River/Riparian birding habitat

Poudre River Trail near US 287

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Poudre River Trail near US 287 is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Cackling Goose, American Dipper, and Canada Goose among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

Loading map...

Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

7/9/2026McMurry Natural Area, Fort Collins2 observed

Willet (Western)

Tringa semipalmata

7/7/2026Tri-Lakes region1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

7/7/2026Ryan Gulch Reservoir3 observed

Laughing Gull

Leucophaeus atricilla

7/6/2026Ryan Gulch Reservoir1 observed

Eastern Warbling Vireo

Vireo gilvus

7/5/2026Frank SWA (Weld Co.)1 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

7/4/2026North Shields Pond Natural Area4 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

7/4/2026Northwest Greeley,CO Suburbs4 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

7/4/2026Kingfisher Point & Nix Farm Natural Area1 observed

Horned Grebe

Podiceps auritus

7/3/2026Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir1 observed

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

7/2/2026Frank SWA (Weld Co.)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

86/28/2026

Mallard

46/28/2026

Rock Pigeon

16/28/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

16/28/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

66/28/2026

Turkey Vulture

16/28/2026

Northern Flicker

16/28/2026

Blue Jay

16/28/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

26/28/2026

Barn Swallow

36/28/2026

Cliff Swallow

106/28/2026

European Starling

106/28/2026

American Robin

66/28/2026

House Finch

126/28/2026

American Goldfinch

16/28/2026

Common Grackle

16/28/2026

Lazuli Bunting

16/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Poudre River Trail near US 287 for birding?
The best months to visit Poudre River Trail near US 287 for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Poudre River Trail near US 287?
Notable species at Poudre River Trail near US 287 include Cackling Goose, American Dipper, Canada Goose, Mallard, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Poudre River Trail near US 287?
Birding at Poudre River Trail near US 287 is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Poudre River Trail near US 287?
Poudre River Trail near US 287 offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.