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

For people relocating to Fort Collins, one of the biggest lifestyle perks is how easy it is to get into nature—whether you want a quick walk on a paved path or a full-on mountain hike with sweeping views. The region around Fort Collins blends foothills, prairie, river corridors, and open spaces, offering something for every outdoor enthusiast, from families and casual walkers to serious hikers and trail runners.

Below is a detailed guide to standout trails and nature areas both in town and within roughly an hour’s drive.

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. It’s 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 and especially popular in spring and summer when birds and other wildlife are active. 

Best For: Easy nature hikes, birdwatching, family outings

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

This natural area features rolling terrain, open prairie, and scenic overlooks—perfect for a morning stroll or afternoon hike. Trails vary in length, so it’s a great stop for beginners or families looking for a quick nature hit.

Best For: Easy–moderate hikes, wildlife viewing

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 more strenuous hikes with sweeping views of Horsetooth Reservoir and beyond. 

• Horsetooth Falls Loop: A shorter ~3-mile trail that leads 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

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. It’s a go-to for rewarding hikes with great scenery and options for longer day adventures. 

• Arthur’s Rock Trail: A 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

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

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

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 will help you 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 you go (Fort Collins parks status tools can help).
  
• Leave No Trace: Respect wildlife and other trail users—pack out what you pack in, and stay on designated paths.

Tips for Exploring Trails Around Fort Collins

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.