March Guided Hikes And Programs In Larimer County

February is National Heart Month, but these lessons apply all year: The health benefits of regular walking or hiking are numerous, ranging from losing excess pounds, lowering chances of getting heart disease, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, to improving mental health. Get outdoors for these hikes and programs in Larimer County’s Open Spaces, and have fun while doing your body good!

Guided Hikes and Programs
 
Wednesday, March 7 at 6:00 p.m. “Moon Over My Open Space: The Moon in Legends from Around the World” Join Naturalists Jay and Caroline for a moon-lit walk around the Wild Loop at Devil’s Backbone Open Space, located just west of Loveland off Hwy 34. You will be dazzled by legends and myths of our most familiar celestial body. You may be surprised at many of them! Program is free and registration is required at http://www.larimer.org/naturalresources/registration/ Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring plenty of water for the trail. Hike rating: easy. Approximately 1.5-hour program. Please direct questions to Heather at (970) 679-4489.

Saturday, March 10 at 10:00 a.m. “Wiley Coyotes” Coyotes are one of the most ubiquitous species in the country, and define our western landscapes. Join Naturalist Bob for a nature hike at River Bluffs Open Space, located just west of the I-25/Windsor interchange off of CR32E, dedicated to the secret life of these sometimes charismatic, sometimes misunderstood wild dogs. Program is free. Hike rating: easy. Please bring along water for the trail and dress appropriately for the weather. Approximately 2-hour program. No registration required. Please direct questions to Heather at (970) 679-4489.
  
Saturday, March 24 at 9:00 a.m. “Wintertime Plant Walk” Join Naturalist Kathy for a wintertime plant walk at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, located just west of Fort Collins on CR 38E. Kathy will explain how plants handle the harsh winter season and point out some species that just won’t quit! We recommend you wear yaktrax or another means of traction for your boots. Approximately 3-hour hike. Hike rating: easy. Program is free; a $6 daily entrance permit is required. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring along water for the trail. Please direct questions to Heather at (970) 679-4489.
 
Saturday, March 31 at 10:00 a.m. “Antlers and Horns” Join Naturalist Bob at Devil’s Backbone Open Space, located just west of Loveland off Hwy 34, for an interactive look at elk, mule deer, and big horn sheep’s most striking features, their antlers and horns! Program is free. No registration required. Please direct questions to Heather at (970) 679-4489.

[larimer.org/naturalresources]