Reservoir Ridge Natural Area Trails

If you are a resident or visiting Colorful Colorado with your pup in tow, how about taking a hike to enjoy the great outdoors? The city of Fort Collins is a prime location for hiking, so check out the Reservoir Ridge Natural Area Trails here to take advantage of the scenic beauty the area has to offer.

Three trails are offered within this natural area. Pick up the trailhead for the Foothills Trail on the east side of Reservoir Ridge from the 1425 Overland Trail Road parking lot. The Michaud Spur Trailhead parking lot is located on the northside of the natural area at the end of Michaud Road, and from the west parking lot on North County Rd 23, you can access the North Loop Trail. In total, the Reservoir Ridge Trails run for about 4.8 miles.

The Foothills Trail runs a total of 8.2-miles, but a 3-mile portion meanders west and south through Reservoir Ridge. You will see native brush, stunning rock outcroppings, and cross the Pleasant Valley and Lake Canal. You can continue on this trail out of Reservoir Ridge for a longer hike. The Michaud Spur is a shorter 0.4-mile trail that heads southeast, connecting to the Foothills Trail.  

Begin the North Loop Trail by taking the .21-mile spur from the parking lot, which leads you directly to the 1.5-mile trail. The other two trails connect along the way!  Views of Claymore Lake, Horsetooth Reservoir and the city of Fort Collins while hiking on these trails will give you and your pup plenty to see and enjoy. All are rated as moderate, but if you give your fur-ever friend a few rest breaks, you can both easily complete them.

Restrooms are available at each parking lot trailhead, but you will need to pack your own water. Pawtastic as they are, your pup will need to remain on leash here as bicycles can use these trails as well.

Put the Reservoir Ridge Natural Area Trails at the top of your to-do list today!