River Bluffs Open Space

Southeast Fort Collins

River Bluffs Open Space is a small but spectacular open space that provides something for all, human and wildlife alike. The Poudre River is its signature feature and provides one half mile of pools and riffles for ducks, other waterfowl, wading birds, and curious anglers. Raptors such as red-tailed hawks and great horned owls also call River Bluffs home.

The Poudre River Trail at River Bluffs Open Space connects to 21 beautiful miles of trail running southeast through wildlife areas and parks. All non-motorized activities including walking, biking and inline skating are allowed at River Bluffs Open Space. Picnic tables and river access provide a great setting to relax and enjoy the Poudre River.

The paved trail through River Bluffs Open Space is a segment of the larger Poudre River Trail located in Fort Collins, Timnath, Windsor, Weld County and Greeley.

Trail Map Regulations

Features

Accessible
Biking
Drinking
Fishing
Hiking
Picnic
Restroom

Map & Directions

Directions from I-25:

  1. Take Exit 262 east bound for 1.5 miles to County Road 3.
  2. Go north on County Road 3 for 0.5 miles to County Road 32E.
  3. Go east on County Road 32E for 0.3 miles to the entrance of River Bluffs on the right.

Directions from Windsor:

  1. From 7th Street, take State Highway 392 for 2 miles to County Road 13.
  2. Go north on County Road 13 for 0.5 miles to County Road 32E.
  3. Go west on County Road 32E for 0.75 miles to the entrance of River Bluffs on the left.

Trails & Weather

Trails Report

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Weather

Air Quality

Updates every half hour.

Events

Tiny Trekkers: Holed Up in Animal Homes
River Bluffs Open Space and Poudre River Trail

Photos

Click a photo to enlarge.

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Image © Brenda Bombaci
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Image © Charlie Johnson
Image © Richard Ernst

Regulations

For specifics, ask a ranger or see a kiosk for a copy of the Regulations.

  • You are responsible for knowing and abiding by the rules of this open space.
  • Share the trail - foot travel and non-motorized bikes are welcome on designated trails. No horses allowed.
  • Prevent trail conflict - Bikers must yield to Hikers.
  • Dogs must be leashed. Please pick up after your dog. Dog bags are available at the trailhead.
  • Please pack out and dispose of all trash.
  • Drones are prohibited.
  • Stay on designated trails at all times. Staying on trails prevents resource damage, erosion and wildlife conflict.
  • Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on the Poudre River Trail. Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited.
  • Power-driven mobility devices that are not gas-powered, are lighter than 500 pounds, have an outside wheel width that does not exceed the width of the trail, and are designed to have a maximum speed of 20 mph or less are allowed.
  • Do not camp or build fires of any kind.
  • Day use only - the open space trailhead is closed from sunset to sunrise.
  • Special use permits required for any group use and special activities.

Management Plan

The management plan for River Bluffs Open Space was developed by Larimer County staff based on input from public meetings and a professional steering committee.

River Bluffs Open Space Management Plan

Property Information

Type of Acquisition#AcresProperty
Value		Partnerships
Bargain Sales
Donations		Date
Acquired		Public
Access
Fee Simple161$ 1,920,000Larimer Co - $ 720,000
GOCO* - $ 1,200,000		2004Yes

*Great Outdoors Colorado