Horsetooth Reservoir Area With Dogs

Located just outside of Fort Collins, CO in the Rocky Mountain foothills you’ll find the Horsetooth Reservoir. With its stunning landscapes, diverse trails, and opportunities for outdoor fun, it’s a fantastic destination for both you and your canine companion. We visit Fort Collins often, and this area is our go-to stop for outdoor exploring. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the Horsetooth Reservoir area and share tips on how to make the most of your adventure with your dogs.

Hiking Trails Galore

Horsetooth Reservoir offers an extensive network of hiking trails that are perfect for both you and your dog. From easy strolls along the water’s edge to challenging climbs with breathtaking views, there’s a trail for every level of hiker and their canine sidekick. These are our favorite spots for hiking in the area:

• Horsetooth Falls – This popular hiking area offers a nice variety of dog-friendly terrain as well as amazing views. We’ve hiked here many times and enjoy that there are several trails to choose from. Our favorite is the Horsetooth Falls Loop Trail. Note that this is a popular area and parking will fill up quickly on the weekends. This area also requires a daily (which you can buy on-site) or annual permit for your vehicle. More information on permits can be found here.
• Lory State Park – This state park is located on the northwest side of the reservoir and is full of dog-friendly trails to choose from. We have enjoyed taking trails from the entrance of the park down to the shore of the reservoir. Here is a list of popular trails in Lory State Park to consider. Note that Lory State Park does require an entrance permit which you can buy on-site.

Water Fun

One of the biggest draws of Horsetooth Reservoir for dogs is the opportunity to cool off in the water. The reservoir provides a fantastic place for your pup to take a dip and splash around on a hot day. Many dogs absolutely love the water, and Horsetooth Reservoir is an excellent spot for them to indulge in their aquatic instincts.

Not only can your dogs go IN the water, but they can also go ON the water in Horsetooth Reservoir! We’ve enjoyed both stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking with our dogs at the reservoir. We’d highly recommend renting through FOCO Adventures. They are right on the water and offer great customer service and prices.

Respect the Environment

While enjoying this beautiful natural area, it’s crucial to be a responsible pet owner. Pick up after your dog, stay on designated trails, and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of Horsetooth Reservoir for future generations. For a deeper dive into hiking and exploring outdoor areas with your dogs, check out our post here.

Leash up your dogs, pack your hiking boots, and embark on a pawsome adventure at Horsetooth Reservoir! Check out our dog-friendly travel posts for more trip ideas and tips.