Fort Collins isn’t just another city; it’s a gateway to a world where the great outdoors is your playground, offering so many activities within a mere 2-3 hours’ drive. From the serene Pawnee Grasslands to the thrilling slopes of Eldora or Snowy Range. Here’s a journey to discover why living in Fort Collins is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 7 miles, 15-minute drive
Horsetooth Reservoir is a cornerstone of outdoor activity in Fort Collins. This large reservoir is a hotspot for boating, fishing, and water sports during the warmer months. The surrounding area, with its extensive trail network, invites hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers to explore its beauty.
Lory State Park
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 9 miles, 20-minute drive
Lory State Park, a stone’s throw away from Fort Collins, offers a rich tapestry of rugged terrain, beautiful wildflowers, and diverse wildlife. With over 20 miles of trails, it caters to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders of all skill levels.
Red Feather Lakes
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 44 miles, 1 hour and 20 minutes drive
A hidden gem in the Colorado wilderness, Red Feather Lakes is an enchanting network of lakes surrounded by dense forests and majestic mountains. This serene destination is perfect for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Skiing at Snowy Range Ski Area
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 80 miles, 2 hours drive
Snowy Range Ski Area in nearby Wyoming offers an accessible skiing adventure. Just a 2-hour drive, this ski area caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. The family-friendly atmosphere and lack of long lines make it a preferred spot for many Fort Collins residents.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 66 miles, 1 hour and 30 minutes drive
No discussion of outdoor activities around Fort Collins would be complete without mentioning the crown jewel of Colorado’s wilderness, Rocky Mountain National Park. This vast national park offers over 300 miles of hiking trails, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the chance to see wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely nature walk around Bear Lake or a challenging hike up Longs Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone.
Cache La Poudre River
Distance from Fort Collins: Varies by activity spot, approximately 10-30 minutes drive
The Cache La Poudre River, Colorado’s only designated “Wild and Scenic” river, runs through the Poudre Canyon, offering world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking. The river is also renowned for its fly fishing, with abundant trout populations. The scenic drive along the canyon is in itself a popular activity, with numerous spots to pull over and admire the rugged landscape.
Pawnee National Grassland
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 55 miles, 1-hour drive
At the doorstep of Fort Collins, the Pawnee National Grassland spreads its vast, wild beauty. Covering over 193,000 acres, this area is a mosaic of grasslands, buttes, and canyons. It’s a perfect spot for bird watching, with the spring and fall migrations offering a chance to see a variety of bird species. Hiking and camping are also popular. The wide-open spaces and minimal light pollution make for exceptional stargazing opportunities.
Longs Peak Hiking
Distance from Fort Collins: Approximately 65 miles, 1 hour and 45 minutes drive
Longs Peak, the towering giant in Rocky Mountain National Park, is one of Colorado’s most iconic 14ers, with an elevation of 14,259 feet. This challenging hike is not for the faint-hearted, as it requires an early start and a good level of physical fitness to navigate the 15-mile round-trip with significant elevation gain. The Keyhole Route, Longs Peak’s most popular trail, offers breathtaking views, thrilling rock scrambles, and the satisfaction of conquering one of Colorado’s most formidable peaks. Due to its elevation and exposure, it’s essential to prepare adequately and consider the weather conditions.
Horseback Riding in Roosevelt National Forest
Distance from Fort Collins: Varies, approximately 30-60 minutes drive
For those who dream of exploring the Colorado wilderness on horseback, the Roosevelt National Forest offers a plethora of trails that cater to equestrian adventurers. Several stables and ranches in the vicinity offer guided tours, ranging from a few hours to full-day rides, allowing riders of all skill levels to experience the beauty of the forest from a unique perspective.
Wrapping Up
Fort Collins, Colorado, stands out not just for its vibrant community and rich cultural life, but as a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s unique geographical location offers access to an incredible array of activities, from the serene to the adrenaline-fueled. Whether it’s conquering the heights of Longs Peak, exploring the wilderness on horseback, casting a line in the Cache La Poudre, or simply enjoying a peaceful hike in Lory State Park, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the great outdoors. The diverse landscape surrounding Fort Collins ensures that every visit to these natural wonders brings a new adventure, making it truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
