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Red Mountain Open Space wilderness guide
Open Space Area · CO

Red Mountain Open Space

Red Mountain Open Space, located in northern Colorado, offers expansive red rock landscapes and diverse ecological habitats that provide a range of outdoor activities.

Open Space Area15,000+4+ Trails

Designation

Open Space Area

Total Wilderness Area

15,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Red Mountain Open Space

Red Mountain Open Space, located in northern Colorado, offers expansive red rock landscapes and diverse ecological habitats that provide a range of outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Red Mountain Open Space covers over 15,000 acres in northern Colorado, adjacent to the Wyoming border. It features striking red rock formations that characterize the arid environment, creating unique geological landscapes. Originally established to conserve the natural and cultural resources of the region, the area boasts a mix of prairie grasslands, piñon-juniper woodlands, and riparian corridors that support a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and numerous bird species. Historically, the area was used by Native American tribes and later for grazing and mining activities. Today, visitors are drawn to its extensive trail network, which accommodates hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. There are no designated campgrounds within the open space, emphasizing its role as a day-use destination for exploration and recreation.

Field Guide · Open Space Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Mountain Open Space

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Exploring Red Mountain Open Space and Near Soapstone Prairie★ 7.5⌖ 5 miHiking
Red Canyon Road

Exploring Red Mountain Open Space and Near Soapstone Prairie

Explore the stunning 4.2-mile Bent Rock Trail in Red Mountain Open Space near Fort Collins, Colorado. With moderate difficulty, it's perfect for hiking and trail running, offering striking views of red rock formations and chances to spot wildlife like mule deer and raptors.

Exploring Soapstone Prairie in the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area★ 7.5⌖ 6 miHiking
Soapstone Prairie Natural Area

Exploring Soapstone Prairie in the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area

Explore Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, a picturesque wildlife viewing destination near Fort Collins. This moderate hiking area features diverse wildlife, historical sites, and scenic vistas over 28 square miles. Best visited in spring and fall for a serene experience.

Fishing along Halligan Reservoir★ 7.0⌖ 13 miFishing
Meadow Creek Road

Fishing along Halligan Reservoir

Located 30 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Halligan Reservoir offers tranquil and rewarding fishing experiences. Popular for rainbow and brown trout, it's best visited during spring and fall. Quiet setting ensures peaceful exploration throughout the year.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Bent Rock Trail offers views of notable red rock formations and limestone cliffs.✦ The area serves as a habitat for a range of wildlife, including pronghorn and golden eagles.✦ Historic ranching and homestead remnants provide insight into past human use of the land.✦ Lone Pine Creek provides a cool retreat and opportunity for riparian exploration.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Mountain Open Space

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
Park Recreation

Equestrian Use

Available in Red Mountain Open Space
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Mountain Open Space.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits or fees required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Mountain Open Space

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Livermore
⌖ 8.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livermore, Colorado

A quiet high-altitude town offering rustic charm and access to alpine hiking, biking, and fishing in Colorado’s Northern Rockies.

June through September for hiking and fishing; December through March for snowshoeingExplore Town
Laporte
⌖ 18.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Colorado

A tranquil gateway to Northern Colorado’s foothills offering easy access to rugged terrain, riverbanks, and forest trails with a distinctly small-town charm.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Bellvue
⌖ 18.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellvue, Colorado

A peaceful gateway to the Front Range with access to pristine nature and year-round outdoor activities.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Fort Collins
⌖ 21.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Collins, Colorado

A vibrant college town with easy access to the Rocky Mountains, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse activities and craft beer experiences.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Buford
⌖ 22.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Buford, Wyoming

A remote, small high plains stop surrounded by expansive rugged landscapes, offering quiet access to Wyoming’s vast outdoor adventures.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Cheyenne
⌖ 22.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cheyenne, Wyoming

A historic western town offering a mix of plains adventure and unique cowboy culture.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Mountain Open Space

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.