Larimer: Nature, Trails and Special Excursions
Accommodation in Larimer
Larimer combines distinctive rock formations, extensive trails, river landscapes and unique natural areas with cultural insights. Horsetooth Rock is a defining local landmark and is visible from the plains. This means that planning your time in Larimer does not begin with a long list, but with the question of what kind of vacation you are planning: active days on the trails, trips to the water, wildlife observation or a journey that combines landscapes with regional history.
Hiking among rocks, meadows and water
An important starting point for planning your days is Lory State Park. There, more than 28 miles of trails lead through forests, meadows and rock formations. Several coves on Horsetooth Reservoir – Quarry, Orchard, North Eltuck, South Eltuck, Soldier and Satanka – are accessible for fishing. In winter, several trails also offer opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Anyone looking for a vacation rental in Larimer can therefore consider when choosing their travel dates whether to focus on summer days of hiking and fishing or winter trails.
Devil's Backbone Open Space also complements the natural experience with a distinctive geological landscape. Devil's Backbone is a formation known as a hogback, consisting of tilted layers of sedimentary rock. The associated open space is open from sunrise to sunset. At Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, the Heron Loop, Sandpiper Trail and Cattail Flats Trail are available; hiking is the only permitted activity there. The area has been designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society and provides habitat for bald eagles, other birds of prey, as well as numerous shorebirds, songbirds and waterfowl species.
Rivers, lakes and regional discoveries
For days by the water, the Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area offers several points of interest. It begins in Larimer County at the eastern edge of Roosevelt National Forest and commemorates the river's role in the development of water rights in the western United States, as well as the advancement of water distribution systems. Today, it offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, whitewater rafting, fishing and birdwatching.
At River Bluffs Open Space, the Poudre River encompasses a half-mile-long section with pools and shallow rapids that is used by waterfowl, shorebirds and anglers. The Poudre River Trail is connected to 21 miles of trails that lead southeast through wildlife areas and parks. The Big Thompson Parks provide public access to the river for fishing and picnicking. They charge no entrance fee and are open from sunrise to sunset from April through October. At Carter Lake, the Carter Lake Sailing Club hosts an annual regatta and other races.
Culture and the right base for your trip
Even beyond nature, you can pursue your own interests in Larimer. The Loveland Museum's collection includes objects related to sugar beet farming and processing. This allows you to choose accommodation in Larimer according to your personal travel interests, without having to make every day of your trip the same.
For additional travel ideas, you can also explore Estes Park, Fort Collins, Loveland, Timnath, Berthoud and Kelim. This allows you to combine your search for a vacation rental with the landscapes, activities and cultural interests that are important to your trip.
For the overarching travel overview: Colorado.
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