Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area

Three coyotes relaxing on the thick winter ice of Fossil Creek Reservoir.

Experience the beauty and enjoy outstanding birding at Fossil Creek Reservoir! You'll find rolling prairie uplands, wetlands and a tree-lined reservoir. Bring your sketch book, camera, spotting scope and binoculars. Take advantage of the quiet, peaceful essence of this special place to recharge and renew yourself.

Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area is designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. It provides crucial habitat to bald eagles (in the winter) and other types of raptors, and many species of shorebirds, songbirds and waterfowl. You may also see coyotes, deer and prairie dogs.

Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area was created through a partnership between the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County and North Poudre Irrigation Company to conserve 1,398 acres. The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department is responsible for the management of the site including restoration and stewardship, trail and site maintenance, snow removal, enforcement, volunteer opportunities and education programs. The highest priority in managing this natural area is conservation of natural resources while providing public recreation. The trails are designed to minimize human impact to sensitive wildlife.

Biking, water recreation (boating and fishing) and pets all have a significant impact on wildlife; thus not permitted. Note: Dogs, bikes and horses are not allowed at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area. In alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals that have been trained to assist a person with a disability are always allowed.

Trails

Try the Heron Loop (0.25-mile paved loop with picnic shelters), Sandpiper Trail (0.4 miles to a viewing area), or Cattail Flats Trail (0.76 miles to a viewing area). If necessary, trails are closed seasonally to protect bald eagle roosting, and shorebird and waterfowl habitat. Please stay on the trails and respect seasonal closures. Hiking only is permitted at this natural area.

View the Natural Areas Map(PDF, 25MB) for more information. This document is provided for printing purposes. For assistance viewing or reading this document, please contact the City's ADA Coordinator via email adacoordinator@fortcollins.gov or phone: 970-416-4254.

Plan Your Visit

Popular times.

Graph of popular times at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area. Weekday visits rise from morning, peaking at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Weekends are busier overall, with the highest use late morning through mid-afternoon, especially 1–3 p.m.