H: Horsetooth Rock and Reservoir

My hometown (bonus H word) A to Z continues with two of the most popular recreation spots in Northern Colorado. Named for its resemblance to a horse's tooth, Horsetooth Rock and surrounding Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offer a number of hikes for various ability levels. The route to the top of the rock provides amazing views of the valley below. The easier hike to Horsetooth Falls leads to a great place to cool off on a hot summer day.



A part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, operated by the Bureau of Reclamation and the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, the 6.5 mile long Horsetooth Reservoir is open for recreation year-round. But summer is undoubtedly the most popular season, and the reservoir is great for swimming, boating, fishing, water-skiing, rowing, camping, and hanging out on the only sandy beach for miles around.

Think the comparison to a tooth is lame? Perhaps you'll be more inspired by the Native American legend: