Western Wanderlust Chronicles

A Trailhead Steeped in History

The first day of spring greeted us with a cool breeze and overcast skies as Greg and I set out on a hike from the Soderberg Trailhead at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Located northwest of Inlet Bay at Horsetooth Reservoir, the trailhead is nestled against the eastern slope of Horsetooth Mountain.

Spanning 2,711 acres, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space comprises the Culver, Soderberg, and Hughey Open Spaces. With 29 miles of interconnected trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this expansive landscape seamlessly links to the Blue Sky Trail and Lory State Park, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

At the trailhead, we passed the former home of one of Larimer County’s pioneer families. This historic site offers a glimpse into the region’s ranching heritage, with weathered wooden structures that stand as echoes of a bygone era. It was a fitting place to begin our journey, a reminder of those who came before us and shaped the land we were about to explore.

Climbing into Spring

We embarked on a six-mile trek, winding through a mix of exposed trails and shaded pine groves. The 800 feet of elevation gain was gradual but steady, just enough to warm our legs for the adventures ahead. As we ascended, the landscape transformed—golden grasslands gave way to clusters of Ponderosa pines, their resin-scented air mingling with the crisp freshness of the changing season.

Every so often, a break in the trees revealed sweeping views of the reservoir below, its still waters mirroring the grayish-blue sky. The overcast conditions lent the scenery a moody charm, highlighting the subtle greens beginning to emerge from their winter slumber. It was a quiet but powerful moment, a reminder that nature’s transitions happen in whispers before they explode into full bloom.

Trail Experience: Nomad to Stout

We followed a loop route that took us along the Nomad, Stout, Sawmill, and Shoreline trails before reconnecting with Nomad. Nomad started in the open prairie, where the landscape stretched wide under a vast sky. The trail meandered through golden grasslands, dotted with scattered boulders and the occasional sagebrush. The gentle incline gave us a chance to ease into the hike, surrounded by rolling hills and the quiet hum of nature.

As we gained elevation, we transitioned onto Stout Trail, which marked a noticeable shift from open prairie to rugged foothills. The terrain became rockier, and the trail wound through a shaded forest of towering pines, their scent rich and earthy. The incline was more pronounced here, with sections of exposed roots and scattered stones requiring careful footing. The shift from prairie to woodland was almost seamless, with the red dirt trail winding between tree trunks and offering glimpses of Horsetooth Reservoir through the branches.

A fallen tree, weathered and stripped of its bark, lay beside the path, offering a stark contrast to the living pines that surrounded it. Eventually, we emerged back into the open prairie, where the vastness of the foothills stretched before us once more.

A View Worth the Climb

We paused at a high point along the trail, taking in breathtaking views that stretched in every direction. Below us, Horsetooth Reservoir shimmered despite the overcast skies, its inlets carving their way through the rugged foothills. We could clearly see Inlet Bay and the marina, where the reservoir’s calm waters reflected the rugged, red rock ridges enclosing it. The inlet snaked between the hills, its banks lined with leafless trees that stood like sentinels against the shoreline. A winding road hugged the curves of the land, guiding visitors toward the water’s edge, where boats sat moored in quiet anticipation of warmer days ahead. Beyond the reservoir, the distant cityscape spread toward the horizon, a reminder of how close yet far we were from the bustle of daily life.

The Descent: Sawmill and Shoreline Trails

Reaching the top of our hike, we arrived at the Sawmill Trail junction, marking the start of our descent. The trail led us down through a mix of rolling terrain and rocky patches, winding through clusters of pine trees. The landscape varied from stretches of open hillside to more enclosed sections shaded by evergreens. Along the way, we spotted clusters of prickly pear cactus clinging to the dry hillside, their spines standing sharp against the muted tones of early spring.

We also came across a striking quartz rock streaked with veins of gold and orange, a small but beautiful marker of the area’s geologic history. These quiet details, so easily overlooked, added depth to the experience, reminding us that nature’s beauty lies not only in grand vistas but also in the smallest elements underfoot.

As we continued, we reached our final trail junctions—Shoreline and then back to Nomad. The Shoreline Trail offered expansive views of the rolling foothills, leading us through open grasslands that contrasted with the denser pine groves we had hiked through earlier. Eventually, the path guided us back toward the starting point, bringing our adventure full circle.

A Perfect Start to Spring

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space never fails to inspire, and this spring hike was no exception. From the golden prairie grasses of Nomad Trail to the rugged inclines of Stout, and the peaceful descent along Sawmill and Shoreline, each section of the journey had its own charm. The sweeping views of Inlet Bay, the distant cityscape, and the quiet beauty of the foothills reminded us why we keep coming back to these trails.

With each step, we witnessed nature’s slow transition from winter’s grasp to the vibrant renewal of spring. This hike was the perfect way to welcome the season—breathing in fresh mountain air, stretching our legs on familiar paths, and appreciating the small wonders hidden in the landscape.

Here’s to longer days, fresh trails, and the many adventures ahead!