With over 400 acres of parks and 1,600 nature areas, Longmont contains the ideal environment for biking, hiking and water enthusiasts alike.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll in one of the city’s many greenways, splash around in the newly restored creek shore, or spend the day birdwatching at a nature area, Longmont’s outdoor scene offers activities for those looking for both peaceful and invigorating outings. And with nearly 300 days of sunshine coupled with sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, outdoor lovers of all kinds are sure to find an adventure that suits their preferences. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best outdoor activities Longmont has to offer.
Longmont Trails
Family-friendly
Dry Creek Trail
One of the city’s many greenways, Dry Creek Trail is a 3.9-mile paved loop that follows Dry Creek and features a lake. Kid- and dog-friendly, the trail offers an easy but beautiful way to explore the city in a natural setting.
Choose-your-own-adventure
LoBo Trail
Connecting Boulder and Longmont, The LoBo trail is a 12.8-mile trail featuring sweeping views of the Flatirons. Whether you choose to take the direct path or enjoy easy connections to popular areas like the Boulder Reservoir and Twin Lakes, the LoBo trail offers a variety of scenery.
Get outta town
Little Thompson Overlook and Eagle Wind Trail Loop
Located in Longmont’s Rabbit Mountain Open Space, this 5.7-mile loop is suitable for hikers and trail runners looking for diversity in terrain with moderate elevation gain. The trail offers beautiful views from Rabbit Mountain, and in the summer hikers can enjoy vibrant wildflowers.
Longmont Picnic Spots
Wholesome fun
Lagerman Agricultural Preserve
The Lagerman Agricultural Preserve has covered picnic areas and restrooms in a beautiful backdrop. With picnic sites, a seasonal osprey nest and wetland nature areas, the reserve is perfect for families looking to picnic and explore kid-friendly nature activities or couples looking for a serene setting for a date night.
Bird watchers’ delight
Jim Hamm Nature Area
Featuring a 14-acre pond, the Jim Hamm Nature Area provides panoramic views of the Front Range along with two picnic shelters that can be reserved. The area’s pond is a designated bird sanctuary, offering the perfect spot for birdwatching.
Party central
Longmont Fairgrounds
Ideal for those looking to host a larger BBQ or picnic, the Longmont fairgrounds offers a sheltered picnic area with 12 picnic tables and a capacity of 100 people. Additional amenities include grills and restrooms. Parties should reserve tables in advance to secure a spot.
Water Activities in Longmont
Balanced
Paddle Boarding
Longmont’s Union Reservoir offers the perfect setting for paddleboarding. Rocky Mountain Paddleboard is conveniently located by the reservoir’s entrance and offers day rentals along with standup paddleboard yoga classes.
Focused
Fishing
McIntosh Lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including catfish, wiper and bass, providing the perfect environment for fishing. With a Colorado fishing license, Longmont locals or visitors can spend the day casting on the lake.
Fun
Tubing
Tubers are sure to enjoy floating Longmont’s St. Vrain Creek. It’s best to enter the river at the designated entry point east of Main Street and exit at the takeout points at Martin Street off the 119th Street Trailhead.
