Fort Collins has taken a major leap forward in trail planning and connectivity with the adoption of the Strategic Trails Plan (STP) in July 2025. Designed to guide development over the next 45 years, the plan outlines an expansive vision for a more equitable, accessible, and environmentally responsible paved trail system across the city.
Here’s a closer look at what’s included—and why it matters to anyone who walks, bikes, or rolls through Fort Collins.
📍 The Numbers That Matter
This plan isn’t just conceptual. It’s a detailed, data-backed roadmap that lays out real, measurable goals:
- 57 miles of new paved trails (both major and minor).
- 34 new grade-separated crossings, including:
- 27 over major roadways
- 7 over railroads
- All schools in Fort Collins within a ¾-mile (15-minute) walk or ride of a trail (Goal).
- 42 existing grade-separated crossings are already in place and will continue to be maintained and improved.
- Fort Collins currently manages:
- 46 miles of major trails (city-managed)
- 34 miles of minor trails
- Plus 19 miles from CSU and HOAs that contribute to local connectivity
🕒 The Timeline: Two Scenarios
1. Current Funding Pace
With today’s budget (primarily from the Conservation Trust Fund), Fort Collins can expect to complete about 1.5 miles of new trail per year. That puts full buildout at approximately 45 years.
2. Accelerated Vision
If the city secures an additional $1.5–$2 million annually through grants (e.g., GOCO), new tax initiatives, or state/federal transportation funds, the pace could quicken to 2.5 miles per year. That would shorten the timeline to just 25 years.
Trail prioritization is broken down into three phases:
| Trail Phase | Mileage | Years to Complete (Current) | Years (Accelerated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Near-term | 20 miles | ~15 years | ~9 years |
| Mid-term | 18 miles | ~30 years | ~17 years |
| Long-term | 19 miles | ~45 years | ~25 years |
🔄 What’s New, What’s Better
Beyond expanding mileage, the STP brings major improvements to quality and access:
- New trail standards for safety, surface quality, width, and ADA compliance.
- Emphasis on low-stress connectivity between trails and on-street bike networks—essential for achieving the City’s “15-Minute City” vision.
- Enhanced access to parks, schools, natural areas, and underserved neighborhoods, particularly in NE Fort Collins.
- Environmental protection strategies baked into trail design—including habitat buffers, native plantings, and stormwater integration.
- Clear prioritization of grade-separated crossings for safety and traffic reduction.
👥 Built by the Community, for the Community
Community engagement was central to the STP’s development. Residents participated through online maps, open houses, surveys, and pop-up events. Notably, the plan emphasizes equity by focusing on Economic Opportunity Areas and Equity Focus Areas to ensure underrepresented neighborhoods are prioritized in the buildout.
🚴 The Bottom Line
The Strategic Trails Plan solidifies Fort Collins’ place as a national leader in trail planning and active transportation. Whether you’re a weekend runner, daily bike commuter, or someone who just enjoys a walk through a neighborhood park, the STP represents a major investment in quality of life.
The next generation of Fort Collins trails is coming—more miles, more connections, and more opportunities for every resident to enjoy safe, seamless, and sustainable mobility.