Lory State Park wilderness guide
State Park · CO

Lory State Park

Lory State Park offers diverse outdoor adventures with scenic trails and a stunning landscape near Fort Collins, Colorado.

State Park2,4924+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area2,492
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Lory State Park

Lory State Park offers diverse outdoor adventures with scenic trails and a stunning landscape near Fort Collins, Colorado.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located just west of Fort Collins, Colorado, Lory State Park spans the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offering visitors a diverse range of outdoor activities and natural beauty. This state park is characterized by its unique geography, featuring red sandstone hogbacks, expansive meadows, and lush forests. The park's ecology includes a rich mix of flora and fauna, providing habitats for mule deer, mountain lions, and various bird species. History enthusiasts can appreciate the park's lands, which were once home to Native American tribes and early settlers. The park is a haven for recreation, boasting 26 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, including the popular Arthur's Rock Trail and the scenic Timber Trail. Carter Lake and Horsetooth Reservoir, located nearby, offer opportunities for fishing and paddling, enhancing the park's appeal. Overall, Lory State Park charms visitors with its natural beauty, recreational diversity, and proximity to the vibrant community of Fort Collins.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lory State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Arthur's Rock Trail offers panoramic views of the valley and Horsetooth Reservoir.✦ The diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, offering great opportunities for birdwatching.✦ Horsetooth Reservoir provides additional recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing.✦ The Well Gulch Nature Trail is a quiet, scenic route perfect for a peaceful walk.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lory State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lory State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Lory State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lory State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Lory State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Lory State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Lory State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lory State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily park passes or annual state park passes are required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Lory State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Backcountry Sites

These primitive sites are located within the park, offering seclusion and a true wilderness experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lory State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Bellvue, Colorado
⌖ 3.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellvue, Colorado

Bellvue, CO is an adventurer’s hidden gem, providing access to the Front Range for hiking, rafting, and camping. Revel in serene trails, rich wildlife, and clear waters.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Laporte, Colorado
⌖ 4.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Colorado

Laporte, Colorado, offers a peaceful foothills setting with excellent hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing opportunities along the Cache la Poudre River, making it a perfect base for outdoor lovers seeking a quiet adventure.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Fort Collins, Colorado
⌖ 5.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins is an outdoorsy college town with stellar hiking, biking, and paddling spots. Dive into its craft beer scene after adventures in the scenic Rocky Mountain foothills.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Timnath, Colorado
⌖ 10.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Timnath, Colorado

Timnath, Colorado, offers a quiet basecamp close to Fort Collins with easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Explore local natural areas and nearby foothills for year-round outdoor fun.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Loveland, Colorado
⌖ 13.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Loveland, Colorado

Loveland, CO is a gateway to Colorado's great outdoors, offering hiking, mountain biking, and skiing opportunities. Discover the local scenery with adventures around every corner.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Livermore, Colorado
⌖ 15.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livermore, Colorado

Livermore is a peaceful mountain town east of Rocky Mountain National Park, ideal for hiking, fishing, and backpacking. Its quiet trails and alpine lakes offer solitude and scenic beauty away from crowds.

June through September for hiking and fishing; December through March for snowshoeing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lory State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.