Best Spring Hikes in Northern Colorado
Looking for the best hikes near Fort Collins?
You’ve come to the right spot. This blog is about some of the most scenic and accessible hikes in the area, plus it includes tips on preparing for and staying comfortable on the trails.
Spring in Colorado means long days, warm temperatures, and an invitation to hit the trails again. March and April bring both blooms and blizzards, but that doesn’t stop Northern Coloradans from exploring. Whether you're chasing waterfalls or bagging peaks, Northern Colorado offers incredible trails that are only a short drive from home base.
What To Bring on a Spring Hike
Creating your spring hiking gear checklist? Here's what to pack to stay safe and comfortable on Colorado’s ever-changing trails.
Getting ready for spring hiking takes some planning. Check weather and trail apps like AllTrails or COTREX for current trail conditions, closures, as well as tips and reviews from fellow hikers. Then, pack your Zirkel Day Pack with essentials for all potential weather conditions.
· Carry plenty of water (fill up your Klean Kanteen 32oz Wide Mouth with something hydrating)
· Sunscreen — Colorado sun is strong every season
· Hiking poles for steep or rugged terrain
· Spikes or micro-spikes for icy or snow-packed sections
· A Tellus Trail Hat with Circle Patch for sun protection
· Proper footwear — wear light hikers for easy or moderate terrain and hiking boots for steeper or more technical trails with snow, mud, or rocky sections
You can shop for all your spring hiking layers, packs and accessories at Tellus in-store or online. We’ve got you covered for everything Northern Colorado trails throw your way.
Clothes and Layers for Spring Hikes
Spring in the Rockies means smart layering. Below are some of our go-to picks for hiking layers. You want to be ready for cold mornings, warm midday sun and windy afternoons.
Start with a base layer:
- Poudre Trail Performance Tee or Tank
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Satanka Cove Sun Shirt for UPF-50 sun protection
Add insulation:
Outerwear options:
- Timberline Soft Shell Jacket (water and wind-resistant)
- Long’s Peak Rain Shell (waterproof)
- Byers Peak Recycled Down Jacket (for cold temps)
Bottoms:
- On warmer days, start with Trail Ridge Trek Shorts or Sunset Ridge Performance Shorts, and pack Sunset Ridge Performance Leggings or Joggers for when the temps drop.
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On cooler days, go with breathable, comfortable Trail Ridge Trek Pants.
Leave room in your pack to stash layers as you warm up!
Hiking Trails Around Fort Collins
Spring is a special time to hike. Snowmelt feeds flowing creeks and waterfalls, and early wildflowers begin to bloom. Whether you're looking for an easy loop or a heart-pumping climb, Northern Colorado offers a little bit of everything. Here is a short list of our favorites:
Riverbend Pond Loop
Distance: 2.6 miels
Difficulty: Easy
Relaxed nature walk near the Poudre River in east Fort Collins.
Maxwell Natural Area Trail
Distance: 4.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Climb into the foothills to take in wildflowers and wide views.
Horsetooth Mountain Trail
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Steep and scenic climb to iconic views of Fort Collins.
Lory State Park Arthur’s Rock Trail
Distance: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Steep and scenic, with panoramic summit views of Horsetooth Reservoir.
Poudre Canyon Greyrock Trail
Distance: 7.6 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Steep and scenic climb with sweeping views and rocky scrambles.
Rocky Mountain National Park Emerald Lake Trail
Distance: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Stunning alpine lake views with an easy-to-follow path.
These trails offer a perfect mix of elevation and scenery. Whether you’re heading out for a quick after-work trek or a longer weekend adventure, there’s something for every type of hiker right here in Northern Colorado.
Ready to Hit the Trail?
From vibrant foothills sunrises to snow-dusted summits, spring hiking in Northern Colorado is pure magic. Wherever your boots take you, Tellus has the gear to get you there that’s made with adventure and Mother Nature in mind. Stop by our Old Town store or shop online to get trail ready.