The Boxelder Schoolhouse was brought to the museum from Upper Boxelder Canyon, where it was used as a school from 1884 to 1951. With the Rockies at their doorstep, Fort Collins residents have a wealth of outdoor experiences to enjoy, and the region is fast becoming a popular recreation area for visitors. The Cache La Poudre River tumbles down the slopes of the Front Range, and flows through Fort Collins before emptying into the South Platte River east of Greeley. Over its run, the river drops more than 7,000 feet. The magnificent canyon was a home for early Nativess, and then a place where gold was sought and timber was cut for railroad ties.
Several trails begin in the canyon, and are traveled by foot, horse, and bicycle.
Snowy winter trails offer fine crosss-country skiing and snowmobiling. 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.