(EMAILWIRE.COM, November 04, 2009 ) Fort Collins, Colo. --- Legend has it that in the early 1800s, French-Canadian fur traders were caught by a tremendous snowstorm. To lighten their load, they buried large amounts of gunpowder ("poudre" in French) in a hiding place ("cache") along the banks of a river - the Cache la Poudre River , which runs through modern-day Fort Collins. Today, the river serves a different purpose—recreation. With opportunities for scenic driving, camping, fishing, rafting and more, it is an outstanding attraction for residents and visitors.

The Cache la Poudre is Colorado's first National Wild and Scenic River. The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 to preserve rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The area is also home to the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests providing some of most beautiful scenery Colorado has to offer.

The Poudre River Canyon, about 30 minutes from Fort Collins, is the hub of activity. Here, fly fishermen try their luck with the river’s trout populations as rafts float the rapids past campgrounds and trail heads. The canyon is the Disneyland for the outdoor enthusiasts.

The fish that lure anglers to the river are rainbow and brown trout. The average 9-12 inches with a few over 16 inches. The Poudre is a freestone stream that stretches no more than 40 feet across at its widest point. River flows range from a high of 800 CFS during peak runoff in May and June, to and average summer flow of 300 CFS. The Poudre has most water types for fishing. You'll find riffles, runs, pools and flats. Most fisherman practice catch & release,

The canyon is also the starting point for whitewater rafting and kayak trips from early May to around Labor Day. On hot summer days, it’s not unlikely to see folks head up to the canyon and “tube” -- using the black inner tubes from tires -- from spot to spot.

The preferred overnight accommodations are campgrounds and they are abundant. Many sites overlook the river so campers are lulled to sleep by the sound of rushing water. Campgrounds are a mix of first-come, first-serve and reservations accepted.

Don’t forget your hiking poles and mountain bike because there are a number of world-class trails surrounding the river. Grey Rock, three-mile long moderate difficult trail and Hewlett Gulch, also three miles but easier, are two popular trails.

For those looking for a soft adventure, a trip along the Cache La Poudre/North Park Scenic Byway is a great way to spend the day. The byway starts in Fort Collins and takes motorists through Roosevelt National Forest, and then follows the Poudre River through Poudre Canyon up to Cameron Pass and down to North Park. The road is 101 miles long and takes about 3 hours to travel.

Fort Collins Convention and Visitors Bureau
CONTACT: Heather Miller
TEL: 970-568-7423
E-MAIL: heather@atmstravelnews.com
WEB: www.visitftcollins.com

###

Contact Information:
Fort Collins Convention and Visitors Bur
Heather Miller
Tel: 970.568.7423
Email us