Bobcat Ridge Natural Area
Discover Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, a recovering gem west of Fort Collins offering diverse trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing with stunni...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Elk bugling season
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area
Best Time
Elk bugling season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, a recovering gem west of Fort Collins offering diverse trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing with stunning foothill vistas.
"Lovely bit of public land that is great for hiking and all kinds of exploration, west of Fort Collins and near the crossroads of Masonville."
Check Gate Status
Gates may be closed on red flag days. Always verify if the area is open before heading out. :warning:
Trail Variety
Loops from 4 to 10 miles offer options for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. :mountain_bicyclist: :horse:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elk Meadow Trail & Historic Cabin
Elk Meadow Trail
Explore a new 1.75-mile easy-to-moderate trail leading to a historic 1917 cabin.
Panoramic Foothills Views
Higher elevation trails
Ascend for breathtaking vistas of the foothills and surrounding landscape.
Wildlife Sightings
Throughout the area
Keep an eye out for elk, especially during bugling season, and other local wildlife.
+1
Fire Scar Recovery
Various trails
Witness the resilience of nature as the landscape recovers from the Cameron Peak Fire.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Recovery
Trail Variety & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Gate Status
Gates may be closed on red flag days. Always verify if the area is open before heading out. :warning:
Trail Variety
Loops from 4 to 10 miles offer options for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. :mountain_bicyclist: :horse:
Kid-Friendly Options
The Elk Meadow Trail is a great choice for families with young children.
Windy Conditions
Expect a breeze, especially on higher trails. It can make the area feel serene. :windblowingface:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Gate Status
Gates may be closed on red flag days. Always verify if the area is open before heading out. :warning:
Trail Variety
Loops from 4 to 10 miles offer options for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. :mountain_bicyclist: :horse:
Kid-Friendly Options
The Elk Meadow Trail is a great choice for families with young children.
Windy Conditions
Expect a breeze, especially on higher trails. It can make the area feel serene. :windblowingface:
Post-Fire Landscape
Much of the area shows signs of recovery from the Cameron Peak Fire.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bobcat Ridge for its beautiful trails, stunning views, and diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The area's recovery from the Cameron Peak Fire is noted, adding a unique element to the experience. Some visitors have encountered gate closures, suggesting a need to verify accessibility before arrival.
"Lovely bit of public land that is great for hiking and all kinds of exploration, west of Fort Collins and near the crossroads of Masonville.
Trails are well maintained and lead up into the foothills, and are great for trail running. There are pit toilets at the trailhead, and great parking.
Views are awesome near the top."
Josiah Roe
"Good place to hike. Nice parking area, and there's a toilet there. There is not much coverage in terms of trees (like none due to previous fire), but the trail was good, and you can see a long way off. Nice views. I tried to go again, but even though corex said it was open, the gates were closed. I figured it was because it was a red flag day and very windy. I'll try again another time."
Elizabeth T-E
"Great hiking trail. Mostly open space without tree coverage. Loops of 4 miles and 10 miles. Hikes thru some fire scars. Interesting sites: vintage cabin and indigenous tepees rings. Restrooms and covered picnic tables available. Short paved walk at trail head for wheelchair access."
Wendy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is located west of Fort Collins, near Masonville. Take County Road 38E west from Fort Collins, which turns into Masonville Road. Continue on Masonville Road until you reach County Road 27. Turn north (right) onto County Road 27 and follow it to the Bobcat Ridge trailhead.
Yes, there is a nice parking area at the trailhead with ample space.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching Bobcat Ridge Natural Area. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The gates to Bobcat Ridge may be closed on red flag days due to high fire danger. It's advisable to check the status before your visit.
The 10-mile loop is popular for mountain biking, offering a significant climb followed by rewarding downhill sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is a public land and typically does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
While specific hours are not always posted, natural areas are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, be mindful of potential closures on red flag days.
No permit is generally required for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area.
Dogs are generally allowed in natural areas, but it's always a good idea to check local regulations for leash requirements and any specific restrictions.
There is a short paved walk at the trailhead designed for wheelchair access, offering a glimpse of the area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Trails range from easy to difficult. The Elk Meadow Trail is great for families, while longer loops like the 10-mile option are popular for more strenuous hikes and trail running. +1
Yes, there are pit toilets available at the trailhead for visitor convenience. +1
You can expect awesome views near the top of the trails, offering expansive sights of the foothills. +1
Yes, birdwatching is a popular activity at Bobcat Ridge, with visitors noting its suitability for spotting various species.
The terrain is varied, with trails leading into the foothills. Much of the area is open space without significant tree coverage due to past fires, but it is slowly recovering.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from higher elevations are excellent for landscape photography. The historic cabin on the Elk Meadow Trail also offers unique photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Keep an eye out for elk, especially during bugling season in late September, and other local fauna. Remember to maintain a safe distance.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The recovering landscape from the Cameron Peak Fire offers a poignant subject, showcasing nature's resilience. The vintage cabin and indigenous tepee rings also add historical interest.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 This trail provides a manageable distance and engaging points of interest for younger visitors. Consider bringing a bug catcher kit, as it's a hit with toddlers! While many trails are suitable for families, it's wise to choose routes based on your children's stamina and interests. The open spaces offer room to explore, and the chance to spot wildlife like elk can be a thrilling experience for kids.
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for potential wind. ⛰️ Hikers & Trail Runners
The trails are generally well-maintained, making them suitable for consistent training. Be prepared for the post-fire landscape, which means less shade on many trails.
🚴 Mountain Bikers
The trails are described as being good for trail running, which often translates to enjoyable mountain biking conditions as well. While the area is recovering from fire damage, the trails remain a popular spot for cyclists. Be aware that horses are also common in the area, so it's important to share the trails respectfully.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the 10-mile loop is a popular choice for both hikers and mountain bikers, featuring a significant climb followed by rewarding downhill sections. Trail runners also find the well-maintained paths ideal for their training. It's important to note that much of the area experienced significant damage from the Cameron Peak Fire in 2020. While the landscape is actively recovering, you'll encounter areas with sparse tree coverage.
+1 This recovery process adds a unique visual element to the trails. Always be prepared for changing conditions and check for any temporary closures before your visit, especially on windy or red flag days. Wildlife Encounters
Visitors have shared videos and experiences of these majestic animals within the natural area. Beyond elk, keep your eyes peeled for other creatures that call Bobcat Ridge home. Remember that these are wild animals, and it's crucial to observe them from a safe and respectful distance. Avoid feeding them and never approach them.
Utilizing binoculars or a telephoto lens can enhance your wildlife viewing experience without disturbing the animals. The presence of wildlife adds another layer of wonder to exploring this natural space. Fire Recovery and Resilience
However, the area has since reopened and is demonstrating remarkable resilience. +1 The trails are well-maintained and actively recovering, showcasing nature's ability to regenerate. Witnessing this recovery firsthand can be a powerful experience. You'll see new growth emerging from the burn scars, a testament to the enduring spirit of the natural world.
+1 This aspect of Bobcat Ridge offers a unique perspective on ecological processes and the importance of conservation efforts. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit