What to do in Fort Collins

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Known for its beer made with pristine mountain water, a strong culture of biking, live music and all sorts of outdoor activities, Fort Collins is a great destination for summer months.

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While the Rocky Mountain National Park situated 41 miles from Fort Collins is not to be missed, it may be too much to visit in one afternoon, and entrance requires reservations. However, on your free afternoon on July 1st, you can pick from several activities in Fort Collins, or plan a route of your own.

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For any of these activities, please remember to bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and water. You are in a semi-desert environment (30% relative humidity), at 5,000 feet (2,000 meters) of elevation (= stronger sun), and the temperature in July can be hot (90’s F or high 30’s C)!

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Please note that some of these activities require additional reservation and payment, which are not included in the IPGSA registration. IPGSA is not responsible for any accidents resulting from participation in these activities.

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Transportation in Fort Collins: A convenient way of transportation is the free MAX bus line, that runs South-North in Fort Collins, with stops at Colorado State University https://ridetransfort.com/routes/max/ , closest stops being UNIVERSITY  and PROSPECT stations. You can also use Uber or Lyft, or rent SPIN e-bikes and e-scooters (https://www.fcgov.com/fcmoves/spin).

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Suggested Activities:

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1. Hiking at Lory State Park: There is plenty of hiking around Fort Collins, and many natural areas. Lory State Park is on the foothills (base) of the Rocky Mountains, and is situated 10 miles from Fort Collins. Part of the state park includes the Horsetooth Reservoir, which is filled every year with water from the melting snow of the Rocky Mountains. At Lory State Park you can find many trails that can vary from easy to more challenging. We recommend one of 2 hikes: East Valley Trail for an easy hike or the Arthur’s Rock trail for a more challenging one. The park requires an entrance fee per vehicle. After arriving at the park, please stop by the Visitor Center to learn about the park, get trail maps and learn about the precautions needed when hiking there. Be mindful of elevation gains, particularly if you’re coming directly from sea level, and of the high temperatures in the afternoon. The weather can change easily in Colorado, and passing thunderstorms are common in the afternoon. Careful with lightning, heat and wildlife. 

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2. Visit Fort Collins Breweries: Fort Collins is home to 26 breweries, the most famous ones being New Belgium (maker of Fat Tire beer) and Odell’s. More information on the Breweries can be found here: https://www.visitftcollins.com/restaurants/breweries/#

 

3. Rafting the Cache La Poudre River: The Cache La Poudre River goes through the city of Fort Collins, and at this time of year it is close (just past) its highest flow from melting snow. The river is one of the best in the country for River Rafting and we have partnered with Wanderlust Adventures to offer a River Rafting experience ($89 per person). Reservation at https://www.awanderlustadventure.com/reservations/?%2Freserve%2Fres23535-ipgsa-taste-of-whitewat  and more information at https://www.awanderlustadventure.com

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Reservations are necessary by June 24th. Only 24 places available, so reserve soon, mention IPGSA or use link above. Trip starts at 2:15 and ends at 5:30pm.

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4. Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) at Horsetooth Reservoir: Horsetooth Reservoir is a great place to swim, go boating and do stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). We have partnered with Comedy Overlook (https://suphorsetooth.com) to offer stand-up paddle boarding at Horsetooth, prices at $15 per hour, beginning at 2pm on July 1st. All gear (board, paddle and lifejacket) included and lessons provided. Bring swimsuit, sunscreen, hat and water. 

 

Reservations are necessary by June 24th. Only 25 places available, so reserve soon, mention IPGSA. 

 

5. Biking in Fort Collins:  Colorado is a great biking destination and many champion cyclists train here. Road bikes and mountain bikes can be rented, and routes are available for all levels, including some great uphill climbing (Horsetooth Reservoir and Rist Canyon). Ask about favorites routes to your bike rental shop of choice. If doing Rist Canyon, a stop by the Morning Fresh Dairy Farm for coffee and ice cream after the descent is a must.

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6. Stroll through Old Town: “Old Town” is what people in Fort Collins call the downtown of the city, with architecture from the 1800s, and avenues made extra wide so horse carriages of 6 horses could turn around without a problem in old times. It is really an Old Western Town. As you walk through Old Town you will encounter beautiful houses, countless restaurants, bars, live music venues, shops and art galleries. The heart of it all is Old Town square, with a fountain and stage for live music. While you explore Old Town, note the art pieces on the sidewalks, many made by children of the school district. Don’t miss the alleys and the hand painted murals all over Old Town. It’s easy to spend a leisurable afternoon here. If you are visiting with children, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, the waterpark of City Park and the Lee Martinez Animal Farm make for a great afternoon. A visit to Old Town is better done slowly walking, visiting the sights. From Old Town, you can also walk (or bike, or scooter) to New Belgium Brewery, or visit breweries located in Old Town (like Equinox).

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