Floating the Poudre River in Cache la Poudre River (Lower Canyon sections)
Adventure Destination

Floating the Poudre River in Cache la Poudre River (Lower Canyon sections)

Floating the Poudre River8.0/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Floating the Poudre River

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Floating the Cache la Poudre River’s Lower Canyon is one of the best summer activities near Fort Collins, Colorado, offering visitors and locals an exciting way to cool off while enjoying the region's beautiful landscape. The Poudre River, Colorado’s only designated Wild and Scenic River, stands out for its clear water, picturesque granite canyons, and diverse recreational opportunities. This activity is particularly popular in the Lower Canyon, where calmer stretches provide the perfect environment for tubing, a fun and family-friendly way to enjoy the water.

Floating the Poudre River in Cache la Poudre River (Lower Canyon sections)

Adventure Guide to Floating the Poudre River in Cache la Poudre River (Lower Canyon sections)

1

1. Picnic Rock Natural Area

  • Details:

    Location: About 12 miles northwest of Fort Collins on Highway 14.

  • Details:

    What Makes It Special: A well-known entry point for tubers, Picnic Rock offers easy water access and a sandy beach. The stretch downstream from here features relatively mild rapids, making it ideal for beginners or families seeking a low-stress tubing experience.

  • Details:

    Key Features: Restrooms, a parking lot, and designated areas for picnicking. 2. Gateway Natural Area

  • Details:

    Location: 14 miles from Fort Collins on Highway 14.

  • Details:

    What Makes It Special: This scenic area provides another popular take-out or put-in spot, with access to mild current sections for floating and breathtaking views of the canyon walls.

  • Details:

    Key Features: Picnic areas, restrooms, and walking trails to enjoy before or after your floating adventure. A vehicle fee applies for access. 3. Rock Tunnel Section

  • Details:

    Location: Midway through the Lower Canyon.

  • Details:

    What Makes It Special: Ideal for experienced tubers, this section features more rapids and rugged terrain. The thrilling ride is accompanied by dramatic canyon views. Consider scouting ahead if unfamiliar with river conditions.

2

Local Insights

  • Overview:

    The name “Cache la Poudre” comes from French trappers who hid gunpowder along its banks during a storm. The Lower Canyon provides a mix of rapids and calm pools, ensuring there’s something for all skill levels.

3

Visitor Tips

  • Details:

    Best Time to Visit: July through early August for optimal water levels.

  • Details:

    What to Bring: Sturdy tubes (no cheap inflatables), life jackets, water shoes, sunscreen, and a dry bag for valuables.

  • Details:

    Driving Directions: From Fort Collins, drive north on Highway 287, then head west on Highway 14. Travel time: 25–35 minutes.

Reviews

M
Maicie Lingwall3 months ago

Pretty and quiet. Good hiking trails close.

A
AJ L4 months ago

Unexpected surprise during today’s drive through Poudre Canyon. Delightful hidden gem of a large well developed natural area along the Poudre. Enjoy my video and pics.

C
C. Louise4 months ago

Maintenance worker/wanna-be forest ranger was extremely over the top, following a lady around with dogs “reminding” (more like harassing) her not to let go of the dog’s leashes…we didn’t see her let go of the leash once. I did however see children running around leaving trash everywhere, I’m pretty sure that should’ve been addressed first. I felt bad for the young lady.

J
Joseph Zhang3 months ago

This is a beautiful area with many BBQ grills and picnic tables. Very easy access to river. The hiking trails are nice too.

P
pkg msu20004 months ago

Please let me know what you’re doing with my $8 because it’s definitely NOT keeping up with trail signage. Once you figure out where the trails start, really easy short nice family hikes to beautiful canyon scenery.

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Floating the Poudre River in Cache la Poudre River (Lower Canyon sections)7.80 miEasy
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Float the Lower Canyon of the Cache la Poudre River near Fort Collins, Colorado, offering easy access to refreshing waters ideal for tubing and kayaking. Enjoy scenic canyon views and mild rapids. Perfect for a summer family-friendly adventure.

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Experience rafting on the Lower Poudre River near Fort Collins, Colorado. With Class II rapids, it's perfect for families and beginners. Scenic views abound, and the trip takes approximately 3-4 hours.

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