Ascending Hikes – Horsetooth Rock

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)

This will be a loop hike from the Horsetooth Mountain Trailhead along the South Ridge and Horsetooth Rock Trails to Horsetooth Rock. Once we achieve Horsetooth Rock we'll continue our stroll around the open space, sampling the new Westridge Connector, Wathan, Stout, and Spring Creek Trails. If the group has a bit more energy and enthusiasm, then we can deviate a bit from our route to visit Horsetooth Falls. We'll then return to the trailhead. Horsetooth Rock is Fort Collin'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 ~7.5 miles and ~1900 ft elevation gain. (Horsetooth OS - #2 - CalTopo)