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Horsetooth Reservoir: A Foothills Oasis

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Discover outdoor adventure and scenic beauty at Horsetooth Reservoir, a popular recreation destination in the foothills of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Horsetooth Reservoir, nestled in the foothills west of Fort Collins, Colorado, is a 6.5-mile-long reservoir offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Created in 1949 as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, it provides essential water resources and has become a beloved recreational destination.

A brief summary to Horsetooth Reservoir

Eve
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 entrance permits online or at self-serve pay stations to avoid delays.
  • Check the Larimer County website for current water levels, alerts, and closures.
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and appropriate gear for your chosen activities, as the weather can change quickly.
  • Be aware of wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the natural environment.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Fort Collins, head west on Harmony Road, which becomes County Road 38E at Taft Hill Road. Continue west on County Road 38E for approximately 4 miles to reach the entrance to the south end of Horsetooth Reservoir. A daily entrance permit costs $10 per vehicle. Annual passes are also available for $100 for residents and $130 for non-residents. Be prepared for potential parking limitations, especially during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    From various points in Fort Collins, take Transfort Route 6 towards Taft Hill & Prospect. From there, a short taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) ride will take you to Horsetooth Reservoir. The bus fare is $1.25. A taxi/rideshare will cost approximately $12-$24. This option involves a transfer but can be more economical than a direct taxi ride from further locations in Fort Collins.

Discover more about Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth Reservoir, a scenic jewel in Larimer County, Colorado, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This 6.5-mile-long reservoir, situated in the foothills just west of Fort Collins, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Constructed between 1946 and 1949, the reservoir was a key component of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, designed to divert water from the western slope to the eastern plains for irrigation, municipal, and industrial use. The project led to the inundation of parts of the town of Stout, a sandstone quarrying community. Today, the reservoir is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation and the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, while Larimer County manages recreation. Named after the distinctive Horsetooth Rock formation overlooking the reservoir, the area boasts a rich history and diverse landscape. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing, and more on the water, while hiking, biking, and rock climbing are popular activities on the surrounding trails and open spaces. The reservoir is surrounded by 1,900 acres of public lands. Whether you're seeking a thrilling water adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, Horsetooth Reservoir offers something for everyone.

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