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.
Join Larimer County Naturalists for an up-close exploration of the geology of Devil's Backbone Open Space. Learn more about the area's distinct rock formations that formed hundreds of millions of years ago in ancient environments such as salt flats, floodplains, deserts, alkaline lakes, and gravelly rivers—when North America looked vastly different than it does today. As we hike the Morrison Loop, you'll learn the basics of Earth's history through the colorful rock layers, which have been uplifted by geologic forces to create the Backbone's striking landscape.
Come explore the history, geology and wildlife of Eagles Nest Open Space with Larimer County Naturalist, Nancy Rausch! This area provides abundant opportunities to see wildlife, wildflowers, and sweeping views. During our walk, we'll delve into the area's history and get to know the unique plants and animals that call this beautiful habitat home. We may even spot some of the area's namesake Eagle's soaring over the nearby cliffs.

Participants will meet at the Eagle's Nest trailhead.

Program is free, but registration is required.
Join Larimer County Naturalist Betsy Perna to learn about the Ravens of Devil's Backbone Open Space. Ravens are unique and intelligent. On this hike, you will learn about these brilliant birds - their adaptations, habitats, and more! The program is best suited for participants 16 years and older.

Participants will meet under the covered pavilion, at the Devil's Backbone trailhead.
What's in a name? A whole lot if your name is Horsetooth Mountain and your profile is part of Fort Collins' City logo. In this 2-hour guided hike, we'll explore the geology, topography, and ecology of one of our area's most iconic natural landmarks. As we hike through the lower part of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, we'll dig into the science of deep time and the ancient geologic events that shaped the dramatic foothills landscape we see today. We'll also reflect on creation stories passed down through generations by some of the area's earliest residents.
Larimer County Park Rangers are hosting a Rangers and Reels Youth Fishing Day at Flatiron Reservoir.

This hands-on event will introduce local youth and their families to the basics of fishing. With guidance from Larimer County Rangers and Colorado Parks & Wildlife, kids will learn how to cast, handle fish safely, and enjoy a day by the water. The program starts at 10 am with education and handing out supplies.

This program is for students age 5-16 years. A parent or guardian must accompany the children for this program.
Join our local experts to learn more about our neighbor, the Mountain Lion. Caroline Krumm and Dr. Don Hunter with the Rocky Mountain Cat Conservancy (RMCC) present a one-hour class on mountain lions. They will share illuminating information from their 7-year research study of mountain lions in the northern Front Range and cover the basic ecology and behavioral characteristics of this keystone species. This interactive program will include a candid discussion about the realities of living among one of north Americas top predators.