Horsetooth Falls: A Cascade in the Foothills

4.6 (282)

Hike to a scenic waterfall in the foothills near Fort Collins. A family-friendly adventure in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.

Home
Colorado
Fort Collins
Horsetooth Falls

Horsetooth Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space near Fort Collins, Colorado. The short, family-friendly hike leads to a picturesque cascade, especially vibrant in spring and early summer. It's a popular spot for a refreshing break and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

A brief summary to Horsetooth Falls

6550 W County Rd 38 E, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80526, US
Click to display

Local tips

Visit in the spring or early summer to see the waterfall at its peak flow.
Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as the parking lot fills up quickly.
A daily entrance permit is required for Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.
Wear appropriate footwear as the terrain near the waterfall can be steep and rocky.
Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, as the hike can be strenuous.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: A Foothills Escape

Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth Reservoir: A Foothills Oasis

Arthur's Rock

Arthur's Rock: A Fort Collins Hiking Gem

Getting There

Driving

From Fort Collins, head west on W County Road 38E. Continue for approximately 6 miles. You'll pass the entrance to Horsetooth Reservoir. Continue a bit further to the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space entrance. A daily entrance permit is required and can be purchased at the entrance. Parking is available at the trailhead. Be aware that the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Public Transport

While there isn't a direct public transportation route to the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, you can take a Transfort bus to a nearby stop in Fort Collins and then use a ride-sharing service or taxi to reach the trailhead. From the nearest Transfort stop, a taxi or ride-share will cost approximately $15 - $25.
Walking

Walking to Horsetooth Falls from Fort Collins is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 7 miles) and lack of pedestrian-friendly routes along County Road 38E. If you are staying closer to the reservoir, consult local maps for possible walking routes within the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.

Discover more about Horsetooth Falls

Horsetooth Falls is a captivating natural attraction nestled in the foothills west of Fort Collins, within the expansive Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. This scenic area, encompassing over 2,700 acres, offers a variety of outdoor activities, with the hike to Horsetooth Falls being a particularly popular choice. The Horsetooth Falls hike is a relatively easy to moderate trek, making it suitable for families and hikers of various skill levels. The trail meanders through meadows adorned with wildflowers (especially stunning in the springtime), gradually descending into a picturesque canyon. The destination is the mesmerizing Horsetooth Falls, a cascading waterfall that provides a refreshing and scenic reward. The waterfall's flow is seasonal, typically peaking in late spring and early summer. During drier months, the falls may diminish to a trickle or even dry up completely. Historically, the area surrounding Horsetooth Falls has a rich past. The Horsetooth Mountain Open Space lies within the traditional hunting and gathering grounds of American Indian tribes. Later, in the 19th century, the area saw the rise of industries like logging and quarrying. The nearby town of Stout, now submerged under the Horsetooth Reservoir, was a sandstone quarrying center. Today, the open space serves as a reminder of the region's natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy not only the beauty of the falls but also panoramic views of Fort Collins and the Rocky Mountains. The area provides opportunities for wildlife sightings, including deer and moose.