Horsetooth Rock is a prominent local landmark, visible from the plains. Devil's Backbone offers a different view of the geology: the formation known as a hogback consists of tilted layers of sedimentary rock. The first catches the eye as a visible feature in the landscape, while the second draws attention to the rock layers. In this way, Larimer offers a way to experience the landscape through its striking formations and geological structure.
Trails, Water and Winter
More than 28 miles of trails wind through forests, meadows and rock formations in Lory State Park. From the park, visitors can access the Quarry, Orchard, North Eltuck, South Eltuck, Soldier and Satanka coves at Horsetooth Reservoir for fishing. Several trails also offer opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. The landscape, access to the water and seasonal activities each offer a different focus for exploration.
Devil's Backbone Open Space is open from sunrise to sunset. The Devil's Backbone geological formation and the open space's hours provide two concrete points to keep in mind when planning a visit, without requiring a particular route.
River Landscapes and Their History
The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area begins in Larimer County at the eastern edge of the Roosevelt National Forest. It recognizes the river's role in the development of water law in the western United States and the advancement of water distribution systems. The area also offers opportunities for hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, fishing and birdwatching. It thus combines a cultural history theme with a range of outdoor activities.
At River Bluffs Open Space, the Poudre River includes a half-mile stretch with pools and shallow rapids. Waterfowl, shorebirds and anglers make use of this section of the river. The Poudre River Trail at River Bluffs Open Space is part of a 21-mile trail that heads southeast through wildlife areas and parks. Here, river features and a longer trail through varied landscapes sit side by side.
Birdlife and Trails
Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area is designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. It provides habitat for bald eagles in winter, other birds of prey, and many shorebird, songbird and waterfowl species. The area's trails include Heron Loop, Sandpiper Trail and Cattail Flats Trail; hiking is the only permitted activity there. For visitors interested in birdlife, both the diversity of species and this clear-use rule are important considerations.
More Perspectives on Larimer
Trail Ridge Road crosses Rocky Mountain National Park for 48 miles one way and reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level. The park also has five visitor centers. There, you can get information from park staff and learn more about points of interest, activities and ongoing programs. The road and the visitor centers offer different points of reference: a specific route through the park and places to find information about its offerings.
Big Thompson Parks offer public river access for fishing and picnicking. They charge no admission and are open from sunrise to sunset from April through October. At Carter Lake, the Carter Lake Sailing Club holds an annual regatta and other races. Both examples show how different water experiences in Larimer can be: access to the river or a sailing event.
Culture can also be explored through specific subjects. The Loveland Museum's collection includes objects related to sugar beet farming and processing. A look at agricultural work and processing thus complements the destination's nature and landscape themes.
Discover more destinations: Estes Park, Fort Collins, Loveland, Timnath, Berthoud, Kelim, Weld, Teller County.
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