Horsetooth Falls Loop

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

• Distance3.1 mi
• Elevation gain698 ft
• Leash ruleLeash required
• Water on trailSpring Creek and the falls pool (seasonal; often a trickle by July)
• SeasonSpring runoff is best; year-round access
• ParkingSame crowded lot as Horsetooth Rock; before 9 a.m. or after 3 p.m. on weekends
• FeeLarimer County daily entrance permit required
• RestroomsVault toilets at the trailhead
• Managed byLarimer County Natural Resources

The gentler Horsetooth Mountain option, the Falls Loop runs 1.1 miles to a small waterfall in a shaded granite pocket, then returns via Spring Creek and the Soderberg trails for a 3.1-mile loop with about 700 feet of rolling gain. In May and June the falls actually fall and the creek gives dogs a legitimate soak; by late summer it is a seep. The loop is leash-only like all of Larimer County's parks, and the first mile is busy with families. Good for moderately fit dogs, hot-weather mornings, and as a warm-up before deciding whether the dog is up for the Rock. Pack out waste; bags left trailside are a county pet peeve.

After the hike

More trails near Fort Collins

• Horsetooth Rock Loop

  Leash required · 5 mi
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• Arthur's Rock Trail – Lory State Park

  Leash required · 3.6 mi
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• Devil's Backbone Wild Loop

  Leash required; no dogs on the Rimrock Trail · 2.4 mi
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All dog-friendly hikes near Fort Collins → · Fort Collins dog guide