Horsetooth Reservoir is one of the busiest reservoirs in Colorado, attracting throngs of visitors on hot, summer days. It can be challenging even to find a parking space at boat ramps, day use areas and other facilities at Horsetooth Reservoir on weekends and holidays during the summer.
Now that it’s the fall season, Larimer County Department of Natural Resources encourages people to come out to Horsetooth and enjoy some of the best that the reservoir offers without the large crowds. Forecasts are calling for temperatures to be in the 60s and 70s this weekend, making for perfect autumn weather on the water.
Mark Caughlan, Horsetooth District Manager, said that paddle sports, such as stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking, are particularly good in the fall when less motorboats are on the water. Paddlers can find solace in the coves of Horsetooth Reservoir and enjoy the brilliantly colored cottonwood trees that ring the shoreline.
Caughlan also noted that fall fishing is picking up for smallmouth bass, walleye and rainbow trout and should remain good through December. Anglers can be successful from both a boat and the shore. He said he expects to be able to keep at least one boat ramp open at South Bay into December. With lowering water levels, boaters should still check the Department of Natural Resources’ website before visiting the reservoir for the latest boat ramp access hours at www.larimer.org/naturalresources/parks/boating.
Along with hitting the water, visitors can enjoy rock climbing on the east side of Horsetooth Reservoir and hiking, biking and horseback riding on trails in the greater Horsetooth area. The day use areas at Horsetooth and the many parks, open spaces and natural areas around the reservoir are also excellent for picnicking, birding and enjoying the great outdoors without getting too far from home.
Fall is an ideal time to go camping at Horsetooth Reservoir, Caughlan said. South Bay Campground is open year-round and Inlet Bay Campground is open through the end of October. While both campgrounds are full the next two weekends, campsites become available on weekend days starting October 20 (booking in advance is still advised through October). The seven camper cabins at South Bay are open year-round with heat as well. From October to March, full hookup campsites are only $20/ night ($30/night April to September), cabins are $30/night ($60/ night April to September) and all other campsites are just $15/night. To book a campsite or cabin, visit www.larimercamping.com.
For more information on visiting Horsetooth Reservoir, stop by the Horsetooth Area Information Center in the South Bay area, call (970) 498-5610 or visit www.larimer.org/naturalresources.
Photo credit: Claire Hamilton