Poudre River Trail

The main route, as mapped on komoot, is approximately 40.5 km (25 miles) long and typically takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete by touring bicycle. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail is known for its wide, smooth, and mostly flat paved surface, with only gentle grades. This makes it very comfortable for touring cyclists and suitable for all skill levels.

Yes, it is ideal for touring cyclists of all skill levels, including beginners, intermediate riders, and families. Its gentle grades and paved surface ensure a comfortable and accessible ride for everyone.

You'll experience a diverse and picturesque landscape. The trail follows the Cache la Poudre River, winding through wooded areas, natural preserves, open fields, and past lakes and farmland. You can enjoy views of distant mountains, river-carved bluffs, and the unique Colorado Piedmont formation. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, eagles, and wild turkeys.

Yes, the trail offers several points of interest. You'll pass by natural areas like Prospect Ponds Natural Area and Watson Lake. The trail also features interpretive signs about local history and ecology, and connects to parks with amenities.

Yes, the trail connects with other local paths, such as the Spring Creek Trail in Fort Collins and the Sheep Draw Trail in Greeley, allowing for extended rides and varied routes. The route also passes through sections of the Poudre River Trail and the Spring Creek Trail.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer the most pleasant cycling conditions. The final segment of the trail is expected to be completed in spring 2026, which will create a continuous 45-mile route, enhancing its appeal for longer touring rides during these seasons.

Yes, the Poudre River Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Always check specific park regulations along the route, as rules may vary slightly in different sections.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access and cycle the Poudre River Trail itself. It is a public trail designed for recreational use.

There are numerous access points and parking lots along the trail, particularly in the parks it passes through. Good options include parks in Fort Collins, Windsor (like Eastman Park), and Greeley (like Island Grove Park), which often provide dedicated parking facilities for trail users.

The trail passes through various parks, many of which offer amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and water fountains. You'll also find interpretive signs providing historical and ecological information along the route. For cafes and restaurants, you'll typically need to venture slightly off the trail into the nearby towns like Fort Collins, Timnath, Windsor, or Greeley.