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Arapaho Bend Natural Area#

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Trail Status

Open without issues.

Description#

Arapaho Bend is a scenic entryway into Fort Collins with natural and cultural features to enjoy! It is a popular fishing spot and is often visited by equestrians. You may see or hear some of the over 80 species of birds that use the habitat here including American white pelicans, prairie falcons, and cormorants. Visitors also may see mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, beavers, coyotes, foxes and deer. Anglers may catch bass, bluegill, yellow perch, or sunfish in the ponds reclaimed from previous gravel mining. View more fishing details.

Come see the ruins of the historic Strauss Cabin, one of the earliest log cabins in the area. The cabin was restored in 1997 and burned by arsonists in 1999. The cabin ruins were closed to the public from 1999-2012. The Natural Areas Department acquired the property from Larimer County and cleaned up the site with the help of volunteers. The pedestrian access bridge has been repaired. Please visit with respect.

While this site brings with it the hum of traffic on adjacent I-25, it provides opportunities for relaxing recreation with impressive views of the mountains and a glimpse into Fort Collins past.

Arapaho Woods

Untitled by Mandy Thrasher

Bench

Bench at Arapaho Bend by James Leveillee

River

Morning Commute by Brian Brewington

Sun

Sunrise Curl by Kevin Clarke

Bald Eagles

Bald Eagles

Sunset

Arapaho Sunset by Doyle Lauterbach

Cabin

Ruins of Strauss Cabin, 2012

Trails#

About 4 miles of natural surface and paved trail follow the edge of the ponds in a loop and encircle Rigden Reservoir.  E-bikes are not permitted on soft/natural surface trails. ADA mobility devices are allowed. View Map

Hours#

5:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m.

Plan Your Visit#

Popular times.

Directions#

There are 3 parking lots: one at the east end of Horsetooth Road (closest access to Strauss Cabin ruins), one on Strauss Cabin Road between Horsetooth and Harmony, and one at the Harmony Transfer Center. Arapaho Bend Natural Area has no entrance fee or parking fee.

Horse trailer parking only available at Harmony Transfer Center due to capacity.

Arapaho Bend's approximate address is 4109 East Horsetooth Road.

Events and Activities#

Related Information#