Round Mountain Nature Trail

Route Description for Round Mountain Nature Trail

Enjoy a relaxing hike through Colorado’s wilderness as you travel up the Round Mountain Nature Trail. Hike along the old service road and back in the vista of the large granite outcrops. The nature trail is a connector to the much longer, and more strenuous Summit Adventure Trail, so it can often be quite crowded. The parking lot at the trailhead can hold about 20 vehicles, but if you would like to ensure you get a spot, we recommend arriving early, especially on weekends! The landscape is fragile in this area, the city of Loveland asks that those who hike the trails please remain on the marked paths. This plea is to safeguard the environment, but also those adventuring the trail. The end of the path lookout is quite steep, make sure you and your company stay away from the cliffs edge.

Embark on your adventure on the Round Mountain Nature Trail from the parking lot. From the parking lot hook onto the Round Mountain Nature Trail and track north. This path will guide you into the pine forest as you begin your gradual ascent to the lookout. The trail will begin to curve west, and you will encounter a junction. Stay right and maintain on the Round Mountain Nature Trail. Trek along the path through the dense pine wilderness.

Walk along the path and enjoy sights of vibrant wildflowers in the summer months and keep an eye out for deer! Cross a small stream and continue hiking west along the dirt road. The climb will slightly pick up in intensity as you near the lookout. Enjoy the sights of the valley below peeking through the pine trees and admire the grandeur of the large granite boulders that line the path. You will eventually meet another well marked intersection. At this point you will want to turn right and head northeast to the lookout.

Hike the trail to the lookout and revel in the sights of the forested Big Thompson River valley below. Explore the rock hut that sits atop the ridge. The stone shelter was built by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC’s) in the 1930’s out of riverbed rocks. Government employed workers built these overlook huts across the country and they all have a similar architecture, making them easy to link to one another.

Adventure around the lookout and admire the expansive views before heading back. TO get back to the parking lot simply retrace your steps back along the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp along the Round Mountain Nature Trail?

No, you cannot camp along the Round Mountain Nature Trail because it is on city-owned property.

Are dogs permitted on the Round Mountain Nature Trail?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Round Mountain Nature Trail as long as they are on-leash.