This is a 5 mile hike, that is not for the faint of heart (one of Meg's favorites). Make sure to bring water and a snack to enjoy at the top or along the way. You may even bring a beer to crack at the top, in true Colorado tradition. You get a great work out and are rewarded with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and the city of Fort Collins. Hiking traffic is busy in the morning. The earlier, the better for a parking spot and less mountain traffic. The trail can be busy!
Do you like flowers or have an affinity for gardening? CSU students have created an enormous garden, where they grow hundreds of varietals of flowers each summer. In August and September, the flowers are at their peak of beauty. Walk around or bring a picnic, and immerse yourself in the rows and rows of plants.
New Belgium in a Fort Collins staple! The patio and beer garden is a beautiful way to spend the afternoon drinking a craft beer, relaxing, or playing yard games. It's family and dog friendly. They also offer tours that you can book in advance (2 - 3 months at least). You get a peek at the ins and outs of the property with plenty of beer samples on the way. Highly Recommend! On Saturday, September 2nd, New Belgium hosts Tour De Fat. Everyone in town dresses up in ridiculous costumes, rides around on bikes, and ends up at NB Brewery for an entertaining afterparty. More details to come!
Estes Park is a scenic hour drive from Fort Collins. It's a perfect way to see the Rocky Mountains up close and personal. Recommended sites to see: Rocky Mountain National Park - Hike or Drive Hikes - Emerald and Dream Lake Drive - Trail Ridge Road and Rainbow Pass The Stanley Hotel Laura's Chocolate Shop Large groups of Elk have been known to wander throughout the National Park and the streets of Estes. Keep your eyes peeled. They are truly magical creatures to encounter!
Fort Collins is the micro brewery capital of the United States. Meaning we have the most micro breweries in the country! O'dells is a well recognized brand that has a beautiful court yard to enjoy a beverage. Local Tip: Breweries always have food trucks in case you need a meal. Check out their websites for food truck schedules. This area is called "brewery row" because New Belgium, O'dells, OCB Wine Project, Sweetwater, and Snowbank brewing are within 1 mile of each other.
Meg's #1 Margarita Spot. A very traditional Mexican restaurant. The food is delicious, but the margs are better. One marg isn't enough, two you are feeling the buzz, and three you will undoubtedly have a hangover. This is a patio worthy hang out on the south side of Old Town Fort Collins.
Fort Collins is home to a large reservoir where you can boat, paddle board, take a dip, or relax at the look out points. Its iconic scenery in the foothills any time of year. Definitely worth a look! Paddle board rentals are available on the North end. They also provide boat and jet ski rentals.