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Red Mountain Open Space Conditions

Snowy View from the Cheyenne Rim

Current Conditions

Report Last Updated: 11/19/2009
These reports are updated only when conditions change

Red Mountain Open Space will be closing on November 30 for the winter season. This closure will last through February, and is to ensure the protection of winter range for wildlife, as well as the safety of visitors with the intense weather conditions.

Please see the Natural Resources Events Calendar for current guided hikes.

Welcome to the Red Mountain Open Space, Larimer County Department of Natural Resources' newest open space. Red Mountain Open Space is a recreational paradise and home to many natural and cultural wonders. The property lies along the boundary between the mountains and the plains, and provides habitat to plants and wildlife from both zones. In addition to high biological diversity, this landscape has seen human occupation for tens of thousands of years.

There are bathrooms at the trailhead, but please bring plenty of water as there is no water fountain. Keep in mind that the weather conditions in this area can change rapidly, and become drastic this time of year. Always prepare for the worst weather conditions, for they can creep up very fast! Even if it's nice in town, bring warm clothing in preparation for high winds and/or snowy conditions.

Dogs are not allowed at Red Mountain Open Space. They are seen as predators by wildlife, and would disrupt the routines of the wildlife. Protection of the wildlife and other sensitive cultural and historical areas is important so that they are around for generations to come.

Trail Conditions

Over 10 miles of amazingly beautiful trails are open to the public. Trails are well maintained and in great shape. A new trail, the Salt Lick trail, is currently being constructed. We hope to have the trail finished this fall. If you do encounter a muddy area, please stay on trail as opposed to going around the mud. Going around areas like this widens trails and erodes vegetation. Red Mountain Open Space trails connect into the City of Fort Collins Soapstone Natural Area trails, so if you would like to hike, bike, or ride for greater distances there is plenty to enjoy. Please grab a trail map from the kiosk to help navigate the new trails.

Wildlife

Coyote, red fox, swift fox, pronghorn, mule deer, elk, bear and many other exciting animals reside in this area. This property has been in private ownership for many decades. Please give the animals plenty of space, as they are not habituated to people.

Bird Sightings

Red-tailed hawks, turkey vultures, golden eagles, prairie and peregrine falcons, great horned owls, several types of swallows, meadow larks, horned larks, and many other birds live in and have been spotted at Red Mountain Open Space.

Wildflowers

Winter has arrived in the Big Hole! Wildflowers are now dormant for the season. Check back in early spring for the new arrivals!