Horsetooth Peak and Lookout Mountain

These small peaks provide good views into Wild Basin and are not frequently climbed. To reach their obscure trailhead, turn west from CO 7 onto unpaved CR 113N in the middle of Meeker Park, opposite Meeker Park Lodge. Follow this rough lane for 0.6 mile, and park where you will not block the road or someone’s driveway. Walk up the lane past private cabins, which should not be disturbed in any way. (There has been some objection to hikers in this area in the past.)

Soon after you enter the national park, the trail branches. The left path crosses Horse Creek in the direction of the Sandbeach Lake Trail. Continue on the right fork to the next junction. This time go left and cross the creek. Climb the trail through 1.0 mile of pleasant woods to where a spur cuts to the left, heading up Horsetooth Peak. You may notice “HT” carved on a tree at this junction.

The best way up the final rock pitches to the summit on Horsetooth is a matter of opinion, but you probably will not want to approach it directly from the trail. Try circling left and work your way up from the northeast side of the peak. Be careful. Gravity works on Horsetooth just as it does on Longs Peak, and the rocks at the end of a fall are equally hard on both mountains.

The main trail continues up to a level area called Squally Pass. Here picturesque limber pines show the effects of wind. From the pass, the walk southeast to the top of Lookout Mountain is uncomplicated.