Lory State Park, located behind Horsetooth Reservoir, about a 20-minute drive from Old Town, is an outdoor recreation destination near Fort Collins. The park offers photogenic views, peaceful surroundings, and opportunities for outdoor adventure on both land and water.
Lory State Park Scenic Trails
Soak up that Colorado sun on the 26 miles of Lory State Park trails open year-round for all sorts of recreation like trail running, hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. As you explore, enjoy views that range from rolling grasslands and hills to forest, distant mountains, and sparkling Horsetooth Reservoir—even more beautiful when seen from above!
Take an achievable hike through Well Gulch, which comes alive with wildflowers in the summer, or opt for a more challenging trek up to Arthur’s Rock for unbeatable views of the hills and Horsetooth Reservoir down below. There are trails for hikers of all ability levels! Many trails are also open to mountain bikes and horseback riders, plus there’s theCorral Center Mountain Bike Park, where you can practice jumps, hit the pump tracks, and navigate obstacles.
Lory State Park camping is limited to the backcountry, but if you can hike for a couple of miles with all your camping gear, the experience will be worth it. Remember that there are no facilities or running water, so come prepared.
Family-Friendly Picnicking Spots
Bring the family for a fun day at Lory State Park and spend some time in one of its comfortable picnic areas. Reserve Soldier Canyon or Timber Group Picnic Areas for big groups and events (and take a short hike to see Soldier Canyon Falls while you’re there), or gather at the South Eltuck picnic area, complete with views over one of the reservoir’s coves. Other picnic tables and benches scattered around Lory State Park make for convenient spots to rest and enjoy the views between adventures.
Water Recreation at Horsetooth Reservoir
With easy access to Horsetooth Reservoir, Lory State Park provides many water recreation opportunities, too. Rent a paddleboard for the day from Mountain Whitewater or Rocky Mountain Adventures and test your balance, bring fishing rods to cast for trout and bass, take a refreshing swim after a hike, or paddle around hidden coves in a canoe or kayak.
Plan Your Visit: Park Fees, Dog Policies, and FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit to Lory State Park.
How much does it cost to go to Lory State Park? If you don’t have a Colorado park pass, entry is $10 for the day per car or $4 for individuals who walk or bike into the park.
Can you have dogs at Lory State Park? Yes, dogs are allowed at Lory State Park when kept on a leash.
What is there to do in Lory State Park? All kinds of activities are available at Lory State Park, from hiking and biking to kayaking, rock climbing, and more!
Can you shoot at Lory State Park? Hunting is allowed on designated days with a valid pass and hunting permit.
Can you swim in Horsetooth Reservoir? Yes, you can absolutely swim in Horsetooth Reservoir! Just know there are no lifeguards on duty, so you are responsible for your own safety.
Can you fish in Lory State Park? Lory State Park offers access to Horsetooth Reservoir, where you can fish with a valid Colorado fishing license.
Lory State Park is an ideal destination for all kinds of outdoor fun. Come experience it for yourself, and check out other parks and open spaces nearby.
