Hike the Bellvue Dome

The Bellvue Dome, known locally as "Goat Hill", was created by the same geological forces that made the Rocky Mountains, but what makes this structure unique is its shape, the steep cliff on its western edge carved by the Cache la Poudre River at the base, and its prominent location dominating the skyline just north of Fort Collins along Highway 287. 

Despite this, the Dome is rarely if ever climbed, largely because it is almost completely surrounded by private land, even though the majority of it the Dome itself is public and owned/managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

To gain access from the East you must receive permission from a property owner on the east side of the Dome or the City of Fort Collins for access along the utility access road. To approach from the west up the bluffs you should receive permission from the Colorado Division of Wildlife who maintains the large trout hatchery below.

To reach the base of the Dome take Highway 287 to old Highway 287 B, just north of the Dome. Head south on 287 B and take your first right on North County Road 23E. Park along the road here, as your first right is access road / easement.

If you've received permission, walk up the road until you see the remains of an old concrete water tank on your left. At this point leave the road and head right and up the ridgeline till you gain the main ridge of the Dome. There are several obvious use trails. Follow the main ridgeline till you gain the summit, where you'll find a Colorado Geological Survey marker.

Be sure to come back down the way you came so you do not accidentally trespass on land you have not received permission to cross.

Be respectful of the land owners at the beginning of the road and do not cross any of the fences into the City of Fort Collins water storage facility as this is (obviously) off-limits to the public.