Guided Hikes and Programs
- Saturday, May 7 at 9:00 a.m. “Hummers – the birds that is, not the cars!” Did you know that hummingbirds migrate hundreds of miles each year? Or how to tell the Ruby throats apart from the Rufous varities? Learn the answers to these questions and more with Naturalist Bob at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space [1], located just west of Fort Collins off County Rd 28E, with a program dedicated to the smallest of the woodland birds – the Hummingbird. Approximately 2 hours. Hike rating: easy. Program is free, but a $6 day entrance permit per vehicle applies. No registration required. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring along some water for the trail. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Thursday, May 12 at 5:00 p.m. “Wildflower Treasure Hunt” A new take on a classic nature walk at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space [1], located just west of Fort Collins off County Rd 38E. Join Naturalist Linda for a fun-filled afternoon exploring the beautiful spring flowers and sharing your finds with the group. This program is great fun for all ages. Approximately 2-hour hike. Hike rating: easy. Program is free, but a $6 day entrance permit per vehicle applies. No registration required. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Wildflower Treasure Hunt” Friday, May 13 at 5:30 p.m. “Backbone Basics” Learn about the world-class geology and human history that shaped the unique and beautiful landscape that makes up the Devil’s Backbone Open Space [2], located just west of Loveland off Hwy 34. Join Naturalists Caroline and Jay to brush up on this popular Loveland landmark. Approximately 2-hour hike. Hike rating: easy. Program is free; no registration required. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 a.m. “Really Useful Plants of Horsetooth” Ever wonder how settlers and Native Americans survived off the land, or what plants to use for bumps and bruises when out hiking? Join Naturalist Janet at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space [3],, located just west of Fort Collins off County Rd 38E, for a surprising look at the useful plants that surround us everyday. Approximately 2-hour hike. Hike rating: easy. Program is free, but a $6 day entrance permit per vehicle applies. No registration required. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Monday, May 16, at 10:00 a.m. “Hey Kids! Owls Are Awesome!” Join Naturalists Mary Joyce and Dorinna for a very special program designed for toddlers and their parents. This program at the Devil’s Backbone Open Space [4], located just west of Loveland, off of Hwy. 34, will be a morning filled with crafts, stories and fun facts! A parent or guardian must accompany the child for this 45-minute program. Program is free. No registration required. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Saturday, May 21 at 9:00 a.m. “Horsetooth’s Blooming” Join Naturalist Kathy for a walk through the wildflowers at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space [3], located just west of Fort Collins on CR 38E, for this fun nature program. Approximately 2.5-hour hike. Hike rating: easy. Program is free, but a $6 entrance permit per vehicle applies. Registration not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring along some water for the trail. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Saturday, May 21 at 7:00 p.m. “Awl You Wanted to Know about Owls” Join Naturalist Bob for a program dedicated to some spooky nocturnal critters at Devil’s Backbone Open Space [2], located just west of Loveland off Hwy 34. This talk will give you insight into owls and other nocturnal critters that have long captured people’s attention. Hike rating: easy. Program is free; no registration required. Approximately 2-hour hike. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Wednesday, May 25 at 5:30 p.m. “Know Your Wildflowers” Join Naturalists Caroline and Jay for a wildflower walk on the Wild Loop at the Devil’s Backbone Open Space [2], located just west of Loveland, off of Hwy 34. You’ll have a fantastic time searching out and identifying the early spring beauties in this healthy foothills plant community. Approximately 2-hour hike. Hike rating: easy. Please dress appropriately for the weather, and pack plenty of water for the trail. Program is free; no registration required. Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
- Saturday, May 28 at 10:00 a.m. “Nature’s Supermarket” The local residents of Larimer County’s open spaces make a living just fine without the modern conveniences of a supermarket. Join Naturalist Margo at the Devil’s Backbone Open Space [2] Trailhead, located just west of Loveland off Hwy 34, to learn how different animals survive with the sometimes scarce resources that nature provides. Program will be 45 minutes in length, and Naturalist Margo will be available following the talk until noon to answer questions about local wildlife, habitat, and trails. Program is free; no registration required Please direct questions to Heather, at (970) 679-4489.
To learn more about Larimer County’s parks and open spaces, go to www.larimer.org/naturalresources [5]