Ascending Hikes – Horsetooth Rock

Carpool Place & Time: Pringle's parking lot on Drake Rd, Fort Collins, CO at 7:30AM for 7:45AM departure (Pringle's Fine Wine & Spirits - Google Maps)

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

Additional carpool location possible further south, if needed.

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 new Westridge Connector, 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 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 ~6 miles and ~1600 ft elevation gain. (Horsetooth Rock - CalTopo)