Mason, Redtail Grove, and Fossil Creek Trails

The trails are predominantly paved, with sections of concrete, making them suitable for hiking, biking, and running. The terrain is largely flat, especially on the Fossil Creek Trail, which has a gentle, undulating course. This makes it accessible for families and beginner hikers.

Yes, this route is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. The trails are mostly paved and flat, offering a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience for all ages.

The full route, encompassing sections of the Mason, Redtail Grove, and Fossil Creek Trails, typically takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. This duration is for the 4.7 km (2.9 miles) hike.

You can find parking at various points along the interconnected trail system. Good access points include Spring Canyon Community Park on the western end of the Fossil Creek Trail, and Fossil Creek Park on the eastern end, both offering amenities.

Yes, the trails are generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them, especially within natural areas like Redtail Grove.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Mason, Redtail Grove, or Fossil Creek Trails, nor for entering the Redtail Grove Natural Area. These public trails are free to enjoy.

These trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also great, though it can be warm. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially icy conditions on paved surfaces.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from open grasslands and prairie, especially along the Fossil Creek Trail and within Redtail Grove Natural Area, to serene water features like Portner Reservoir and Eagle Ranch Lake. Wildlife spotting is common, with opportunities to see prairie dogs, various raptors (including red-tailed hawks), horned lizards, rabbits, and many bird species. Distant views of the Rocky Mountain foothills are also a highlight.

Yes, these trails are part of a larger network in Fort Collins. The Redtail Grove Natural Area specifically links the Mason Trail and Fossil Creek Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Mason Trail, Fossil Creek Trail, Long View Trail, and Centre Bikeway. You can connect to the Spring Creek Trail at the Mason Trail's northern end, and the Fossil Creek Trail can link with the Mason Trail to create longer loops, such as a 13-mile South Fort Collins Loop.

Key points of interest include the Redtail Grove Natural Area, known for its wide-open fields and wildlife, and Fossil Creek itself, which offers picturesque views along its course. You'll also pass by Portner Reservoir and Eagle Ranch Lake, and have access to the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area.

Yes, Spring Canyon Community Park, located where the western segment of the Fossil Creek Trail begins, offers amenities such as a dog park and an accessible playground. Fossil Creek Park on the eastern end also provides numerous recreational facilities.