Hunting is permitted in season. The Cache La Poudre offers some of the best fishing in the state. 50 miles of the river are stocked with rainbow and brown trout, while the area near the town of Rustic has wild trout waters, perfect for fly and lure anglers. Fishing licenses may be purchased at local sporting goods stores, and at the state Division of Wildlife offices. Whitewater boating is popular from April through August.
Commercial outfitters provide guided raft and kayak trips.
Red Father Lakes is located northwest of Fort Collins, surrounded by the Roosevelt National Forest. This is a prime recreation area with great mountain meadows, streams, and high peaks. The Natonal Forest contains four wilderness areas, plus the Arapahoe Wildlife Refuge. A little known route, along Long Draw Road, leads to the remote northwest area of Rocky Mountain National Park. The Habitat Walk is a nature study trail with 12 interpretation stations.