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Horsetooth and Carter Lake adjust access amid seasonal closures and roadwork

Winter is coming—yet two Colorado reservoirs still welcome visitors, for now. Navigate closures, roadwork, and last-chance hours before the seasonal shutdown.

In this image there are boats on a river, on the other side of the river there are trees, houses,...
In this image there are boats on a river, on the other side of the river there are trees, houses, poles, behind that there is a mountain.

Horsetooth and Carter Lake adjust access amid seasonal closures and roadwork

Parking areas north of the Visitor Center at Horsetooth Reservoir remain closed due to ongoing road work, but the South Bay boat ramp is still accessible via the upper road. Both ramps, along with those at Carter Lake, will close for the season on November 13, joining several other areas that have already shut down for the winter.

The City of Fort Collins Public Works Department is conducting paving work at Horsetooth Reservoir, leading to traffic reduction to one lane at Carter Lake due to road widening. Despite these closures, visitors can still enjoy limited access to both reservoirs. Starting November 1, Horsetooth Reservoir's South Bay and Carter Lake's North Ramp will remain open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through November 12. Additionally, Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) decontamination services will be available at both reservoirs during these hours.

While several areas around Horsetooth and Carter Lake have closed for the season, visitors can still access certain facilities until November 13. The public is advised to check for updates and follow any posted signs regarding closures and access.

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