Day Trips from Fort Collins
← All Fort Collins day tripsDay Trips from Fort Collins: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Fort Collins, CO. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Fort Collins
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
WY 82070, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 4,835 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mueller State Park
Divide, CO 80814
Just 2 hrs 47 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 1,842 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Castlewood Canyon State Park
Franktown, CO 80116
Just 1 hr 40 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 3,528 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden, CO 80403
Just 1 hr 27 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 2,883 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gateway Natural Area
Bellvue, CO 80512
Just 21 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 349 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Springs, CO 80025
Just 1 hr 11 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 4,076 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Roxborough State Park
Littleton, CO 80125
Just 1 hr 34 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 2,671 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Staunton State Park
Pine, CO 80470
Just 1 hr 38 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.8 stars by 2,151 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Red Mountain Open Space
Wellington, CO 80549
Just 50 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.7 stars by 213 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve
Golden, CO 80401
Just 1 hr 20 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.7 stars by 1,767 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain Open Space
Longmont, CO 80503
Just 55 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.7 stars by 510 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frank State Wildlife Trailhead
Windsor, CO 80550
Just 21 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Fort Collins
What are the best hiking trails near Fort Collins, CO?
The best hikes near Fort Collins range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Fort Collins?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Fort Collins offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Fort Collins?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Fort Collins are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Fort Collins?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Fort Collins. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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