Conquering The Coyote Ridge: An Uphill Battle with Rewarding Views

Overview

Coyote Ridge Open Space Trail: A journey that promises a mix of technical and aerobic challenges, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Fort Collins, Colorado. This 7-mile, intermediate-level trail offers an out-and-back route that's rich in variety and panoramic vistas. The access to this trail is simple, with the parking lot conveniently located off Taft Hill Rd.

Getting There

• From Fort Collins: Head south on Taft Hill Rd towards Loveland. After passing the landfill on your right, continue for another 1.5 to 2 miles until you spot the parking lot on the right.
• From Loveland: Head north on Taft Hill Rd. If you pass the Fort Collins landfill, you've gone too far. Turn around and follow the above directions.

Trail Features

The Initial Stretch: Warming Up

The adventure begins with a 0.4-mile flat ride leading to the base of the foothills, a perfect way to warm up those legs. Then comes the uphill climb for about a mile before you traverse the first range of hills.

The Real Challenge: Conquering the Foothills

The trail then takes you on a rollercoaster for another 4 miles, winding back and forth across the foothill. It's an endurance test that many riders found challenging yet rewarding. Once conquered, you're greeted with sweeping views of Fort Collins, Loveland, and a beautiful western valley. There's an option to continue along the top of the mountain, although this section remains less explored.

The Return: A Downhill Delight

Your reward for the strenuous uphill climb is an exhilarating 4-mile downhill ride. It’s not overly technical, making it an enjoyable experience for riders of various skill levels.

Trail Connections

• Devil’s Backbone: Many riders recommend connecting with this trail for an added layer of difficulty.
• Blue Sky and Indian Paintbrush: These trails offer opportunities to extend your riding distance and variety.

Trail Tips and Cautions

• The first section includes a gravel road that serves as a warm-up but might seem monotonous to some.
• Some parts of the trail feature steep "stairstep" sections that might require dismounting and walking the bike.
• The trail can get busy at certain times, so be prepared to dismount for passing riders.
• No dogs are allowed on the trail.

Rider Reviews

• "Great mix of technical stuff; the elevation and climbing kicked my butt."
• "Coyote Ridge starts lamely with a mile climb up a gravel road but gets much better!"
• "Good overall trail for a short ride, less than 90 minutes round trip for me."

Conclusion

Coyote Ridge offers a challenging yet rewarding biking experience that has something for everyone: technical sections, climbs, and breathtaking views. While the initial gravel road might not be the most exciting, it leads to a variety of riding conditions that keep you engaged till the very end.