More than 3,000 acres of water make North Sterling Reservoir a notable destination for water activities. Here, you can go boating, fishing, jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and water skiing. The landscape also offers variety on land: trails, riverbanks, nature, and culture provide different perspectives on Logan and Sterling.
Water and Prairie Landscape
North Sterling State Park lies in gently rolling prairie at the western edge of the Great Plains. It is located on the South Platte Terrace, which is part of the Ogallala Formation. The park has about 6.5 miles of trails. Another 2,800 acres of land offer opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and hiking, among other activities.
For a specific route, the Overlook Loop Trail offers a clear option: the 0.7-mile trail is unpaved and used for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. At the Cottonwood Cove beach, there are flush restrooms, a public picnic pavilion, and a playground.
The boating season at the reservoir begins in spring after the ice melts and lasts through October 31. Check the seasonal dates before your trip. This will help you plan your stay around the available water activities.
Trails Along the River and in the Parks
The South Platte River forms several channels in Logan County and flows near the Overland Trail Recreation Area. Its multi-use trails circle a fishing pond and run along the riverbank. They are open to walkers, joggers, skaters, and cyclists of all ages and abilities. The Sterling section of the river also has scenic trails for walking and hiking.
At Pioneer Park, you can choose between two trails with different lengths and surfaces: a 0.6-mile nature trail winds through trees and brush, and there is also a 0.75-mile concrete trail. The Pioneer Park Disc Golf Course offers a different challenge: its holes combine open and wooded sections with elevation changes and narrow passages.
The Logan County Shooting Sports Complex covers more than 300 acres and offers trap shooting as well as rifle, pistol, and archery facilities. It also has league competitions, annual memberships, and safety courses. Operations and participation requirements may change; check the latest information.
History, Art, and Local Life in Sterling
The Overland Trail Museum focuses on the history of the Overland Trail. Children can pan for gold there. Sterling Creatives offers another way to discover local art: the artists' cooperative in Sterling displays locally made art and hosts workshops and demonstrations.
You can also encounter art in public spaces: Sterling features Bradford Rhea's tree sculptures, bronze installations, colorful murals, and local galleries. Together with the artists' cooperative, these offerings provide a way to experience art that includes both works throughout the city and opportunities for collaborative creation and demonstrations.
The Logan County Farmer’s Market brings together local growers, producers, artisans, and makers. Offerings include seasonal fresh vegetables, baked goods, and handmade products. Market dates are seasonal and may change, so check the schedule before visiting.
The Tourist Information Center provides information about Logan County and the state of Colorado. It is at Sterling’s eastern entrance and is part of the Colorado Department of Transportation rest area at Exit 125 off I-76. Its location and amenities may change; check both before you travel.
More Recreational Opportunities
Sky Ranch Golf Course was founded in 1916 as the Sterling Country Club. It is the oldest golf course in northeastern Colorado and one of the five oldest golf courses in the state. The Sterling Recreation Center adds an indoor pool and an outdoor pool, beach access, a splash pool, several water features, and three slides.
Discover more destinations: Sterling, Grand, Garfield, Otero, El Paso, Broomfield, Jefferson, Gilpin County.
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