You can find a lot of variety at Riverbend Ponds, including a stretch of the Poudre River, several ponds, and wetlands. There are seven former gravel mine ponds to choose from that make it popular for fishing.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife stocks the ponds with small-medium warm-water species (usually crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish).
Riverbend Nature Area is a well-known fishing spot and bird watchers will find plenty to enjoy, too. There are more than 200 species of birds that feed, nest, and migrate through the area- views include green herons, a wide variety of ducks, American white pelicans, double-crested cormorants, and many others.
Riverbend Pond trails are excellent paths to take when you’re looking for a flat hike with loop options. You’ll come across varied habitats, too – plus the Cherly St. entrance has a boardwalk!
There is a paved trail underpass under Prospect Road allowing you to connect to many recreational opportunities on the south side of Prospect. From there, you can visit Cottonwood Hollow, Running Deer natural area, and CSUs Environmental Learning Center.
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There are a few parking lots near Cherly street (off Summitview, 2909 Cherry St), Prospect street (between Sharp Point and Summitview, 2856 East Prospect), Cairnes street (off Timberline, 705 Cairnes Drive).
Riverbend Ponds can also be accessed by parking at the Prospect Rd/ Running Deer Natural Area underpass. There is usually room for a horse trailer to park at the Prospect Street lot, but often spots are unavailable.
Riverbend Ponds Natural Area, in Fort Collins, Colorado is a haven for native wildlife as well as a pleasant spot for recreation for locals.
The area has seven fishing ponds, which were formerly gravel mine ponds from the region’s mining past. Today, they function as part of a natural landscape maintained by the City of Fort Collins and are annually stocked with many types of fish by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Fishing – The many ponds and the Cache la Poudre River provide great fishing opportunities! You’ll find an array of fish species like bass, crappie, or channel catfish.
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There are a variety of trails and paths for walking or biking. Some self-guided trails include the interpretive nature trail, the museum bike trail, or the easy to moderate wilderness looping trail.
Longer expeditions through the natural areas are made possible by an underpass that connects Riverbend Parks to Cottonwood Hollow and Running Deer Natural Areas.
Over 200 types of migratory birds can be spotted in this natural area. Bird enthusiasts will have the chance to see pelicans, herons, gulls, ducks, and cormorants at various times of the year.
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