Top Fort Collins Culture

Winding their way across the Great Plains like so many ribbons, rivers and streams were vital to survival for all lifeforms that inhabited the parched expanse. For humans, watercourses also served as directional aids, tracks for travel corridors, and convenient boundaries. The Cache la Poudre was such a river. Its verdant valley was referred to as the jáaianahâw by the Arapaho people and first appear on a map of the region as a result of Major Stephen H. Long’s expedition of 1820. By 1835, it was being called the Cache la Poudre, or “hide the powder.” Significant at various times, in various ways, the Poudre River has many tales to tell. From the 1820s to the 1870s this “downstream” segment factored prominently in river lore. This tour takes you around the circumference of Rigden Reservoir while stopping at several sites during the walk to relate stories of the people and events that added to its colorful history.

This tour allows you to literally walk in the footsteps of these early explorers that passed through the area two hundred years ago. Learn about the people who explored the vastness that encompassed the land of the Louisiana Purchase, organized by the government of the United States. Beginning with the Corps of Discovery in 1804, columns of soldiers and scientists ventured into the unknown western country. In 1820 the first of these explorations passed into the Cache la Poudre River drainage led by a major in the U. S. Army’s topographical engineers named Stephen H. Long. On the heels of Long’s party came additional expeditions. The junction of the Poudre River and Boxelder Creek in Running Deer Natural Area was singularly significant for its role as a crossing site for early exploring parties. These groups then marched along the north bank of the Poudre until they reached the foothills to the west.

Curious about the lesser-known stories of Fort Collins? Starting with the very first steps of this playful walk, you’ll experience the thrill and beauty of discovery. Location-based riddles will show you the way to our favorite local places, including quiet courtyards, forgotten stories and cute hidden spots we’ll keep secret... for now! Fun fact: this trail was created by our local creator. - Explore Fort Collins (Colorado) during this interactive and fun discovery walk - Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way - Solve 12 location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route - See popular sights like the Fort Collins Power plant and the Poudre River from a different angle and discover hidden local spots This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.