🌲 Hidden Gem Hike: Button Rock Preserve’s Sleepy Lion Trail

10/29/2025 • What's Happenin' Team • Longmont
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Button Rock Preserve: A Local Favorite for Low-Key Adventure

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Happy Wednesday, Longmont! šŸ·āœØ

If you’re looking for a nearby trail that blends waterfalls, mountain views, and peaceful forest paths, Button Rock Preserve is a quick 20-minute escape that delivers it all. The Sleepy Lion Trail offers the perfect mix of scenic climbing and quiet lakeside strolling — ideal for a fall day outdoors.

What year did Longmont dedicate Button Rock Preserve and Ralph Price Reservoir?

Click an option to vote

Button Rock Preserve: Longmont’s Hidden Reservoir Retreat

Button Rock Preserve: Longmont’s Hidden Reservoir Retreat

If you’re looking for a close-to-home adventure that feels worlds away, Button Rock Preserve is your spot. Just seven miles west of Lyons, this quiet river valley is home to Ralph Price Reservoir, Longmont Reservoir, and some of the area’s best fall hiking.

This walk-in-only preserve rewards you with forest trails, flowing creeks, and a chance to see everything from mule deer to marmots. The Sleepy Lion Trail loop offers sweeping views of Mount Meeker and Longs Peak, while easy creekside paths invite slow strolls and prime photo ops.

Fly fishers can cast for brown trout in the North St. Vrain Creek, and lucky visitors might spot eagles soaring overhead. Just remember: no dogs, bikes, or swimming — this protected watershed helps supply Longmont’s drinking water.

šŸ“ Button Rock Preserve (via County Road 80, west of Lyons)

šŸš— Free parking (limited to 60 vehicles)

šŸ•“ Open daily: sunrise to sunset

🐾 No dogs or overnight parking permitted

šŸŽ‰ What’s Happenin’ Longmont

Wednesday, October 29

Weekly Trivia with Trevonious Monk - Venue TBD, Longmont | 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Ticketed
Love Is Blind Colorado REUNION Watch Party! - The Passenger, Longmont | 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Ticketed
Liverpool Watch Parties at Ironwood šŸ”“āš½ - Ironwood, Longmont | Time TBD | Ticketed

Thursday, October 30

Art & Sip: Alcohol Markers Terrarium - Longmont Museum, Longmont | 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Ticketed
Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra: The Hunchback of Notre Dame - Longmont Museum, Longmont | 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM | Ticketed
music at bricks on main "Rex Peoples" - Bricks On Main, Longmont | 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Ticketed

Want more? See the full calendar → Longmont Event Calendar

šŸ½ Not sure where to eat tonight?

Our Restaurant Finder takes the guesswork out of dining by showing you the best local restaurants based on real reviews and vibes, not just ratings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a date-night spot, we’ve got you. No endless scrolling, no decision fatigue...just solid recs.

🧠 Need a brain break?

Play trivia, crosswords, and word searches built just for locals. These games aren’t just fun...they’ll test how well you actually know your city. Great for killing time, learning something new, or proving you’re the true local legend.

šŸ” Who’s Flippin’ the Best Burger in Longmont?

From Main Street staples to hidden gems slingin’ grass-fed patties, Longmont’s burger scene brings the heat. Whether you’re Team Classic Cheeseburger or ride-or-die for gourmet toppings, it’s time to vote for the burger that deserves the crown. Let’s show some love to our local favorites—one bite at a time. šŸŸā¤ļø

Cast your vote now →

See You on the Trail!

Whether you’re there for a fall hike, a little fishing, or just the sound of rushing water, Button Rock delivers that peaceful recharge we all need. Pack a snack, bring your binoculars, and take it slow — this preserve is all about balance, beauty, and local pride.

Trivia Answer: A) 1969 — Longmont celebrated the 50th anniversary of Button Rock Preserve and Ralph Price Reservoir in 2019!

-What’s Happenin’ Longmont Team 🌸

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