Horsetooth Reservoir: A Northern Colorado Oasis

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Discover outdoor adventure and scenic beauty at Horsetooth Reservoir, a popular destination for boating, fishing, hiking, and water sports in Fort Collins.

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Horsetooth Reservoir

Nestled in the foothills west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir is a 6.5-mile-long reservoir offering a diverse range of recreational activities and stunning natural beauty. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, it's a perfect spot for boating, fishing, hiking, and enjoying the Colorado outdoors.

A brief summary to Horsetooth Reservoir

4200 W County Rd 38 E, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80526, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Horsetooth Reservoir.

Arrive early, especially on summer weekends, as parking lots often fill up quickly.
Purchase a daily or annual entrance permit online or at self-serve pay stations.
Check the Larimer County website for current water levels, alerts, and closures.
Bring sunscreen, water, and appropriate gear for your chosen activities.
Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially in the foothills.

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Getting There

Driving

From Fort Collins, head west on Harmony Road, which turns into County Road 38E. Continue on County Road 38E for approximately 4 miles to reach the southern entrance of Horsetooth Reservoir. Alternatively, from Loveland, take Highway 34 (Eisenhower Boulevard) north to Wilson Avenue, which becomes Taft Hill Road in Fort Collins. Turn left onto County Road 38E and continue west to the reservoir. Parking is available in various lots around the reservoir, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A daily entrance permit is required for all vehicles. Daily Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Horsetooth Reservoir, you can take the Transfort Route 6 bus from various locations in Fort Collins to the Taft Hill & Prospect stop. From there, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the reservoir. The estimated taxi/rideshare fare from Taft Hill & Prospect to Horsetooth Reservoir is $12-$15. A daily entrance permit is also required upon arrival. Daily Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle.

Discover more about Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth Reservoir, a shimmering jewel in the foothills west of Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a captivating blend of recreational opportunities and scenic vistas. This 6.5-mile-long reservoir, surrounded by 1,900 acres of public lands, draws visitors year-round with its diverse activities and stunning natural beauty.Constructed between 1946 and 1949 as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, Horsetooth Reservoir serves as a crucial water source for irrigation, municipal, and industrial use on Colorado's Front Range. The reservoir was created by the construction of four earthen dams: Horsetooth Dam, Soldier Canyon Dam, Dixon Canyon Dam, and Spring Canyon Dam. Inundating part of the former community of Stout, the reservoir's creation reshaped the landscape and the lives of those who lived there.Today, Horsetooth Reservoir is a recreational haven. Anglers cast their lines for walleye, bass, trout, and perch, while boaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders explore the expansive waters. Swimming is permitted at designated swim beaches. Hiking and biking trails wind through the surrounding foothills, offering breathtaking views of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape. Popular activities include scuba diving and rock climbing.Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape, Horsetooth Reservoir offers something for everyone. From its historical significance to its stunning natural beauty, Horsetooth Reservoir is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Northern Colorado.