The Loveland Parks & Recreation Department will begin construction on new soft-surface trails and two new trailheads at Skyline and Dakota Ridge Natural Areas beginning Monday, Sep. 22.  Located in the foothills west of Loveland, Skyline and Dakota Ridge Natural Areas form a contiguous 415-acre expanse of conserved land. This diverse landscape features upland meadows, shrublands, ponderosa pine woodlands, and riparian drainages, with over 400 feet of elevation change from valleys to ridgelines. The areas serve not only as vital wildlife habitat and movement corridors, but will also offer recreational opportunities, such as hiking and mountain biking when opened in summer of 2026.

The construction project will include seven miles of soft-surface trails, a southern trailhead at the north side of Highway 34 and Rossum Drive including parking and a restroom, and a northern parking area at West 43rd Street. Plans focus on an ecological approach to balance conservation with recreation, ensuring sustainable management practices that will protect natural resources while enhancing public access.

The project is funded and maintained by the City of Loveland’s share of the Larimer County Open Space Tax. 

Project updates and information can be found on the City’s Skyline and Dakota Ridge Natural Areas webpage.

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About City of Loveland Parks & Recreation: The Parks & Recreation Department provides access to health, wellness, community and quality of life for Loveland residents and visitors. Its mission is to provide effective, efficient and high-quality leisure facilities, sites, services and programs through the three pillars of parks and recreation – conservation, health & wellness and social equity – to make a positive impact on the community.