Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space
Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space was created through a partnership with the City of Fort Collins, preserving 843 acres. A mixture of grasslands, riparian, and water habitats makes this open space unique in the semi-desert climate of the Colorado Front Range. Identified as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space is a crucial spot for many different species of birds. Whether a species lives here all year long, or passes through here on its migration, this open space can be a source of relative safety from the rigors of survival.
Birds are not the only species that finds this place a calming respite from the stresses of day to day living. Humans find it equally comforting and uplifting, an escape from the pressures of the 21st century. When you come to this open space, bring your sketch book, camera, spotting scope, or binoculars. Take advantage of the quiet, peaceful essence of this almost magical place to recharge and renew your inner self.
Our highest priority in managing this open space is continued protection of natural resources while balancing public recreation. The trails were designed to minimize human impact to wildlife. Biking, water recreation (boating and fishing), and pets all have significantly greater impact than hiking does on the wildlife; therefore those types of recreation are not permitted at the open space. In order to protect the resources please stay on the trail, respect seasonal trail closures, and observe Leave No Trace practices.
General Regulations
- Day use only. Closed sunset to sunrise.
- Stay on the trail to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Biking is not allowed. Bike racks are provided at the trailhead.
- Dogs are prohibited. Please leave your pets at home.
- Boating and swimming are prohibited in the reservoir.
- Fires, fireworks, hunting, and fishing are prohibited.
- Cattail Flats loop trail will be closed from November 15 to March 1 for eagle roosting.
- Sandpiper trail will be closed from March 1 to June 15 for shorebirds and waterfowl nesting.
- Take I-25 or Hwy. 287 north from Loveland, or south from Fort Collins, to Carpenter Road (County Road 32). The entrance is off of Carpenter Road, approximately 1 mile west of I-25, or 2 miles east of Timberline, on the north side of the road.
- 2.2 miles of trails - easy
- Heron Loop - ¼ miles - this main loop is paved and wheelchair accessible, with a bird viewing pier and picnic shelters.
- 2 crusher-fine trails with interpretive stops and bird watching blinds.
- Sandpiper trail (western trail)- 1/2 mile long, one mile round trip
- Cattail Flats loop (eastern loop)- 1/3 mile spur trail with one mile loop, 1.6 miles round trip
Acquisition and protection was made possible by a 50-50 partnership with the Larimer County Open Lands program and the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas program. Larimer County Natural Resources will manage this open space. Plans to develop limited hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, picnic tables, and covered waterfront bird viewing areas are currently being implemented. Dogs will not be allowed at this open space.
For more information on the management of this open space, please see the Fossil Creek Reservoir Resource Management Plan (2001).
| Type of Acquisition |
#Acres |
Property Value |
Partnerships Bargain Sales Donations |
Date Acquired |
Public Access |
| Fee Simple |
593.0 |
$ 4,025,000 |
Larimer Co. - $ 2,012,500
Fort Collins - $ 2,012,500 |
2001 |
Yes |
| Fee Simple |
151.0 |
$ 2,000,000 |
Larimer Co. - $ 800,000
Fort Collins - $ 1,200,000 |
2001 |
Yes |
| Fee Simple |
54.5 |
$ 1,188,100 |
Larimer Co. - $ 594,050
Fort Collins - $ 594,050 |
2000 |
Yes |
| Fee Simple |
8.5 |
$ 136,000 |
Larimer Co. - $ 68,000
Landowner - $ 19,650
Fort Collins - $ 68,000 |
1999 |
Yes |
| Fee Simple |
7.0 |
$ 100,000 |
Larimer Co. - $ 50,000
Fort Collins - $ 50,000 |
1997 |
Yes |
| TDU Program |
19.5 |
$ 0 |
Larimer Co. - $ 0
Fort Collins - $ 0 |
2005 |
Yes |