Exploring Red Mountain Open Space and Near Soapstone Prairie
Exploring Red Mountain Open Space and Near Soapstone Prairie
Red Mountain Open Space, located just 25 miles north of Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a stunning outdoor experience filled with unique landscapes, fascinating geological formations, and a wide variety of wildlife. Adjacent to Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, this space is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, blending recreational opportunities with ecological and historical significance. The striking red rock formations, expansive grasslands, and intricate trails make it a must-visit destination for hiking, trail running, and immersing in nature.
Adventure Guide to Exploring Red Mountain Open Space
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Bent Rock Trail
- Location: Trailhead located at Red Mountain Open Space parking lot.
- Details: This 4.2-mile loop offers captivating views of the red rock canyon. The trail passes through narrow sandstone corridors and features an elevation gain of around 400 feet. Perfect for a moderate hike.
- Key Features: Panoramic views of the arid landscape, vibrant wildflowers in spring, and chances to spot wildlife like mule deer or raptors.
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Big Hole Wash Trail
- Location: Accessible from the same parking lot.
- Details: A 2.7-mile out-and-back trail that meanders through riparian zones with seasonal streams.
- Key Features: The trail is ideal for catching glimpses of unique geological formations, and during summer months, it's a prime spot for birdwatching.
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Connection to Soapstone Prairie Trails
- Location: Northern segment of Red Mountain Open Space connects seamlessly with trails at Soapstone Prairie.
- Details: You can extend your adventure by trekking into Soapstone Prairie’s network, which includes the Cheyenne Rim Trail.
- Key Features: Sweeping views of the Colorado-Wyoming border and an opportunity to experience the broader ecosystem of this protected area.
Visitor Tips
- When to Visit: Best months are April–June and September–October for mild weather. Trails may close after heavy rain due to sensitive soil.
- What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, sufficient water, sunscreen, and layers, as weather can shift quickly.
- Driving Directions: From Fort Collins, take Hwy 287 north for 25 miles, then turn onto CR 21C to reach the Red Mountain Open Space parking area. Total drive time: ~40 minutes.
- Local Insight: The area is historically significant, home to ancient Native American artifacts and remnants of homesteader settlements. Be respectful and leave no trace.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Steve Dempsey2 years ago
Red Mountain Open Space is a great scenic place to hike, bike and even run. You can stay flat if you want and still get plenty of trail or ascend some mountains and get some cardio in.
The entire landscape is very scenic and beautiful, there is even a bison preserve nearby. Can't believe this place is only 45 minutes from Fort Collins!
The Chad2 years ago
Forget the well known places with the crowds & permits. Come see something new and wonderful for free away from the cities and the crowds. Best place to come for peace, quiet, & beautiful views. Sorry no pets allowed except for horses. Bike, hike, & ride from sun up to sundown. Check out the COTREX app for all the current updates and downloadable maps. There isn't any cell service here so plan accordingly.
Raymond Brown8 months ago
(4.4/5) Great hiking day at Ruby Wash and Big Hole Wash trails located in Red Mountain Open Space. Below are pros and cons!
Pros: Easy navigation with plenty of signs, maps, markers, and paved paths. There are bathrooms, but no sink. There are pavilions at the start, for those who want to eat and relax. Breathtaking views with well-kept landscapes. Free to enter! Plenty of parking.
Cons: Unbelievably windy! No pets allowed. Towards the 3 hour mark of the trails, the paths become this weird sandlike pathway that gets annoying after a while.
Lynette Johnson4 months ago
It is a great place to hike/run/bike without encountering too many other people. The canyon is beautiful. Bring plenty of water, there is none available at the open space. Also, very little shade, so go early in the morning, or evening.
Lauren Ka year ago
The landscape at Red Mountain is simply fascinating. The unique rock formations and diverse vegetation make for a stunning backdrop that kept me captivated throughout the entire hike. The trail is very well-marked, so I never had to worry about getting lost. I was fortunate enough to have partly cloudy skies during my hike, which was a blessing since there is no shade on the trail. It's important to remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially on sunny days.
