May 23, 2025 — Mountain bikers in Northern Colorado have a new trail to explore: the Bay to Bay Trail at Horsetooth Reservoir officially opened today, offering 1.8 miles of shoreline riding.
Connecting the southern edge of Inlet Bay to the swim beach at South Bay, the Bay to Bay Trail links two popular recreation areas via a moderate-level, natural surface route. Designed with sustainability and minimal environmental impact in mind, the trail traces the contours of the reservoir’s rugged peninsula, delivering riders a mix of exposed ridges, rocky sections, and fast-flowing singletrack.
“This trail offers an excellent option for nature-based access at the south end of Horsetooth Reservoir,” said Meegan Flenniken, land conservation and planning manager for the Larimer County Department of Natural Resources (LCDNR). “We’re excited to expand mountain biking opportunities in the Horsetooth area.”
The trail is open to both hikers and bikers but is closed to equestrian use due to steep slopes and limited horse trailer parking. Riders can access the trail from the Blue Sky Trail trailhead or from the South Bay parking area near the swim beach.
The two-foot-wide tread winds through native vegetation and along scenic cliffside stretches. Though not overly long, the route offers a satisfying mix of challenge and scenery for intermediate-level riders. With no bailout points and a few exposed sections, the ride demands attention—and rewards it with uninterrupted views of the reservoir.
Originally proposed in LCDNR’s 2017 Parks Master Plan, the Bay to Bay Trail was created in collaboration with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which owns Horsetooth Reservoir. Larimer County manages recreation at the site through a cooperative agreement with the agency.
Funding came from Great Outdoors Colorado and the Bureau of Reclamation, with construction support from the Larimer County Conservation Corps and hundreds of volunteers. The final stretch was completed with the help of over 130 volunteers coordinated by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado.
The Bay to Bay Trail brings LCDNR’s total natural surface trail mileage to just over 100 miles. Across Larimer County’s various jurisdictions, mountain bikers now have access to more than 1,000 miles of trails.
To check current conditions and potential closures, riders are encouraged to visit Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) before heading out.
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