Hiking 101

So you've thought about going hiking, but boy, it just seems like it's kind of dangerous out there! Not to worry, you're about to have fun while learning how to keep yourself safe while hiking. Join us on a jaunt to Horsetooth Falls where we'll cover the perils and joys of hiking, and the skills and gear you'll need to have a good time while hiking.
Participants will hike the Horsetooth Falls trail and portions of the Spring Creek Trail, Soderberg Trail, and South Ridge Trail, traveling over natural surface trails which may be rocky, muddy, or covered in loose material for 3.25 miles with an elevation gain of about 700ft. Pit toilets and potable water are available at the trailhead. Challenges: stretches with little shade, rocky trails, moderate elevation gain. If you would like to see our route, look up the Horsetooth Falls Loop on COTREX: https://trails.colorado.gov/routes/43237
Program is free, but registration is required. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space charges a $10 day use fee; if you would like to explore Horsetooth Mountain Open Space without paying the fee, you can check out a Discover Pack from a local library or one of our offices: https://www.larimer.gov/naturalresources/discover-pack
Participants should bring:
Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen)
Wear comfortable hiking/walking shoes (closed-toe recommended)
Water
Insect repellant (optional)
Snacks
Clothing appropriate for the weather
Backpack (to carry it all)
8:00 am to 12:00 pm