Outdoor Experience

Loveland, Colo. – Adventure Abounds

How does it feel to let go of obligations; to be freed from practicality? What does it mean to let go of the everyday and truly live? In Loveland, we were born to play. With the sun on our skin and the fresh Colorado air soaking into our lungs, Loveland offers diverse outdoor recreation you love. Loveland’s 300 days of annual sunshine and mild temperatures set the stage for a memorable outdoors experience. Backed by a picturesque view of the Rocky Mountains, adventure abounds for visitors no matter the season. Recreation you love is found throughout the City's parks, natural areas, open spaces and golf courses, not to mention the area’s copious lakes, rivers and streams perfect for boating, fishing and swimming. Whether you are a novice or a proficient explorer, Loveland offers an outdoor experience for everyone!

• Bike the Recreation Trail:  Plan to stay: 1.5 hours. For more information: http://www.CityofLoveland/Trails. Biking along Loveland’s 17.5 miles of paved recreational trails offers a healthy and fun way to enjoy the clean Colorado air and 300 days of annual sunshine in Loveland. Various trails exist around the city, whether you are looking for a scenic nature path near the foothills, along the Big Thompson River, Devil’s Backbone or a ride around one of Loveland’s beautiful lakes. Striking views of the Rocky Mountains and wildlife such as deer, elk, eagles, hawks, geese and more can be seen during many bike rides throughout the city.
   
• Have a picnic in the parks:  Plan to stay: as long as you'd like. For more information: http://www.CityofLoveland.org/Parks.  With the numerous parks locations in Loveland, you will have no difficulties finding the perfect spot to view wildlife or sculptures while your children play on the playgrounds. You may enjoy yourself at the City's parks from 6:00 a.m.-10:30 p.m. any day of the week!  
    
• Practice your golf swing: Plan to stay: 2 hours. For more information:  http://www.GolfLoveland.com.  Loveland, Colorado – where the crisp mountain air meets well-manicured greens. Less than an hour’s drive from Denver are three separate golf experiences that are perfect for masters or beginners. Whether you choose award-winning Mariana Butte with its soaring elevated tees and challenging holes that border the rushing Big Thompson River; The Olde Course offering a carefully cultivated progression, tree-lined fairways and undulating greens; or Cattail Creek with water challenges throughout, Loveland has golf you love – all with the breathtaking vistas of the Rocky Mountains as a picturesque backdrop. NEW to Cattail Creek is the Mini-Course! Learn to golf or brush up on your skills at this SNAG-friendly facility.

Lunch suggestions: The Wapiti Colorado Pub is on-site at Mariana Butte Golf Course! If you are already there, just drop in for lunch when you are through with your round of golf, or before you are set to begin. With fresh ingredients and a long list of local Loveland and Colorado beer, the Wapiti serves juicy burgers, thick cut steaks, pub style sandwiches, crisp salads, succulent game meats, and so much more. You'll love the beautiful views too!
The Backbone Gourmet Grub and Brewhouse is a great lunch spot on the west side of Loveland, close to the golf courses and fishing holes. With ‘Kicked-up’ Macaroni and Cheese, ‘Almost Famous’ Fried Chicken, the Backbone Bison Burger, sliders, salads and more, the Backbone is a tried-and-true family favorite for a tasty lunch.

• Fishing: Plan to stay: 1.5 - 2 hours. For more information: Fishing Reports at www.cityofloveland.org/index.aspx?page=1578 or www.elkhornflyrodandreel.com. With close proximity to the Big Thompson River that flows from Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, and its abundance of still water and lakes, Loveland is a haven for fishing and fly-fishing fans. Families and children will enjoy peaceful, calm locations such as the fishing pier on Flatiron Reservoir, Jayhawker Ponds, North Lake Park, Long Haggler Reservoir, Pinewood Reservoir and Carter Lake. The Big Thompson River is ideal for fly-fishing. Locally-owned Fly Fishing Shop, Elkhorn Rod & Reel offers guided fly-fishing trips along the Big Thompson and in Rocky Mountain National Park where there are 147 fishable streams and 56 lakes, year-round.
   
• Hike Devil’s Backbone: Plan to stay: 1.5 hours. For more information: http://www.larimer.org/naturalresources/bbone.cfm Enjoy a self-guided late afternoon stroll at Devil’s Backbone Open Space, one of the most impressive and visible geologic landmarks in Larimer County. Visitors to the 2,198-acre open space often experience red-tailed hawks soaring above and grasslands carpeted with wildflowers as they hike, bike or walk through the towering rock formations. 12 miles of trail connect Devil’s Backbone to Rimrock Open Space and Horsetooth Mountain Open Space for hiking, running, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, observing nature, as well as enjoying close-up inspection of the rock outcrop and long vistas.

Dinner suggestions: 4th Street in Loveland is home to many local, family-owned and delicious restaurants. Next Door Food & Drink, the Pourhouse, The Black Steer, Henry’s, the Sports Station, the Inglenook and Mo Betta Gumbo, just to name a few! They all offer excellent cuisine and service.

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