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Maxwell Open Space Foothills Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 60 Google reviews · Running trail in Fort Collins, Colorado · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Maxwell Open Space Foothills Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Maxwell Open Space Foothills Trail
“Beautiful views across Fort Collins and the Horsetooth Reservoir - fairly easy trail although can be slippery and muddy when wet.”
“Beautiful views across Fort Collins and the Horsetooth Reservoir - fairly easy trail although can be slippery and muddy when wet.”
A really pretty and easy trail along the reservoir. It was super muddy after the snow so be aware that may be the case in the winter.
$10 for a car. Nice hike down to a small beach area. Not that crowded. Has picnic tables and grills near the parking lot if you want to do lunch.
Beautiful views across Fort Collins and the Horsetooth Reservoir - fairly easy trail although can be slippery and muddy when wet.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful views across Fort Collins and the Horsetooth Reservoir - fairly easy trail although can be slippery and muddy when wet.”
“Beautiful views across Fort Collins and the Horsetooth Reservoir - fairly easy trail although can be slippery and muddy when wet.”
Plan your run at Maxwell Open Space Foothills Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near Fort Collins
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Rotary Park
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A
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Maxwell Natural Area
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Protected countryside overlooking Horsetooth Reservoir, with a selection of trails & parking.
Pineridge Natural Area
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Preserved parkland featuring hiking & biking trails, a reservoir, fishing & local wildlife.
Cottonwood Glen Park
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Public park with a playground, basketball and pickleball courts, picnic areas, trails, and a baseball field.
Red Fox Meadows Natural Area
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Calm natural area featuring a lake and a river, with trails and flora.