Larimer County’s newest major recreation area is still in the planning stages, but here’s a preview of what to expect once Chimney Hollow Open Space and the reservoir open.

The Larimer County Department of Natural Areas has led the open space planning process, drafting a preliminary plan for what recreation would look like based on public input.

The public has until November 15 to comment on the draft plan.

Where is Chimney Hollow Open Space located?

Approximately 5 miles southwest of Loveland and just west of Carter Lake.

How big is Chimney Hollow Open Space and how does it compare to Horsetooth and Carter Lake?

Chimney Hollow Open Space includes 1,847 acres of open space and 760 acres of Chimney Hollow Reservoir, which is currently being built.

When completed, the 90,000 acre-foot reservoir will supply 30,000 acre-feet of water to 12 irrigation companies and municipalities.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is 2,711 acres of land and Horsetooth Reservoir is 1,900 surface acres.

Carter Lakes covers 1,100 acres and is surrounded by 1,000 acres of public land.

When is Chimney Hollow Open Space expected to open?

Here’s a schedule, according to Larimer County Natural Resources:

• End of 2024: Recreation planning and completion of the reservoir dam.

• 2025-26: Construction of trails, parking lots, toilets, etc. and filling the reservoir

• 2027: Opening of open space and reservoir for recreation

What will recreation be like at Chimney Hollow Opens Space?

Recreation at the site will be divided into different management zones.

These include:

• Developed area: Major visitor facilities including parking lots, trails, restrooms, outdoor classrooms, etc.

• Access area: Service roads or other access points (not trails) for general public entry and maintenance purposes.

• Front area of ​​the country: Predominantly natural, but where most trails will be, as well as signs, benches, picnic areas, viewing platforms and service roads.

• Crossing area: Unpaved trails, signs, benches, primitive campsites and viewing platforms.

Recreation opportunities may be available at Chimney Hollow Open Space, Reservoir

The draft plan includes these land and water recreation opportunities:

• Information kiosks, water fountains, restrooms, and picnic tables

• Approximately 260 parking spaces spread across three lots, including boat trailers and with access to the reservoir and trail system.

• 50-space trailhead parking area including two to four horse trailer spaces with trail connection to Sundance Trail at Carter Lake and connection to trail system at Chimney Hollow Open Space

• Ten to 12 miles of primarily multi-use trails, including a coastal trail along the west side of Chimney Hollow Reservoir

• Wakeless boating, concrete boat ramp, floating dock, fishing access and swimming areas

Will it cost to recreate at Chimney Hollow Reservoir?

Yeah.

A similar entrance fee will apply to other sites managed by the Larimer County Department of Natural Resources, such as Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake.

This article originally appeared in the Fort Collins Coloradoan: Here are trails and navigation plans for the future Chimney Hollow open space