š² Hidden Gem Hike: Button Rock Preserveās Sleepy Lion Trail
Button Rock Preserve: A Local Favorite for Low-Key Adventure
Happy Wednesday, Longmont! š·āØ
If youāre 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 ā ideal for a fall day outdoors.
What year did Longmont dedicate Button Rock Preserve and Ralph Price Reservoir?
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Button Rock Preserve: Longmontās Hidden Reservoir Retreat
If youāre 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 areaās 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 ā this protected watershed helps supply Longmontās drinking water.
š Button Rock Preserve (via County Road 80, west of Lyons)
š Free parking (limited to 60 vehicles)
š Open daily: sunrise to sunset
š¾ No dogs or overnight parking permitted
š Whatās Happeninā Longmont
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See You on the Trail!
Whether youāre 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 ā this preserve is all about balance, beauty, and local pride.
Trivia Answer: A) 1969 ā Longmont celebrated the 50th anniversary of Button Rock Preserve and Ralph Price Reservoir in 2019!
-Whatās Happeninā Longmont Team šø
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