Prospect Ponds Natural Area
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Trail Status:
Description
There is more than ponds at Prospect Ponds Natural Area- a section of the Poudre River runs through the site and there are trails, picnic tables and fishing. Anglers catch species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish. More fishing details are listed here. Prospect Ponds is also a nice place for a lunchtime walk or picnic.
Over 100 species of birds have been seen at Prospect Ponds, including black-crowned night-herons, bald eagles, Swainsons hawks, great horned owls, wood ducks, and hooded mergansers. Mammals include mule deer, foxes and bats.
Prospect Ponds is co-managed by Fort Collins Utilities and the Natural Areas Department for flood control, water quality improvement and wildlife habitat.
The boundaries of Prospect Ponds Natural Area slightly changed as directed in the 2011 update to the Cache la Poudre River Natural Areas Management Plan. The land west of the west side channel of the river (previously Cottonwood Hollow Natural Area) is now known as Prospect Ponds.
Photos
Melannie in grass
Trails
The paved Poudre River Trail follows the western border of Prospect Ponds and soft surface trails encircle the ponds making a figure 8 trail configuration. Total trail distance is about 1.3 miles. Trail Map >>>
Hours
5:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m.
Directions
There are two parking lots, both off Sharp Point Drive, at approximatly 2108 Sharp Point Drive, Fort Collins.Activities & Events
Related Information
- Know before you go safety and recreation information.
- Prospect Ponds Natural Area is adopted by the American Society of Civil Engineers- thank you! By picking up litter, volunteer adopters enhance habitat for wildlife and native plants while increasing fellow visitors' enjoyment.
- Poudre River Natural Areas Management Plan