Before You Go: Check Trail & Parking Conditions
- Natural Areas Trail Conditions webpage fcgov.com/naturalareas/status
- COTREX https://trails.colorado.gov/
The busiest times at natural areas are weekends, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., so try visiting earlier or later, or on weekday mornings for the best chance at parking. Have an alternate destination in mind. When parking lots are full try another trailhead or come back another time. Avoid a parking ticket! Only park in designated spaces. All natural areas are free to enter, except Gateway Natural Area.
Montane Zone Update: Your Voice Matters
Natural Areas is listening! Please provide your feedback on how the Montane Zone will be managed for the next seven years.
The Montane Zone consists of two natural areas: Bobcat Ridge and Crossline Canyons natural areas. They provide important habitats for many wildlife and plant species in need of conservation. Bobcat Ridge also offers 20 miles of trails, scenic views, and a newly added 675 acres under trail planning. The DR Trail is now officially multi-use, including open to bikes in both directions, following strong support from over 900 survey responses.
Crossline Canyons Natural Area currently has no feasible public access. The area is managed for research and relatively undisturbed habitat, abundant wildlife, and sensitive plant species. Please respect property closures.
Please review the Montane Zone Update and share your input by June 30 to help guide future management.
Celebrate Your Natural Areas
Fort Collins’ natural areas are made possible thanks to community-initiated sales taxes that support trails, educational activities, restoration and stewardship. To celebrate these treasured spaces, you're invited to take part in the Natural Areas Treasure Hunt (Búsqueda de tesoros de Áreas naturales PDF)—a fun, self-guided activity that highlights the beauty and importance of local conservation.
Complete three of four simple activities and email a photo of your completed treasure hunt to naturalareas@fcgov.com by Nov. 1st, 2025 to receive an exclusive “Because of My Support” pin as a prize.
Thank you for helping to protect and celebrate your natural areas!
A Year of Positive Impact
Look back on a year of conservation wins, stewardship successes, and community impact. From 484 acres of new land acquisitions protecting vital wildlife habitats and migration corridors to 363 educational activities engaging nearly 15,000 participants, explore a year of positive impact.
Host Your Next Event at Primrose Studio
Primrose Studio is a secluded lakefront event venue at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area. It is perfect for corporate meetings, yoga and art classes, special events and more.