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River Bluffs Open Space & Poudre River Trail

River Bluffs Open Space is a small but spectacular open space that provides something for all, human and wildlife alike. The Poudre River is its signature feature and provides one half mile of pools and riffles for ducks, other waterfowl, wading birds, and curious anglers. Raptors such as red-tailed hawks and great horned owls also call River Bluffs home.

River Bluffs Open Space is the newest addition to the Poudre River Trail. Once complete, the Poudre River Trail will be over 40 miles running from Bellvue, north of Fort Collins, to Island Grove Park in Greeley. The trail is currently in two sections separated by a 6-mile gap. The trail on River Bluffs Open Space connects to 21 beautiful miles of trail running southeast through Wildlife Areas and parks. The City of Ft. Collins manages a major section of the trail and Poudre River Trail Corridor Inc., a non-profit organization, manages the trail in Weld County.

Filling the 6-mile gap is one of Larimer County Natural Resources' top priorities. Larimer County and partners are currently working with willing landowners to acquire trail easements to fill the gap and will submit a grant application in the spring of 2012 to help acquire funding. If the grant is successful, new trail will be constructed in 2012 and 2013. The Poudre River Trail is envisioned to be complete in the next few years.

For now, be sure to check out the newest section of the Poudre River Trail at River Bluffs Open Space. River Bluffs Open Space has no entrance fee, is open year around from dawn to dusk and is located east of I-25 between Timnath and Windsor.

General Regulations

For specifics, ask a ranger for a copy of the Regulations Brochure.
  • You are responsible for knowing and abiding by the rules of this Open Space.
  • Share the trail - foot travel and non-motorized bikes are welcome on designated trails. No horses allowed.
  • Prevent trail conflict - Bikers must yield to Hikers.
  • Dogs must be leashed. Please pick up after your dog. Dog bags are available at the trailhead.
  • Please pack out and dispose of all trash.
  • Stay on designated trails at all times. Staying on trails prevents resource damage, erosion and wildlife conflict.
  • Do not camp or build fires of any kind.
  • Day use only - the open space trailhead is closed from sunset to sunrise.
  • Special use permits required for any group use and special activities.

Directions and Parking

Trails

Property Information

Management Plan