Walking the Poudre River Trail in Cache la Poudre River Corridor

The Poudre River Trail is a premier destination for walking enthusiasts seeking scenic tranquility and an immersive outdoor experience near Fort Collins, Colorado. Stretching over 21 miles, the trail weaves through diverse landscapes, including riparian ecosystems, cottonwood groves, and sweeping plains, offering pristine views of the Cache la Poudre River. This trail stands out for its accessibility, smooth paths, and proximity to wildlife, making it a must-visit for locals and travelers alike.

Adventure Guide to Walking the Poudre River Trail

Start at Riverbend Ponds Natural Area
Located near Prospect Road, this segment features serene ponds surrounded by birdlife, including herons and waterfowl. The connecting trails here are ideal for shorter walks, with seating areas to enjoy views of wetlands. For photographers, this spot shines during sunrise with vivid reflections off the water.
Sights Around Legacy Park
This centrally located stretch in Fort Collins includes well-maintained paths that are both stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. The trail here offers a mix of shaded and open areas, with views of the river’s dynamic flow. Picnic areas and a charming pedestrian bridge make it a great mid-point stop.
Western End at Lions Open Space
Located near Laporte, the western reach of the trail offers a more rugged experience, with grassy landscapes transitioning into foothills. This area provides glimpses of history, including remnants of the Overland Trail, a historic stagecoach route. Be on the lookout for mule deer grazing along the path.

Local Insights

The trail is a Certified National Recreation Trail and is named after the Cache la Poudre River, which was designated as Colorado’s first National Wild and Scenic River. The name stems from French trappers who hid gunpowder ("poudre") in the area during the 1820s. The trail also plays a role in connecting communities, linking natural areas, parks, and cultural heritage sites.

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Visit early mornings in spring or fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and binoculars for birdwatching.
Directions: From Fort Collins, head northwest along Highway 287. Most entry points to the trail are a 10-20 minute drive.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Samuel Elliot4 years ago

The trail was amazing, a nice casual stroll, with beautiful views. Every turn produced a stunning opportunity, gorgeous colors of leaves against a serene sky. The later it got, the more beautiful it was. Great place for a photo shoot, a bike ride, a leisurely walk, or even fishing. This is a place to remember on a colorful Autumn day.

Paivi Oh3 years ago

Love these ponds! There are a plethora of ponds, and just as many ways to walk around them. I walk with my dogs. It's a flat walk, about 2 miles around, in a beautiful, natural setting. There are restrooms at the entrances, and I often see anglers out there going for a bite. During summer, watch out for huge, biting flies!! And snakes!!

Aaron Deckera year ago

Great small park with plenty of ponds. It is a nice location for a walk, run, dog walk, fishing, or just solitude. There were other cars here but I only ran into a couple of people. Everybody is pretty well spread out. There isn't a whole lot of tree coverage. If you're looking for shade, you may want to bring your own. Pretty open and flat. Plenty of room for parking and a bathroom as well. All very clean and well maintained.

UKCat4life6 months ago

Bugs!!!!! But I like it because you can go for a short walk around the ponds or go on a longer walk around a few ponds and easy access to the river. Watch out for water snakes tho. Great place for bird watching

Steve Dempsey2 years ago

Just discovered this place and absolutely Beatiful to walk, walk your pup, fish or just chill. Hard to believe the highway is so close but yet you don't any cars at all. It's like you step through time and visit a totally different place, it's surreal. An absolute awesome place in Fort Collins and very relaxing places to kill a few hours and just relax.

Walking the Poudre River Trail in Cache la Poudre River Corridor