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☀️ Horsetooth Summer Checklist: What to Do & Where to Splash

☀️ Horsetooth Summer Checklist: What to Do & Where to Splash

From smoky to saucy, locals spilled on where to get the best wings in Fort Collins. Did your go-to make the cut?

What's Happenin' Team
June 30, 2025

Horsetooth Must-Dos This Summer

Summer’s heating up, and Horsetooth Reservoir is calling. Whether you’re paddleboarding at sunrise, hiking to panoramic views, or just floating with a cold drink and no plans, this FoCo icon delivers. Located just west of downtown, it’s the kind of place that turns “a quick visit” into a full-day adventure.

🍻 Fun Fact Trivia Time

How long is Horsetooth Reservoir from end to end?

👉 Tap to vote—we’ll reveal the answer in the outro!

🌄 Horsetooth Must-Dos This Summer

Summer’s heating up, and Horsetooth Reservoir is calling. Whether you’re into paddleboarding at sunrise, hiking to epic views, or floating lazily in a tube with your snack stash—this Fort Collins gem delivers. Just west of town, Horsetooth offers something for every type of adventurer (and every type of napper too).

Here’s how to make the most of your summer days at Horsetooth:

🚤 On the Water

Boating & Jet Skis – Cruise all 6.5 miles of the reservoir, or rent gear on-site if you’re boat-less but bold.
Fishing – Cast for trout, bass, and walleye from the shore or your own secret cove.
Swimming – Cool off in designated swim areas (bring your floaties, snacks optional but encouraged).
Stand-Up Paddleboarding & Scuba Diving – For those who like their water time with a side of adventure.

🥾 On the Trails

Hiking & Biking – The Horsetooth Mountain Open Space has trails for every skill level, including the iconic hike to Horsetooth Rock.
Horseback Riding – Bring your steed and hit the trails cowboy-style.

🍗 On Land

Picnicking – Choose from scenic lakeside day-use areas and snack with a view.
Camping – Book a site and make a weekend of it! Just check Larimer County’s site for reservations and fees.
Sunsets – Trust us: Horsetooth sunsets are the kind of glow that earns a permanent spot on your camera roll.

📍 Pro Tip: Stop by the visitor center for free Wi-Fi and up-to-date info. And don’t forget to check regulations before boating or camping.

🗓 What’s Happenin’ in Fort Collins: Event Listings

📅 Monday, June 30

🎙️ New Material Night! (recurring Monday) 📍 The Comedy Fort | ⏰ 7:00 PM | 🆓 Free

🎶 Open Mic at The Lyric (recurring Monday) 📍 The Lyric | ⏰ 6:00 PM | 🆓 Free

🎲 Beer & Bingo (recurring Monday) 📍 Maxline Brewing | ⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 🆓 Free

🧠 Weekly Trivia with Geeks Who Drink (recurring Monday) 📍 Slyce Pizza Co. | ⏰ 7:00 PM | 🆓 Free

🎤 Karaoke Club (recurring Monday) 📍 The Lyric | ⏰ 7:00 PM | 🆓 Free

📅 Industry Night📍 7 Old Town Square, Suite 100, Fort Collins, CO 80524 | ⏰ 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM | 🎟️ Ticketed

📅 Dine Out for Wildlife!📍 2637 Midpoint Drive, Suite E | ⏰ 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM | 🎟️ Ticketed

📅 Slyce Yoga📍 122 S Mason. St | ⏰ 5:15 PM to 6:15 PM | 🎟️ Ticketed

📅 Tuesday, July 1

🎤 Open Mic Night (recurring Tuesday) 📍 Horsetooth Tavern | ⏰ 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM | 🆓 Free

🎲 Weekly Bingo (recurring Tuesday) 📍 Slyce Pizza Co. | ⏰ 7:00 PM | 🆓 Free

🧠 Jurrasick Park Trivia📍 1020 E Lincoln Ave. | ⏰ 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM | 🎟️ Ticketed

🎵 Tuesday Morning Sound Bowl Meditation with Joe📍 2721 S. College Ave., Unit 3 | ⏰ 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM | 🎟️ Ticketed

🎬 Craft Movie Night📍 1209 N College Ave | ⏰ 7pm | 🎟️ Ticketed

Want more? See the full calendar → Fort Collins Event Calendar

🌅 See You on the Shoreline

From sunrise paddles to golden-hour hikes, Horsetooth is your go-to summer escape—just minutes from downtown FoCo. Don’t let the season slip by without a splash.

📸 Got a favorite Horsetooth photo? Hit reply and show us your sunny side!

—Your What’s Happenin’ Crew ☀️🍹

✅ Answer: C. 6.5 miles

Turns out, Horsetooth Reservoir stretches a stunning 6.5 miles from end to end—plenty of room for boating, paddling, fishing, and floating your worries away.

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