Northern Colorado’s trail network just got even better. The brand-new Bay to Bay Trail at Horsetooth Reservoir is officially open, giving mountain bikers 1.8 miles of shoreline singletrack to explore—and it’s a beauty.
This natural-surface route connects Inlet Bay to South Bay’s swim beach, linking two of the reservoir’s most popular recreation areas with a flowy, moderately technical trail that hugs the rugged contours of the south-end peninsula. Expect a little bit of everything: exposed ridgelines, rocky stretches, and that signature Front Range flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
The new trail reflects years of planning and collaboration. It was first envisioned in Larimer County’s 2017 Parks Master Plan and brought to life through a partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Great Outdoors Colorado, and a whole lot of volunteer sweat equity—including over 130 volunteers coordinated by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado for the final push.
“This trail offers an excellent option for nature-based access at the south end of Horsetooth Reservoir,” said Meegan Flenniken of Larimer County Department of Natural Resources. It’s a big win for local riders and trail users—and for sustainable trail development. Designed to minimize environmental impact, the two-foot-wide tread winds through native vegetation, delivering both challenge and stunning reservoir views.
Riders and hikers are welcome (sorry, equestrians—this one’s a bit too steep and tight), and access points are available from either the Blue Sky Trail trailhead or the South Bay parking area near the swim beach.
With no bailouts and a few exposed sections, it’s not a trail to take lightly. But for intermediate riders looking to earn their views—and connect two great trailheads without touching pavement—Bay to Bay delivers.
This addition pushes LCDNR’s natural-surface trail mileage past the 100-mile mark and adds to the 1,000+ miles of trails available to mountain bikers across Larimer County.
Let’s ride it, respect it, and keep building momentum for more trail access like this across Northern Colorado. See you out there.