Natural Areas and Trails Rangers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I contact a ranger?
If you are ever in need of assistance in an emergency, you should dial 911. For non-emergency situations such as reporting incidents and question regarding regulations, call (970) 416-2147. Your call will automatically be forwarded to the cell phone of one of the on-duty rangers. Rangers can be individually reached >>>
What are the hours natural areas are open to the public?
Natural areas are open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day except for Soapstone Prairie, Gateway and Bobcat Ridge natural areas which are open from dawn to dusk. Soapstone Prairie is closed in December, January and February. These hours allow wildlife a period of rest from human disturbance. In order to enter a natural area during off hours, a free, online permit is required.
Where can I run my dog unleashed?
The leash law applies in all natural areas. There are no natural areas or city parks where dogs are allowed to be unleashed. The City of Fort Collins Parks Department has dog parks where dogs can be unleashed within an enclosed area.
Is there a Lost and Found?
If you have lost an item or found an item in a natural area or on a paved trail, contact Fort Collins Police Services, (970) 221-6540. You are welcome to check with a ranger. The ranger office does not have a Lost and Found but rangers are happy to keep an eye open for a lost item.
Is there a map of the foothills trail system?
Yes, see map of the foothills trail. Some guidebook maps are inaccurate, so don't rely on them for trail reference.
What do I do if I get a ticket from a ranger?
If you are cited by a ranger, follow the instructions on the back of your ticket at the bottom. Contact the court if you have any questions. If your ticket is pink, you will contact Municipal Court. If your ticket is blue, you will contact Larimer County Court. The phone number for the court is printed on the back of the ticket. Be ready to provide your case number, which is written at top, right-hand corner of your ticket.
I lost my copy of the ticket. What should I do?
If you have lost your copy of the ticket, the appropriate court will have a copy on file. You will have to wait 7-10 days after the ticket is issued before the court can pull your case number from the system.
How much is the fine for an unleashed dog ticket?
If you received a ticket for having your dog unleashed, called “animal at large,” contact Municipal Court at (970) 221-6800 for fine information. Rangers do not have the fine schedule and therefore cannot give you that information.
Is camping allowed on _____ natural area?
Camping is not allowed in City of Fort Collins Natural Areas.
Can I hunt and fish in natural areas?
Hunting is not allowed in natural areas. Fishing is allowed in many natural areas, but not all. See the Natural Areas Finder and click the fishing icon to sort the list. Also see the Natural Areas Fishing website. If you are not sure, please contact a ranger. Fishing is regulated by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW). You must have a valid fishing license. You can check fishing regulations at http://wildlife.state.co.us/RulesRegs/RegulationsBrochures/. Please note that ice fishing is not allowed in any natural area.
Can I boat on the ponds in natural areas?
Yes, but only in a non-motorized or a boat with an electric trolling motor, and only in ponds that allow fishing. Please note that all Colorado State and U.S. Coast Guard rules apply.