Contact Information Contact Information
Dept Director
- John Stokes
- bmF0dXJhbGFyZWFzQGZjZ292LmNvbQ==
- 970.416.2815
- 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (M-F, except for holidays)
Natural Areas Newsletter Natural Areas Newsletter
Before You Go: Check Trail & Parking Conditions
- Natural Areas Trail Conditions webpage
- NoCoTrailReport.org (map includes Larimer County Open Spaces, Lory State Park)
- Facebook (Facebook.com/FCNaturalAreas)
- Twitter (@FCNaturalAreas)
- Call an on-duty Ranger, 970-416-2147
The busiest times at natural areas are 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. on weekends, so try visiting earlier or later, or on weekdays 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.
Foothills Management Plan
The Foothills Natural Areas Management Plan update describes various approaches to maintain and improve the rich plant and wildlife communities in the foothills while also managing for enjoyable, sustainable recreation access to these beautiful landscapes.
The Draft Management Plan was available for public feedback, August 16- September 2.
The final Management Plan will be released in the fall of 2019.
Tracks & Trails is Now the Natural Areas Explorer
The Natural Areas Explorer is your guide to free activities this summer in Fort Collins natural areas! Formerly called Tracks & Trails, the Explorer booklet lists events like Skygazing and Nature Play Dates for kids, plus a Science Behind the Scenery series, outdoor art classes, and lots more for you to discover.
New this year, the Explorer features trail recommendations and stewardship tips. Registration is required and new this year, registration opens 30 days prior to the activity.
The Explorer booklet is available online now and printed copies are available at natural area trailheads, Natural Areas Department headquarters (1745 Hoffman Mill Road, M-F, 8-5), and local businesses.
Odor Update: Southeast Fort Collins
The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department has received many complaints recently of a very strong odor in southeast Fort Collins. On Monday, 7/8 we determined that the odor is in part, if not largely coming from Duck Lake, which is managed by NAD as a part of the Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area. Duck Lake is on the south side of Carpenter Road, east of Timberline Road.
The City of Fort Collins and Larimer County are very sorry about the discomfort the odor from Duck Lake has caused many in the surrounding area.
Play it Safe on the Poudre River
Sure the water looks inviting- but is it really?
If you decide to get on the water, study this brochure and make a plan. Walk the route before you go tubing, or boating.