Swan Johnson, Shoreline, and Nomad Trail- 7/23/2013 (Horsetooth Mountain Open Space)

 

 

 

Location: Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Date: 7/23/2013

How far we went: Around 2.87 miles

How long it took us: About an hour and a half

Elevation reached: Not very high

Weather: Sunny in the summer!

My friends were passing through Colorado so I met them to camp up at Horsetooth Rock for an evening and a quick hike in the AM before they departed. Towards the end of the summer the water level drops in the reservoir and leaves a muddy/mucky mess around the shoreline, but still provides scenic views and these trails are very easy for anyone. This hike is ideal for those who don't mind venturing out, but are never far from the trail head and doesn't present a challenge to those not familiar with hiking, small youngsters and/or the elderly. This particular day was quite peaceful, but when the boats on the water get fired up and people start partying for the day, it definitely isn't silent.

If you're not camping up there and are coming in an automobile, you're going to want to park at the Soderbreg Open Space trailhead & parking which is off Shoreline Dr. One more suggestion, if you are camping, even in the middle of summer, the wind can howl in the middle of the night and temperatures can drop quickly. Sleep near the fire or pack an extra blanket.

 

Horsetooth Mountain- Part I, 10/15/2012

Location: Horsetooth Rock (Horsetooth Rock Trail to Horsetooth Rock, then on Walthen to Spring Creek Trail, then to Horsetooth Falls trail back to parking lot.)

Date: 10/15/2012

How far we went: 6.88 miles

How long it took us: 3:02:52

Elevation reached: 7256

Weather: A little chilly, very sunny. Wind at the top of the rock. 

Basically you pay $5 and until noon the next day you have a permit to explore this beautiful area (within operating hours). Horsetooth Rock is the most recognizable landmark from Fort Collins and is easily accessible via the Horsetooth Rock Trail. Everything is clearly marked and you'll find your way to the top easily. Note: It takes about an hour to an hour and a half (depending on your pace) to go from parking lot to summit. This is important if you plan on catching a sunrise. It is only challenging when you get to the actual rock and takes some scrambling to reach the very top. It's not so hard that the average hiker/athlete/nimble person cannot do it with minimal effort, but people have lost their lives up here and I personally know a bunch of people who could not do it. Moving along on the Walthen and connecting with Spring Creek Trail. Its not much of a  sight if its not late Spring and the water is not flowing. Still worth a visit any time of year. Residents of Fort Collins are lucky to have this in their backyard.

Starting off

Coming to base of rock

Sitting on top of rock... Can you spot my new friend? 

Looking west towards continental divide

Looking South Towards Denver

East towards Fort Collins

North to Wyoming

Moving away from rock on Walthen trail

On to Spring Creek

Drips coming down Horsetooth Falls