Reservoir Ridge Natural Area
Foothills escape with panoramic views, rocky trails, and open grasslands perfect for hiking and biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, cooler temps
Reservoir Ridge Natural Area
Best Time
Fewer people, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Foothills escape with panoramic views, rocky trails, and open grasslands perfect for hiking and biking.
"Absolutely breathtaking and free!! You may have to pay for parking in some spots but it’s good for a long time."
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
The area is exposed and can get hot. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Sturdy Footwear Recommended :athletic_shoe:
Trails are rocky in places. Good hiking shoes will make your experience much more comfortable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Foothills Views
Soak in breathtaking, wide-open vistas of the surrounding foothills and grasslands. Perfect for a moment of reflection.
Rocky Outcroppings
Explore unique rock formations offering opportunities for bouldering and scenic resting spots.
Miles of Varied Trails
Hike, bike, or walk along numerous well-labeled paths suitable for all activity levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
The area is exposed and can get hot. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Sturdy Footwear Recommended :athletic_shoe:
Trails are rocky in places. Good hiking shoes will make your experience much more comfortable.
Dog-Friendly Trails :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome! Remember to bring water for your furry friends too.
Respect Cyclists :cyclist:
This is a popular cycling area. Be aware of your surroundings and follow speed limits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
The area is exposed and can get hot. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Sturdy Footwear Recommended :athletic_shoe:
Trails are rocky in places. Good hiking shoes will make your experience much more comfortable.
Dog-Friendly Trails :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome! Remember to bring water for your furry friends too.
Respect Cyclists :cyclist:
This is a popular cycling area. Be aware of your surroundings and follow speed limits.
Free Entry, Possible Parking Fee :parking:
Enjoy the natural beauty for free, though some parking areas may have a fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Reservoir Ridge Natural Area for its wide-open trails, stunning panoramic views, and lack of crowds, especially on weekdays. It's praised as a great local spot for hiking, biking, and dog walking, with opportunities for bouldering and scenic resting. Some note it can be hot and rocky, emphasizing the need for water and proper footwear.
"Wide open trail! Not crowded at all, the parking had maybe 5 cars in it midday on a Sunday. It's a great walking hike for dogs, biking anything really! There was a bridge about 25-30 minutes in for my dog to cool off, otherwise it's a hot walk! But I'm so glad I discovered this place!"
Lindsay
"It's a great local natural area for hiking. It is exposed and quite rocky in places. There are plenty of trails and hills. I used it for training hikes because it is so close. I got early on weekdays, so it is never crowded."
M C
"This was an amazing hike for a day off. We loved the views on the trail up as well as the different bouldering opportunities at the top to tackle. Perfect reading areas also to rest at once you get to the summit, but it’s a lovely hike fitting for travelers of all kinds. Some were running, biking, and hiking the various paths in this area; you’re sure to enjoy nature no matter how you go about it."
khy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reservoir Ridge Natural Area is located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Access is typically via local roads. Many visitors drive, and parking is available, though some spots may have a fee.
Public transport options to Reservoir Ridge Natural Area are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the trailhead.
There are several trailheads and parking areas providing access to the extensive trail network within Reservoir Ridge Natural Area.
Yes, parking is available at various points within the natural area. Some parking areas may have a fee, but it's generally good for an extended period.
While the area is well-moderated, specific trailhead directions can be found on local park maps or by using GPS navigation to the general vicinity of Reservoir Ridge Natural Area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservoir Ridge Natural Area is generally free to enter and explore. However, some parking areas might have a fee.
As a natural area, Reservoir Ridge is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions.
No, tickets are not required for Reservoir Ridge Natural Area as it's a public natural space. Entry is free.
Generally, no special permits are required for standard recreational activities like hiking and biking within Reservoir Ridge Natural Area.
Yes, Reservoir Ridge can be visited in winter, offering a different scenic experience. Be prepared for potentially icy or snowy conditions on trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Reservoir Ridge features a network of well-labeled, rocky trails suitable for hiking, biking, and dog walking. The terrain varies with hills and open grasslands.
Absolutely! Reservoir Ridge is very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for them to explore on leash. +1
Yes, there are lovely spots along the trails, including some perfect reading areas or resting spots near the summit, offering great views.
While not guaranteed, you might encounter various local wildlife in this natural grassland environment. Always observe from a distance.
Yes, Reservoir Ridge is family-friendly. The trails offer varied difficulty, and the open spaces are great for kids to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the higher points of the trails are spectacular. The unique rock outcroppings also make for interesting photographic subjects.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Some users have shared tips for finding specific natural features, like unique trees, for photos.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with local park authorities or the City of Fort Collins Parks and Recreation for current drone policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as the area is exposed and can get warm. Sturdy shoes are recommended for little feet, and keeping dogs on a leash ensures a safe environment for everyone. Rangers help maintain order, so following guidelines will make the visit enjoyable for all.
🐶 Dog Owners
Crucially, bring ample water for your dog, as the trails are exposed and can become quite hot. Ensure your dog is comfortable with rocky terrain. Following leash laws and cleaning up after your pet helps keep Reservoir Ridge a welcoming place for all visitors and their canine companions.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
It's important for cyclists to be aware of other users, including hikers and dog walkers, and to adhere to posted speed limits. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone sharing the trails.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Be aware that the area is quite exposed, meaning there's limited shade. This makes it crucial to plan your visit during cooler parts of the day, especially during summer. The trails can be rocky in places, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended. Some trails offer opportunities for bouldering, adding an extra element of adventure for those inclined.
For those with canine companions, Reservoir Ridge is a fantastic choice. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the open spaces provide ample room for them to enjoy the outdoors. Remember to bring extra water for your pets, as the trails can be hot.
Best Practices for Visitors
Hydration is paramount, especially during warmer months. The open, grassy landscape offers little shade, so carrying ample water is non-negotiable. Sturdy footwear is also a must due to the rocky nature of some trails.
Reservoir Ridge is a gem for its natural beauty and accessibility. By being mindful of others and the environment, visitors can help maintain its pristine condition for future enjoyment.
Photography Opportunities
The unique rock outcroppings scattered throughout the area add visual interest and texture to photographs. These formations can serve as dramatic foreground elements or intriguing subjects on their own. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography, as the soft, warm light of the golden hour enhances the natural beauty and creates captivating shadows.
While the landscape is the main draw, keep an eye out for interesting flora and fauna. Some visitors have even shared tips for finding specific natural features for unique shots.
Remember to pack your camera and capture the expansive beauty of Reservoir Ridge. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit