Things To Do In Ft Collins Colorado – The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure

ByEric James Updated on

You’ve heard the whispers. Fort Collins, Colorado isn’t just another city; it’s a legendary basecamp nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The problem? The sheer volume of options can feel overwhelming, leaving you wondering where to even start. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of tourist traps instead of finding the real adventures that get your heart pumping.

We promise this guide will cut through that noise. We’re not just listing attractions; we’re giving you a practical, field-tested roadmap to the best outdoor things to do in ft collins colorado. This is for the hikers, the paddlers, the campers, and the explorers who want to experience the raw, authentic beauty of Northern Colorado.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best trails for every skill level, learn how to safely navigate the Poudre River, find the perfect campsite (whether you’re in a tent or a van), and get essential tips for exploring sustainably. Let’s gear up and get you ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Hit the Trails: Essential Hiking Near Fort Collins

The foothills west of Fort Collins are a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle strolls to lung-busting climbs. Getting out on the trails is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the area, but preparation is key. Here are our top picks.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

This is the iconic Fort Collins hike. The journey to Horsetooth Rock is a challenging but manageable 5-mile round trip that rewards you with panoramic views of the city and the plains. It’s a must-do, but it can get crowded.

Pro Tip: Go on a weekday or start very early on a weekend to avoid the crowds. Pack plenty of water, at least 2 liters per person, especially in the summer. We recommend a hydration pack like a CamelBak for easy access. The final scramble to the top requires using your hands, so make sure you have sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, like the Merrell Moab 3.

Lory State Park

Just next door to Horsetooth, Lory State Park offers a network of trails with fewer people. Arthur’s Rock Trail is a fantastic alternative to Horsetooth Rock, offering a similarly stunning view from its summit. It’s a steady climb but well worth the effort.

For a gentler experience, the valley floor trails are perfect for a relaxed walk or trail run. One of the benefits of things to do in ft collins colorado like hiking here is the incredible biodiversity—keep an eye out for mule deer and a wide variety of birds.

Hiking Best Practices

A great day on the trail starts with smart planning. Always check the weather before you leave; afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer. Let someone know your route and expected return time. And remember, you’re in black bear and mountain lion country. While encounters are rare, it’s wise to know the safety protocols.

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Paddle and Fish: Water Adventures on the Poudre River and Horsetooth Reservoir

When the Colorado sun gets intense, the best place to be is on the water. Fort Collins offers incredible opportunities for paddling, floating, and fishing, making it a perfect summer destination.

Cache la Poudre River

As Colorado’s only designated “Wild and Scenic” river, the Poudre (pronounced poo-der) is the lifeblood of the region. The upper sections offer thrilling Class III-IV whitewater rafting (go with a guide company like A Wanderlust Adventure if you’re not an expert). The lower, calmer sections near town are perfect for tubing on a hot day.

A common problem with things to do in ft collins colorado on the river is underestimating its power. Even in calm sections, the current is strong. Always wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and never tie tubes together, as this can create a serious snag hazard.

Horsetooth Reservoir

For flatwater fun, nothing beats Horsetooth Reservoir. The calm, expansive water is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, and boating. You can rent gear from outfitters right at the marina.

Find a quiet cove, drop an anchor, and enjoy a swim. It’s also a popular spot for fishing, with anglers reeling in smallmouth bass, walleye, and trout. A valid Colorado fishing license is required.

Your Ultimate Guide to Camping and Overlanding Spots

Sleeping under the stars is a core part of the Colorado experience. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking your RV, or finding a dispersed spot for your overlanding rig, this things to do in ft collins colorado guide has you covered.

Established Campgrounds

For those who appreciate amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, the campgrounds in Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests are fantastic. The Dutch George and Stove Prairie Campgrounds along the Poudre Canyon are popular for a reason—they offer beautiful riverside sites.

Heads Up: These spots are extremely popular and often book out months in advance. Reserve your site on Recreation.gov as early as possible, especially for summer weekends.

Dispersed Camping (Boondocking)

For the more self-sufficient adventurer, national forest land offers incredible opportunities for free, dispersed camping. The key is to find designated areas and follow the rules. A great resource for finding spots is the iOverlander app or a detailed Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for the forest district.

When camping dispersed, you are entirely on your own. You must pack out everything you pack in—including human waste. A portable toilet system like a Luggable Loo or a simple wag bag system is essential. This is a core tenet of sustainable and eco-friendly things to do in ft collins colorado.

Two-Wheeled Adventures: Biking Trails for Every Skill Level

Fort Collins is a certified Platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Community, and for good reason. The city and surrounding areas are crisscrossed with amazing trails for road cyclists, casual riders, and mountain bikers.

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Poudre River Trail

This 21-mile paved trail is a local gem. It meanders along the Poudre River, offering a flat, scenic, and safe ride for families and beginners. It’s a perfect way to spend a morning, connecting several parks and natural areas without ever having to deal with traffic.

Mountain Biking at Lory State Park & Horsetooth

The foothills are a playground for mountain bikers. Lory State Park features flowy, fast singletrack perfect for intermediate riders. For a real challenge, connect to the trail system at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space via the Blue Sky Trail for an epic, all-day ride.

Before you head out, do a quick ABC check on your bike: Air (tire pressure), Brakes (ensure they work properly), and Chain (check for rust and proper lubrication). Always wear a helmet, no matter how short the ride.

How to Explore Responsibly: A Care Guide for Fort Collins’ Wild Spaces

The beauty of Fort Collins is its wildness, and it’s our collective responsibility to keep it that way. Practicing responsible recreation ensures these places remain pristine for generations to come. This is one of the most important things to do in ft collins colorado best practices.

Embrace Leave No Trace

This is more than just “pack it in, pack it out.” The seven principles of Leave No Trace are the gold standard for outdoor ethics.

  • Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations and be prepared for the weather.
  • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to existing trails and campsites.
  • Dispose of Waste Properly: This includes food scraps and human waste.
  • Leave What You Find: Let others enjoy the beauty of rocks, plants, and other natural objects.
  • Minimize Campfire Impacts: Always check for fire bans first! If allowed, use existing fire rings and make sure your fire is dead out.
  • Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed wild animals.
  • Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to uphill hikers and keep noise levels down.

Wildlife Safety

You are a visitor in their home. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Store food and scented items in a bear-resistant container (like a BearVault canister) or a locked vehicle when camping. Knowing how to react calmly during an encounter is a critical outdoor skill.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Ft Collins Colorado

What’s the best time of year for outdoor activities in Fort Collins?

Summer (June-August) is prime time for water sports and high-country hiking, but it’s also the busiest. Fall (September-October) is our favorite, with golden aspen leaves, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. Spring can be muddy, and winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the nearby mountains.

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Do I need any special permits for hiking or camping?

Yes, often. Lory State Park and Horsetooth Mountain Open Space require a daily pass or an annual state/county parks pass. For camping in established campgrounds, you’ll need a reservation. Dispersed camping is free, but you must follow all posted regulations.

Is Fort Collins a good base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park?

Absolutely. The iconic Fall River entrance to RMNP is just a scenic 1.5-hour drive away via Estes Park. Fort Collins offers a more relaxed, less tourist-heavy base with its own world-class outdoor recreation, making it a perfect launchpad for a day trip into the national park.

Are there any beginner-friendly trails for someone new to hiking?

Yes! The Poudre River Trail is completely flat and paved. For a true hiking experience, try the Shoreline Trail at Lory State Park or the Foothills Trail at Maxwell Natural Area. These offer beautiful views with minimal elevation gain.

What should I do if I encounter wildlife on a trail?

Stay calm. Do not run. For bears and mountain lions, make yourself look as large as possible, make loud noises, and back away slowly. Never turn your back. For moose, give them a very wide berth as they can be aggressive. For non-predatory animals like deer, simply give them space to move on.

Fort Collins is an adventurer’s dream, a place where city life and wild country blend seamlessly. It offers a lifetime of trails to hike, rivers to paddle, and peaks to climb. By planning ahead, gearing up properly, and committing to responsible recreation, you can unlock the very best of what this incredible corner of Colorado has to offer.

Now, check the trail conditions, pack your bag, and get out there. The adventure is waiting.

Eric James
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