The best running trails around Fort Collins

Fort Collins offers an extensive network of over 200 running routes. These trails span more than 50 natural areas, providing a wide variety of experiences for runners of all levels.

The running trails in Fort Collins feature diverse terrain, ranging from scenic riverside paths along the Cache la Poudre River to rolling foothills and open prairie landscapes. You'll find a mix of soft-surface routes, forested sections, and paths with significant elevation changes, catering to different preferences for scenic jogging.

Yes, Fort Collins has over 30 easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. Many of these are flat paths, such as sections of the Poudre River Trail or the Spring Creek Trail, which offer accessible and enjoyable experiences.

For those seeking a challenge, Fort Collins offers over 30 difficult routes. Areas like Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and Lory State Park provide trails with significant elevation changes, dramatic rock formations, and sweeping views. A challenging option is the Horsetooth Reservoir – Bridge over Poudre River loop from City Park, a 19.1-mile route with varied terrain.

Absolutely! Many routes offer beautiful water views. The Poudre River Trail follows the Cache la Poudre River, and trails around Horsetooth Reservoir, such as the Sunrise Beach – Horsetooth Reservoir loop from Maxwell Natural Area, provide stunning vistas of the reservoir. The Dixon Reservoir loop from Quail Hollow also offers pleasant water-side running.

Yes, Fort Collins has numerous loop running trails. Popular options include the Horsetooth Reservoir – Bridge over Poudre River loop from City Park, the Cache la Poudre River – Poudre Trail loop from Mountain & Shields, and the Dixon Reservoir – Pineridge Natural Area loop from Pineridge Natural Area, which are great for varied distances and scenery.

Many natural areas and trails in Fort Collins are dog-friendly, though leash laws and specific regulations may apply. The extensive network of trails, including those in Pineridge Natural Area and Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area, often welcome leashed dogs. Always check local signage for specific rules.

While jogging, you can encounter several natural attractions. The Spring Creek Trail passes by The Gardens on Spring Creek. For more rugged scenery, trails in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space lead to iconic formations like Horsetooth Rock. The Poudre River Trail follows the scenic Poudre Trail itself, offering riverside views.

Yes, Fort Collins offers several family-friendly jogging paths. The Spring Creek Trail is a great option, as it winds through parks, passes by playgrounds, and features public art, making it engaging for all ages. The Poudre River Trail also provides wide, paved sections suitable for families.

The running routes in Fort Collins are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 2000 runners. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the extensive network of trails, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially around the Horsetooth Reservoir and along the Cache la Poudre River.

Yes, Fort Collins' natural areas are rich in wildlife. While jogging along the Poudre River Trail, you might spot deer and eagles. Pineridge Natural Area is known for sightings of prairie dogs and magpies, and Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is home to diverse wildlife in its grassy valleys and ponderosa pine forests.

Fort Collins is known for its integrated trail system that connects various parks and natural areas. The Spring Creek Trail, for instance, connects to the Poudre River Trail, and the Fossil Creek Trail can be integrated with Spring Creek and Power Trail, allowing for extensive runs through different landscapes.