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Horsetooth Reservoir – Fort Collins

Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins.

Horsetooth Reservoir is nearly 6.5 miles long when full and is surrounded by 1,900 acres of public lands, in the foothills west of Fort Collins. Multi-use trails surround the lake while fishing and boating are some of the most popular activities are Horsetooth. Furthermore, the campsites are as scenic as they are convenient.

Managed by Larimer County and open year-round, you can find loads of things to do at this northern Colorado park. Additional hiking opportunities can be found at Lory State Park, located on the other side of the lake, just a few minutes away.

Activities

Horsetooth Reservoir Summer Sunset
Satisfying summer sunset over Horsetooth Reservoir. Photo: AJ Schroetlin

Biking: Several miles of multi-use trails exist for mountain bikers.

Boating: Open to powerboats of all types, including jet and water skis. Capacity is usually reached during summer weekends. Boat rentals are available at the Inlet Bay Marina.

Camping: Electric and non-electric campsites, as well as waterfront camper cabins, are open year-round for a nightly fee.

Fishing: Shore, boat fishing, flies, lures, and bait are permitted. Walleye, Small-mouth bass, perch, and trout are common.

Hiking: There are several trails along the foothills in Larimer County, open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can access Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and its 29 miles of multi-use trails.

Horseback Riding: Permitted.

Rock Climbing: Permitted.

Scuba Diving: Permitted.

Swimming: Permitted at swim beaches only.

Horsetooth Reservoir Dam North
Horsetooth Reservoir Dam South
Horsetooth Reservoir West Shore
Horsetooth Reservoir Boating
Horsetooth Reservoir Cove
Horsetooth Reservoir Beach
Horsetooth Reservoir East Side
Horsetooth Reservoir Boating
Horsetooth Reservoir Sunset Foot Hills
Horsetooth Reservoir Swim Area

Details

Address: Fort Collins, CO 80526

Phone: 970-679-4570

Season: Year-round

Pets: Yes, on-leash

Fees: Vehicle | Boat Trailer | Annual Permit

Map and Info: Horsetooth Reservoir (PDF)

Campground: Reservations

Website: larimer.gov/…

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