5 Secrets To Having The Best Boating Day Ever at Horsetooth Reservoir

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Whether you're brand new to Fort Collins or a Northern Colorado Pro., we're honored to be your local resource for updates, events, local business, outdoors & recreation in our community. We regularly share information and updates about the Real Estate industry, and would love to connect with you if you need guidance buying or selling real estate in Fort Collins. Continue reading to learn our 5 best kept secrets to the best boating day ever at Horsetooth Reservoir!

1. Go on a weekday! We know this isn't possible for everyone, but if you can take advantage of a slower day at the lake, do it! Trust us when we say, it will be much more memorable. The best day's of the week to head to Horsetooth seem to be Wednesday & Thursday. If going on a Weekend is your only option, we suggest getting there as early as possible. Although there is ample parking at every Horsetooth Boat Ramp location, they fill up quickly and it's much nicer if you don't have to travel very far from the boat ramp.

2. Consider which areas of the reservoir you'd like to explore first. Horsetooth Reservoir is approximately 6 square miles and has over 25 miles of shoreline. There are several coves throughout Horsetooth to explore such as Party Cove, a favorite amongst locals. You can access the Cove via vehicle and park your boats by entering Lori State Park. Stop at the Visitors Center for a parking pass and directions..

3. Bring an inner tube. Whether you've thought ahead and purchased an inner tube that can be pulled by the boat, or you stopped at Fort Collins Target on the way to grab one you can float on in the cove, these have helped make our memories! Soak up the sun and relax while being gently pulled by a boat? We think yes.

4. Bring extra gas. We can't tell you how many times we've seen folks having a blast, only to realize their tank has run out of gas. It puts quite the damper on the day, and in most cases, ends the day completely!

5. Put cell phones in a Ziploc! Any time you aren't taking pics or making content for your next Instagram Reel, you'll want to stick your phone in a Ziploc bag to prevent it from getting wet. Especially if you're on a wake boat, or around Jet Skiers, boat can commonly become a flood zone quickly. Not to mention, most of the Reservoir has pretty spotty service, and many of the coves are a complete dead zone. Lesson: Don't risk a damper on the day like a wet phone!

That's it folks! We hope this was helpful for your boating day preparation list. Some other things you won't want to forget are kids life vests (required under age 16), sunscreen, an enclosed boating bag for towels, snacks & drinks! A long day out in the hot sun can sure make you pretty hungry (and thirsty!).

We still have some time left before the cool weather creeps into Fort Collins. Are you planning any more boating trips? Let us know in the comments.

Did we miss something? Let us know in the comments too!

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