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Horsetooth Mountain Open Space Conditions

Current Conditions

Park Elevation 7255'
Report Last Updated:10/7/2008
These reports are updated only when conditions change

photo from Park
Horsetooth Rock
Park Situation

 

The new parking area was completed in September 2007.  Please feel free to view the parking area map and the entire Horsetooth Mountain Park Management Plan at www.larimer.org/parks/htmp_plan.

 

All trails are currently open for use.

Camping

Backcountry camping is allowed in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.  This is low impact, leave no trace camping.  No open flames are allowed.  Campers must check in with park staff and obtain a backcountry camping permit prior to camping.  To contact a mountain park ranger or for more information call (970) 498-5601.

Wildlife

Mule deer, black bear, coyotes, and four species of snake are all common.  The prairie rattlesnake is the only poisonous snake in the foothills.  Colored to blend in with the dry rocky surroundings, this snake is often spotted along the Horsetooth Falls Trail, as well as the Soderberg and South Ridge Trails during the spring, summer, and fall months.  To avoid a negative encounter with rattlesnakes, refrain from placing hands and feet into enclosed or non-scouted areas.  The garter snake, bull snake, and milk snake are also often encountered during the warm spring, summer, and fall months.

WE HAVE HAD NUMEROUS RECENT SIGHTINGS OF DIFFERENT BEARS IN THE MOUTAIN PARK AREA. Black bears come to Mountain Open Space to feed on chokecherries, wild plums, and fresh grasses.  We have had numerous sightings in the South Bay, Inlet Bay, and Mountain Open Space areas.  Talking or singing while hiking helps prevent surprise meetings with the bears.  Please use extreme caution and keep all food secured in your vehicle.  Do not feed or approach the bears.  

Mountain lions also reside within the territory of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space; they are a rare sight even though they are year-round residents.  Keeping small children close while hiking is always a smart precaution.

Wildflowers

Some wildflowers are still in bloom along some of the Horsetooth trails.  Many are becoming dormant for the fall/winter season.

 

For information on guided wildflower hikes, check out our Events Calendar!

Trail Conditions

Weather is unpredictable during the fall season, so pack well for all conditions.  Be prepared for rain, wind, chill, lightning, and heat.  Please use extra caution when hiking or riding on wet trails.  Mountain bikers and horseback riders, please avoid these areas to prevent excess trail damage.

Horsetooth Rock Trail and Horsetooth Falls Trail are currently closed to bikers and horseback riders due to the heavy foot traffic along these trails.

Please report any concerns or trail problems to a ranger.  Rangers can be contacted at (970) 498-5601.

Park Events

Please check the Events Calendar http://larimer.org/naturalresources/parks_calendar.cfm

Activities
See the Parks and Open Lands Event Calendar