Coyote Ridge Natural Area
Discover breathtaking Front Range views and diverse montane shrublands on accessible trails near Fort Collins. Perfect for hiking and biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, cooler temps
Coyote Ridge Natural Area
Best Time
Fewer people, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking Front Range views and diverse montane shrublands on accessible trails near Fort Collins. Perfect for hiking and biking.
"Remarkable views so close to town, with free parking and a dog-free policy making it a top choice."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best chance of a spot.
🐍 Watch for Snakes!
Be aware of your surroundings, especially during warmer months. Keep an eye out for snakes on the trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Front Range Views
Summit of Coyote Ridge
Experience breathtaking vistas of the valley to the west and the Rocky Mountains. A true reward for your climb!
Montane Shrublands
Throughout the area
Explore unique landscapes where the Great Plains meet the Rockies, showcasing diverse flora.
Rimrock Trail Extension
South along the ridge
Continue your adventure for another mile and a half towards Devils Backbone for even more stunning scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best chance of a spot.
🐍 Watch for Snakes!
Be aware of your surroundings, especially during warmer months. Keep an eye out for snakes on the trails.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key, especially on longer hikes. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be steep and rocky in sections. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best chance of a spot.
🐍 Watch for Snakes!
Be aware of your surroundings, especially during warmer months. Keep an eye out for snakes on the trails.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key, especially on longer hikes. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be steep and rocky in sections. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Enjoy a dog-free experience, which is great for some hikers and bikers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Coyote Ridge Natural Area for its stunning, accessible views close to town and its well-maintained trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. The free parking and dog-free policy are frequently highlighted as major advantages. Some find the upper trails challenging, and parking can be an issue if arriving late.
"I spent 2 hours hiking up to the top and back and it's remarkable that you can have these views so close to town. You do have to be sure to get there before 9, as parking lot fills up rapidly. Relatively mild rise in the first one mile section. So some older kids might enjoy the walk. But the second one mile section goes up to the top via steep, rocky switchbacks and kids would have no fun with that! From the top, great views of the valley to the west and the Rimrock trail continues for another mile and a half along the ridge south, towards Devils Backbone. Next time!"
Chuck Baumgart
"Decently excellent place, the main point-givers are the free parking and no dogs allowed. No dogs allows you to run or ride without worrying of an animal running in front of you or an owner taking up the whole width of the trail. This is a great place to ride flat long gravel Trails and even a few rolling jumps (hills) and turns. Going right at the fork brings you to a rocky area that's mostly unrideable unless on a really expensive bicycle, but the left is great. Also, it's somewhat far, but what's not when in North CO?"
Kevin Stephens
"I love it here! The easy walking trail and the beautiful scenery is a great place to go. It's wheelchair accessible and very enjoyable."
Andrea Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coyote Ridge Natural Area is located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It's accessible by car, with a dedicated parking lot. Many visitors find it a convenient drive from town, though some note it's 'somewhat far' depending on your starting point in North CO.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it fills up rapidly, especially before 9 AM. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Information on public transport access is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method for reaching the natural area.
The area offers a network of trails. The initial mile is a relatively mild rise, suitable for some older kids. The second mile to the top involves steep, rocky switchbacks. The Rimrock trail continues south along the ridge.
Yes, there is an easy walking trail that is wheelchair accessible and enjoyable for many visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Coyote Ridge Natural Area offers free parking and no admission fees, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.
While specific hours aren't always listed, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the parking lot can fill up early, so plan accordingly.
No advance booking is required. Entry is free, but arriving early is crucial due to limited parking.
No, dogs are not permitted in Coyote Ridge Natural Area. This policy is appreciated by some visitors for a more predictable trail experience.
Pets, including dogs, are not allowed in Coyote Ridge Natural Area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You might encounter various wildlife, including snakes. Some visitors have also noted seeing raptors in the area. 
Yes, Coyote Ridge is a great place for mountain biking, with flat gravel trails and some rolling hills. One fork leads to a rocky area that may be unrideable for some.
The trails offer a range of difficulty. The first mile is relatively mild, while the ascent to the top involves steep, rocky switchbacks. It's considered a good moderate hike. +1
The views are remarkable, offering panoramas of the valley to the west and the Front Range. It's described as a place where you can have 'these views so close to town.'
It's not overly crowded, but it does get a lot of use. You'll see people along the way, especially on popular trails. Weekday mornings are generally less busy. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers panoramic views of the Front Range and the valley, making it ideal for landscape photography. The unique montane shrublands also provide interesting photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful golden hour shots, especially with the expansive views. Be mindful of the sun's position relative to the valley and mountains.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including snakes, and the diverse plant life in the montane shrublands. The dramatic switchbacks on the upper trails can also make for compelling shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a tripod for stable shots during golden hour.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with Larimer County Open Lands or local authorities regarding drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be aware of potential wildlife, such as snakes, and ensure children stay on marked trails.
+1 The free parking and no-dog policy can also be appealing factors for families seeking a less chaotic outdoor experience. 💰 Budget Travelers
While the experience is free, it's wise to factor in the cost of transportation to the area. Bringing your own water and snacks is also recommended to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices, if available nearby. The stunning views and diverse trails offer significant value for a free activity.
🚴 Mountain Bikers
Be aware that some sections, particularly one fork, can become quite rocky and challenging, potentially requiring advanced skills or specialized bikes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
For those looking to extend their exploration, the Rimrock trail continues south along the ridge for another mile and a half, offering continuous scenic views.
It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking shoes, due to the varied terrain.
Always be prepared with plenty of water, as the Colorado sun can be intense, even on cooler days. Wildlife and Natural Scenery
+1 The landscape is characterized by 'montane shrublands,' a distinct ecological community that divides these two major geographical regions. Beyond the flora and fauna, the geological formations are also a highlight. The 'hogsbacks' and the Front Range are visible from the trails, offering a sense of the vastness of the Colorado landscape.
The summit provides 'remarkable' views of the valley to the west, a reward that makes the hike worthwhile for many. While specific wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, the opportunity to observe nature in its element adds to the appeal of Coyote Ridge. The area is also known to host raptor programs, indicating a healthy ecosystem.
Mountain Biking Experience
However, not all trails are suitable for every rider. One fork in the path leads to a rocky area that is described as 'mostly unrideable unless on a really expensive bicycle,' suggesting it's best suited for advanced riders or those with specialized equipment.
Overall, Coyote Ridge provides a solid mountain biking experience close to Fort Collins, with the added benefit of scenic views. It's recommended to check trail conditions, especially after weather events, and to be aware of other users on the multi-use trails.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit