Hiking Coyote Ridge Trail in Coyote Ridge Natural Area
Introductory Overview
Hiking the Coyote Ridge Trail in Coyote Ridge Natural Area, located near Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a unique outdoor experience combining scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and manageable terrain suitable for hikers of all skill levels. This trail is an integral part of preserving Northern Colorado’s transitional zone between prairie and foothills, showcasing stunning landscapes, grasslands, and wildlife in their natural habitat. The trail provides an exceptional glimpse of the region's ecological diversity, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Adventure Guide To Hiking Coyote Ridge Trail
The Coyote Ridge Trailhead
Start your adventure at the well-marked trailhead located off Taft Hill Road, just south of Fort Collins. The initial segment of the trail leads through rolling grasslands with wide-open views of the Front Range foothills, offering excellent opportunities for photography. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for landscape shots.
Prairie Dog Colony and Wildlife Viewing
A standout feature along the trail is the active prairie dog colony visible from the path, particularly during warmer months. Keep your eyes open for hawks and eagles circling above, as they often hunt the prairie dogs. Mule deer and other wildlife are frequent visitors in this area, further enhancing the experience.
Hogback Ridge
Near the end of the trail, you’ll ascend to the Hogback Ridge, a moderate climb with a rewarding panoramic view of the foothills and plains. The vantage point serves as a peaceful spot for water breaks and photo opportunities, allowing time to take in the natural beauty.
Local Insights
The Coyote Ridge Natural Area is part of Fort Collins’ award-winning public lands system. This area serves as a buffer between urban development and preserved open space, protecting wildlife habitats and providing outdoor recreation. The transition zone between prairie and foothills you’ll explore is particularly significant for its biodiversity.
Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, plenty of water, and sturdy footwear.
Directions: From Fort Collins, drive about 15 minutes south on Taft Hill Road. Parking is free but can fill up quickly on weekends.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Deirdre Butlera week ago
Easy accessible walking at the start working up to moderately strenuous as one climbs the ridge. Fantastic views on a clear day to the distant mountains. Restroom available after a short distance as one approaches the ridge.
Jennifer Smitha year ago
Coyote Ridge is a beautiful space to get out and observe geology and nature. To the observant eye this is a natural wonderland, From steppe, squirrels to burrowing owls, spotted skunk, majestic mule deer, black bear, hawks of many varieties, insects, wildflowers, and fossils galore, this wilderness space is not to be underrated. Furthermore, there is a lovely cabin tucked behind the first ridge where you can sit and watch the sun rise or set away from the buzzing traffic.
My parents live close by, and every time I visit, this is my go-to place. It never gets old or boring as you can hike quite a long way and connect to other trails.
Just another NoCo treasure.
Deanna K2 years ago
Beautiful hike. Best done in the early morning. Get’s hot in full sun. The walk from the parking lot to the ridge is far with no trees. So be prepared with some water and sun screen. The wildflowers even in winter are beautiful. Lots of interesting birds.
LS Sheldon11 months ago
Excellent local place for a hike or nature walk (the interpretative signs are helpful). You’re sure to get a workout heading up the hill, but the view is awesome! Even in the winter the dried grass provide interest. Great lichen samples and geological features.The prairie dogs are cute as can be—love the squeaks. The vault toilet is clean and there’s lots of parking.
Ernesto Casasa year ago
Beautiful short hike (2 1/2 hr round trip) up to the top of a mountain that connects to another area located in a different county and trail. The area starts off as a long walk up a hill with prairie dogs along the sides barking away, they were cute. Many wild flowers along the trail, the sun flowers being my favorite, and pretty popular trail with quite a few other hikers along the way. Watch out for rattlesnakes, I almost stepped on one during my visit! Along the trail you will come to a cabin with restrooms located near it, make sure you check out the “hidden loop trail”, I saw a deer eating there plus there are some information signage all around. The hike does get moderately difficult the higher you go, it gets a bit rocky and steep so watch your step and take small breaks if you need to, the views while you catch your breathe are totally amazing! Once you do reach the top you will look in awe as you see Fort Collins and Loveland on the west side (Northwest and Southwest respectively) and a beautiful valley/the Rocky Mountains to the east! Hikers of all skill levels will enjoy the area and I highly recommend it.
