Club (cmc.org))

Carpool Place & Time: Pringle's parking lot on Drake Rd, Fort Collins, CO at 7:45AM for 8:00AM departure (Pringle's Fine Wine & Spirits - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the Horsetooth Rock Trailhead parking lot (Horsetooth Rock Trail - Google Maps)

(Please note there is a park entrance/parking fee of $10/vehicle or annual pass)

Additional carpool meeting places could include locations further south.