Hours and General Information
The Environmental Learning Center property is open every day, sunrise to sunset, free of charge. For directions to our location, scroll down. Our 212-acre property offers visitors the opportunity to explore four distinct ecosystems: riparian, cottonwood forest, wetland and grassland. Read below for more information to plan your visit to the Environmental Learning Center (ELC).
Groups
Please contact us at elc@csuelc.org if you plan to bring a group larger than 10 people to the Environmental Learning Center. This will help us avoid parking conflicts with scheduled programs.
Restrooms
There is one vault toilet on site, at the west end of the parking lot.
Picnic Tables
There are four covered picnic tables near the parking lot. These are available on a first come, first served basis; they cannot be reserved.
Trails
The Wilcox trail is approximately 1.2 miles long and the Alden trail is approximately 0.6 miles long. Both trails travel through several different ecosystems, and there are benches and interpretive signs along both trails. Please note, dogs and bikes are not permitted on our trails.
Wildlife
The ELC is home to many different species of plants and animals; see our wildlife guides from more information. Remember to never feed wild animals, and don’t approach them!
Activities
Enjoy some fun activities to do at home to keep your outdoor adventures going!
Water
Drinking water is available from the red spigot on site, directly east of the picnic tables.
Directions
From Fort Collins
Head east on Drake Road. Approximately one mile after passing the intersection at Timberline Road, turn left on Environmental Drive. After crossing a one lane bridge, take a sharp left on the gravel road (you will see the ELC sign), crossing the railroad tracks. Parking lot is at the end of the gravel road. Programs meet near the parking lot, at the amphitheater.
From I-25
Take the Harmony Road exit. Head west on Harmony for approximately two miles, to Ziegler Road. Turn right (north) on Ziegler. You will go through a light and a roundabout, continuing north. Take a right on Environmental Drive. After crossing a one lane bridge, take a sharp left on the gravel road (you will see the ELC sign), crossing the railroad tracks. Parking lot is at the end of the gravel road. Programs meet near the parking lot, at the amphitheater.
Rules and Regulations
- Dogs and bikes are not permitted on our trails
- No overnight usage
- No campfires
- Catching and releasing of wildlife is not permitted on our property
- Fishing is permitted with the appropriate state fishing license
- The sale and use of tobacco products, vaping, and e-cigarettes are prohibited on all grounds owned or leased by the state of Colorado