CSU Environmental Learning Center, Fort Collins, CO
The Colorado State University Environmental Learning Center is a 212 acre natural area located in east Fort Collins along the Cache La Poudre River. Each year they serve more than 4,000 participants annually in over 180 environmental education and service programs. Most of their staff are CSU students who learn valuable real-world job experience through their work at the ELC.
The CSU Environmental Learning Center has a rich and long history; the land was originally part of the Arapaho bison hunting grounds, and also had a “Council Tree” where tribe members held meetings.
The Overland Trail stagecoach stop was originally also located on this property. Jesse Sherwood originally built a farm in this area, but the structure burned down in 1998. The land was donated to the ELC in the 1960s by the Rigden family descendants.
The area now features prairie grassland, riparian areas and 212 acres of cottonwood forest. The ELC facilitates educational experiences for students and the public in the natural environment and advances the field of environmental education through sound research and practice.
Tourism Information
The Environmental Learning Center property is open every day, sunrise to sunset, free of charge. The 212-acre property offers visitors the opportunity to explore four distinct ecosystems: riparian, cottonwood forest, wetland and grassland.
Restrooms
There is one vault toilet on site.
Trails
The ELC consists of two looped trails which wind through several different ecosystems. Please, no dogs or bikes on the trails.
Rules and Regulations
- Dogs and bikes are not permitted on the trails
- No overnight usage
- No campfires
- Catching and releasing of wildlife is not permitted on the 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
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.
