Natural History Hike

Are you interested in learning about the natural world that exists in our County Open Spaces? So many interesting plants and animals, birds, butterflies and, of course, there is the geology. Explore and learn about the many life forms that call Larimer County their homes. Naturalist Rob Pickett leads this moderately easy 3-mile loop hike starting at the Homestead Meadows Trailhead. The wildflowers along this trail include a rare mutation of our State wildflower, the Colorado, or Rocky Mountain, columbine. This high elevation montane habitat includes a number of conifers not found along the Front Range.

Homestead Meadows Trailhead, located in Hermit Park Open Space about 3 miles beyond the entrance.

Program is free, but this location requires a $10 day use fee if you do not already have a yearly entrance permit; if you would like to join without paying the fee, you can check out a Discover Pack from a local library or one of our offices.

Hike: You will be hiking a 3 mile loop which is classified as a moderate easy trail.
• No or limited steep hills and few obstacles
• Some obstacles, rough surfaces, easy scrambling
• Roots, imbedded rocks

Participants should bring:
• Binoculars, if you have them
• Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen)
• Wear comfortable hiking/walking shoes (closed-toe recommended)
• Water
• Insect repellant
• Snacks
• Clothing appropriate for the weather
• Backpack (to carry it all)

Weather dependent