Join Larimer County Naturalists for an up-close introduction to the geology of Devil's Backbone Open Space. Learn about the stunning rock layers that formed hundreds of million-years ago as salt flats, deserts, alkaline lakes and gravelly rivers when North America looked very different than it does today. We'll hike the Morrison Loop where you'll learn the basics of earth history as revealed by the colorful rock layers that have been heaved upward by geologic forces to form the Devil's Backbone's distinct mark on the landscape. We'll talk dinosaurs too!
Natural Resources
Natural Resources
Learn to use nature journaling techniques to capture the magic of a summer evening in a natural area. Beginners and veterans welcome! Instruction, focused and guided observations along with drawing, painting, and writing deepen your connections to nature. Learn to use nature journaling techniques to capture the magic of a summer evening in a natural area.
The fascinating relationships between pollinators and flowering plants are diverse, intimate and not so different from ourselves. Join Naturalist Anita to discover the intimate relationships pollinators have with native plants in our region. You'll observe how the pollinators, plants, and animals (including ourselves) benefit from this relationship.
This program is best suited for ages 10 yrs and older.
We'll hike along Horsetooth Falls Trail about 2 miles. This will be a slow paced hike in order to stop and discuss certain plants and pollinators.
What's in a name? A whole lot if your name is Horsetooth Mountain, and your profile is part of Fort Collins' City logo. In this 90-minute guided hike, we'll explore the topographic and ecologic features of our area's most iconic natural landmark. The hike courses along the lower part of the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, where you'll learn about the area's unique geology, vegetation, and even its centuries-old creation stories, passed down by our area's first residents.
This program is best for Ages 12 yrs. - adult
Observation deepens the connection to nature and place. Using our senses to observe the natural world, we'll connect to the natural wonders that Horsetooth Mountain Open Space has to offer while learning how to be good stewards and practice mindfulness.
The LGBTQ+ Summer 2025 activity series is lead in partnership by Natural Areas, Larimer County Natural Resources, and volunteers. These programs are intended to be a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies are welcome. Explore the wonders of nature while connecting with your community.
Spend a cozy evening by the campfire, complete with stories and savory s'mores! These programs are suitable for all ages.
The LGBTQ+ Summer 2025 activity series is lead in partnership by Natural Areas, Larimer County Natural Resources, and volunteers. These programs are intended to be a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies are welcome. Explore the wonders of nature while connecting with your community.
To register for this program go to: https://engage.fcgov.com/Calendar
The LGBTQ+ Summer 2025 activity series is lead in partnership by Natural Areas, Larimer County Natural Resources, and volunteers. These programs are intended to be a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies are welcome. Explore the wonders of nature while connecting with your community.
To register for this program go to: https://engage.fcgov.com/Calendar
This program is canceled due to the weather.
Come learn about how and why getting outside is good for you! Modern research is proving what many have long known: we just feel better when we get outside – but why? Learn about the latest research, and how to develop your personal program for how to reduce your stress and improve your health. Techniques for putting your senses into touch with your environment will be demonstrated.
Do you have an adventurous spirit? Do you enjoy long hikes in nature but yearn to learn more about what you see? Join Naturalist Rob Pickett for a wild wander through Larimer County Open Spaces. These 4–5-mile hikes will reveal fascinating aspects of the local flora, fauna, geology, and landscapes, making it not just a physical journey but an educational one too! Learn insights that you can carry forward into your future outdoor explorations and deepen your connection with nature while expanding your understanding of the environment around you.
Enjoy an evening with members of the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society (NCAS) for an up-close look at the night sky over the Rockies. Telescopes will be available for viewing stars, galaxies, planets and more! Bring the whole group to connect with the wonders of the night sky.
This open house-style program is located at Eagle's Nest Open Space (near Livermore, CO). Telescopes will be set up in the dirt parking lot. Program is free. Parking is limited, carpooling is recommended. Registration is encouraged.
Do you have an adventurous spirit? Do you enjoy long hikes in nature but yearn to learn more about what you see? Join Naturalist Rob Pickett for a wild wander through Larimer County Open Spaces. These 4–5-mile hikes will reveal fascinating aspects of the local flora, fauna, geology, and landscapes, making it not just a physical journey but an educational one too! Learn insights that you can carry forward into your future outdoor explorations and deepen your connection with nature while expanding your understanding of the environment around you.
Enjoy an evening with members of the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society (NCAS) for an up-close look at the night sky over the Rockies. Telescopes will be available for viewing stars, galaxies, planets and more! Bring the whole group to connect with the wonders of the night sky.
This open house-style program is located at Eagle's Nest Open Space (near Livermore, CO). Telescopes will be set up in the dirt parking lot. Program is free. Parking is limited, carpooling is recommended. Registration is encouraged.
