The best city hikes and walks in Larimer County

Larimer County offers a fantastic selection of urban hiking experiences. You'll find over 30 routes specifically curated for city hikes and walks, with the vast majority being easy to navigate.

The komoot community highly rates urban hikes in Larimer County, with an average score of 4.73 out of 5 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility of trails, the scenic views, and the opportunity to experience nature within urban settings.

Yes, there are several easy urban loop trails perfect for a quick stroll. The Rolland Moore Park Outer Loop in Fort Collins is a great option, offering a pleasant 3 km walk. Another excellent choice is the Mehaffey Loop, which is just under 3 km.

Many urban trails in Larimer County are family-friendly due to their easy difficulty. The Poudre River Trail Short Route is a very accessible option, offering a gentle 1.1 km path along the river, perfect for all ages.

For those looking for a longer urban adventure, the Power Trail offers a moderate 16.2 km route. It's a great way to cover more ground and enjoy an extended walk through the urban landscape.

Absolutely. Many urban trails in Larimer County are designed to connect you with the region's natural beauty. For instance, the Mason Trail provides a pleasant urban hike that often runs alongside green spaces and offers glimpses of the local flora and fauna.

Even on urban hikes, you're never far from Larimer County's stunning natural features. You might encounter highlights like Bear Lake or even the iconic Horsetooth Rock, which are often accessible from or visible near urban areas. Some trails might even lead you close to beautiful waterfalls like Alberta Falls.

While urban trails are primarily within developed areas, Larimer County's commitment to open spaces means wildlife can often be seen. Trails along river corridors, like sections of the Poudre River Trail, are good spots to look for birds and small mammals, especially during quieter times of day.

Larimer County's urban trails often weave through areas with interesting landmarks. Depending on the specific route, you might pass by local parks, historical markers, or even get views of larger natural monuments like parts of Rocky Mountain National Park in the distance. The region's diverse landscape means there's always something to discover.

While the Devil's Backbone Open Space is a more rugged hiking area, some urban trails in Loveland might offer distant views of this prominent geological formation. For a closer experience, you can visit the Devil's Backbone Open Space itself, which features over 17 miles of trails.

Urban hiking in Larimer County is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is great for early morning or evening walks to avoid the heat, while winter can provide unique, quiet experiences, especially on paved or well-maintained paths, though you should always check local conditions.