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    South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2.5-3.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    7.6 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    369 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike is an awesome introductory hike for those seeking to train for more intense summit hikes in the Front Range. Hike through the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and ascend the rocky ridge to the summit Horsetooth Mountain. The rewarding views will make up for the effort.

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    Route Description for South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike

    Lace up those hiking shoes, and let’s head out into the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. The South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike is a great excursion for novice hikers and intrepid adventures alike. Ascend the rocky terrain along the South Ridge to a Mountain Summit. Even the most experienced explorers will enjoy this venture. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes as the rocky terrain is known to cause the odd rolled ankle. It is also worth noting that there have been Rattlesnakes spotted along this trail. Be sure to listen out for them and mind your footing as you traverse the grassy meadow. Visitors must purchase a $9USD day pass for the Open Space from the gateway’s toll booth.

    Begin your journey up the South Ridge and Audra Culver from the Horsetooth Mountain Trailhead. Track the South Ridge Trail from here and head northwest. This path will intersect with a few streams before diverting you up the rocky ridge. Ascend the trail and ignore intersecting and merging routes until you meet the intersection with Audra Culver. Veer left, and you will be diverted onto the Audra Culver Trail. Hike along the rocky ridge past a dispersed campsite. Notice the dozens of Front Range peaks that dot the landscape in the west. Continue up the trail to the summit of Horsetooth Mountain.

    Enjoy the incredible views from the summit and see the Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins in the east. Revel in the mountainous vista and explore the rocky peak before beginning your descent. When you are ready, take the Horsetooth Rock Trail and then merge onto the South Ridge Trail. Follow the South Ridge Trail, retracing your steps all the way down to the parking lot.

    Getting to the South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike Trailhead

    The South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike is located within the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space off W County Road 38E.

    Route Information

    South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike Elevation Graph

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    South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike Reviews

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