Known as the “Garden Spot of Colorado”, Berthoud lies about halfway between Denver and Fort Collins. The Little Thompson River flows just south of town, and the area is made up of endless trees and open spaces.
It is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a small-town feel with access to outdoor recreation. The statutory town had a recorded population of 8,574 residents in 2020. The elevation is 5,030 feet and Berthoud sits within Larimer and Weld Counties.
History
The first modern settlers reached Berthoud in the early 1860s in search of land to homestead after the Colorado Gold Rush. Due to the arid nature of the area, many chose to move on and it wasn’t until 1872 that a rancher staked his spot over Little Thompson Creek. He strategically chose this area because it’s where the railroad would have to cross over the water.
Tracks were laid in the late 1870s, and a depot and section house were constructed to support the rail line. The original name of the stop was Little Thompson but was soon renamed Berthoud after the railroad surveyor. It only took a few years for the small settlement to expand and include a blacksmith’s shop, a mercantile, and a log cabin school.
Interestingly enough, the entire town was lifted onto platforms and pulled to an area 1 mile away so it wasn’t so deep within the valley. This small change allowed agriculture in the area to explode and farmers began harvesting alfalfa, wheat, barley, and corn to sell and feed to livestock. By 1888, a town board was elected and the town was officially incorporated.
The 1900s brought more growth and prosperity to the town as businesses continued to flourish. One of the main roads that ran through the business district was included on the route of Highway 287, bringing more traffic and people into the area. The road was rerouted in 2007 and doesn’t run through town anymore, but nonetheless, Berthoud continues to expand in population today.
Main Attractions
Little Thompson Valley Pioneer Museum – Housed in a historic blacksmith shop, this quaint museum has rotating exhibits about life in the Thompson Valley. The Berthoud Historical Society maintains the museum and also hosts an array of historical tours and events around town.
Fickel Park – Don’t overlook this beautiful city park nestled in the center of Berthoud. The huge trees provide constant shade and there is a walking path that winds past sculptures installed by local artists.
Recreation
Camping –
- Carter Lake Reservoir is a short drive west of town and has several campgrounds to choose from around the 1,000-acre reservoir. There are about 100 sites spread between 4 campgrounds that range from big-rig pull-through sites to rustic tent camping areas.
- Pinewood Reservoir is a further drive west and is a little quieter than Carter Lake. There are only 15 RV sites and 12 tent sites, so be sure to snag a reservation early so you can enjoy this peaceful lake.
- Read about camping near Loveland and Fort Collins.
Fishing –
- Berthoud Reservoir is in the northern part of town and offers fishing and ice-fishing depending on the season. Non-motorized boats and paddleboards are allowed on the water, and there is plenty of fish to cast a line for.
- There are many small reservoirs and lakes dotted around town that allow fishing including Sunnyslope Reservoir, Newell Lake, Bacon Lake, Welch Reservoir, and Lone Tree Reservoir.
Hiking –
- Carter Lake Sundance Trail is a local favorite clocking in at just under 6 miles in total. It winds through a beautiful forest and past the reservoir.
- Berthoud Reservoir has a 1.4-mile walking path surrounding the water, making it a great place to stretch your legs or walk your dog on a nice day.
Special Events
Jun-Aug – Movie Nights in the Park – Head to the community park for movie showings, free popcorn, grilled food, and lawn games on select summer weekends.
Jun-Sep – Berthoud Farmer’s Market – Each Saturday morning at Fickel Park, join local vendors and do your weekly grocery shopping. There will also be food trucks and live music to enjoy.
Oct – Oktoberfest – Grab your German garb and celebrate this beloved holiday at Fickel Park. There will be traditional German food, plenty of beer, and fun for the whole family.
Dec – Berthoud Snowfest – A Santa parade, snow sculptures, and lighting of the Christmas tree are on display annually in December.
There are no hotels in the town of Berthoud, however, check out the hotels in Longmont and accommodations in Loveland for plenty of options.
Read about the breweries in Berthoud and Loveland.
Activities near Berthoud
Colorado Brands:
Federal Lands:
Towns:
- Bellvue (26mi)
- Brighton (25mi)
- Broomfield (28mi)
- Boulder (27mi)
- Denver (46mi)
- Fort Collins (20mi)
- Fort Lupton (29mi)
- Greeley (27mi)
- Keenesburg (44mi)
- Laporte (25mi)
- Loveland (6mi)
- Longmont (11mi)
- Lyons (18mi)
Wineries:
Visit the town’s official website.