Fossil Ridge reservoir, Fort Collins Travel Guide

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Escape to nature at Fossil Creek Reservoir in Fort Collins: a prime birdwatching destination with scenic trails and diverse wildlife.

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Fossil Ridge reservoir

Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, near Fort Collins, Colorado, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This 1,398-acre conserved area features rolling prairie uplands, wetlands, and a tree-lined reservoir, offering a peaceful escape and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.

A brief summary to Fossil Ridge reservoir

Sandpiper, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80528, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fossil Ridge reservoir.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and increased bird activity.
Bring binoculars and a spotting scope for enhanced wildlife viewing.
Stay on marked trails to minimize impact on sensitive wildlife habitats.
Check the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas website for seasonal trail closures to protect roosting eagles and migratory bird habitats.

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Explore Fossil Ridge reservoir on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fossil Ridge reservoir, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From I-25, take exit 262 (CR 392/E County Rd 32) and head west for one mile. The entrance to Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area will be on the north side of the road. Turn north onto the access road, across from Eagle Ranch Road, to reach the parking lot. There is no fee for parking.
Public Transport

Transfort Route 19 provides service to the intersection of Carpenter Road (CR32) and Timberline Road, approximately 2 miles west of the reservoir entrance. From there, walk east along Carpenter Road to the reservoir entrance. Please note that there are no sidewalks for a portion of this route.
Biking

Bike along Carpenter Road/CR 32, approximately one mile west of I-25, or two miles east of Timberline. The entrance to Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area will be on the north side of Carpenter Road. Note that bikes are not allowed on the trails within the natural area.

Discover more about Fossil Ridge reservoir

Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area offers a serene escape into nature, just southeast of Fort Collins. This 1,398-acre area, managed by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department, is dedicated to conserving natural resources while providing public recreation.The reservoir is a designated Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, providing essential habitat for breeding, wintering, and migrating birds. Birdwatchers can spot bald eagles in the winter, along with various raptors, shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl. The area also supports other wildlife, including coyotes, deer, and prairie dogs.Visitors can explore several trails, including the Heron Loop, a 0.25-mile paved loop with picnic shelters; the Sandpiper Trail, a 0.4-mile path to a viewing area; and the Cattail Flats Trail, a 0.76-mile route to another viewing area. These trails offer fantastic views of the mountains and the quiet essence of the area. Note that dogs, bikes, and horses are not permitted to minimize disturbance to the wildlife.The reservoir was created through a partnership between the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, and the North Poudre Irrigation Company. The name 'Fossil Creek' comes from the small nautilus-shaped fossils once found along the creek.