Maxwell Natural Area

Description

A beautiful foothills natural area where visitors can enjoy scenic views of the mountains and of the city. Listen for the spotted towhee’s call, which sounds like “drink-your-teeeee,” and look for mule deer which are common but easily blend into the mountain mahogany shrubs. The rare Bell’s twinpod grows at Maxwell. Watch out for rattlesnakes here.

Trails

The 1.5 mile trail at Maxwell Natural Area is part of the 6.8 mile Foothills Trail which crosses city, county, state and federal lands. The Foothills Trail connects Pineridge, Maxwell and Reservoir Ridge natural areas. Trail markers show you the way. Biking on the Foothills Trail is for the experienced cyclist- the trail is challenging.

Hours

5:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Directions

Maxwell Natural Area is just west of CSU’s Hughes Stadium. Parking lots are off County Rd 42 C and on Centennial/CR 23. Please do not park along CR 42C roadway.

Activities & Events

• Fort Collins Natural Areas Program Program and Activity Guide May-October 2009 (pdf).
• Free educational programs at Maxwell Natural Area are available for groups by request, call the Master Naturalist Program at 970-416-2480 or email

Related Information

• Foothills Natural Areas Management Plan
• Foothills Trail brochure