Greyrock (4 miles)

Sunset from Greyrock camping area at the base of Greyrock, looking west.

This is a favorite early and late season out-and-back trip as the elevation is a bit lower and it’s close to town (Fort Collins in my case). It works perfectly to get ready for the upcoming season or to bring those newer to backpacking. The hike in is brisk but short, so can be done by most as long as you take your time.

Much of the area underwent a burn a number of years ago. It’s still pretty with some great views of Greyrock and down to the surrounding areas.

Bring water

There is no water available on this route. Carry in everything you’ll need.

By the numbers

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation gain: 1,500 feet

Time from Fort Collins: 30 minutes

Difficulty:

Beauty/Epicness:

What makes it special?

Camping at the base of Greyrock provides special opportunities for exploring, short hikes around, and for those experienced with how to safely rock climb, some easy/moderate climbs in the area (Sky Crack at 5.7 is perhaps my favorite moderate climb in all of northern Colorado).

Every time we backpack here, we break camp, hide away our packs and spend the morning summitting Greyrock via the main summit trail.

Campsites and permits

Campsites abound at the base of Greyrock as pointed out on the map. There is also great options in a large meadow about half a mile west and several hundred feet lower than those on the map.

No permits are needed for this route.

Trailhead

Start at the Greyrock parking lot, directly off Poudre Canyon Road. Parking is free.

Route map

Alternate route

This 5.75 mile alternate loops you back to your car, adding a bit of distance and some new scenery. It also leads you down into a great meadow as an alternate campsite if another group is at the Greyrock base site.