Back To Previous PageThere’s something about time spent outside that quiets our minds, something that's even more important of late.
Spending time out in nature, meditating, taking a wellness-focused walk, or doing yoga outside only adds to the relaxation component. Here are some ways to take a break from our noisy lives and soak up nature while practicing self-care.
Nature as therapy
The City of Fort Collins manages more than 50 natural areas encompassing over 40,000 acres and 100 miles of trails. The natural areas are the traditional lands of the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapahoe Native American tribes. Visiting these natural areas can be therapeutic and relaxing. Fort Collins natural areas are generally open from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m. Bobcat Ridge, Gateway, Reservoir Ridge, and Soapstone Prairie natural areas, however, are open dawn to dusk.
A great resource for an outdoor activity calendar while visiting Fort Collins is the Natural Areas Explorer publication. Here you will find activities occurring all summer long and details for registration.
Natural areas are special places to explore and treasure. The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department manages more than 50 natural areas encompassing over 40,000 acres and 100 miles of trails—there’s probably a natural area near you! Check the maps on pages 78-81 or visit fcgov.com/naturalareas. These natural areas are the traditional lands of the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Native American tribes and remain important to indigenous peoples living in northern Colorado and the surrounding areas. Fort Collins natural areas are open from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m. except for Bobcat Ridge, Gateway, Reservoir Ridge, and Soapstone Prairie natural areas which are open dawn to dusk. Soapstone Prairie is closed from December–to February
Outdoor Yoga and Tai Chi
Yoga at The OBC Wine Project
On Saturday mornings, you can wake up and look forward to attending an outdoor yoga class at The OBC Wine Project. This class is beginner-friendly and takes place from 10-11 AM. Each ticket includes the one-hour class, two gluten-free muffins from locally roasted Bindle Coffee, a hydrating electrolyte beverage mix, and one draft wine. Learn more here.
Yoga on The Terrace at The Elizabeth Hotel
On Sunday mornings, enjoy free yoga at the beautiful Elizabeth Hotel terrace with a local yoga instructor starting at 9 AM. This class is hosted in collaboration with Lululemon and Hydrate IV Bar.
Tai Chi in The Gardens
Tai Chi, often called meditation in motion, is a traditional Chinese practice that benefits the heart, bones, nerves, muscles, immune system, and the mind. Local Tai Chi practitioner and instructor, Min Fan, will teach the outdoor Tai Chi in The Gardens, suitable for all levels. Classes are subject to cancellation if there is inclement weather. Tai Chi classes take place Saturdays in July and Aug. Click here to learn more and register for any of the classes.
