by North Forty News Staff | NorthFortyNews.com
Spring ramp access begins at Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake, with limited early-season hours
LOVELAND — Boating season returns to Northern Colorado on April 1, with select boat ramps opening at Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake under early spring schedules. Larimer County officials say access will be limited in April as seasonal operations ramp up and construction projects continue.
At Horsetooth Reservoir, the South Bay ramp will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. beginning April 1. The Inlet Bay marina ramp will open April 15 through April 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the Satanka ramp will remain closed until late May.
At Carter Lake, the South Shore ramp will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The North Pines ramp will operate only on weekends due to ongoing paving work, and the North Marina ramp will remain closed until May 1.
County officials note that construction at both reservoirs may temporarily affect access, particularly at South Bay and Inlet Bay at Horsetooth, and at North Pines at Carter Lake. Boaters should watch for posted signage and be prepared for possible delays.
All vessels are required to undergo mandatory inspections before launching. Inspections are generally easiest to complete between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., especially early in the season when staffing is limited. For safety reasons, decontamination services are not available after dark.
Boat ramp hours may change depending on weather conditions, water levels, or staffing availability. Additional ramp openings and extended hours are expected later in the spring.
For the most current schedule and updates, visit https://www.larimer.org/boating.
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Attribution: Larimer County Department of Natural Resources