Winter is a great time for a little outdoor exploration in Northern Colorado. We’re sharing our favorite experiences here and hope you’ll consider getting out and about for some refreshing outdoor fun.
Hiking
- Devil’s Backbone (1725 Hidden Valley Dr., Loveland) is one of the most impressive and geologic landmarks in Larimer County, as well as an important cultural feature with a rich and colorful history. And, it’s otherworldly during the winter. Visitors can hike to find the “keyhole,” a unique arch within the backbone, or enjoy a portion of the 12 miles of trail in the 2,198-acre Devil’s Backbone Open Space, connecting Rimrock Open Space to Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. The area is perfect for a winter hike, wildlife viewing and observing nature. An annual parks pass is required or there is a daily car fee of $10.
- Round Mountain Foothills Nature Trail (1300 W U.S. Hwy 34, Loveland) is part of the Round Mountain National Recreation Trail (4.9 miles total), which also includes the Summit Adventure Trail. The Foothills Nature Trail is a one-mile easy hike. To take this trail, there is a split in the main trail shortly after leaving the parking lot (about a 1/4 mile in) which allows you to continue on the Foothills Nature Trail or instead hike to the summit of Sheep Mountain on the Round Mountain National Recreational Trail – Summit Adventure Trail portion, which is much more difficult and is rated as a moderate difficulty level. Please see the Summit Adventure Trail listing for more information. The Round Mountain trailhead parking area is located in Big Thompson Canyon, approximately 4 miles west of The Dam Store on Colorado State Highway 34 (approximately 12 miles west of Loveland). The trailhead is located on Highway 34 (across from the entrance of Viestenz-Smith Mountain Park).
Open Lands & Natural Areas
Loveland’s natural areas contain diverse open lands and wildlife habitat, including sites in the Big Thompson River corridor, upland prairies, working farmlands, ponds, wetlands, and meadows. Open lands are accessible during the winter (observe hours and rules), and many feature soft surface and/or paved recreation trails perfect for a winter walk. There are currently 18 open lands and natural areas sites in Loveland, offering a variety of nature-based urban outdoor experiences throughout the city.
Horseback Riding
A winter ride at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is a special experience. Located just west of Downtown Loveland at the entrance to Big Thompson Canyon, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is picturesque and peaceful during the quiet winter months ensuring a truly memorable experience. Take a 1- or 1.5-hour winter horseback ride traversing some of the 3,200-acre property, complete with stunning views and (oftentimes) wildlife spotting. Rides are guided by a professional wrangler and geared to the least experienced rider.
Ice Fishing
If you’re an avid angler, we recommend the ice fishing at Boyd Lake State Park. Boyd Lake, open through the winter months, is home to an abundance of fish, including walleye, trout, and bass. While the main body of the lake is open for ice fishing, there are also designated ice fishing areas and designated areas for open fires to help anglers stay warm while out on the ice. Boyd Lake has a variety of depths and structures that provide different options for dropping a line. Two smaller ponds located near the main lake are also popular ice fishing spots. If you go, wear a life jacket and follow park safety regulations. Learn more about the January ice fishing tournament held at Boyd Lake here.
Winter Sculpture Walks
A winter stroll through one of Loveland’s renowned sculpture gardens offers a unique perspective and a peaceful escape.
- Benson Sculpture Garden (2908 Aspen Dr.., Loveland) currently showcases 178 pieces of sculpture on permanent display by world-renowned artists, a collection work over $5 million. Founded in 1985, the 10-acre park winds its way along the shores of four bodies of water: North Pond, Grassland Middle Pond (Wildlife Habitat), South Pond, and North Lake Duck Pond. There is no admission fee, and the garden is open year-round. Benson Sculpture Garden is one of the 200 most important modern and contemporary art sites around the world.
- Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra in Loveland (5971 Sky Pond Dr., Loveland) is a one-of-a-kind outdoor exhibit that opened in 2007. The park features 82 monumental stone sculptures from Zimbabwean artisans displayed across 26-acres of natural and landscaped gardens. From early January until Valentine’s Day, Chapungu is decorated with red and pink twinkle lights and sweetheart themed décor in celebration of Loveland’s Valentine season festivities. The park is located adjacent to the Promenade Shops at Centerra. For more information about how Loveland, the city of LOVE, celebrates in February, check out this blog.
Self-guided public art tour
Download the Otocast public art app (available through the Apple or Google app stores) and take a virtual art tour of 20 of Loveland’s most notable downtown sculptures, including art at the Civic Center, Foundry and on East Fourth Street. Learn about each sculpture’s location, hear artist interviews, and see photos of each piece.
