Fort Collins Military Years (Riding Tour)

The "Fort Collins Military Years (Riding Tour)" offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s captivating military history during the Civil War era. Participants will uncover the stories behind significant sites like Camp Collins, where soldiers grappled with the challenges of the Cache la Poudre River valley. This guided tour provides a thought-provoking perspective on the impact of the military presence on westward migration, indigenous peoples, and the surrounding landscape. With engaging storytelling and historical insights, the tour promises to illuminate a fascinating chapter in the American West.

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Key Points

The 2-hour guided van tour provides insights into the military history of Fort Collins, including its role in the Indian Wars and westward migration during the Civil War era.
The tour stops at key locations such as the Laporte Presbyterian Church, Gustav Swanson Natural Area, and Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, LLP to explore the area’s military past.
Participants can learn about the challenges faced by soldiers stationed at Camp Collins and the impact of the military presence on the development of Fort Collins.
The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover the stories and artifacts that reveal Fort Collins’ military significance in the American West.
The tour is priced at $45 per person, with a maximum of 8 participants, and includes a cancellation policy that allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Fort Collins Military Years tour offers a 2-hour guided van experience that explores the region’s historical connection to the American West and the Civil War era.

Priced from $45 per person, the tour is limited to 8 participants and is offered in English. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour starts and ends at the Watson Lake State Wildlife Area, providing access to restrooms throughout. Attendees should dress appropriately for the weather and bring essentials like water and sunscreen.

Looking for more options in Fort Collins? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the parking lot next to Watson Lake State Wildlife Area, the guided van tour includes several stops along the way.

Visitors will spend 20 minutes at Laporte Presbyterian Church, learning about its history.

Next, they’ll visit the Gustav Swanson Natural Area for 25 minutes of wildlife viewing.

The tour then stops for 15 minutes at Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, LLP, a photo opportunity.

Finally, the tour returns to the starting location, providing an immersive experience in the American West and insights into the region’s military past during the Civil War era.

Historical Context

As the tour explores the history of the American West, it provides insights into the significance of Camp Collins and the military presence in the Cache la Poudre River valley during the 1860s.

Visitors will learn about the role of Camp Collins in the Indian Wars and the westward migration movement. They’ll discover stories of Army life on the frontier during the Civil War era, including the challenges and experiences of soldiers stationed at the camp.

The tour offers a glimpse into this important chapter of Fort Collins’ past, shedding light on the region’s military history and its impact on the American West.

Tour Logistics

Visitors meet at the parking lot next to the Watson Lake State Wildlife Area, approximately 1 mile west of Verns Place on Rist Canyon Road.

Restroom access is available throughout the tour. Visitors should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for standing and walking.

It’s recommended to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

The guided van tour takes visitors through the historic Cache la Poudre River valley, providing a first-hand look at early American West life and military presence during the Civil War era.

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Customer Feedback

Guests have awarded the Fort Collins Military Years tour an impressive 5/5 rating based on a single review.

The reviewer praised the guide’s passion, which enriched the experience for those unfamiliar with American history.

The tour provides an opportunity to discover the story of the American West, including early frontier life and historic artifacts from the mid-nineteenth century.

With a focus on the military presence in the Cache la Poudre River valley during the Civil War era, the tour offers valuable historical context about the Indian Wars and westward migration movement.

There's plenty more to explore in Fort Collins

The Role of Camp Collins

Camp Collins played a pivotal role in the military presence within the Cache la Poudre River valley during the mid-nineteenth century.

Camp Collins was a key military presence in the Cache la Poudre River valley during the mid-nineteenth century.

The fort served as:

A base for soldiers during the Indian Wars, protecting settlers and travelers
A strategic outpost for the westward expansion and migration of Americans
A hub for communication and logistics, connecting the West to the East
A symbol of the government’s efforts to maintain control and order on the frontier
A witness to the challenges and hardships faced by Army life on the frontier during the Civil War era

Frontier Life During the Civil War

Although the Civil War raged on the battlefields of the East, life on the frontier at Camp Collins was a constant struggle against the harsh realities of the American West.

Soldiers faced bitter winters, scorching summers, and the ever-present threat of attack from Native tribes. Daily tasks like gathering firewood and maintaining the camp tested their endurance.

Yet, through it all, they forged a sense of camaraderie and resilience, adapting to the challenges of frontier living. The stories of their day-to-day trials and triumphs provide a glimpse into the rugged nature of military service on the western frontier during the Civil War era.

The Impact of Westward Migration

The movement of settlers across the American frontier had a profound impact on the region surrounding Camp Collins. As hordes of pioneers and prospectors streamed west, they forever transformed the landscape and disrupted the lives of indigenous peoples.

This westward migration:

Displaced Native American tribes from their ancestral lands
Introduced new diseases that decimated indigenous populations
Depleted natural resources and destroyed fragile ecosystems
Fueled conflicts and violence between settlers and native inhabitants
Accelerated the loss of traditional cultures and ways of life

This tumultuous period marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new, uncertain future for all who called this rugged land home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, no specific provisions or catering are included as part of the tour package.

Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?

The tour offers limited accessibility for guests with disabilities. While there is restroom access, the van tour and walking portions may present challenges. Guests should inquire about specific accommodation needs when booking to ensure the tour meets their accessibility requirements.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves limited walking, with approximately 15 minutes spent standing and walking at one location. The majority of the tour is conducted via van, allowing for minimal physical exertion during the 2-hour experience.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour company offers a 10% discount for seniors aged 65 and above, as well as a 15% discount for students with valid ID. These discounts can be applied at the time of booking.

Can I Take Pictures During the Tour?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The guide will provide opportunities for photo stops at key historical sites along the route to capture the experience.

The Sum Up

The "Fort Collins Military Years (Riding Tour)" offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich military history during the Civil War era. Participants will uncover the significant role of Camp Collins, the challenges faced by soldiers, and the impact of westward migration on the landscape and indigenous peoples. This engaging tour provides a captivating perspective on the American West through storytelling and historical insights.