About This Route
Horsetooth Reservoir, near Fort Collins in the Front Range of the Rockies, offers 1,900 acres of SUP paradise at 5,420 feet. Launches at Horsetooth South Bay or Inlet Bay; iconic sandstone buttes frame paddles to hidden coves. Popular for races; check Larimer County permits.
Safety Considerations
Powerboats create wakes; yield to larger vessels per navigation rules. Steep granite shores challenge re-entries. Winds funnel through Devil's Backbone. Wear PFDs mandatorily; quick-release for all. Heat exhaustion in 90°F summers; hydrate aggressively.
Essential Gear
NRS Big Water PFD, Red Paddle SUP, Werner paddle, rash guard, dry bag, water purifier.
Emergency Tips
Wake flip: Protect head. Exhaustion: Shade and electrolytes. Rescue: County sheriff 970-498-5110.