Horsetooth Mountain via Swan Johnson & Wathan Trail

About this event

Let’s try a new route to Horsetooth Mountain. Usually we do a loop that goes to the mountain and past the waterfall. But I’m certain the waterfall is not worth it right now. So let’s try this new route. Its an out and back…not a loop.

Difficulty: Moderate - about 9 miles with about 2,200 feet elevation gain.

FEE: There is a $10 fee to enter Horsetooth Mountajn Open Space. There are self service stations prior to entering the park. See https://www.larimer.gov/naturalresources/parks/permits . I am not organizing a carpool, so if you want to carpool, please comment in the event.

HIKE DESCRIPTION: The large jagged peak of Horsetooth Rock is one of Fort Collin's most iconic landmarks. It’s a bit of a scramble to get to the top…but the views are beautiful. This route is new to me, but I’m always up for something different. See the following hike in alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/horsetooth-rock-via-swan-johnson-and-wathan-trail

DOGS ALLOWED IF FOLLOW PARK RULES: Dogs must be on leash at all times throughout the open space. Loose dogs may be impounded. Please be sure your dog is well behaved and can handle the length of the walk. Dog owners must clean up pet excrement.

ADDRESS/DIRECTIONS: We will meet at the Soderberg Trailhead & Parking Lot. The address is 4909 Shoreline Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526. To get there, you can go to the alltrails link above and click directions. If you use Google maps, you can type in “Soderberg Parking Lot, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space” for directions.

We wait 5 minutes for late arrivals…but no longer as that is inconsiderate to those arriving timely. So please allow extra time to get to the trailhead.

IMPORTANT: This is a participate at your own risk event! Life is risky. I am not a professional guide and am simply hosting this event. By signing up for this hike you acknowledge that you are capable of performing this hike and that you are solely responsible for your own safety.

NO SHOWS: If you are a no-show to 2 hikes, you will be booted from this meetup group. So please change your RSVP to “not going” if you are unable to make it.

WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING: Water, snacks, layers of clothing, good hiking shoes/boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, gloves, hiking poles (if you find them helpful), and anything else you deem essential.

WEATHER: Here is the NOAA forecast for the hike location. For hourly temps, wind, precipitation, etc., click “Hourly Weather Forecast” in the upper right. https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=40.5397&lon=-105.1969#.ZBcXIy9MFvK

REQUIRED WAIVER: If you have not already done so, you must sign the updated waiver with our new meetup name prior to this hike. I will have copies at the trailhead that you can sign or you may print, sign, and bring it with you from the following website: https://www.dropbox.com/s/p728z28jjuwdzws/Waiver%20Corona.pdf?dl=0 If you choose to sign at the trailhead, please arrive early so that we can depart for the hike timely.

From Rise and Hike! Fit & Fun Weekday Hikers