Colorado Important Bird Area

Arapaho Bend is a scenic entryway into Fort Collins with natural and cultural features to enjoy! It is a popular fishing spot and is often visited by equestrians. You may see or hear some of the over 80 species of birds that use the habitat here including American white pelicans, prairie falcons, and cormorants. Visitors also may see mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, beavers, coyotes, foxes and deer. Anglers may catch bass, bluegill, yellow perch, or sunfish in the ponds reclaimed from previous gravel mining. 

There are 3 parking lots: one at the east end of Horsetooth Road (closest access to Strauss Cabin ruins), one on Strauss Cabin Road between Horsetooth and Harmony, and one at the Harmony Transfer Center. Arapaho Bend Natural Area has no entrance fee or parking fee.

About 4 miles of natural surface and paved trail follow the edge of the ponds in a loop and encircle Rigden Reservoir.  E-bikes are not permitted on soft/natural surface trails. ADA mobility devices are allowed.