Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: Swan Johnson/Nomad/Sawmill/Stout Loop

Today Sierra and I had a day to spend together and opted to head down to Fort Collins for some hiking, eating, and mini golf. Our first stop was Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. We drove to the Soderberg Trailhead and headed off on our hike on the Swan Johnson Trail. 

This trail headed north through grassy meadows dotted with wildflowers.

The trail stayed relatively close to the shore of Horsetooth Reservoir, and we took a short side trail to a cove of the lake where we rested and enjoyed the view.

After our short break, we continued north gradually heading towards Lory State Park. There were great views of the surrounding foothills.

We stopped periodically to drink some water, 

and to enjoy the wildlflowers.

At the park boundary with Lory State Park, we started to head back south on the Nomad Trail before detouring up into the hills on the Sawmill Trail. The higher Sawmill Trail offered nice views of the surrounding area.

Soon, we were back to the trailhead and ready for lunch at Young's Cafe!