Colorado Springs vs. Fort Collins: lakes/rivers for recreation?

[Mommalot]

It looks like the Arkansas River is not a convenient drive for quick recreation?

[Mommalot]

Sirlancelot911

About the water in CO and coming from a soggy area....

I can relate to your drippy woes! I am in the coastal redwoods in northern Cal and it is forever wet. I have to remind myself often to remember that this brings its own beauty, green as emeralds always, lush and fresh smelling etc. but one can not enjoy it a whole lot if he or she wants to stay dry! (or keep the kiddos somewhat dry and healthy) mold is another problem that comes with the wet. I have not had any responses to my various inquiries that this is a problem in CO with the aired climate there.

However, at some point it (rain and gray skies) just becomes too much. I hope your change is positive! I have seen people leave here but then return and then cannot live the lifestyle they once had trying to get back in. Too expensive.

We have been interested in the Fort Collins/Loveland area but had a job offer in the Springs so we are checking that all out too. After being there (CO) with the mindset of relocating verses visiting, I can say that nothing in CO remotely resembles what we are accustom to as far as water. I would think WA is an area that may possibly resemble our area as far as rain goes.

I did post that we spent time up in Big Thompson Canyon while in Loveland and absolutely loved it! There is just about every type of terrain there and less a shock in change for us, but still, we are looking for some change!

Having the pacific out our front door and six local, major, rivers very close by, the water holes there in CO are really puddles, but what I appreciated about the Fort and Loveland area was that there was a sense of water just driving around. It did not feel dry, brown, or dusty and we were there in August, a typically dry time of year to travel. It was generally green and water was seen all over even though it was obvious water levels were really low.

The Springs is dryer it seems, and as far as local easy and quick access to big water, the northern areas are better suited for this. However, the Springs is very beautiful also. The folks up in the Fort and Loveland areas were pretty friendly which was nice.

We will follow the best opportunities that will allow us to support our family while aiming north for sure. If we end up in the Springs, it is still closer than trying to get to the Loveland/Fort Collins area from CA!!

There are many forums about the Colorado area on this site, check them out! Good luck!