Best Hiking Trails in Loveland & NoCo

Hiking is very much a part of Northern Colorado culture. The mountains draw people to this region, and we take full advantage of it! Here is a list of some of the best hiking trails in Loveland and Northern Colorado!

Devil’s Backbone

Devil’s Backbone is the crowned jewel of Loveland hiking. It’s easy to get to—right off of Highway 34 as you’re headed west towards Estes Park. And, it features some incredible rock features. The “Keyhole” is a popular lookout, where you can see through the rock formation to the other side of the backbone. Or, if you want a longer hike, the trail connects to the Rim Rock Open Space and eventually to Horsetooth.

Horsetooth Rock and Horsetooth Falls

These two hikes are probably the most popular in Fort Collins. They start at the same trailhead and diverge a short way into the hike. The hike to Horsetooth Rock has a pretty intense elevation gain. So, bring lots of water, snacks, and good shoes. The hike to Horsetooth Falls is an easy/moderate hike. And if you hit it at the right time of year (spring/early summer), you can splash in the beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail.

Arthur’s Rock Trail

Arthur’s Rock is another great trail close to Fort Collins that’s slightly less popular than Horsetooth, so it’s better if you don’t like busy routes. It’s a 4.2-mile loop, and from many spots on the trail, you can see Horsetooth Reservoir down below. You also get great views of the city of Fort Collins and even Loveland.

Mariana Butte

If you’re looking for a quick hike with rewarding views right in the city of Loveland, then you’ve got to go to Mariana Butte. The hike is only 1.25 miles long, and from the top, you get great views of Mariana Butte Golf Course below, the Big Thompson Canyon to the west, and Devil’s Backbone to the north.

If you’re willing to go even just a little further, you’ll find even more great hiking in the Poudre Canyon, Estes Park/RMNP, and near Lyons. But if you want to get out on the trails and stay close to town, these hiking trails in Loveland and NoCo are the best. Let me know if you have any other local favorites in the comments. 

And make sure to check out my recent blog about the best lakes in Loveland if you want to get on the water!