Chimney Hollow Open Space
This 1,847-acre property, part of the Blue Mountain Project area, has been a priority of the Open Lands Program since 1997.
Boasting spectacular rolling landscape, this property includes many vegetation types such as mountain mahogany shrubland, open tallgrass meadows, riparian drainages and forested areas. These native plant communities provide a rich mosaic of habitat for a wide variety of birds and wildlife including bobcat, mountain lion, bear, rodents, reptiles, and critical wintering range for deer and elk.
The Open Lands Program has protected several properties in the Blue Mountain Conservation Area including the 4,100-acre Blue Mountain Bison Ranch Conservation Easement, the Harper Conservation Easement and the 177-acre Ramsay-Shockey Open Space adjacent to Pinewood Reservoir.
Public access will include a trailhead and parking area with approximately 10 miles of trails that provide non-motorized recreational opportunities for mountain biking, equestrian use and hiking.
The Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District (NCWCD) is a partner and purchased the easternmost 1,600 acres of this property for a proposed storage reservoir as part of the Windy Gap Firming Project. If a reservoir is built adjacent to the Chimney Hollow Open Space, recreation will be managed by Larimer County Natural Resources.
Kayaking, canoeing, sailing, fishing and other passive, non-motorized recreation will be available. Public access will also include approximately 10 miles of trail for hikers, bikers and equestrians. Future opening is estimated in 3-5 years. See the Natural Resources Events Calendar for upcoming tours.
| Type of Acquisition | #Acres | Property Value | Partnerships Bargain Sales Donations | Date Acquired | Public Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fee Simple | 1,847 | $ 3,842,000 | Larimer Co. - $ 2,892,000 *GOCO - $ 950,000 | 2004 | TBA |
*Great Outdoors Colorado
Chimney Hollow Open Space, comprising 1,847 acres, is located in the Blue Mountain Conservation Area, approximately 5 miles southwest of the City of Loveland. Chimney Hollow Open Space was purchased by Larimer County for its natural, visual, cultural, and outdoor recreational values.
The complete Chimney Hollow Stewardship Plan can be accessed here.
Future Vision
- Public access with approximately 10 miles of trail for hikers, bikers and equestrians - opening TBA.
- Kayaking, canoeing, sailing, fishing and other passive, non-motorized recreational uses on a future potential reservoir opening TBA.
Click a photo to enlarge.
