North Star Nature Preserve - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

North Star Nature Preserve is a 3,000-acre property that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the preserve on foot, by bike, or on horseback. There are also a number of hiking trails that wind through the property. In addition to its natural beauty, North Star Nature Preserve also offers a variety of educational programs. These programs include guided nature walks, birdwatching workshops, and stargazing events. Whether you're looking to commune with nature or learn more about the local ecosystem, North Star Nature Preserve is sure to offer something for everyone.

North Star Nature Preserve is a 1,600-acre parcel of land located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The preserve is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, as well as a variety of geological features. The area was first populated by Native Americans, who used the land for hunting and gathering. In the late 1800s, homesteaders began to move into the area, and the first permanent settlement was established in 1909. ranching and logging were the main economic activities in the early years of the preserve, but these industries declined in the mid-20th century. The preserve was established in 1974, and since then it has been managed by the Pitkin County Open Space and Trails program. The preserve is open to the public for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

North Star Nature Preserve is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, but each season offers its own unique charms. In the spring, the wildflowers are in bloom and the trees are just starting to green up. The summer months are perfect for hiking and enjoying the views from the many lookout points. Fall is a great time to see the changing leaves, and winter brings a serene beauty as the landscape is blanketed in snow. No matter when you visit, North Star Nature Preserve is sure to impress.

1. Please stay on the trails at all times. This helps to protect the fragile plants and animals that live in the preserve.
2. Please do not feed any of the animals in the preserve. They are wild animals and their diets are carefully balanced. Feeding them human food can make them sick.
3. Please do not pick any of the plants in the preserve. Many of them are rare or endangered, and picking them can damage the population.
4. Please be aware of potential hazards while you are in the preserve, such as steep cliffs, slippery rocks, and fast-moving water. Use caution when exploring and stay safe!
5. Remember that you are visiting a wilderness area – please be prepared for changes in weather, terrain, and wildlife activity levels. Be sure to bring plenty of food, water, and supplies with you on your visit.
6. Please be careful with fires in the preserve. Only use designated fire pits and be sure to completely extinguish all fires before you leave.

1. North Star Nature Preserve is located in Pitkin County, Colorado and covers 2,600 acres.
2. Over 200 species of birds have been observed at the preserve, including the rare Snowy Owl. 
3. The preserve is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
4. The preserve contains a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous.
5. The preserve includes a variety of ecosystems, including alpine meadows, forests, and wetlands.
6. In addition to being a recreational destination, North Star Nature Preserve serves as an important habitat for many species of plants and animals.

In order to fully experience all that North Star has to offer, plan on spending at least 3-4 days exploring the preserve. This will give you plenty of time to hike to your heart's content and discover all the hidden gems this property has to offer. 

To reach North Star Nature Preserve, take exit 42 off I-70 and head north on Colorado Highway 133 for 12 miles. Then turn left onto Capitol Creek Road and follow signs for the preserve. The preserve is located in a beautiful valley between the Elk and Perl mountain ranges and offers a variety of hiking trails, all of which are open to the public. 

There is no admission fee but donations are welcome to help support the preserve. 

North Star Nature Preserve is open to the public from sunrise to sunset every day of the year.