Hiking to the A Trail in Maxwell Natural Area

Hiking to the A Trail in Maxwell Natural Area, located near Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a unique outdoor experience combining scenic beauty, local history, and accessibility. The trail’s notable feature is the large white “A” painted on the hillside, a tribute to Colorado State University (CSU) representing pride and tradition dating back to 1923. It’s a short and moderately challenging hike ideal for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a quick outdoor escape near the city. Maxwell Natural Area’s striking views and proximity to Horsetooth Reservoir make it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.

Adventure Guide to Hiking to the A Trail

Trailhead Details: The A Trail begins at the Maxwell Natural Area parking lot, located along County Road 42C—just a 10-minute drive west of Fort Collins. This hike is approximately 1.3 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain, making it easily manageable yet rewarding. A short section includes switchbacks, which ascend toward the iconic “A,” offering panoramic vistas of Fort Collins and the foothills.
What Makes It Special: Reaching the “A” provides an unmatched vantage point for views of Horsetooth Reservoir to the west and the city below to the east. The trail's relative brevity allows hikers to enjoy a fulfilling outing without requiring extensive preparation. It’s also a popular spot for CSU fans and alumni who appreciate its historical significance.
Key Features: Along the trail, you’ll pass native grasses, wildflowers (in spring), and abundant wildlife such as deer and hawks. Informational plaques available near the trailhead highlight the area’s ecological and historical importance, enhancing the hiking experience.

Local Insights

The "A" on the hillside stands for Aggies, CSU’s original mascot before becoming the Rams. It was first constructed for a football game tradition and is maintained annually.
The trail is busiest during weekends or closer to CSU events, so plan accordingly for a quieter hike.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid hotter midday temperatures.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and binoculars for birdwatching near the reservoir.
Directions: From downtown Fort Collins, take Laporte Avenue west and turn onto County Road 42C. It’s a short 4.5-mile drive.

Adventure Map

Reviews

David Pieta year ago

Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins Colorado has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails as we as stunning scenery. A must visit in this part of Colorado.

Steve Dempsey2 years ago

Another awesome trail head for some light hiking and biking. Lots of parking at trail head including spaces for trailers. Public bathroom as well. There is one flat trail that leads off into the hillside and seems to border private land. Dirt road does seem to climb about half mile later but still an easy trail if you are looking just to walk. Love all the natural sounds as well like birds chirping.

Paivi Oha year ago

I love this trail... the first I hiked when moving to FC. Yesterday, 4/1/23, I visited and nearly all of the flora has been removed. All dirt and rock! It doesn't change the actual trail much, yet, but what is going on that they would clear that?! You can see the difference by looking at other reviews of the area Update: I hiked this 2 months after my last review and the flora is back! So many plants coming back to life after the winter. Currently we're receiving above average rainfall. When the trail dries and the sun shines again, I can't wait to see what springs up!!

Ian Freeman7 months ago

Amazing hike from Maxwell Parking Lot, which is free, up the hillside, then cross the road and to the top of Horsetooth Reservoir. Takes about 30 minutes (depending on how fit you are), which is steep and rocky in places with runners and cyclists, so it's best to get there early before 8 am, including during the week.

Kyle Kempf2 years ago

A free parking lot with multiple trails. We hiked to the A from here and it was about 2 miles one way but a very easy incline. You can get up to the road if need be. There aren't many trees so know that you'll be exposed. I would recommend hiking shoes of some sort of you're going more than a mile since it gets rocky when the incline starts.