The Best Nature Trails and Natural Areas In and Around Fort Collins

Fort Collins is home to some of the best nature trails and natural areas in and around Fort Collins — over 40 natural areas connected by hundreds of miles of paved and soft-surface paths. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk, a morning jog, or a peaceful spot to enjoy wildlife, the trail system is one of the top reasons people love living in Fort Collins.

Table of Contents

Trail Quick Reference

Trails and Natural Areas in Fort Collins

Poudre River Trail

This 21-mile paved trail follows the scenic Cache la Poudre River and is one of the most accessible nature walks near downtown Fort Collins. Perfect for walking, cycling, jogging, or a relaxed stroll with great views of the river corridor and frequent wildlife sightings.

Best For: Families, dog walkers, casual strolls, biking

Riverbend Ponds Natural Area

A local favorite for a gentle nature walk, Riverbend Ponds has multiple loops around scenic ponds, wetlands, and grasslands. This flat trail is ideal for all ages and skill levels — especially popular in spring and summer when birds and other wildlife are active.

Best For: Easy nature hikes, birdwatching, family outings

→ Related: Best Fishing Spots In and Around Fort Collins (Riverbend also offers fishing)

Bobcat Ridge Natural Area

Just a short drive from central Fort Collins, Bobcat Ridge offers a mix of easy and more challenging trails. The Valley Loop Trail (~4 miles) is a favorite for a moderate walk, while the Ginny Trail provides a steeper climb and big views.

Best For: Moderate hikes, views, varied terrain

Reservoir Ridge Natural Area

Rolling terrain, open prairie, and scenic overlooks — perfect for a morning stroll or afternoon hike. Trails vary in length, making it a great stop for beginners or families looking for a quick nature outing.

Best For: Easy–moderate hikes, wildlife viewing

→ Related: Wildlife You’ll See in Fort Collins

Great Trails Just Outside Fort Collins

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

A signature outdoor destination near Fort Collins with nearly 29 miles of multi-use trails through foothills and along dramatic rock formations. Trails range from easy walks to strenuous hikes with sweeping views of Horsetooth Reservoir and beyond.

• Horsetooth Falls Loop: A shorter ~3-mile trail leading to a seasonal waterfall
• South Ridge & Horsetooth Rock: A popular ~5-mile out-and-back with steep sections and panoramic overlooks

Best For: Hikes with viewpoints, varied difficulty, scenic vistas

→ Related: Kayaking and Paddle Boarding at Horsetooth Reservoir

Lory State Park

Just a few minutes west of Fort Collins, Lory State Park has over 28 miles of trails through meadows, forests, and rocky outcrops. A go-to for rewarding hikes with great scenery.

• Arthur’s Rock Trail: Popular moderate hike (~3.2 miles) with great views of the reservoir and foothills
• Lory State Park Loop: A more challenging ~10.8-mile loop for experienced hikers

Best For: Hiking, trail running, mountain biking, horseback riding

→ Related: Top 3 Favorite Hikes in Northern Colorado

Devil’s Backbone Open Space

About 20–30 minutes south of Fort Collins near Loveland, Devil’s Backbone is a unique geological corridor with easy-to-moderate trails. The Wild Loop Trail leads to a distinctive rock “keyhole” formation and is great for a half-day adventure.

Best For: Unique rock formations, family hikes, photography

→ Related: Fort Collins vs Loveland — Which City Is Right for You?

Further Afield (Worth a Day Trip)

Cache la Poudre Canyon Trails

A short drive northwest on Highway 14 takes you into the Cache la Poudre Canyon, a stunning corridor with mountain hikes, river access, and wilderness terrain. Trails like Mount McConnel National Recreation Trail reward hikers with summit views of the canyon and forested landscapes.

Best For: Wild nature, longer hikes, creekside trails

→ Related: Best Day Adventures from Fort Collins

→ Related: Best Camping Spots In and Around Fort Collins

Tips for Exploring Trails Around Fort Collins

• Trail Variety: Fort Collins offers everything from paved nature strolls to rugged foothill hikes. Planning based on distance, elevation gain, and scenery helps match the trail to your day.
• Seasonal Access: Some trails can be muddy in spring or snowy in winter. Check local conditions and park advisories before heading out.
• Leave No Trace: Respect wildlife and other trail users — pack out what you pack in, and stay on designated paths.
• Dogs: Most natural areas are dog-friendly but require leashes. Check specific trail rules before bringing pets.

Whether you’re looking for a quick post-work nature walk, a weekend mountain-top hike, or a scenic river corridor stroll, Fort Collins and Northern Colorado deliver an impressive variety of trails within easy reach. These natural areas not only add real outdoor value to living here but make exploring feel like part of your everyday routine.

→ Related: Top 15 Mountain Biking Trails Close to Fort Collins

→ Related: What’s It Like Living in Fort Collins Colorado?

→ Related: Map of Fort Collins Neighborhoods (West Fort Collins is closest to most trailheads)

For a complete overview of relocating, visit our Moving to Fort Collins, Colorado — The Complete Relocation Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nature Trails in Fort Collins