Winding their way across the Great Plains like so many ribbons, rivers and streams were vital to survival for all lifeforms that inhabited the parched expanse. For humans, watercourses also served as directional aids, tracks for travel corridors, and convenient boundaries. The Cache la Poudre was such a river. Its verdant valley was referred to as the jáaianahâw by the Arapaho people and first appear on a map of the region as a result of Major Stephen H. Long’s expedition of 1820. By 1835, it was being called the Cache la Poudre, or “hide the powder.”
Significant at various times, in various ways, the Poudre River has many tales to tell. From the 1820s to the 1870s this “downstream” segment factored prominently in river lore. This tour takes you around the circumference of Rigden Reservoir while stopping at several sites during the walk to relate stories of the people and events that added to its colorful history.
Fort Collins, United States
We will visit three historically significant sites on this walking tour which is approximately two miles round trip. Sites include: * Strauss Cabin ruins * Arapahoe Council Tree site * Historic Sherwood property In addition to these sites, we include an ongoing narrative that conveys their relevance and places them in the proper historical context.
Our tour will begin in the parking lot at Arapaho Bend Reservoir located at 4109 East Horsetooth Road, Fort Collins, CO. Look for our blue passenger van.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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