Logan: Water, Trails and Culture

Gently rolling prairie at the western edge of the Great Plains forms the landscape of North Sterling State Park. The park lies on the South Platte Terrace, which is part of the Ogallala Formation. Here, an open landscape meets a specific geological setting. On your trip to Logan, the park offers several ways to spend time by the water and on the trails.

Water and Trails at North Sterling State Park

North Sterling Reservoir offers more than 3,000 acres of water for boating, fishing, jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding and water skiing. Boating begins in spring after the ice melts, and the reservoir remains open for boating through October 31. If you are planning your trip around the boating season, check the seasonal operating dates before you travel.

North Sterling State Park has around 6.5 miles of trails. One shorter, specifically described option is the 0.7-mile unpaved Overlook Loop Trail. It is designated for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The details on length and surface help distinguish this trail from the park’s total trail mileage.

The park also includes 2,800 acres of land, where activities include birdwatching, wildlife viewing and hiking. Cottonwood Cove swimming beach has flush toilets, a public picnic pavilion and a playground. Another distinctive stop is at the Balanced Rock trailhead, where a fossilized brontothere jawbone discovered in the park is on display inside a large boulder.

River Trails and Walks

The South Platte River forms several channels in Logan County and flows near the Overland Trail Recreation Area. The Sterling stretch of the river has scenic trails for walking and hiking. The Overland Trail Recreation Area also has multi-use trails around a fishing pond and along the riverbank. They are open to walkers, joggers, skaters and cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Sterling’s Pioneer Park also offers trails with different features to compare: a 0.6-mile nature trail passes through trees and brush, and there is also a 0.75-mile concrete trail. The two routes therefore differ in both length and their described surroundings and surfaces.

History, Art and Recreation in Sterling

The Overland Trail Museum showcases the history of the Overland Trail. Children can also pan for gold there. Sterling Creatives, an artists’ cooperative in Sterling featuring locally made art, workshops and demonstrations, offers another way to experience local culture. Sterling is also home to tree sculptures by Bradford Rhea, bronze installations, colorful murals and local galleries.

The history of Sky Ranch Golf Course dates back to 1916, when it was founded as Sterling Country Club. It is the oldest golf course in northeastern Colorado and one of the five oldest golf courses in the state. The Sterling Recreation Center offers indoor and outdoor pools, beach access, a splash pool, several water features and three slides.

For a seasonal taste of local produce, the Logan County Farmer's Market brings together growers, producers, artisans and makers. Offerings include seasonal fresh vegetables, baked goods and handmade products. Market dates are seasonal and may change.

Practical Information

The Tourist Information Center provides travelers with information about Logan County and Colorado. It is located at Sterling’s eastern entrance, at the Colorado Department of Transportation rest area at I-76 Exit 125. As location and facilities may change, check the details before you go.

Everyone aged 16 and older needs a valid hunting or fishing license or an SWA pass to access Tamarack Ranch SWA. Check current access requirements before your visit. If you are interested in shooting sports, the more than 300-acre Logan County Shooting Sports Complex includes trap shooting and rifle, pistol and archery facilities. It also offers league competitions, annual memberships and safety courses; operating procedures and participation requirements may change.

Explore more destinations: Sterling, Pitkin, Broomfield, Saguache County, Washington County, Rio Grande County, San Juan County, Mesa.

Return to the main travel overview: Colorado.