Shields Street River Access#
Natural Areas is Listening
The draft Poudre River Zone Update will be available by May 1 for review and comment here.
Please share your input on how ten Urban Zone natural areas and local natural spaces are managed. Your feedback will inform the priorities and tactics that will appear in the draft Zone Update.
Trail Status
Description#
This parking area provides safe access to the Cache la Poudre River, the Poudre Trail, North Shields Ponds and McMurry natural areas. It is a convenient river access for recreationists who kayak, canoe or tube. Use the underpass or sidewalks to stay safe. The parking lot is owned by Larimer County and managed by City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department.

The Poudre River at high water upstream from Shields Street

Storm Over the Poudre River Photo by Mchael VanBeber

The Poudre River and Bridge at Shields St. River Access
Hours#
5:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m.
Plan Your Visit#
Popular times.

Directions#
On Shields Street, between Willox and Vine on the west side of the road, north side of the river. The approximate address is 1219 North Shields Street. No horse trailer parking is available.
Activities and Events#
- Free educational activities and events in June-October are listed in the Natural Areas Explorer booklet guide.
- Last minute activity additions, trail recommendations and events offered between November-May are in our free monthly electronic newsletter- sign up on this page.
- Special people have volunteered to take an active role in the stewardship of natural areas by doing monthly litter pick-ups. You can join the fun and adopt a natural area, too!