4.9
(8629)
8,630
hikers
01:25
4.95km
120m
Hiking
Hike the easy 3.1-mile Towhee Loop Trail in Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, offering wide-open views and spring wildflowers.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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4.95 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.76 km
190 m
Surfaces
4.56 km
346 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,110 m)
Lowest point (1,990 m)
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Thursday 21 May
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3°C
71 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Towhee Loop Trail is located in the Red Mountain - Soapstone Prairie Natural Area near Fort Collins, Colorado. Access to the trail is from the North Parking Lot, which serves as the primary trailhead for this foot-only loop.
Yes, dogs are permitted on the Towhee Loop Trail. However, for the safety of wildlife and other hikers, they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Spring is an excellent time to visit the Towhee Loop Trail, as it's known for early blooming wildflowers such as bluebells, Townsendia, and pasqueflowers. The trail offers wide-open views year-round, but spring brings vibrant flora.
Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, which includes the Towhee Loop Trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official City of Fort Collins Natural Areas website for any updated regulations or temporary closures before your visit.
The trail is a 2.6-mile singletrack loop that begins with a steady climb up a grassy ravine. It features an average grade of about 5%, with a maximum grade of 12%. The path is always easy to follow, offering a generally easy to intermediate hiking experience.
On average, hikers can expect to complete the Towhee Loop Trail in about 1 hour and 1 minute. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, the Towhee Loop Trail is considered family-friendly and generally easy to intermediate, making it suitable for beginners. Its T1 Hiking SAC Scale rating indicates easy hiking, though it does include a steady climb.
Hikers on the Towhee Loop Trail can enjoy expansive, wide-open views to the west, which often include distant snow-capped peaks. In spring, the landscape is also dotted with early blooming wildflowers.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Towhee Loop, Mahogany Loop, Mahogany Trail, and Lindenmeier Trail.
As part of the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, the Towhee Loop Trail is subject to specific regulations designed to protect its natural resources. These typically include staying on marked trails, packing out all trash, and keeping dogs on leash. Always consult the official Fort Collins Natural Areas website for the most current and comprehensive rules.
Yes, the Towhee Loop Trail is a singletrack loop, meaning you will end up back at your starting point without having to retrace your steps.