Good view. A lot of bugs
1 / 10

Pineridge Natural Area

4.7
·651 reviews·Fort Collins, United States

A serene natural area with reservoir views, abundant prairie dogs, and accessible trails for hiking and biking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better wildlife sightings

CrowdLow
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Good view. A lot of bugs

Pineridge Natural Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better wildlife sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene natural area with reservoir views, abundant prairie dogs, and accessible trails for hiking and biking.

4.7
(651 reviews)

"Absolutely gorgeous views- that includes the dozens of prairie dogs!!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Perks

Parking is free and generally accessible, though lots can fill up on busy days. Arrive early!

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leash your furry friends and enjoy the trails together. Remember to clean up after them!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Prairie Dog Town

Prairie Dog Town

Throughout the natural area

Witness hundreds of adorable prairie dogs, including playful babies, scurrying and interacting in their natural habitat.

Reservoir Views & Photography

Reservoir Views & Photography

Pineridge Reservoir

Capture stunning long-exposure shots of cars around the reservoir at night or enjoy serene daytime vistas.

Bird Banding Station

Bird Banding Station

Pineridge Natural Area

Experience science in action by observing wildlife biologists banding migratory birds in the spring.

Connected Trail System

Connected Trail System

Various trailheads

Explore miles of easy, well-maintained trails perfect for walking, biking, and dog-friendly outings.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting Pineridge Natural Area during weekdays or early mornings. Weekends can get busy, especially with families and cyclists. Consider the season for the best wildlife viewing and trail conditions.

Trail Etiquette & Wildlife

Pineridge is a haven for prairie dogs and other wildlife. Stay on marked trails, keep dogs leashed, and never feed the animals. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for both visitors and the local fauna.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better wildlife sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Spring (for birding)
Why
Witness migration and banding
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall (for colors)
Why
Beautiful autumn foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“wow so tan today king!” is what i imagine you’re thinking #fyp #colorado
@gabepietrafesa
33.6K likes • 256.7K views

🚗 Parking Perks

Parking is free and generally accessible, though lots can fill up on busy days. Arrive early! Reddit

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leash your furry friends and enjoy the trails together. Remember to clean up after them! Reddit

no words for what this place means to me. #fyp #fortcollins #colorado #college #closingtime
@justembaswrld
12.6K likes • 290.4K views
This month for NOCO Mapped we hit 📍Pineridge Natural Area, the place we affectionately say our tiny one had his first trail run, because the only way to keep him moving was for us to jog with him. We love this natural area in Fort Collins because we can convince the kids to go on a nature walk with the promise of a park stop at the end. This is one of our favorite and the most versatile natural...
this_is_noco
43 likes • 3K views

📸 Night Photography

Capture unique long-exposure shots of car lights around the reservoir after dark. Reddit

🐿️ Wildlife Watching

Keep an eye out for prairie dogs, rabbits, and magpies. Do not feed them! Reddit

Registration is open for our Pineridge Banding Station! Visit our Bird Banding Station located at Pineridge Natural Area in Fort Collins, CO this spring! Migration is a magical time of year. Come enjoy a unique opportunity to experience science in action and observe a wildlife biologist banding and collecting important scientific data on live, migrating birds. The data collected gives us insight ...
birdconservancyrockies
90 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Perks

Parking is free and generally accessible, though lots can fill up on busy days. Arrive early! Reddit

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leash your furry friends and enjoy the trails together. Remember to clean up after them! Reddit

📸 Night Photography

Capture unique long-exposure shots of car lights around the reservoir after dark. Reddit

🐿️ Wildlife Watching

Keep an eye out for prairie dogs, rabbits, and magpies. Do not feed them! Reddit

🛶 Kayak Launch

Access the reservoir for kayaking from the boat launch on the northern side. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(651 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Pineridge Natural Area's stunning reservoir views, abundant prairie dog colonies, and well-maintained, accessible trails. It's praised as a clean, beautiful spot for fishing, walking, and biking, with free parking adding to its appeal. Some note that parking lots can be small and fill up quickly.

"It's a pretty cool place to do some long exposure photography of cars around the Reservoir at night."

Josiah Roe

"Absolutely gorgeous views- that includes the dozens of prairie dogs!!! They were so cute and there were even babies poking their heads out! There are several nice trails for walking or biking that all connect to the park."

Gray McGregor

"Absolutely beautiful scenic nature preserve that is right next to to Horsetooth Reservoir.

On the northern side of the preserve there is a boat launch for Kayaks. Easy access all around for fishing as well.

Trails ate bike and dog friendly and parking lots are free. Pretty much all the basic activities for the taking."

Steve Dempsey

What People Like

Gorgeous reservoir views
Abundant prairie dogs
Easy, connected trails

What People Dislike

Small parking lots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pineridge Natural Area is located on the northern side of Fort Collins, easily accessible by car. Many visitors use GPS navigation. It's also a popular spot for locals living in the surrounding Northern Colorado area. TikTok

Public transportation options to Pineridge Natural Area are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the park. Check local transit schedules for potential bus routes that may get you close.

There are several parking lots available, and they are free to use. However, they can fill up quickly on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. Reddit

Yes, Pineridge Natural Area is situated right next to Horsetooth Reservoir, offering a combined nature experience. It's also a beloved spot for college students in Fort Collins. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Pineridge Natural Area features bike-friendly trails, making it a great destination for cyclists. You can ride directly to the park if you're in the vicinity. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Pineridge Natural Area is free. There are no admission fees, making it an accessible destination for everyone. Reddit

Pineridge Natural Area is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours can vary slightly, so it's always a good idea to check local park information if you plan a very early or late visit.

Yes, Pineridge Natural Area is open year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season. Fall foliage is particularly beautiful. TikTok

Generally, no special permits are required for standard activities like hiking, biking, or fishing. However, if you plan on organizing a large event, it's best to contact the park authorities.

The Bird Banding Station at Pineridge Natural Area typically operates during specific seasons, usually in the spring. Registration is often required, so check the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies website for details. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The trails at Pineridge Natural Area are generally level and easy, making them suitable for all fitness levels. They connect to form a network perfect for walking or biking. Reddit

Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Pineridge Reservoir. The area offers easy access for anglers, and the water is known for being clean and well-maintained. Reddit

Absolutely! Pineridge Natural Area is teeming with wildlife, most notably prairie dogs. You might also spot rabbits and magpies. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a fantastic spot for photography, especially for long-exposure shots of car lights around the reservoir at night. The natural scenery also offers great daytime photo opportunities. Reddit

Families can enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and picnicking. The promise of a park stop at the end can motivate kids to explore the trails. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes located directly within Pineridge Natural Area. Visitors are encouraged to pack their own food and drinks for a picnic.

Fort Collins offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. You can find numerous restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores in the city, which is a short drive away.

Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy your visit. There are open spaces suitable for setting up a picnic blanket and enjoying the natural surroundings. Remember to pack out all your trash.

While there are no specific restrictions on bringing food and drinks, it's important to be mindful of wildlife. Do not leave food unattended, and always clean up thoroughly to avoid attracting animals. Reddit

Alcohol policies can vary by park. It's advisable to check the specific regulations for Pineridge Natural Area or Fort Collins parks regarding alcohol consumption in public spaces.

📸 📸 Photography

The Pineridge Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially for capturing car light trails at night. The natural landscapes and wildlife also provide great subjects. Reddit

Yes, the open skies and reservoir provide beautiful backdrops for sunrise and sunset photography. The changing light can create dramatic and serene scenes. Instagram

You'll have a great chance to photograph prairie dogs, which are abundant and active. Rabbits and various bird species are also common subjects. InstagramReddit

Drone usage in natural areas can be restricted to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's essential to check the latest regulations from the park authorities before flying a drone.

For wildlife, a telephoto lens is useful. For landscapes and night photography, a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod are recommended. Don't forget extra batteries! Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pineridge Natural Area is a fantastic destination for families. The easy, level trails make it perfect for little legs, and the promise of seeing prairie dogs can be a great motivator for kids to explore. Instagram The open spaces around the reservoir are ideal for picnics, and the chance to see wildlife up close (from a safe distance, of course!) adds an element of excitement to any family outing. Remember to bring snacks, water, and sunscreen for a comfortable day. Reddit

Consider visiting during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The bird banding station in spring also offers an educational experience for curious young minds. Instagram It's a wonderful place to connect with nature and create lasting family memories without the hassle of large crowds often found at more developed parks.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Walkers

For those who enjoy a relaxed walk or a moderate hike, Pineridge Natural Area delivers. The interconnected trail system offers a variety of lengths and loops, ensuring you can tailor your walk to your preference. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all fitness levels, and the scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape are a constant reward. Reddit

It's an ideal spot for a morning constitutional or an afternoon stroll. The abundance of wildlife, especially the prairie dogs, adds an engaging element to your walk. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, as there are no facilities within the natural area itself. TikTok

🚴 Cyclists

Cyclists will find Pineridge Natural Area to be a welcoming destination. The trails are bike-friendly and offer a pleasant riding experience with minimal elevation changes. It's a great place to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of Fort Collins. Reddit

Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more sustained cycling session, the network of trails can accommodate. Combine it with a visit to nearby Horsetooth Reservoir for an extended cycling adventure. Remember to be courteous to other trail users, especially hikers and families.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

Pineridge Natural Area boasts a network of well-maintained trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more active bike ride. The terrain is predominantly flat, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Many of the trails loop around the Pineridge Reservoir, offering consistent scenic views. These paths are also dog-friendly, provided your canine companions are kept on a leash, making it a great spot for a family outing with pets. Reddit

Trail users often praise the ease of navigation and the variety of routes available. You can choose shorter loops for a quick walk or combine several trails for a longer excursion. The trails are also popular for their connection to other natural areas, allowing for extended exploration if desired. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. TikTok

Wildlife Encounters

One of the biggest draws to Pineridge Natural Area is its abundant wildlife, particularly the large colonies of prairie dogs. Visitors frequently report seeing hundreds of these charming creatures, often with babies emerging from their burrows. It's a truly captivating sight and a highlight for many who visit. InstagramReddit

Beyond the prairie dogs, keep an eye out for rabbits and various bird species, including magpies. The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies also utilizes Pineridge as a location for their bird banding station during migration seasons, offering a unique opportunity to witness scientific research in action. Instagram Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

Pineridge Natural Area is a photographer's delight, offering diverse subjects and scenic backdrops. The Pineridge Reservoir is particularly popular for night photography, where visitors can capture stunning long-exposure shots of car lights creating light trails around the water. This unique perspective is frequently mentioned by photography enthusiasts. Reddit

Daytime photography is equally rewarding. The natural landscapes, the reservoir's reflections, and the active wildlife provide ample opportunities for capturing memorable images. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just enjoy snapping photos with your phone, Pineridge offers plenty of picturesque moments. Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting conditions. Instagram

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