River Bluffs Open Space

Your browser's JavaScript is disabled. Many features on this site won't work. Fix it

Southeast Fort Collins

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.

The Poudre River Trail at River Bluffs Open Space connects to 21 beautiful miles of trail running southeast through wildlife areas and parks. All non-motorized activities including walking, biking and inline skating are allowed at River Bluffs Open Space. Picnic tables and river access provide a great setting to relax and enjoy the Poudre River.

The paved trail through River Bluffs Open Space is a segment of the larger Poudre River Trail located in Fort Collins, Timnath, Windsor, Weld County and Greeley.

River Restoration Project

Restoration work was completed in 2019 to make the Cache la Poudre River and surrounding lands at River Bluffs Open Space more resilient during flooding and ensure they provide healthy habitat for fish and wildlife.

June 2019 Project Update

March 2019 Project Update

February 2019 Update

Trail Map Regulations

Features

Accessible

Biking

Drinking

Fishing

Hiking

Picnic

Restroom

Map & Directions

Directions from I-25:

Take Exit 262 east bound for 1.5 miles to County Road 3.
Go north on County Road 3 for 0.5 miles to County Road 32E.
Go east on County Road 32E for 0.3 miles to the entrance of River Bluffs on the right.

Directions from Windsor:

From 7th Street, take State Highway 392 for 2 miles to County Road 13.
Go north on County Road 13 for 0.5 miles to County Road 32E.
Go west on County Road 32E for 0.75 miles to the entrance of River Bluffs on the left.

Trails & Weather

Trails Report

All Trails Facebook Twitter

Trail Name (map)	Length	Max-Min Altitude	Use	Surface
{{ r.name }}	{{ vm.getLength(r.meta.length.display_value) }}	{{ vm.getElev(r.meta.max_elevation.value,r.meta.min_elevation.value) \| number: 0 }} ft		{{ r.meta.surface.display_value }}

Weather

Air Quality

Updates every half hour.

Photos

Click a photo to enlarge.

Regulations

For specifics, ask a ranger or see a kiosk for a copy of the Regulations.

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.
Drones are prohibited.
Stay on designated trails at all times. Staying on trails prevents resource damage, erosion and wildlife conflict.
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on the Poudre River Trail. Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited.
Power-driven mobility devices that are not gas-powered, are lighter than 500 pounds, have an outside wheel width that does not exceed the width of the trail, and are designed to have a maximum speed of 20 mph or less are allowed.
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.

Management Plan

The management plan for River Bluffs Open Space was developed by Larimer County staff based on input from public meetings and a professional steering committee.

River Bluffs Open Space Management Plan

Property Information

Type of Acquisition	#Acres	Property Value	Partnerships Bargain Sales Donations	Date Acquired	Public Access
Fee Simple	161	$ 1,920,000	Larimer Co - $ 720,000 GOCO* - $ 1,200,000	2004	Yes

*Great Outdoors Colorado