Larimer County has some of the most beautiful open lands in the entire state. To enjoy these natural resources responsibly, follow these simple tips. This way, you and those around you can have a memorable and safe experience while minimizing the impacts on our natural resources.
Natural Resources
Natural Resources
Paddle Safely this Summer
Whether you are a kayaker, canoer, or stand-up paddleboarder, it is important to understand the rules and regulations paddle craft must abide by at Larimer County reservoirs.
Get away from the crowds this spring and explore more of Larimer County’s open spaces by taking the loop less traveled. Larimer County Department of Natural Resources is offering three new loop trails. Enjoy more scenery, less crowds, and better trail conditions.
Know BEFORE you go
Check Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) at https://trails.colorado.gov for the most up-to-date trail conditions, closures, and alerts. Or check under the "Trails & Weather" tab below.
Pearl Fire: Carter Lake -- Recreation Advisory
Carter Lake will be utilized for the Pearl Fire response beginning today (9/17/24) until further notice. Active water scooper planes will impact levels of recreation allowed on the water. Motorized boating is closed; wakeless boating areas (designated with buoys) remain open. Due to forecasted high winds today, limited rescue resources, and visitor safety as top priority, any paddlecraft or hand-launch recreation is not allowed at Carter Lake until further notice. All shoreline activities and camping at Carter Lake remains open. For recreation closures and advisories in Larimer County, visit COTREX (trails.colorado.gov) or fire and evacuation updates, visit nocoalert.org
Red Mountain Open Space - Closed
RED MOUNTAIN OPEN SPACE is closed for the winter season to provide habitat and clear migration routes for wildlife from December 1, 2021 until March 1, 2022.
BackgroundHorsetooth Mountain Open Space (HTMOS) was originally acquired by Larimer County in 1982.
2022 User Fee Adjustments - Devil's Backbone
The Larimer County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved adjustments to 2022 user fees for Larimer County Department of Natural Resources (LCDNR) parks and open spaces on September 14, 2021. The adjusted fees will go into effect Jan. 1, 2022 including a new fee at Devil’s Backbone south trailhead. (Note: Valid LCDNR Annual Permits purchased in 2021 will provide access to Devil's Backbone.) |
