Signature Bluffs Natural Area | Greeley, CO
Looking for a way to enjoy the beauty of the Poudre River corridor without the constant "on your left!" of passing cyclists? Signature Bluffs Natural Area in Greeley offers a "secret" 1-mile grassy detour around a quiet pond that’s perfect for little legs that love to wander. While the main paved path is part of the busy Poudre River Trail, the real magic happens when you step off the cement. From a "stick teepee" wooded grove and a long wooden walkway to a beachy cove perfect for splashing, it’s a sensory-rich escape filled with turkey calls, red-winged blackbirds, and plenty of beaver signs.
Take Note: The cement portions of this trail are a major artery for the Poudre River Trail. You’ll share those sections with fast-moving cyclists and e-scooters, so keep the "littles" close! Once you hop onto the grassy pond loop, you can breathe easier—it’s a much safer space for kids to roam.
A Glimpse of the Trail: February
Detailed Trail Description:
Starting from the trailhead, you’ll begin on the wide, cement Poudre River Trail. Almost immediately, you'll enter a wooded area on the Northeast side of the pond—this is a "kid-gold" spot perfect for building stick teepees or having a shaded picnic.
The Route: Continue along the paved path and cross the long wooden walkway bridge. Once you’re across, "hop down" to the unpaved dirt trail below to begin your loop around the water. This path weaves you around the pond and eventually brings you back up to the main pond trail (a wide gravel path) that takes you under a beautiful canopy of cottonwood trees.
The "Single-Wide" Path & Beach: To stay away from the bike traffic, bear off the main gravel trail again and follow the one-person-wide dirt path as it skirts the pond's edge. This is where the trail gets fun—you’ll weave through marshland. Look for signs of beaver and keep your ears and eyes open for red-winged blackbirds, woodpeckers, and deer. This path eventually brings you to the beach access area on the Southeast corner of the pond. While not hidden, it is tucked away from the cement path, offering a shallow spot for kids to splash before you rejoin the paved trail for the short walk back to the parking lot.
Snack & Rest Stops: Whether you’re looking for a sturdy seat or a natural perch, there are plenty of places to pause:
The "Official" Stops: Along the main gravel loop (the higher-traffic area), you’ll find multiple stone and metal benches. These are great for a quick water break while watching the cyclists pass by.
The "Nature" Seats: If you prefer a quieter experience, head to the grassy, low-traffic path. There are several large, downed Cottonwood logs that make perfect natural benches. These spots are ideal for a longer snack break where the kids can explore the "beaver-chewed" wood without worrying about oncoming bike traffic.
Accessibility Notes:
Kid-Friendly Notes: This trail is a "choose your own adventure." The paved and gravel paths are excellent for strollers and wheelchairs. However, for "free-range" toddlers, the grassy loop is the winner—it's much safer for little legs that like to wander away from fast bike traffic.
Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs are welcome on-leash. The beach cove at the southeast corner is a great spot for them to get a quick drink or cool their paws.
🚲 Something Special: Cycling Without Age
The Cycling Without Age (CWA) program is one of the coolest features for families with mobility challenges or those visiting with seniors. They offer free "trishaw" rides—a specialized electric-assist bike with a comfortable front seat for two.
While Signature Bluffs is a primary hub for these rides in Greeley, this incredible program is growing across Northern Colorado. You can find these "wind in your hair" experiences in several cities:
Windsor & Greeley: Rides frequently depart from Eastman Park and Signature Bluffs, traveling the beautiful Poudre River Trail.
Fort Collins & Beyond: Keep an eye out for chapters popping up in neighboring natural areas and paved trail systems where biking is allowed!
For Grandparents & Seniors: It’s a beautiful, dignified way for them to enjoy the river corridor alongside the grandkids without the strain of a long walk. Instead of sitting on a bench while the kids play, they can be part of the adventure!
Pro-Tip: These rides are piloted by trained volunteers and are typically available by appointment (usually April through November). It’s a "storybook ride" that lets everyone, regardless of age or ability, feel the freedom of the trail! You can check availability or schedule a ride at PoudreTrail.org.
Trail Traffic:
Main Trail: Heavy. This is a major artery for the Poudre River Trail; expect high-speed cyclists, e-bikes, and commuters.
Grassy Loop: Light. You’ll likely only share this path with a few fishermen and fellow nature-seekers.
Important Considerations:
Sun & Wind Exposure: This trail is highly exposed. There is very little protection from the sun or the notorious Greeley wind. Plan accordingly and bring extra sun protection!
The "Hop Down": To access the quiet grassy loop, you’ll need to step off the main path before, along, or after the wooden bridge. This transition is not wheelchair or stroller-accessible.
Seasonal Flooding: The area along the wooden walkway bridge shows signs of seasonal flooding.
Bug Alert: Because of the marshland and standing pond water, this area can get very buggy (mosquitoes and gnats). Pack the repellent.
Shoreline Safety: The beach access in the SE corner is shallow along the edge but drops off quickly. Keep a close eye on little ones!
High-Speed Traffic: Because this is a major bike artery, you will encounter fast-moving cyclists, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
Planning Your Trip:
Trailhead Location: Signature Bluffs Natural Area, Greeley, CO
Parking: Mid-size gravel lot (~24 cars). It fills up quickly with both trail users and neighbors!
Facilities: A portable potty, trash cans, covered picnic gazebo, and a bike fix-it station are located at the trailhead.
Cost for Entry/Parking: Free
Timed Entry/Reservations: None
Interactive Trail Map
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