HPEC Lakeside Trail

The trails are located at the High Plains Environmental Center (HPEC) in Loveland, Colorado. Parking is available directly at the center, which serves as the primary trailhead for accessing the various interconnected loops around Houts Reservoir and Equalizer Reservoir.

Yes, the trails at the High Plains Environmental Center are dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to protect the local wildlife and native plant life, and remember to clean up after your pet.

The HPEC Lakeside Trail is accessible year-round from dawn to dusk. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in bloom during spring and changing foliage in autumn. Winter hiking is also possible, though conditions may vary. The center's focus on native plants means there's always something interesting to observe.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the HPEC Lakeside Trail. The trails and demonstration gardens are free and open to the public daily from dawn to dusk.

The terrain is generally considered easy and accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. The pathways are a mix of partially paved and partially unpaved surfaces. There is minimal elevation gain, making for a comfortable and casual hiking experience.

Absolutely! The trail is ideal for beginners, casual strollers, and families with children. Its easy terrain, minimal elevation changes, and engaging natural features make it a great option for introducing kids to nature and enjoying a relaxed outdoor experience.

The full route, which includes loops around both Houts Reservoir and Equalizer Lake, typically takes around 2 hours to complete at a moderate pace. The total distance is approximately 8.4 kilometers (5.2 miles).

You'll experience diverse scenery including wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, showcasing a wide variety of native plants and wildflowers. The area is a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities to spot native bees, butterflies, dragonflies, songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, and even occasional jumping fish. Over 100 species of birds and 40 species of mammals have been observed here.

Yes, the HPEC Lakeside Trail is primarily a loop system. It consists of interconnected loops that traverse the area surrounding Houts Reservoir and Equalizer Lake, allowing you to complete a full circuit or shorter sections.

The High Plains Environmental Center (HPEC) is dedicated to ecological restoration and education. The trails serve as a "living laboratory" demonstrating their "SUBURBITAT" philosophy, which aims for people and nature to thrive together. Visitors can learn about native plants, habitat enhancement, and water conservation through interpretive signage and the center's programs.

The primary points of interest are the two beautiful lakes themselves: Equalizer Lake and Houts Reservoir. The trail also winds through various demonstration gardens and restored natural habitats, offering continuous opportunities for wildlife viewing and appreciating native flora.