The best walks and hikes in Lory State Park

Yes, dogs are welcome in Lory State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. The park's varied terrain offers great options for hiking with your canine companion. For a relatively gentle walk, consider the South Valley Loop, which explores the park's lower valleys.

Lory State Park has several easier trails perfect for families or those new to hiking. The Well Gulch Nature Trail is a popular 1.5-mile loop known for its lush scenery and seasonal wildflowers. For a slightly longer but still gentle option, the Overlook and West Valley Trail loop offers rewarding views of Horsetooth Reservoir without a major climb.

Yes, a valid Colorado State Parks pass is required for each vehicle entering Lory State Park. You can typically purchase a daily pass at the entrance station. For the most current fee information and pass options, it's best to check the official Lory State Park page.

The park features several excellent loop hikes. A great moderate option is the East and West Valley Trail loop, which is about 5 miles and takes you through the park's scenic lower valleys with minimal elevation gain. For a more challenging loop that includes a summit, the Arthur's Rock loop is a fantastic choice.

The terrain varies significantly throughout the park. Lower valley trails are generally wide, smooth, and rolling, passing through grasslands and foothills shrublands. As you climb, trails become rockier and steeper, especially on the final ascent to Arthur's Rock, which involves some scrambling over granite formations. Most trails are well-maintained dirt paths.

Lory State Park contains over 26 miles of trails. Komoot features a curated selection of around 20 distinct hiking routes, ranging from easy valley strolls to challenging summit climbs, showcasing the best of the park's diverse landscapes.

The routes in Lory State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained trails, the stunning panoramic views of Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins, and the rewarding climb to the top of Arthur's Rock.

Yes, Lory State Park offers several backcountry campsites for those looking to spend a night in the park. These are hike-in sites and require a permit. This provides a more immersive way to experience the park's natural beauty and quiet nights in the foothills.

The park is a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. It's common to see mule deer, especially in the valleys during the morning and evening. You might also spot coyotes, red foxes, and numerous bird species, as the park is part of the Northeastern Colorado Birding Trail. Keep an eye out for raptors soaring above the ridges.

For panoramic views, the hike to the summit of Arthur's Rock is unmatched. From the top of this prominent granite formation, you get breathtaking 360-degree views that include the city of Fort Collins, the length of Horsetooth Reservoir, and the plains to the east. The Arthur's Rock — Lory State Park trail is the most direct route to this viewpoint.

Lory State Park has several designated parking areas. The main trailhead parking is located near the visitor center, providing access to the valley trails. There is also a separate, large parking lot specifically for the Arthur's Rock Trail. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

Absolutely. The park's 26 miles of trails are multi-use and very popular with mountain bikers and trail runners. The rolling valley trails are great for running, while the network of singletrack climbing into the hills offers a fun challenge for mountain bikers. Note that some trails may have recommended directions of travel for bikers.