Foothills Trail

Enjoy scenic views and a moderately challenging hike on the Foothills Trail. This natural-surface path tracks along a ridge on the eastern shore of the Horsetooth Reservoir. There are some spur trails in the area that loop back to the main route or lead you to overlook areas. Follow the rugged, undulating terrain as you travel from Reservoir Ridge Natural Area to Pineridge Natural Area. You'll find trailheads and restrooms at several points along the way. 

Starting from the parking lot at the end of Michaud Lane, head southwest on the trail towards Reservoir Ridge. This natural area features grassland with rock outcroppings, some ponderosa pines, and shrubs. Up here, you'll have some pawmazing views of the reservoir. The northern section of the route is rockier and steeper than the southern part. Continue into Horsetooth Reservoir County Park as you hike along the water. You'll pass a few day-use parks and the Maxwell Natural Area. In this preserve, you can watch for wildlife like mule deer and spotted towhee. You'll also be able to see the mountains in the background as you walk here. The Foothills Trail ends in Pineridge Natural Area. Look for prairie dogs and take some time to fish for bass, panfish, and catfish in the Dixon Reservoir. 

This area is open for dogs that stay on a leash up to ten feet long. Help keep the area pristine by removing your special pal's waste. You'll be sharing the road with bikers and horseback riders. Be prepared to move aside and yield the trail when they want to pass.

Spend a pawesome morning or afternoon with Spot when you hike the Foothills Trail together. The rolling foothills and rugged terrain provide a great way to get some exercise as you enjoy nature. Along the way, you'll have scenic views of the reservoir, the city, and the mountains.