Horsetooth Mountain facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Horsetooth Mountain
Horsetooth from Fort Collins
Highest point
Elevation	7,259 ft (2,213 m)
Prominence	595 ft (181 m)
Isolation	3.46 mi (5.57 km)
Geography
Horsetooth Mountain Location in Colorado
Location	Larimer County, Colorado, U.S.
Parent range	Front Range foothills
Topo map	USGS 7.5' topographic map Horsetooth Reservoir, Colorado
Climbing
Easiest route	Scramble

Horsetooth Mountain is a cool mountain peak located in the Front Range foothills of the Rocky Mountains in North America. This mountain stands tall at about 7,259 feet (2,212 meters) high. You can find it in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, which is about 7 miles (11.2 km) west of Fort Collins, Colorado, in the United States. It's a famous landmark in Larimer County.

What Makes Horsetooth Mountain Special?

Horsetooth Mountain is easy to spot because of a huge rock formation at its top. This rock is called Horsetooth Rock. It looks like a horse's teeth, which is how it got its name! This unique rock is a very important symbol for the nearby city of Fort Collins. You can even see it on the city's official seal.

A Place for Everyone to Enjoy

The land where Horsetooth Mountain stands used to be owned by a family. But in 1982, the county bought it to create an "open space." This means it's a protected area for nature and people to enjoy.

Today, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a super popular spot for outdoor activities. Lots of people come here to hike and mountain bike. There are many trails that lead all the way to the top of the mountain.

Amazing Views from the Top

When you reach the summit, you get an amazing view! You can see Longs Peak and Mount Meeker to the southwest. These are two very rugged and beautiful mountains located in Rocky Mountain National Park. It's a great reward after a fun hike.

• If you want to visit, there's a small fee. A daily entrance permit costs $9 per vehicle.

Wildlife at Horsetooth Mountain

Horsetooth Mountain Park isn't just about cool rocks and great views. It's also home to many different kinds of animals! You might spot some large mammals living here.

Animals You Might See

Keep an eye out for these amazing creatures:

• Mule deer: These deer have large ears that look like a mule's.
• American black bears: These bears are usually shy and try to avoid people.
• Mountain lions: These big cats are very good at hiding.
• Coyotes: These wild dogs are often heard howling at night.

Remember to always respect wildlife and keep a safe distance when visiting the park.

Images for kids

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  Top of Horsetooth Mountain facing West to the Rocky Mountains.

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  Cellphone towers visible from the top.

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  Fort Collins visible from the top.

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  Horsetooth Rock Trail.

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  Horsetooth Rock Trail near the beginning.

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  Near the trailhead.

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  Horsetooth Rock, named for the profile of its east face. Hikers are visible on the summit.

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  Upper Spring Creek valley on Horsetooth Mountain.