Red Mountain Open Space wilderness guide
Open Space Area · CO

Red Mountain Open Space

Red Mountain Open Space, located in northern Colorado, offers expansive red rock landscapes and diverse ecological habitats that provide a range of outdoor activities.

Open Space Area15,000+4+ Trails

Designation

Open Space Area

Total Wilderness Area

15,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Red Mountain Open Space

Red Mountain Open Space, located in northern Colorado, offers expansive red rock landscapes and diverse ecological habitats that provide a range of outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Red Mountain Open Space covers over 15,000 acres in northern Colorado, adjacent to the Wyoming border. It features striking red rock formations that characterize the arid environment, creating unique geological landscapes. Originally established to conserve the natural and cultural resources of the region, the area boasts a mix of prairie grasslands, piñon-juniper woodlands, and riparian corridors that support a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and numerous bird species. Historically, the area was used by Native American tribes and later for grazing and mining activities. Today, visitors are drawn to its extensive trail network, which accommodates hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. There are no designated campgrounds within the open space, emphasizing its role as a day-use destination for exploration and recreation.

Field Guide · Open Space Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Mountain Open Space

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Bent Rock Trail offers views of notable red rock formations and limestone cliffs.✦ The area serves as a habitat for a range of wildlife, including pronghorn and golden eagles.✦ Historic ranching and homestead remnants provide insight into past human use of the land.✦ Lone Pine Creek provides a cool retreat and opportunity for riparian exploration.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Mountain Open Space

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Equestrian Use

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Mountain Open Space.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits or fees required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Mountain Open Space

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Livermore, Colorado
⌖ 8.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livermore, Colorado

Livermore is a peaceful mountain town east of Rocky Mountain National Park, ideal for hiking, fishing, and backpacking. Its quiet trails and alpine lakes offer solitude and scenic beauty away from crowds.

June through September for hiking and fishing; December through March for snowshoeing
Explore Town
Laporte, Colorado
⌖ 18.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Colorado

Laporte, Colorado, offers a peaceful foothills setting with excellent hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing opportunities along the Cache la Poudre River, making it a perfect base for outdoor lovers seeking a quiet adventure.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Bellvue, Colorado
⌖ 18.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellvue, Colorado

Bellvue, CO is an adventurer’s hidden gem, providing access to the Front Range for hiking, rafting, and camping. Revel in serene trails, rich wildlife, and clear waters.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Fort Collins, Colorado
⌖ 21.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins is an outdoorsy college town with stellar hiking, biking, and paddling spots. Dive into its craft beer scene after adventures in the scenic Rocky Mountain foothills.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Buford, Wyoming
⌖ 22.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Buford, Wyoming

Buford, Wyoming, is a tiny high plains town offering quiet access to expansive hiking, backpacking, and wildlife adventures in Medicine Bow National Forest. Perfect for travelers seeking solitude amid rugged landscapes.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Cheyenne, Wyoming
⌖ 22.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cheyenne, Wyoming

Cheyenne combines frontier history with outdoor adventure—perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Discover Wyoming's essence through its landscapes and cowboy spirit.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Mountain Open Space

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Lake-Edge RVing at Monument Lake Resort: Site #62, Weston
ADVEXPEDITION
Weston, Colorado
LodgingADV Bookable

Lake-Edge RVing at Monument Lake Resort: Site #62, Weston

Partial-service RV campsite at Monument Lake Resort offering water and 20‑amp electrical hookups, a fire pit and picnic table—set within walking distance of the lake, lodge and on-site amenities for nightly or weekly stays.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Jones at Sky Ranch: Rustic cabins beneath the Colorado Rockies
ADVEXPEDITION
Bellvue, Colorado
LodgingADV Bookable

Jones at Sky Ranch: Rustic cabins beneath the Colorado Rockies

An authoritative guide to staying in one of 11 well‑heated, bunk‑bed cabins at Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp in Bellvue — useful for planners organizing short mountain retreats and group stays.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip