Grey Rock
Where: Take US 287 North of Fort Collins until Ted's Place. Turn left on SR 14. Go about 8.3 miles and as you come around a bend you will see a sign for parking on the left side. The trail head is across the highway and over the bridge. You will then see the TH sign post.
The trail: I find this trail very enjoyable when I am working at getting in shape for the summer hiking season. Like all trails I really have to strongly suggest that you arrive early and on a week day. I have only hiked the trail in the spring since it is in a lower elevation the snow melts earlier in the year. This a very popular trial for two reasons. One the location the second, the uniqueness of the trail. It has a very large rock at the top. The trail is about 3.1 miles on the short route and 4.3 miles if you travel through the meadows. I normally take the short route up and then after I get off the rock, I will decide which way I am going home. The meadows hike is very nice.
The trial begins on the north side of the Cache La Poudre River. After about one mile the trail then turns north (if you are taking the short route) and begins to climb rather nicely to get a great workout on your quads and calves. After about 2.3 miles you will be at the base of Grey Rock. This is a rather impresses site by itself. But it gets better, you can even climb up Grey Rock, the trail continues to the east side of the Rock. The Rock is about a quarter mile straight up. But you have to climb over rocks and switch backs. That makes the trip about a half mile long. Once at the top, you will need to rest before returning. If you are not trail conditioned this is a strenuous hike up. As well, from the top you can see Fort Collins and Horsetooth Reservoir through the smog. Very impressive. Although the trail if usually busy, not too many people are willing to go all the way to the top. The trip up the Rock hinders on being technical if you are not and experienced hiker.
On the top there are several areas that you can use for camping. However, all the areas are in the path of other foot traffic. Be kind and let them pass through your camp. I have camped out and watched the moon rise over Fort Collins in the dark. Very awesome.
Here is an area photo from the top.
This is the Rock.
I am on the highest point of Grey Rock. This point is about 2200' up from the TH.
This is Poudre River.
