In Colorado, freezing temperatures and snow do not mean it’s time to hibernate for the winter; it means just the opposite. Here are the best locations around Fort Collins to embrace the cold and enjoy the outdoors this season.
- Fossil Creek Park
Just south of Colorado State University’s main campus sits Fossil Creek Park, a recreational area with a prehistoric theme to it. In addition to being a popular attraction in the summer, Fossil Creek Park is the perfect spot for sledding and having fun in the snow.
- Edora Park
Edora Park seems to have it all: a skate park, tennis courts, a disc golf course, basketball courts, shelters and more. Then, in the winter, when everything seems to be out of commission, Edora Park transforms into a winter wonderland with a sledding hill fit for Fort Collins families.
- Aggie Greens Disc Golf Course
Aggie Greens Disc Golf Course hosts sledders from all over Northern Colorado, since it is known to be the best sledding hill in Fort Collins. It has enough height to gain some speed, but not too much that parents need to worry. Located along Overland Trail, west of the CSU campus, Aggie Green Disc Golf Course should be the first stop after the next snowfall.
- Edora Pool Ice Center
Ice skating is one of the best parts of winter, but sometimes the rough weather conditions are limiting. However, at Edora Pool Ice Center, or EPIC, all of the fun is indoors. Bring the old skates tucked away in the closet and bring the family for a fun day of skating (and maybe falling as well).
- Old Town Square Skate Rink
During the winter months, in the heart of Fort Collins, sits the Old Town Square Skate Rink. This ice skating attraction provides free admission and skate rentals for all. Surrounded by restaurants and local shops, it is easy to warm up after a day of skating with a hot cup of coffee or a stroll through the stores.
- The Pond Ice Rink
Another popular skating destination is The Pond Ice Rink at Foothills Mall. Each year the frozen body of water is open from November through March, weather permitting. Children under 4 skate for free, and active military members, students and seniors receive a discount; the entire family can tag along for some icy fun.
- Lake Loveland
About 14 miles south of Fort Collins is Lake Loveland, a great fishing and water sports attraction in Northern Colorado. In the winter months, when the lake freezes over, it is also open for ice fishing. With the right equipment and many warm layers, one can expect to catch carp, walleye, catfish, yellow perch, trout and smallmouth bass.
- Douglas Reservoir
A popular spot for ice fishing in Larimer County is Douglas Reservoir. After ensuring that the ice is thick enough for fishing, anglers often catch rainbow trout, bluegill, crappie and perch. Bundle up for a day of patience and, hopefully, biting fish at Douglas Reservoir, just 20 minutes North of Fort Collins.
- City of Fort Collins Golf Courses
Although in Colorado the preferred method of skiing is downhill, cross country skiing is a well-liked winter activity as well. At any of the City of Fort Collins golf courses there’s plenty of open space to ski after a heavy snowfall. The only request by the city is to avoid putting greens marked by yellow and red pins.
- Lory State Park
With beautiful vistas and multiple cross country skiing spots, Lory State Park should make the winter bucket list. There are routes and open areas for both beginner and expert skiers. The close proximity to Fort Collins and opportunities for many outdoor activities makes Lory State Park a crowd favorite in Northern Colorado.
