CONTACT: Marilyn Hilgenberg, Open Lands & Trails Manager
970.962.2443, marilyn.hilgenberg@cityofloveland.org

LOVELAND, April 24, 2020 – The City of Loveland Parks & Recreation Department and their land partner, the City of Fort Collins, are proud to unveil a new piece of land available for public use and enjoyment.

Prairie Ridge Natural Area is located at 6400 N. Wilson Ave. in Loveland. In lieu of a public grand opening event with a ribbon cutting ceremony, City staff created a virtual grand opening to comply with state and county stay at home orders during COVID-19, with stunning video footage of the area to be revealed on May 1.

This area will be open to the public beginning May 1, 2020.

The Prairie Ridge Trail is a 3.3-mile, soft-surface recreation trail system connecting Loveland’s Prairie Ridge Natural Area to Fort Collins’ Coyote Ridge Natural Area, and through to Larimer County’s Rimrock Trail and Open Space. Construction for the trail began in late 2019 and provides access to more than 35 miles of soft-surface trail from the Loveland area.

Prairie Ridge Natural Area highlights:

• Prairie Ridge Trail - a 1.9-mile accessible trail that heads west and then south and is constructed to meet ADA accessibility standards
• Ridge to Ridge Trail - travels 1.4 miles north along a hogback and joins with the Coyote Ridge Trail
• New trailhead with vault restroom and 36-vehicle parking lot provides access off of Wilson Ave., just north of 57th St.
• The site accommodates a variety of passive recreation uses, including hiking, wildlife viewing, trail running and mountain biking. Equestrian use is available from the Coyote Ridge parking lot. 
• Prairie Ridge is open daily from sunrise to sunset
• For management purposes and to protect sensitive resources, no dogs or e-bikes are allowed.

This project is a wonderful amenity for many to enjoy; it is the product of a longstanding commitment and vision to preserve and connect open spaces that join our communities. For more information on Prairie Ridge site rules/regulations, funding, land easements and more, visit cityofloveland.org/prairieridge

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About City of Loveland Parks & Recreation: The Parks & Recreation Department provides access to health, wellness, community and quality of life for Loveland residents and visitors. Its mission is to provide effective, efficient and high-quality leisure facilities, sites, services and programs through the three pillars of parks and recreation – conservation, health & wellness and social equity – to make a positive impact on the community. For more info, visit cityofloveland.org/parksrecreation