Map Of Larimer County Colorado: An Ultimate Travel Guide

If you’re planning to visit Larimer County, Colorado, then you’re in for a treat. Located in the northern part of Colorado, this county is home to numerous natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, you’ll find something to suit your interests in this beautiful county.

Top Attractions

Larimer County is a treasure trove of natural and man-made attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the top attractions include:

Rocky Mountain National Park

This national park needs no introduction. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Colorado and for good reason. The park features numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Make sure to visit the Trail Ridge Road, which is the highest continuous paved road in the US.

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Larimer County, then this museum is a must-visit. The museum features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a planetarium. It’s a great place to take kids as well.

Horsetooth Reservoir

This reservoir is a popular spot for water sports such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The reservoir is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a great spot for a picnic or a hike.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are definitely worth visiting, there are also some hidden gems in Larimer County that are off the beaten path. Here are some of them:

Poudre River Canyon

This scenic canyon is located just outside of Fort Collins and is a great spot for hiking and fishing. The canyon is also home to numerous rock climbing routes.

The Mishawaka Amphitheatre

This historic venue has been hosting concerts since the 1910s. The amphitheatre is located in a beautiful mountain setting and is a great spot to catch a show.

The Swetsville Zoo

This quirky attraction features sculptures made out of scrap metal. It’s a fun place to explore and take pictures.

Food Scene

Larimer County has a vibrant food scene that’s worth checking out. Here are some of the top restaurants:

The Kitchen

This farm-to-table restaurant in Fort Collins serves up delicious seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a great wine list.

The Stanley Hotel

This historic hotel in Estes Park is famous for being the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining.” The hotel features several restaurants, including Cascades, which serves up delicious American fare.

Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market

This restaurant in Fort Collins features a market where you can purchase gourmet food items to take home. The restaurant itself serves up delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Budget-Friendly Tips

While Larimer County can be an expensive destination, there are also several budget-friendly tips that can help you save money. Here are some of them:

Visit in the off-season

The summer months are the most popular time to visit Larimer County. If you visit in the fall or spring, you’ll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer crowds.

Go camping

Camping is a great way to save money in Larimer County. There are numerous campsites in the area that offer affordable rates.

Take advantage of free activities

There are several free activities in Larimer County, such as hiking in the mountains or visiting the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.

Outdoor Adventures

Larimer County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures:

Hiking

There are numerous hiking trails in Larimer County, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some of the top hikes include the Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park and the Greyrock Mountain Trail.

Mountain Biking

The county is home to several great mountain biking trails, such as the Blue Sky Trail and the Devil’s Backbone Trail.

River Rafting

The Poudre River offers some great white water rafting opportunities. There are several companies that offer guided rafting trips.

Historical Landmarks

Larimer County has a rich history that’s worth exploring. Here are some of the top historical landmarks:

Estes Park Aerial Tramway

This historic tramway has been operating since 1955 and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Fort Collins Old Town

This historic district features several buildings that date back to the late 1800s. It’s a great place to take a stroll and learn about the history of the area.

Lindenmeier Site

This archaeological site features the remains of a Native American settlement that dates back over 10,000 years.

Family-Friendly Activities

Larimer County is a great destination for families. Here are some of the top family-friendly activities:

Butterfly Pavilion

This pavilion in Westminster features hundreds of butterflies that you can observe up close.

Poudre River Whitewater Park

This park in Fort Collins features a man-made whitewater course that’s great for kayaking and rafting.

Fort Fun

This family entertainment center in Fort Collins features mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different in Larimer County, then check out these off-the-beaten-path experiences:

Ghost Tours of Fort Collins

This tour takes you on a spooky journey through the historic district of Fort Collins, where you’ll learn about the town’s haunted past.

FoCo Cafe

This cafe in Fort Collins operates on a pay-what-you-can model. The cafe serves up delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients.

Red Feather Lakes

This small community in the mountains features several lakes that are great for fishing and boating. It’s a quiet and peaceful spot that’s off the beaten path.

Natural Wonders

Larimer County is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are some of them:

Cascade Falls

This waterfall is located in Rocky Mountain National Park and is a great spot for a short hike. The waterfall is especially stunning in the spring when the snow is melting.

Cache La Poudre River

This river runs through the county and is a great spot for fishing and kayaking. The river is also surrounded by beautiful mountains.

Horsetooth Falls

This waterfall is located near Horsetooth Reservoir and is a great spot for a hike. The waterfall is especially stunning in the spring when the snow is melting.