Nestled just north of downtown Fort Collins, Old Town North offers visitors historic charm and contemporary outdoor culture. This walkable neighborhood of 1,350 residents sits just one mile from downtown, served by Grey Rock Landscape and Construction. The area provides easy access to craft breweries, mountain trails, and the Cache la Poudre River.
The Military Roots of Fort Collins, Old Town North
Fort Collins was founded as a military outpost of the United States Army in 1864, succeeding a previous encampment known as Camp Collins on the Cache la Poudre River near what is known today as Laporte. The original camp was established during the Indian wars of the mid-1860s to protect travelers and the Overland mail route, but a flood in 1864 destroyed the military post, Camp Collins, prompting the military to relocate the camp and rename it Fort Collins.
On August 20, 1864, Lt. Col. William O. Collins of the Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry wrote out a special order calling for a permanent post to be built on the Cache la Poudre. The fort was strategically positioned in what is now the northeast edge of Old Town, with the surrounding area gradually developing into the residential neighborhoods we see today, including Old Town North.
A Riverside Oasis with Mountain Views
Old Town North offers residents and visitors mountainous views, glowing sunsets, and colorful landscapes just a mile from downtown Fort Collins. The neighborhood sits along the historic Cache la Poudre River corridor, Colorado’s only Wild and Scenic River designated in 1986, which provides 76 miles of protected waterway from the headwaters in Rocky Mountain National Park downstream through Fort Collins. This prime location means you can:
- Walk or bike along the Poudre Trail for scenic river views
- Access world-class fishing opportunities for rainbow, brown, and brook trout
- Enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking adventures in nearby Poudre Canyon
- Experience the peaceful sounds of Colorado’s fastest-flowing river
The elevation change from the mountains to the plains creates an enormous 6,155 feet elevation variance between the river’s headwaters and mouth, resulting in typically very swift current that makes the area perfect for water sports and scenic beauty.
Craft Beer Culture and Culinary Delights
Fort Collins produces 70% of the craft beer made in the state of Colorado and is home to more than 20 craft breweries, with many easily accessible from Old Town North. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown means you’re within walking or biking distance of legendary breweries like New Belgium and Odell Brewing Company.
Residents love being able to walk to New Belgium Brewery, restaurants, and shops, often seeing people walking their dogs or biking even when it’s snowing outside. The area offers diverse dining options from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, with many featuring farm-to-table cuisine that reflects Colorado’s agricultural heritage and commitment to sustainability.
Outdoor Recreation Paradise
The location puts you at the doorstep of incredible outdoor adventures. Fort Collins beckons with a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, artistic inspiration, and friendly faces, offering easy access to recreational hiking trailheads at Horsetooth Reservoir. From Old Town North, you can quickly reach:
- Horsetooth Mountain Open Space for hiking and rock climbing
- Horsetooth Reservoir for boating, paddleboarding, and swimming
- Lory State Park for backcountry camping and mountain biking
- Poudre Canyon for whitewater sports and scenic drives
Fort Collins is a platinum-level, bike-friendly city, only one of five in the entire nation, thanks to the 285-plus miles of trails and bike lanes throughout the city, making cycling a popular way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Arts, Culture, and Community Events
Old Town Square, voted #4 Best Public Square in the Nation by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, hosts free concerts, live performances, and community events throughout the year, including First Friday Art Walk and Fort Collins Foodie Walk. The neighborhood’s walkable design means you can easily stroll to downtown’s cultural attractions, including:
- Historic buildings and museums showcasing Western heritage
- Live music venues and theaters featuring local and touring acts
- Art galleries and public art installations throughout the historic district
- Seasonal festivals and community celebrations
The neighborhood has a reputation for safety and friendliness, with residents often seeing kids riding bikes on the streets, skating at parks, and people ready to start conversations on the streets.
Your Outdoor Living Partner in Old Town North
At Grey Rock Landscape and Construction, we understand what makes Old Town North special, and we’re proud to serve this unique Fort Collins neighborhood. Whether you’re inspired by the area’s natural beauty, historic charm, or outdoor lifestyle, we help homeowners create outdoor spaces that reflect the spirit of this remarkable location.
Our team brings the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that built Fort Collins’ historic character to every project we complete. Here are the comprehensive services we provide to Old Town North residents:
- Landscaping: Native plant installations, sustainable design, and maintenance
- Hardscaping: Patios, walkways, retaining walls, and outdoor structures
- Excavation: Site preparation, grading, and foundation work
- Outdoor Living: Fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment spaces
- Irrigation: Water-efficient systems and innovative irrigation technology
Start Your Old Town North Adventure
Old Town North represents the best of Fort Collins living – historic character, natural beauty, and modern amenities all within walking distance of each other. From morning bike rides along the Poudre River to evening concerts in Old Town Square, this neighborhood offers the authentic Colorado lifestyle that draws people from around the world. Come discover why residents choose to call this corner of Fort Collins home, where every day brings new opportunities for outdoor adventure and community connection.
