Arapaho Bend Natural Area photo by u/focothrow212

Looking to swap your usual loop for something a little more golden? Locals shared their tried-and-true favorites—from riverside trails framed in fall color to quiet natural areas where the crunch of leaves sets the pace.

🐾 Top Fall Walks in FoCo

• Spring Creek Trail + Rolland Moore Park – A leafy, multi-use gem with ponds (just watch your step around the geese).

• Poudre River Trail via Lee Martinez Park – Shady, scenic, and pup-perfect. The nature loop across the bridge glows this time of year.

• Red Fox Meadows & McMurry Natural Area – Low-key, quiet, and full of wildlife—perfect for a peaceful fall afternoon.

• Reservoir Ridge Trail – Gentle inclines with sweeping views of the reservoir framed by autumn hues.

• Cathy Fromme Prairie + Long View Trail – Prairie vistas stretch wide, with fall grasses swaying in the breeze.

• Arapaho Bend Natural Area – Crisp sunrises over calm ponds make this a seasonal favorite.

• CSU Campus + Trial Gardens – Blooms may fade, but the colorful trees around campus put on a show.

• Riverbend Ponds – Easy loops with water views and migrating birds passing through.

🧭 Bonus tip: Try neighborhood routes like Hilldale → Apple Dr → Fossil Creek for a cozy, leaf-crunching stroll close to home.

Wednesday, October 1

Thursday, October 2