Arthur's Rock Trail - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are plenty of things to do in Arthur's Rock Trail, Larimer County, Colorado. The area is home to a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic viewpoints and picnic areas. Arthur's Rock itself is a popular destination for climbers, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the trail offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. In addition, the trailhead is located just a short drive from the city of Fort Collins, making it easy to access for day trips or longer excursions. 

Arthur's Rock Trail is located in Larimer County, Colorado. The trail is named for Arthur Jones, a homesteader who settled in the area in the late 1800s. Jones was an avid hiker and is credited with establishing many of the trails in the area. The Arthur's Rock Trail is one of his most popular trails. It winds its way through meadows and forests, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The trailhead is located just outside of Estes Park, and it is a popular destination for hikers, birders, and nature lovers.

The best time to visit Arthur's Rock Trail in Larimer County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June through August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for hiking and camping. However, Arthur's Rock Trail is also a popular destination in the fall, when the leaves are changing color. The trail is less crowded at this time of year. 

1. Check the weather forecast before you go and dress accordingly. The temperature at the top of the trail can be 10-20 degrees cooler than at the bottom, so pack a jacket even if it's warm when you start out.
2. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food or drink options once you start climbing. 
3. Follow the marked trail and stay on designated paths to minimize impact on the fragile environment. 
4. Watch for wildlife: The trail winds through some beautiful scenery, but it's also home to some wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and other animals.
5.  Start early: The Arthur's Rock Trail is a popular hiking spot, so it's best to start your hike early in the day to avoid the crowds.
    

1. The trail is considered to be moderately difficult, with an elevation gain of just over 1,000 feet.
2. Arthur's Rock is located in the Rocky Mountain National Park, which is home to many other hiking trails and beautiful scenery.
3. In addition to hiking, the area around Arthur's Rock Trail is popular for camping, fishing, and picnicking.
4. Dogs are welcome on the trail, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
5. The views from the summit of Arthur's Rock are spectacular, especially of Longs Peak, which is Colorado's tallest mountain.

While the trail is only 3 miles long, it is recommended that hikers allow themselves at least 4 hours to complete the hike. This allows for plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take breaks along the way. 

Getting to Arthur's Rock Trail is a bit of a journey, but it's well worth the effort. The trailhead is located in Larimer County, Colorado, about an hour and a half drive from Denver. From Denver, take I-25 north to Highway 34 west. Follow Highway 34 for about 30 miles until you reach the turnoff for Roosevelt National Forest. From there, follow the signs for another 8 miles until you reach the Arthur's Rock Trailhead. The total journey is just over 100 miles, but it's a beautiful drive through some of Colorado's best scenery.

There is a $7 daily park entrance fee to the trailhead. 

The trailhead is open year-round. However, the hours of operation vary depending on the season. In the summer, the trail is open from sunrise to sunset. In the winter, the trail is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.