Horsetooth Moutain Open Space- South Ridge Trail

Location:South Ridge Trail in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Date: 8/31/2014 

How far we went: 2.6 miles each way for a total of 5.2mi

How long it took us: Didn't keep track

Weather: Overcast and drizzle. Cold winds at the top.

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The South Ridge trail in an intermediate ascent into Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Not much in the way of technical terrain but the climb up is steep enough where I think it would be a little much for the inexperienced or out-of-shape. As you get further towards the top you'll have the westward view towards the Continental Divide that you cannot get from most of the trails in Horsetooth and adjacent Lory State Park.. It'll cost you $6 for a parking permit. If you're coming on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday in the middle of peak season be prepared to not have a parking space if you don't come early. This is the back-yard of Fort Collins and us locals love to get outside and get our nature fix. Don't forget to have fun, enjoy the views and watch out for the horse shit as it's a multi-use trail. 

MTB: Lory State Park- East and West Valley Trails

The East and West Valley Trails at Lory State Park

Location: Lory State Park, East/West Valley Trails

Date: 5/6/2014

How far we went: 4.96mi

How long it took me: Around 39 min for both trails

Elevation reached: 5600ft

Weather: Overcast, mild.

The East and West Valley trails provide a nice easy ride that put you between the shore and the road on the East side and between the mountain and the road on the West side. I was riding at a brisk pace but randomly stopped here and there to snap a photo or read a sign. With that said it took me around 39 minutes to do both trails.

The trails consists of mainly easy going with some small up and downhill challenges that take some small maneuvering. Minor switchbacking and some small rock jumps are there should you choose. An easy trail is as difficult and fun as you make it and I've easily found myself going way too fast or being overconfident and have almost caused great spills. But honestly, that's why we do this shit.

These trails are shared with pedestrians and people on horseback. Make sure you're polite and show proper trail etiquette.

If you're visiting from a flat area and/or not used to hills or actual mountain biking terrain, I suggest you: 1. Make sure you have your safety equipment in order, a helmet at the very least. 2. Spend 20 or 30 minutes getting comfortable at the Corral Center Mountain Bike Park. (If you look at the picture above, it's that square shaped cleared out area to the left of "End) and 3. Make sure you're comfortable on these trails before heading up further into Lory.

Anyways, have fun and be safe!