Bobcat Ridge Natural Area
This remarkable place, best visited in spring and summer, has miles of hiking trails that can be very popular, especially during weekends. The cliffs near the parking lot are the summer home of a colony of White-throated Swifts, Lazuli Buntings and Yellow-breasted Chats can be seen in the nearby trees. The trails lead across grassy meadows, with meadowlarks and Vesper Sparrows, up to the ponderosa forest. Keep an eye out for Mountain Bluebirds and the occasional Lewis’s Woodpecker. For several winters, an American Woodcock has been a regular visitor to the site. A short interpretive trail describes the history of the homesteaders who lived on this property from the 1880s to the 1950s. On the trails, also watch for mule deer, elk, and if you’re very lucky, the area’s namesake cat. Please note pets are not allowed on this property.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed. Please obey all rules and regulations
County: Larimer
Directions: From I-25: take exit 257/US Hwy 34 and go west toward Loveland; after about 4.5 miles, turn north on CR 27 (by Big Thompson Elementary) and go 4.5 miles to CR 32C. Head west on CR 32C for 1 mile to the Bobcat Ridge parking lot.
Alternate Directions: From I-25: take exit 257/US Hwy 34 and go west toward Loveland; after about 4.5 miles, turn north on CR 27 (by Big Thompson Elementary) and go 4.5 miles to CR 32C. Head west on CR 32C for 1 mile to the Bobcat Ridge parking lot.
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Municipal
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Dirt parking area
Lodging: Hotels in Loveland or Fort Collins
Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: ADA accessible 0.8 mile paved trail
Latitude: 40.4813415
Longitude: -105.2248028