It is really hard to beat the weather and the variety of activities that we can choose from during the summers in Northern Colorado.

Low summer humidity makes it incredibly enjoyable to be outdoors. With average high temperatures in the low to mid-80's for Fort Collins throughout the summer, and lows in the 50's, it is truly ideal for many activities. Temps in the mountains are generally about 10 degrees cooler than that.

Camping

Camping, whether in a tent or in an RV is perhaps one of the most popular summer activities. Campgrounds fill up incredibly early in the year, so if you're trying to make last minute plans, it will be difficult. Luckily, Colorado allows dry camping anywhere on state or federal land! That's right, be sure to pack out and you're welcomed to use your national and BLM land free of charge. There's a 14-day limit on each camp site, but hey, that's reasonable. Do a Google search for "Free camping in Colorado" for great resources and details.

Hiking

If you enjoy hiking, the Rocky Mountains provide some spectacular trails and vistas for you to enjoy! If you don't enjoy hiking... let me encourage you to give it another shot out here. Growing up back east, hiking and outdoor activities were not at the top of my list for fun. But after moving to the Rockies, it is such an awesome experience to go for a hike in the middle of summer: the air is fresh, the humidity is low, you barely break a sweat most of the time, the views are amazing at almost every turn, and the people you met on the trails are very friendly. Take plenty of water with you, and wear sun protection as the sun here is intense!

One of the best apps you can get for hiking is free, called COTREX, and is put out by a collaborative effort between land managers. It is wonderful as it provides detailed info on each trail, including what type of vehicles or animals, if any, are allowed, elevation changes, hiking skill level, etc. Definitely download the COTREX app and check it out.

Bicycling

Avid cyclists have so many options in this area. If you enjoy cycling on paved roads, Fort Collins in particular is a very friendly town towards cyclists. If cycling in town itself is not your thing, there are dozens of miles of paved trails throughout the city and surrounding areas for you to enjoy. Check out https://www.fcgov.com/bicycling/bike-maps for complete information direct from the city.

Motorcycle Rides

For those that prefer a motor on their two-wheeled adventures, you will absolutely love taking a relaxing ride through the thousands of miles of highways that wind through picturesque mountains and valleys. A few suggestions for your adventures: Highway 34 out of Loveland up to Estes Park. The Big Thompson Canyon is gorgeous, and you'll have a good chance at seeing big horn sheep as you get closer to Estes. Once in Estes Park, take a ride through Rocky Mountain National Park, especially across Trail Ridge Road. If you're looking for more wide-open spaces and less of the mountain winding roads, head up Highway 14 through Poudre Canyon. Once you pass the little town of Rustic, the road straightens out as you climb towards Cameron Pass. Head on over to the small town of Walden, and be sure to stop at the elk viewing area just before Walden.

Looking for a rental, or guided tour? There's plenty of companies around that do those... here's one to get you started: https://www.coloradomotorcycleadventures.com/

Whitewater Rafting

The Poudre river here in NoCo provides some excellent rafting opportunities. In periods of high runoff, though, please, please make sure you're taking a guided tour for your own safety. Powering through Class III and IV rapids is an absolute blast, and an experience you won't forget! There are many great companies up here that offer guided trips. My personal favorite has been https://www.awanderlustadventure.com/

gold panning

gem mining

hunting

fishing

National Parks

Sightseeing (Estes, other small towns)

bird watching

wildlife spotting

swimming

boating

kayaking

rock climbing