From riverbanks to ridgelines, this year’s school field trips and Club Outdoors programs sparked curiosity and outdoor confidence in young minds across the community. Natural Areas connected more than 1,800 children with hands-on learning in nature. Through 53 activities, a total of 2,250 people explored the sights, sounds, and stories of 12 different natural areas. Each activity offered a new way to imagine, discover, and better understand the ecosystems around us.

Students hiked trails, investigated habitats, practiced nature journaling and art, explored careers, and delved into lessons on cultural history, wellness, sustainable urban design, biodiversity, and river health. These moments of curiosity and discovery were made possible by enthusiastic participants and the dedicated volunteers who help make each experience unforgettable. Thank you!

Give the gift of adventure for yourself or someone you love. 2026 Gateway Natural Area Annual Passes are now available and can even be used throughout December 2025, offering extra days to hike, fish, and explore Gateway’s stunning beauty. Passes are $40 for unlimited access all year, and daily passes are $8. Annual Passes are available to purchase onsite only at Gateway’s self-pay kiosks and typically remain available for purchase through late spring. Free passes are also available to check out for up to one week through the Poudre River Library District or Wellington Public Library.

Do you enjoy the outdoors and talking with others? Are you committed to land stewardship and community enjoyment of natural areas? Become a Volunteer Ranger Assistant. These volunteers complete approximately 12 hours of training on topics like personal outdoor safety, resource protection, conflict management, and emergency assistance, supporting the City's Natural Areas and Larimer County Natural Resources Ranger teams, including: 

• Promoting outdoor safety and awareness
• Responding to visitor questions
• Monitoring areas for safety

Applications are open for 2026 now until January 2. Class dates are Feb. 10 and 17 from 6–9 p.m. and Feb. 21 from 8:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Space in the class is limited so apply today!

Are you in the know for snow? Winter is a beautiful time, but the new season brings new considerations. We want everyone to enjoy this incredible time of year and stay safe while doing it. Check conditions before you go, pack warm layers and winter-ready gear, know recreation rules, and respect wildlife, trails, and other visitors by staying on designated routes and helping keep the outdoors welcoming for everyone.

Keep these winter tips in mind:
• Stay off the ice. Ice in natural areas is not monitored or managed and is never safe for people or pets. Ice access is only allowed where posted. When in doubt, keep off the ice.
• Skiing and snowshoeing are welcome on any trails open for hiking when conditions allow. On-trail/off-trail use regulations apply. Trails are not groomed, and motorized use is not permitted. On plowed paved trails, skiers and snowshoers must stay within 10 feet of the pavement.
• Sledding is not allowed in any natural area as it damages vegetation and causes erosion.
• Follow all on-trail/off-trail regulations and respect wildlife and habitat at all times.

Embrace the season, stay prepared, and enjoy the quiet beauty winter brings to your natural areas.

Want to help shape the future of Fort Collins? Apply to serve on a City of Fort Collins Board or Commission!

With more than 20 to choose from like Land Conservation & Stewardship, Affordable Housing, and the Disability Advisory Board, there's a place for your passion and ideas. Members serve 2 or 4 year terms depending on the board and must reside within the Fort Collins Growth Management Area.

Applications are open now through Jan. 9, 2026. Learn more and apply at  fcgov.com/boards.

Eagle Watch at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area

• Fridays and Saturdays, 3–4:30 p.m. (Dec. 12–Jan. 31) and 3:30–5 p.m. (Feb. 9–28)

Skygazing at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area

Join an unforgettable evening under the stars with volunteers from the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Telescopes and expert insights will be available to explore planets, galaxies and more. Dress for cold temperatures, bring binoculars if you have them, and pack blankets or chair to sit on while you admire the skies.

• Friday, Dec. 19, from 7–9 p.m.

Tips for Winter Activities

Dress for the weather: wear warm layers and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. It can feel 20 degrees cooler than the actual temperature, especially during Eagle Watches. Check conditions beforehand and bring:

• Extra layers
• Plenty of water
• Sunscreen
• Binoculars, if you have them

Natural Areas News is published on the first Tuesday of the month with occasional special editions. Newsletter comments are welcome. Please contact Rachel Balduzzi, City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Public Engagement Sr Supervisor, 970-224-6153 or rbalduzzi@fcgov.com. 

To learn more about Natural Areas, visit our website.