Colorado’s outdoor playground
Prepare to slow down and watch for wildlife — including bighorn sheep on rocky cliffs and bold kayakers in the whitewater — as you drive State Highway 14 through Poudre Canyon northwest of Fort Collins. Summer is a great time to experience everything this 40-mile canyon and the Cache la Poudre River have to offer.
Consider a getaway to this special landscape in the heart of Poudre Valley REA’s gorgeous service territory.
Take a Hike
Hiking opportunities abound in Poudre Canyon. Popular trails in the lower canyon near Fort Collins include sprawling Hewlett Gulch and the more challenging Greyrock Mountain. To avoid crowds and summer heat, head west to the upper canyon, where you can quickly gain access to the cool alpine and stunning wildflowers on Montgomery Pass Trail.
Stop at The Mish
Whether you’re a music lover or simply out for a Sunday drive, be sure to stop at Mishawaka Amphitheatre, the legendary music venue, restaurant, and bar built in 1916. You can’t beat the eats served up at the Mish — a local favorite — especially when paired with a cold beverage on the riverfront deck. Better yet, join the Mish for what it does best: a live concert under the stars. View their summer lineup at themishawaka.com.
Sleep Riverside
Poudre Canyon boasts multiple campgrounds in Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and offers dispersed camping along select roads. If you want a more comfortable base camp, book a tiny home, cozy cabin, or luxury glamping tent at Riverside Colorado, an inviting new canyon resort, located three miles downstream from the Mishawaka. Find more at riversidecolorado.com.
Ride the Rapids
Experienced rafters and kayakers flock to Poudre Canyon for its world-class whitewater. Regardless of your skill level, you can enjoy unforgettable Class II, III, and IV whitewater rafting, or take kayaking lessons with the licensed guides at Rocky Mountain Adventures out of Fort Collins. Book your trip at shopRMA.com.
