The best MTB trails in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Horsetooth Rock is an iconic landmark in the Fort Collins area. To get to the summit you must dismount your bike and complete a short scramble here up to the summit. Although the scrambling is relatively easy, it is a little exposed in places and there can sometimes be loose gravel over bare rock faces. Just move carefully, deliberately, and don't be afraid to slide on your butt on the way down! After scrambling up, you get fantastic panoramic views from this long, exposed rock summit of the surrounding area. You get especially great views of Horsetooth Reservoir, which is named after the formation you're standing on. Since the summit is fairly large, even on crowded days you can usually find a spot to eat a snack and take photos away from other people. As you explore, just be aware of steep drop offs, large gaps between rocks, and loose gravel over bare rock.

The East Valley Trail runs parallel to the main road through a beautiful open meadow. You get fantastic views of the striking red cliffs that separate the meadow from the shores of Horsetooth Reservoir, but there are several short spur trails along the East Valley Trail that will take you down to various inlets. This trail is relatively flat and accessible and is also open to hikers and horses.

The Indian Summer Trail is a short, fun loop off of the main Blue Sky Trail. Most ride this loop clockwise, ascending a few hundred feet of low-grade switchbacks before reaching a flowy descent.

The Blue Sky Trail is a generally casual, super fun trail along a ridge, just south of Horsetooth Reservoir. This long trail runs north-south from Horsetooth Reservoir, through Rim Rock Open Space to the Devil's Backbone Open Space. This section of trail begins at the trailhead near Horsetooth and ends where the Indian Summer Loop begins. There is a set of steps in this section of trail that most walk, but advanced riders looking to challenge themselves might be able to find a line down. Other than this short obstacle, this section of the Blue Sky Trail doesn't have any very steep grades; it is flowy and fun with lots linkups with other trails available.

The Arthurs Rock Trailhead is located at the very end of Lodgepole Drive. There is a large parking area, trail information, and vault toilets. From this trailhead you can access popular trails like the Arthurs Rock Trail, the South Valley Loop, and the Overlook Trail. This lot can fill up quickly, especially on beautiful weekends in the spring, summer, and fall so be sure to arrive early and try to carpool with a hiking buddy!

Arthur's Rock lies just off the main Arthur's Rock Trail down a short spur trail. After cresting a steep gully, you arrive at the summit of the very popular Arthur's Rock. From this large rocky summit, you get fantastic views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the surrounding area. This is a great place to find a comfortable seat and take in the views before heading back down the gully to the main trail.

This short, but steep section of switchbacks between the junction of the Westridge and Timber Trail and the junction of the West Gulch and Timber Trail packs a punch! Fortunately you are protected from the sun by tall pine trees that line the trail and get great views of the main Lory State Park area and of Horsetooth Reservoir through the trees.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offers a great mountain biking experience, amidst the stunning Colorado landscape. The trail system caters to various skill levels, combining challenging ascents with thrilling descents. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains along your ride!