Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir is a deep, steep-sided foothills lake very similar to Loveland’s Carter Lake. In winter, it freezes late and can attract Bald Eagles, gulls, and ducks, including the uncommon Barrow’s Goldeneye. Pine and mountain mahogany woodlands surround the lake, providing breeding sites for Western Tanagers and Townsend’s Solitaires. This reservoir is one of the best places close to Fort Collins to see foothills animals such as the golden-mantled ground squirrel and the pine squirrel. This area is extremely busy, particularly on weekends and in the summer, so get there early! An entrance fee is required for most areas around the lake.
Restrictions: Please obey all rules and regulations. Dogs must be under control and on a leash at all times.
County: Larimer
Directions: From I-25: exit at Harmony Road and go west. At College Ave. Harmony Road changes to CR 38E, which runs along the south side of the reservoir. To reach the Visitor's Center, the entrance road will be to the east, right after the road curves to the right around the southern end of the reservoir. To reach the Marina, continue west to Shoreline Drive and go north, following the signs. To access the east side of the reservoir, go north on CR 23/Centennial Drive.
Alternate Directions: From I-25: exit at Harmony Road and go west. At College Ave., Harmony Road changes to CR 38E, which runs along the south side of the reservoir. To reach the Visitor's Center, the entrance road will be to the east, right after the road curves to the right around the southern end of the reservoir.
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Campgrounds on the west side are open 24 hours, day use areas on the east side are open sunrise to sunset
Ownership: County
Admission or Fees: Daily entrance fee
Parking: Paved parking areas
Lodging: Camping and cabins available
Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Latitude: 40.508212
Longitude: -105.155403